SERVPRO: A History of Trusted Service

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready to help

With a history of training, expertise, and community outreach, there is no better resource to handle water, fire, or mold remediation for your home or commercial property than the trusted professionals of SERVPRO.

No wonder we have so many satisfied customers who have turned to us in their time of need.

SERVPRO was founded in 1967 by Ted and Doris Isaacson as a painting business but soon transformed into cleaning and restoration specialists.

The first franchise was sold in 1969 and the company has been growing steadily ever since

Today there are more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, including SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, which has been proudly serving the restoration needs of southern Pennsylvania for 15 years.

From a small local company, SERVPRO has become a nationally recognized name in restoration and cleaning with the training and expertise to handle any job large or small.

Over the years, SERVPRO has also built a proud tradition of service to the community. Here in Southern Delaware County, we are proud to participate in many local activities and we provide regular support to our first responders by delivering our SERVPRO brand water weekly to all of our local firehouses.

When your home or business needs the best quality restoration service with the care you’d expect from a neighbor, call SERVPRO. We’ve got a history of service you can trust and we’re ready to respond faster to any disaster so you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.

Summer Storms & High Winds

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Summer can bring with it torrential rain storms with high winds and flooding.  It has kept SERVPRO very busy.  One customer called us in a panic with six inches of water in his basement.  His sump pump failed as soon as the storm began. He had a finished basement that was fully furnished with very expensive gym equipment, television set and an antique jukebox that had very sentimental value. It was like a family room where he and his family spent many happy hours and had a lot of special memories.  Our crew got there and immediately started extracting the water.  They were very careful not to damage any of their prized possessions.  All the equipment was in place and immediately the owner saw such improvement.  By the time the clean up was complete, all had been salvaged with the exception of the carpets that had to be replaced.  The owner was so very happy and relieved that the carpets were the only casualty. The family was thinking of replacing them in the near future anyway.  Another job well done by our guys!

Benefits of Commercial Cleaning

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Every business should be taking measures to keep their building clean, even if they do not employ a professional cleaning service. It can become hard to keep track of exactly what you should be cleaning regularly. Here is a checklist to make it a little easier to insure your workplace stays neat and tidy.

• Monthly Cleaning List:
• Dust all surfaces in the office
• Clean the fabric chairs
• Vacuum all fabric chairs, vents
• Deep clean all surface areas

• Weekly Cleaning Lists
• Sponge all glass windows, both on the outside and inside
• Clean the refrigerator
• Disinfect all trash bins
• Buff and polish all hardwood surfaces, including conference tables, floors, etc.

• Daily Cleaning Lists
• Empty waste bins and add new liners
• Vacuum daily debris from all floors
• Clean painted surfaces 
• Wipe baseboards, light switches and door handles
• Clean all reflective surfaces, mirrors and brass
• Put some room freshener down after cleaning

The Importance of the Emergency Ready Program

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

The Emergency Ready Program is such a vital tool to our industry and to all the Sales and Marketing Representatives.  Introducing this service to all our commercial customers is so very important.  As we all know from experience most emergencies occur late at night or in the early morning hours.  Having all the necessary details right at hand for both our customers and SERVPRO saves time and ultimately less damage whether it is water or fire restoration. We have all information in our system for immediate response and the company involved also has info on their lap top or phone so it can be accessed immediately.  Every day a company has to shut their doors due to an emergency is a day that money is lost.  Offering this free service to all our COI'S creates confidence with us.  They know we will be there no matter what type of emergency and get things resolved as soon as possible.

How to Escape a House Fire

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

*Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbors yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.

*Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation

*Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen

*Don't hide.  Even if you are scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that would make it hard for emergency responders to find you.  Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

Why SERVPRO is a Premier Cleaning & Restoration Company

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO technicians undergo a rigorous training and certification process? SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants commercial businesses and homeowners of Chadds Ford to know that our technicians have the training and experience to respond to property damage emergencies. Initial, 15 day hands-on and ongoing training is provided at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility on the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

In addition, employees undergo further training at their SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are awarded certification after the successful completion of course materials and pass an examination after training on topics such as crew training, fire restoration, water restoration and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Web-based training is ongoing and keeps our technicians up to speed on industry standards.

We are proud to offer continuing education credit and non-credit classes to insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Southern Delaware County staff include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

If you experience a property damage emergency to your home or business, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours to respond to any size emergency. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your property damage in Chadds Ford “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

How to Use Fire Extinguishers in Chadds Ford

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County hopes you never experience the devastation that comes with fire damage. However, in the event that disaster strikes, be aware that our IICRC certified technicians are qualified in all aspects of cleaning up the damage left by smoke and fire in your business or residence in Chadds Ford.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
Someone has called the fire department
You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
You are safe from the fire’s smoke
You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests you remember PASS:
Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
Sweep the nozzle side to side

Women In SERVPRO

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

In honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, SERVPRO has taken the opportunity to highlight some of the great women and, women’s initiatives going on in the restorative industry at the moment.

SERVPRO has been working on hiring more women in every department, promoting women throughout our franchises and at headquarters and, working on different women’s initiatives throughout the year. The new “Super Women of Construction” podcast will highlight women on the construction side of our industry starting with executives at headquarters and appreciating women at the franchise level. The SERVPRO Women’s Initiative prides itself on working to put more women in higher management positions company wide.

Management positions are important for women to hold as women tend to provide more compassion, empathy and, great customer service. This is extremely important to demonstrate to our customers as we do care a great deal about their properties and well-being. It is important to have this connection with customers to retain relationships and provide excellent customer service at every stop. Women in restoration bring a fresh take to different scenarios on the front line, in the office and at an executive level. Just ask the rising number of successful female franchise owners.

Our Employees are Trained to Meet Your Needs

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester we believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate facility to regular IICRC-industry certification. Rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

The Employee Certification Training is a self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination.

Initial Franchise Training is a 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility. It is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics.

All of our staff have access to web-based or e-learning training. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation.

So, no matter the scope of the job, our team is trained to handle it quickly and professionally while maintaining the dignity of your property and belongings. We pride ourselves on leaving you “Like it never even happened,” and we ensure our teams are trained to do so.

Fire Extinguishers

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers help save lives!

Did you know there are different types of fire extinguishers used for different types of fires? It is important to know the different types of fires and extinguishers when taking measures to protect your loved ones.

Fires are classified according to the type of fuel that is burning…

Class A Fire – wood, paper, cloth, trash and, plastics. Class A fires typically produce ash when burning.  

Class B Fire – Flammable liquids: gasoline, oil, grease, acetone. Class B fires typically involve materials that boil or bubble.

Class C Fire – Electrical fires. Class C fires typically deal with electrical current.

Class D Fire – Metals such as potassium, sodium, aluminum and, magnesium. It takes special extinguishing agents like Metal-X and foam to fight Class D fires.

Fire extinguishers will list what class of fire it should be used for, as well as, have pictograms on them to help distinguish its intended use.

Air-Pressurized Water Extinguisher (APW) – These fire extinguishers are silver in color and are designed for Class A fires. They are partially filled with water and then with pressurized air. DO NOT use these extinguishers to attempt to extinguish flammable liquid fires or electrical fires as water may spread a flammable liquid fire and may cause electrocution while trying to extinguish an electrical fire.

Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher (CO2) – These fire extinguishers are red in color and are filled with non-flammable carbon dioxide gas under extreme pressure. It will have a hard horn and will not have a pressure gauge. CO2 extinguishers are designed for Class B and C fires only as they are made to displace oxygen and may not displace enough of it to put out a Class A fire.

Dry Chemical Extinguishers (DC) – These fire extinguishers come in different types and may be labeled with “ABC” or “BC”. These labels are designed to establish which types of fires can be put out with the specific extinguisher. They are filled with a fine yellow powder and pressurized with nitrogen. When used properly, the dust will separate the fuel from the oxygen in the air to put out the fire.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

Why Chose Your Local SERVPRO

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has been serving its local community for many years. We offer top notch customer service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Services include but are not limited to:

• 24/7 Service – Emergency or not, we are here to help
• Free Estimates
• Water
  • Inspection and Assessment
  • Extraction (water and damaged content)
  • Drying
  • Restoration (content and property)
  • Clean, Sanitize and, Deodorize
• Fire
  • Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
  • Board Up and Roof Tarp Service
  • Water Removal and Drying (if applicable)
  • Smoke and Soot Removal
  • Inventory, pack, relocate, clean and, store damaged and undamaged items
• Mold
  • Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
  • Mold Containment
  • Air Filtration
  • Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
  • Cleaning - improve the indoor air quality (IAQ)
• Construction – once your property is inspected, cleaned and, sanitized, we offer construction services to help rebuild the affected areas
• General Cleaning
  • Carpets and Upholstery
  • Drapes, Blinds and, Window Treatments
  • Ceilings, Floors and, Walls
  • Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
  • Bio Hazard and Crime Scene

*ALL services can be performed at a residential or commercial level*

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, and can be onsite in four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at (484) 841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

How to Prevent Hypothermia!

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is #heretohelp

What is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures – often caused by snow or water. When exposed, your body begins to lose heat faster than it is produced. Lengthy exposures to cold weather will eventually use up body’s stored energy and lead to lower body temperature. When you body temperature becomes too low, it affects the brain, making the person unable to think clearly or move well. The person may not know it’s happening and won’t be able to do anything about it, making it especially dangerous.

Who is most at Risk?

• Older adults with inadequate food, clothing, or heating
• Babies sleeping in cold rooms
• People who remain outdoors for long periods, such as the homeless, hikers, or hunters.
• People who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs

Warning Signs to Look Out for:

Adults

• Shivering
• Exhaustion or Feeling Very Tired
• Confusion
• Fumbling Hands
• Memory Loss
• Slurred Speech
• Drowsiness

Babies

• Bright Red, Cold Skin
• Very Low Energy

Take Action!

Hypothermia is a medical emergency! If you notice any of the signs, take the person’s temperature. If is below 95 degrees, get medical attention immediately! If you are not able to get medical attention right away, try to warm the person up by:

• Get them into a warm room or shelter.
• Remove any wet clothing.
• Warm the center of their body using an electric blanket if available. You can also use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels, or sheets.
• Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, too. However, do not give them alcoholic drinks, and do not try to make an unconscious person drink.

If they are unconscious, perform CPR, and continue until the person responds or medical aid becomes available. Many times hypothermia victims can appear dead, but still be successfully resuscitated! So don’t give up!

Water and snow can be dangerous to both you, and your home or business. If you experience any water damage, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, so we can help! (484) 841-6669

Rising Flu Activity! And What You Can Do to Stay Safe!

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

The CDC has released that there has been an increase of influenza viruses detected now that the holiday season is in full swing. The majority of these cases have been found in young adults and children, who commonly drive the community spread of the flu. Young adults coming home for the holidays from college or university may be putting the rest of your family at risk!

This is not particularly unusual for this time of year, as flu activity always starts to increase in October, peaks in February, but can last all the way into May. Last year’s flu season, 2020-2021, had historically low flu activity due to the strict COVID-19 prevention measures, such as mandatory masks and quarantine. However this year, as we begin to resume our normal routines, flu circulation is beginning to resume. This year the predominant strain, Influenza A (H3N2) indicates that this season will be a more severe one.

The best thing you can do for your family is to get vaccinated. In close living quarters, such as college campuses, classrooms, and shared restrooms, flu viruses are known to spread rapidly. Everyone 6 months and older is deemed safe by the CDC to get an annual flu vaccine. The flu vaccine protects against four flu viruses, including H3N2 - the one to be most concerned about this year. Antiviral drugs should be the second line of defense that can be used to treat the flu if you do get sick.

Meanwhile, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help! We can help prevent the flu from spreading at your home, school, or workplace by fogging with SERVPROXIDE, an anti-microbial disinfectant that fights agains airborne pathogen’s such as the flu and COVID-19! For special low rates, call (484) 841-6669! Let us help you enjoy this holiday season, stress free!

How to Keep your Dog Safe during Winter Storms!

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your dogs so they can enjoy the snow!

If you have a dog, it's probably not just a pet to you and your family. Dogs quickly become fully fledged family members after we adopt them - and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Which is why it is important for us to know how to care for them in all conditions. Winter storms can be dangerous for people, but also for dogs. Here are some tips to keep them safe:

Prepare

• Make sure to stock up on supplies of non-perishable food, bottled water, medicine, blankets, candles, flashlights, and batteries.
• If you have a fireplace, stock up on firewood, fire logs, paper, and matches. If you don’t have a fireplace, you could invest in a portable generator to power an electric heater.

During the Storm

• Never leave your pet outside or in a garage during a winter storm. Although pets have fur, they are still at risk when temperatures drop. So keeping them warm will be a priority. It’s recommended to confine pets to the room with the biggest heat source.
• Keep a favorite toy nearby to keep them active and engaged.
• If your dog needs to go out for a bathroom break during a storm, they should be leashed and never left unattended. Strong winds and blowing snow can cause dogs to lose their sense of scent and get lost.
• If your pet is small or short-haired, you can dress them in a vest and booties to provide extra protection against the frigid elements.

After the Storm

• The effects of a snow storm can last for days after. Ration supplies accordingly as you wait for power to be restored.
• Dogs may be eager to run around outside in the snow, but be on the lookout for hazards that could injure them. Such dangers could be fallen power lines, icicles on roof eaves, and heavy blocks of wet snow sliding off rooftops. 
• Snow-melting salt is also harmful to dogs from contact on their paws or ingestion. Make sure to supervise, and wipe salt off their paws to prevent any problems.
• Always check between dogs' toes for irritating chunks of snow after play time!

Keep your best friend safe, and we will worry about the rest. Call (484) 841-6669 if you have any damage from winter storms! SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help!

Preparing your Office for Winter!

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be ready for winter!

Winter weather can be unpredictable and harsh on your office building. But we can help with some tips to prepare you!

• Always communicate with your employees. Know their contact information so you can reach out to them if weather affects working hours.
• Always communicate with customers, as well. If there is a winter storm or blizzard on the forecast and you know you will be closing or shortening your hours, be sure to put that information out to customers through social media, emails, a sign, and/or an answering machine recording.
• Salt your sidewalks! If you plan to remain open, make sure to do this to prevent ice from forming and causing slippery conditions.
• Keep an eye on any surrounding power lines. If you see a power line that is down near your business, call 911 immediately and STAY AWAY! It could still be live with electricity.
• Consider buying a generator for any important devices that may need electricity to prevent major loss.
• Check all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries regularly.
• Have a mailing back up plan. Think of anything your business may rely on the mail service to provide or send. Plan accordingly by using email or online programs for important documents and payroll.

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we not only perform restoration, cleaning, and construction services for homes – but also for commercial properties! If severe weather causes any damage to your property, we are here to help get your business up and running again. Give us a call! (484) 841-6669

Commercial Cleaning Services

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

We can help with commercial cleaning!

If you own a business, you likely have a lot to worry about when it comes to the logistics of sales, marketing, employees, and so much more. Cleaning is probably the last thing you want to worry about – but grime, odor, and moisture challenges can become an issue in businesses. You want your business to look presentable, and avoid any health hazards for your customers and employees. Let SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester take one thing off your very full plate! You can rely on us to make your workplace look its best!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers many cleaning services, from deep cleaning floors or carpets to removing biohazard contaminants.

Our commercial cleaning services include:

• Air ducts and HVAC
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene

We are here to help your business look its best, so you can perform your best! Give us a call at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester so we can take the weight of commercial cleaning off your back! (484) 841-6669

Stay Safe During Thunderstorms

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe!

Most people don’t think much of a thunderstorm – but they can be very dangerous! It’s important to stay safe.

Risk of Lightning Strikes!

Although the odds of being struck by lighting are small, there are still some factors that can put you at a higher risk. Lightning tends to strike people who work outside or are participating in outdoor recreational activities.

How to stay safe:

• If the weather forecast is calling for a thunderstorm, postpone your trip or activity.
• When you hear thunder, go indoors! Find a safe enclosed shelter – this includes homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.
• Suspend any outdoor activities for at least 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.
• If you are caught outside and cannot find shelter, crouch or get low to the ground – but never lie flat to keep minimal contact with the ground. Get off any elevated areas such as hills or mountains. Never shelter under a tree or a cliff/rock overhang. Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and any other bodies of water. Stay away from any objects that can conduct electricity, such as powerlines. All of these actions will reduce your chances of being struck.

Remain Safe, Even When You're Inside!

Being indoors can still put you at risk. In fact, one-third of lightning strikes occur indoors.

How to stay safe:

• Avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm – don’t bathe, shower, wash dishes, or any other water-based activity. Lightning can travel through plumbing.
• Avoid using any electronic equipment. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio/television reception systems.
• Avoid using corded phones – cordless or cell phones are safe though!
• Do not lean again concrete floors or walls, as lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars inside of them.

Your safety always comes first! But if your property becomes damaged during a storm, we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester! (484) 841-6669

Helping Others During Snowstorms

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

We help you, so you can help others!

Always make sure you are prepared for a snowstorm! But if you find yourself fully prepared for a snowstorm, and want to help others, we have some tips for you!

Check on your Neighbors:

As temperatures drop, check on your elderly neighbors! Older people’s bodies run colder and they are at more of a risk for hypothermia. Pop by to see if they need someone to pick up groceries and make sure they are staying warm. If they don’t need anything, it will still be good for them to interact, as it may be their only social interaction that day. You’ll really brighten their day!

Offer to Shovel Out Someone’s Car and/or Sidewalk:

Shoveling snow can be dangerous – research indicates there is a strong increase in heart attacks after snowstorms. It’s a much more rigorous activity than most realize. If your neighbors are older, offer to do it for them. You might even be saving their life!

 Donate Warm Clothing:

If you have any gently used coats, hats, scarves, and gloves – don’t just leave them sitting in the back of your closet. Donate them to families in need! Non-profits, homeless shelters, and thrift stores run coat drives during the winter. Help others stay warm!

 Help Feed Others:

Volunteer at a soup kitchen or donate to a food pantry! More families rely on food pantries to get them through the winter than during any other seasons. You can really make a difference, even if all you have to offer is some of your time!

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester, we love to help. If your home suffers any damage from a snow storm, call us so we can clean and restore – and then you can spend more time helping others, as well. Call (484) 841-6669.

What You Can Do with Leaves Instead of Burning Them!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many wonderful and safe options!

Despite it being illegal in most states, many people burn their leaves. But it is a serious fire and health hazard that you should definitely avoid! Here’s a list of fun things you can do with your leaves instead:

• Jump in them! The classic fall activity for children, adults, and pets alike.
• Compost! Leaves are a great addition to your compost pile.
• Press them and create beautiful artwork! Choose leaves that aren’t yet spotty and bumpy and sandwich them between newspaper or waxed paper. Then, lay your heaviest books on top for about two weeks, or until the leaves are fully dry.
• Take photos with family! Before you rake away the leaves, use them as a wonderful background for some fall pictures.
• Make a wreath! A seasonal wreath is always very inviting and festive. You can use leaves, dried twigs, and even add gourds, pine cones, or acorns!
• Use them as mulch! Leaves make a great protective cover and insulation for perennials and root crops that stay in the ground over the winter. You can also shred them with a mulching lawnmower or toss them into a shredder so that the finely cut leaves decompose faster and become a part of the soil.
• Make a scarecrow! It’s an excellent tool to scare birds away from your garden or as a fall decoration. Simply use the leaves to stuff old clothes.

All of these options are much safer than burning leaves! And don’t pose any fire risk. Get creative and have fun this fall!

But if you have any fire damage on your property, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help you clean up and restore!

Stop Mold from Attacking your Business

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growing in your commercial property can be stressful! Call SERVPRO at (484) 841-6669 so we can help!

This past year West Chester and Southern Delaware County fell victim to multiple hurricanes, and some areas had severe flooding. Unfortunately, this can lead to the growth of mold, which can cause a major business interruption and serious health effects for anyone exposed at your commercial property. Mold can grow quickly in wet conditions, but SERVPRO is here to cut it off at its source.

In order to prevent mold in your business:

• You should clean up leaks right away.
• Make sure to install proper ventilation – especially in rooms with a lot of moisture in the air, such as bathroom, kitchens, and laundry facilities.
• If a room is temporarily damp, you can use freestanding fans to blow humidity away from the area.
• Monitor your humidity level – it’s easy to get inexpensive monitors.
• Remove affected items such as furniture and rugs as quickly as possible to avoid the spread of mold spores.

Do not attempt to use bleach or store-bought products yourself, as these products still create additional water and moisture, which will only cause the mold to continue growing. It is best to leave this to the professionals – and we are ready to help!

If there is already mold in your business, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester! (484) 841-6669

Make Sure Your Cozy Candles Don’t Cause Dangerous Fires

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Be cozy and safe this fall!

The weather is getting colder and we are all decorating for Halloween in the Southern Delaware County and West Chester areas! As you put out your pumpkins and cozy blankets, you will probably also be tempted to light a candle and enjoy its warming glow. But it is so important to recognize that candles can cause fires, so use caution!

How to prevent candle fires:

• Make sure to place your candles on stable furniture.
• Be sure candles are placed out of reach of children and pets.
• Never fall asleep with a candle burning!
• Make sure wicks are trimmed to ¼ inches before lighting.
• Put out candle when leaving a room.
• Stop burning a candle when it reaches within two inches of its holder.
• Keep candles at a safe distance from holiday décor, books, curtains, blinds, flammable liquids, clothing, bedding, and lampshades.
• Be careful of your hair when near an open flame.
• Never use candles near oxygen sources, such as compressed air tanks.

If you do experience a fire, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester! We can clean up and restore your home “Like it never even happened.” Call (484) 841-6669 and we will help you through this difficult situation.

Understanding Terminology for Winter Storms!

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

It's important to understand the terminology your weather person is using!

As colder winter months are approaching it is so important to be prepared for various winter storms and conditions. Which is why it’s so important to understand terminology being used. If your local weather channel or app is using this terminology, it means:

Winter Weather Advisory: There are winter weather conditions expected to cause serious inconvenience and possible hazard, but should not be life-threatening if you are cautious.

Winter Storm Warning: There are life threatening, severe weather conditions in your area. They have either begun or will begin in the next 24 hours.

Blizzard Warning: There are consistent winds or frequent gusts of 35 miles per hour or greater, as well as considerable snowfall or blowing snow. This will entail reduced visibility and will be prevailing for three hours or longer.

Wind Chill Temperature: How cold people and animals feel when outside. Wind increase carries heat away from the body, making you feel colder. It is not the actual temperature, but how your exposed skin will feel.

Winter Storm Outlook: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next two to five days. Stay tuned in to your local media stations for updates!

Winter Storm Watch: Winter storm conditions are possible within 36 to 48 hours. Be sure to stay informed!

When you are aware of the levels of danger you face, you can prepare appropriately! Make sure you, your family, and your pets have ample supplies and a plan in place in case of emergency.

But if you experience any Storm Damage from upcoming winter storms, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to repair your home or business!

Call (484) 841-6669

Broken Valve Water Damage

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Broken Water Shut Off Valve Costs Thousands in Water Damage

I’ll never forget the day we noticed our neighbor’s house was flooding. I heard a rumbling sound next door and when I looked in a side window, I saw a waterfall cascading down from the second story stairs and the entire first floor of her house was flooded! A defective toilet water shut off valve, (a petcock valve) had burst the night before and water had been running in her house for a whole night and day before we noticed. Thank goodness she had really good homeowners’ insurance because her entire home had to be restored and repaired as there was water damage in every room in her house. If your home experiences flooding for any reason, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester want the residents and business owners to know that we are water restoration experts and have a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to your water damage emergency 24 hours a day. Here is the process we follow when you call us with a water damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Preventing Electrical Fires

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical fires can be extremely detrimental to your business. Damages can occur from both the fire and the water that is used during firefighting efforts.  As a business owner, it is important to know the steps to take to prevent electrical fires in your office.

Cords and Plugs:

Cords, plugs, and outlet damage are extremely common causes of electrical fires. If these items are tattered, frayed, worn out, or showing burn signs, they should immediately be replaced. Old cords that are in poor condition can overheat or spark which can lead to a fire. Replacing cords is a simple and non-expensive way to help prevent electrical fires. 

Outlets:

It is important to make sure your outlets are not overloaded, as this can be a huge risk factor for electrical fires. The United States Fire Administration recommends that power strips equipped with internal overload protection are purchased. These strips help ensure that a strip turns off when it becomes overloaded to help prevent fire damage.

Space Heaters:

Since space heaters are plugged in, they can be dangerous if not used carefully and correctly. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs should be kept away from equipment that can become hot and overheat. 

Wiring:

Faulty wiring is a huge hazard and should be addressed immediately. If a lamp is flickering or an outlet is sparking, an electrician should be consulted to repair them as soon as possible. Appliances that are hot to touch and overheating should also be checked out by an electrician.

Inspection:

Your business should be inspected for hazardous situations that could potentially cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help keep your business and employees safe with a thorough assessment of the outlets, wiring, appliances, and other fire hazards.

Taking a few moments to ensure your business is safe from electrical fires is an easy, non-expensive way to keep you, your business, and employees safe. If you do experience a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to restore any damages and get your business back to normal.

Call (484) 841-6669

Mold Damage Restoration

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

There’s so much to see and do in Brookhaven and the landscape can change with the weather, from the rich color of the autumn leaves to winter snowfall. 

Unfortunately, that can also leave both residential and commercial properties vulnerable to water damage. Whether you’ve got a private home or a business like the famous Tom Jones Restaurant, once mold invades it can become a costly problem.

Mold remediation can be essential in this area and that’s where the professionals at SERVPRO come in

We’ve been serving this community for 15 years and we pride ourselves in having the personal touch.

Since we live and work here too, we know what it’s like and we want to ensure that your home or business is safe.

Why Trust SERVPRO in Brookhaven?

Water damage is a serious matter that can have a devastating effect on both homeowners and commercial business owners alike.

At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of responding quickly to every emergency and providing the most professional results every time.

We’re ready to respond immediately 24 hours a day and we use state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. 

Speed is essential since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after initial water damage.

It can also be particularly important to act quickly when dealing with one of the many historic properties in the Brookhaven area such as the Caleb Pusey house.

Whether historic or brand new, every property deserves the best care and that’s what we provide, even ensuring that our technicians are trained in the most current mitigation techniques.

We’ll not only address the initial water damage, we’ll carefully remove and repair any damaged materials and safely dispose of anything that can’t be repaired.

Then we’ll use our professional-grade equipment to thoroughly dry every inch of your property and ensure that mold growth is stopped in its tracks.

What Makes Mold A Problem

It only takes a small water leak for mold to grow and spread in your Brookhaven home or business.

Once it begins, mold can spread rapidly, particularly if it gets into the air ducts, where it can begin to affect the entire building.

That’s why quick and thorough mold remediation is so important and why the professionals at SERVPRO take their jobs so seriously.

Mold thrives in any dark, damp area such as a basement, garage, attic, or closet and it can spread to fabric, clothing, and upholstery as well.

Since it is made up of microscopic spores, it can become a problem before you even realize it, which is why you should always rely on a professional water mitigation company to handle your water emergency.

Unfortunately, with the sometimes harsh winter weather in Brookhaven, water emergencies can be common and water damage can be a huge problem.

 Remediation The Right Way

Removing mold is about more than just scrubbing away those nasty patches of white or black. More often than not, visible mold growth is just the tip of the iceberg.

The only way to ensure that mold growth is completely eradicated at its source is with professional mold remediation services like those provided by SERVPRO.

We know exactly what it takes to treat the kind of water damage that homes and commercial businesses in Brookhaven often face and we’re prepared to respond whenever you need us.

We’ll arrive and assess the situation immediately and determine exactly what kind of response is required.

Then we’ll go to work to provide complete remediation because our ultimate goal is to restore your home or business to its previous condition. 

Of course, the cleanup of commercial property like one of the businesses at the landmark Cambridge Shopping Center can be more extensive, but no job is too big for us.

We follow the same basic steps as home mitigation for commercial properties and rest assured, we’ll treat your business with the utmost care.

As members of the community ourselves, we know how costly water damage can be to a business so our goal is to get your doors open to customers as quickly as possible.

We understand how important it is for mold remediation to be done the right way and that’s what we do on every job.

You wouldn’t trust your family or your customers to anything less than the best and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you turn to SERVPRO.

We’ve got the training, equipment, and personnel to ensure that mold growth is stopped at the source and your property is as safe as possible.

The Name You Can Trust In Water Mitigation

Life is beautiful in historic Brookhaven and the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO are committed to keeping it that way. When water damage strikes your home or business, you can trust us to handle your property as if it were our own. 

That’s the promise we’ve been making to the local community for over a decade and it’s one we proudly stand by.

Mold Mitigation Professionals You Can Trust

Water is an integral part of life in Brookhaven PA but it can also become a real problem at times.

Whenever MOLD damage strikes your home or business, you need to act fast and rely on the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.  

We’re a name you can trust and we’ll do our best to serve every member of our community with care.

You can reach us at (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help.  We are SERVice PROfessionals and are ready to respond to your moment of misery.

Call (484) 841-6669

Tornado Watch

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

It is important to keep you and your loved ones safe during a Tornado Watch. Different ways you can do this are:

Before a Tornado:

Watch out for dark, rotating clouds. If you see one, take shelter immediately.

Listen for a tornado siren, if you hear one seek shelter immediately.

Turn on your TV/Radio to stay updated with the current weather and emergency instructions.

Avoid unnecessary car trips as you do not want to be caught outside if a tornado comes.

Bring outdoor furniture and other items that can blow away inside as they may become a safety hazard.

During a Tornado:

Take shelter immediately as flying debris and high winds can cause injuries.

Keep your windows closed and stay away from them. If a window breaks the glass can injure you.

If you are in a building, go to the basement or lowest floor. This is the safest location for you and your loved ones.

If you are in a mobile home, go to the nearest building or storm shelter as these will protect you more than you home.

If your car is hit by debris, stop, cover your head, and stay below the windows. You will be safer inside your car than outside of it.

If you are outside, lie down in a flat area and make sure to cover your head with your hands. You will be safer lying down than standing up.

After a Tornado:

Avoid entering damaged buildings as broken glass and exposed nails can injure you.

Keep away from downed power lines and objects touching them as they can electrocute you.

Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and gloves when walking through debris. Stepping on nails and glass can severely injure you.

If you experience any Storm Damage from this tornado, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to repair your home or business to return it back to normal. 

Call (484) 841-6669

The High Cost of Water Damage

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

The High Cost of Water Damage

Each year water causes billions of dollars in property damage and the longer water damage is left untreated the higher will be the cost of repairs. Exterior repairs can help protect your home’s exterior. Water will naturally find the path of least resistance and will seep inside structures through damaged irrigation systems, broken downspouts, leaking roofs, failing seals around windows and doors and from severe weather events and snowmelt. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers these tips form the Insurance Information Institute to repair and protect your home’s exterior from water damage:

• Caulk and seal windows 
• Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs
• Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters
• Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house
• Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes
• Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, and can be onsite in four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll clean and restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Certified SERVPRO Cleaned

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Though things are looking up, The COVID-19 pandemic has set new standards for cleaning in the nation. As businesses have reopened their doors, it has become more important than ever to ensure customer and employee safety by performing frequent disinfecting and sanitization services.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has been offering a new, defensive cleaning program throughout this pandemic to proactively address the need for viral pathogen cleaning for commercial businesses. This cleaning program goes beyond the scope of a routine janitorial service and adheres to the cleaning and decontamination standards established by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on your business type, size, foot traffic, congestion, and touchpoints, we will develop a customized program based on your specific needs. We will clean, disinfect, and sanitize all porous and nonporous surfaces, tools, furniture, and equipment, and will dispose of all hazardous materials. In the event there has been COVID-19 exposure, we will clean within 24 hours to get your business reopened quickly.

Our technicians are specialty trained and certified to perform a variety of biohazardous decontamination and chemical spill cleanup and restoration services and follow industry and CDC guidelines.

Certification

When your business has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned we place a decal on your door with the date of the cleaning so your customers will know when this cleaning was performed.

Call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester today at (484) 841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your commercial business “Like it never even happened.”

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Mold Restoration and Cleanup

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

There’s so much to see and do in Southern Delaware County & West Chester and the landscape can change with the weather, from the rich color of the autumn leaves to winter snowfall. 

Unfortunately, that can also leave both residential and commercial properties vulnerable to water damage. Whether you’ve got a private home or a business, once mold invades it can become a costly problem.

Mold remediation can be essential in this area and that’s where the professionals at SERVPRO come in.  We’ve been serving this community for 15 years and we pride ourselves in having the personal touch. Since we live and work here too, we know what it’s like and we want to ensure that your home or business is safe.

Why Trust SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester?

Water damage is a serious matter that can have a devastating effect on both homeowners and commercial business owners alike. At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of responding quickly to every emergency and providing the most professional results every time. We’re ready to respond immediately 24 hours a day and we use state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. 

Speed is essential since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after initial water damage. Whether historic or brand new, every property deserves the best care and that’s what we provide, even ensuring that our technicians are trained in the most current mitigation techniques.

We’ll not only address the initial water damage, we’ll carefully remove and repair any damaged materials and safely dispose of anything that can’t be repaired. Then we’ll use our professional-grade equipment to thoroughly dry every inch of your property and ensure that mold growth is stopped in its tracks.

What Makes Mold A Problem

It only takes a small water leak for mold to grow and spread in your home or business. Once it begins, mold can spread rapidly, particularly if it gets into the air ducts, where it can begin to affect the entire building. That’s why quick and thorough mold remediation is so important and why the professionals at SERVPRO take their jobs so seriously.

Mold thrives in any dark, damp area such as a basement, garage, attic or closet and it can spread to fabric, clothing, and upholstery as well. Since it is made up of microscopic spores, it can become a problem before you even realize it, which is why you should always rely on a professional water mitigation company to handle your water emergency. Unfortunately, with the sometimes harsh winter weather, water emergencies can be common and water damage can be a huge problem.

 Remediation The Right Way

Removing mold is about more than just scrubbing away those nasty patches of white or black. More often than not, visible mold growth is just the tip of the iceberg. The only way to ensure that mold growth is completely eradicated at its source is with professional mold remediation services like those provided by SERVPRO.

We know exactly what it takes to treat the kind of water damage that homes and commercial businesses often face and we’re prepared to respond whenever you need us. We’ll arrive and assess the situation immediately and determine exactly what kind of response is required. Then we’ll go to work to provide complete remediation because our ultimate goal is to restore your home or business to its previous condition. 

Of course, the cleanup of commercial property can be more extensive, but no job is too big for us. We follow the same basic steps as home mitigation for commercial properties and rest assured, we’ll treat your business with the utmost care. As members of the community ourselves, we know how costly water damage can be to a business so our goal is to get your doors open to customers as quickly as possible.

We understand how important it is for mold remediation to be done the right way and that’s what we do on every job. You wouldn’t trust your family or your customers to anything less than the best and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you turn to SERVPRO. We’ve got the training, equipment, and personnel to ensure that mold growth is stopped at the source and your property is as safe as possible.

The Name You Can Trust In Water Mitigation

Life is beautiful in historic Southern Delaware County & West Chester, and the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO are committed to keeping it that way. When water damage strikes your home or business, you can trust us to handle your property as if it were our own. 

That’s the promise we’ve been making to the local community for over a decade and it’s one we proudly stand by.

Mold Mitigation Professionals You Can Trust

Water is an integral part of life but it can also become a real problem at times. Whenever MOLD damage strikes your home or business, you need to act fast and rely on the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.  

We’re a name you can trust and we’ll do our best to serve every member of our community with care.

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help.  We are SERVice PROfessionals and are ready to respond to your moment of misery.

Recover from Fire Damage

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Reclaim Control of Your Life

When a fire strikes a home or business in Glen Mills, there is so much devastation in such a short time that the people may feel they have lost all control over their lives.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester at (484) 841-6669. We have 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year, so we can get technicians out to repair fire damage or water damage quickly.

Our technicians remove soot and smoke (both of which cause additional damage) and extract any water or moisture left from the fire-fighting efforts. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has technicians who are experts at restoring fire-damaged or water-damaged building materials and contents.

The emergency team members also document every object and part of the building, noting its current condition and keeping a record of the steps to restore it to the preloss condition. If restoration is not possible, they document the reasons. They make working with insurance companies less stressful than it would be alone. Even better, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester works with most insurance companies, allowing people to attend to their families and employees or clients.

If there’s an emergency, we’re Faster to any size disaster.  Call us at (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO Takes Care of Local Businesses

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is an independently owned and operated business in metropolitan Philadelphia. We understand that businesses need to focus on their services and products to operate smoothly.

That’s why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is available to businesses for both the unpredictable and the predictable. Call us at (610) 506-8919, check our website, or send questions on the link provided by the website.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is prepared for the unpredictable

Recovery from storms, fires, flash floods, and other disasters is business as usual for SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester technicians are trained to clean or repair current damage and to prevent more damage. We aim to restore property to its preloss condition.

Weather-related disasters are not the only emergencies. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is an expert in cleaning to prevent the spread of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester also cleans and restores property after contamination, as well as after trauma or crime scenes.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester takes care of the Predictable

Even if no one ever spills coffee, messes happen. Dust and dirt accumulate, trash cans seem to fill themselves, and the floors never stay clean. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester supplies regular cleaning services to office towers, schools, military bases, and healthcare facilities.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester works with each company to design the right cleaning program; your business will get all of the services it needs, with none that it doesn’t.

Here to Help^®

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Protect Your Home from Summer Storms

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Ways to Protect your Home from Storm Damage

 Storms can happen anytime, and it is important to be prepared for when they do hit. Summer storms can bring violent weather that can cause major property damage such as winds, heavy rains, lightning, thunder, and hail. Taking precautionary measures can help you prepare and protect your home can help prevent extensive storm damage.

Secure Loose Items in your Yard

Outdoor furniture, grills, gardening equipment, lawn decorations, children’s toys can all blow away or be damaged during a storm. These items can also become dangerous with high winds and fly into your home, car, garage, or neighbors’ home. Bringing these items inside or in a shed can help prevent damage to both your home and these items.

Inspect the Roof and Gutters of Your home

Inspecting your roof for damaged shingles or gutters is important to making sure storms don’t prevent massive damage to your house. Damaged roofing and gutters can cause rainwater to leak into your house. It is important to inspect and repair these so that wind and storms do not damage your home further.

Inspect your Windows

Windows are a vulnerable part of your home during a storm as they can possibly leak or shatter. Making sure windows are properly sealed can keep out wind and rain during a storm. New windows are a great option as they are made of strong glass and are less likely to leak.

Protect your Home from Flooding

Flooding is an extremely common effect of a storm. It can lead to extreme water damage or mold. Checking your basement for leaks or cracks is an effective way to prevent flooding. Another important way to prevent flooding is to make sure your gutters drain away from your home.

Have a Backup Power Source

Storms commonly take out power which can be dangerous and inconvenient. Power is important to keep items in the refrigerator fresh and to make sure your cell phone and other devices are charged. Sump pumps may also stop working which may lead to basement flooding. Having a backup power source can keep you and your family safe from these occurrences.

Trim Large or Dead Tree Branches

Strong wind can cause branches to fly off of trees and into your home. Tree branches can also hit cars and power lines which can be potentially dangerous. Inspecting the trees around your property and making sure they are well trimmed can prevent extensive damage during storms.

Call SERVPRO for any Storm Damage!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is here to help with any emergency storm damage to your property. We are available 24/7/365 to help protect you and your property from all damages. Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO Restores Damaged Floors

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is a part of the greater Philadelphia area, just like the other businesses around Southern Delaware County and West Chester. We want every part of the community to do well, which is why businesses count on us to be Faster to any size disaster and to get the business back to normal operation after any kind of damage.

We might not notice the floors until something happens to damage them. Water from storms or floods or broken pipes can damage even concrete if left on its own and fire can leave soot and smoke damage even on marble. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help^®, regardless of the type of damage.  We take care of damaged floors from initial assessment through all of the repairs.

If the damage has exposed the floors to the outside, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provides tarps and board-ups to protect the building(s) and contents. We also provide roof repair, making restoration easier and more cost effective because there is only one vendor.

Trained technicians clean and disinfect the floors, removing even hidden moisture, and mitigating any microbial damage. Count on SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester to clean, disinfect, and repair carpet, linoleum, marble, tile, and hardwood floors.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Call at (484) 841-6669. When disasters start taking vacations, so will SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. Until then, we are available 24 hours/day, every single day.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Hurricane Season is Here

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Hurricane Season is Here

Hurricane season is here, and hurricanes have been known to cause damage all along the East Coast. Even if you are not in the direct path of a hurricane, the high winds and storm surges can cause property damage and flooding. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we have years of storm damage restoration experience and we are Here to Help. ® Here are some of hurricane safety tips offered by the Office of Emergency Management, City of Philadelphia:

• Know your area’s flood risk and think about getting flood insurance
• If you live in an area that floods, keep sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber on hand to protect your home
• Elevate your furnace, water heater and electrical panel and remove other items from the floor
• Know the safest evacuation route from your home and have a family emergency and evacuation plan
• Prepare a Go Bag with emergency supplies that you can grab and take with you in a hurry

Call Us Today

We hope you never experience storm damage to your home or commercial property but if you do SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond 24 hours a day every day. Call us today at (484) 841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage in “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Property Damage Insurance Claims

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

U.S. Property Damage Claims

Did you know that property damage, including theft, accounted for 98.1 percent of insurance claims in the United States? According to the Insurance Information Institute, (III), six percent of all insured homeowners filed a property damage insurance claim in 2017. The III goes on to explain that claims fluctuate from year to year due to weather-related events. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents to know that we are ready to respond to any size property damage call. We offer an array of cleanup and restoration services for homeowners and commercial business including:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services

24 Hour Emergency Service

From the moment you contact us, we can be onsite within four hours of your call, 24 hours a day seven days a week. Over the phone we will ask you a series of questions to determine the best approach to take to meet your needs including the number of technicians to deploy and the type of equipment to bring to the job site.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help. ^® Call us today at (484) 841-6669. We will clean and restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Flash Floods

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Watch

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (NOAA), issued a flash flood watch for the area, due to a strong storm front that developed over the weekend. Flash floods can occur when a severe storm brings heavy rainfall to an area over a short period of time. Areas with poor drainage, creeks, and other watercourses can leave their banks and cause flooding to nearby properties. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we have years of experience dealing with water damage emergencies, and  we can be onsite within four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process.

Flood Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips from the American Red Cross to keep you safe until help arrives:

• Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities
• Boil tap water until water sources have been declared safe
• Avoid contact with floodwater. Listen to local area radio, or TV stations for the latest information
• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded
• Dispose of any food that comes into contact with flood water

Call Us

Storm damage can become costly if not taken care of quickly. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, to assist business owners and residents. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process. Call us today at (484) 841-6669.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Does Your Store Have Property Damage?

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

No Job is Too Big or Too Small

When damage harms your commercial business, it is critical to get the repairs done as quickly as possible in order to minimize the disruption to your customers and employees. Fire, water, storms, mold, biohazard spills and other disasters can cause damage when you least expect it, and if this happens to your business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to assure residents that our team of highly trained professionals is ready to help you get back to business. We have experience working on:

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

We provide an array of commercial building restoration services including:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants business owners to know that you can count on us to respond to any commercial property damage emergency 24 hours a day and we can be onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at (484) 841-6669. We will clean and restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

How do I Dry a Water Leak?

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

The immediate aftermath of a severe water leak can be daunting.

Many surfaces, from books and furniture to floors and walls, can be damaged by water and that initial damage can lead to mold and mildew growth if not addressed quickly and thoroughly.

Since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after water damage occurs, it is crucial to begin the remediation process immediately and specific guidelines should be followed in order to ensure that the job is done correctly. 

While it is generally a good idea to rely on professional remediation services, there are some steps you can take to begin the process yourself:

• Get Air Circulating

The best way to begin the drying process is by moving air.  You can do this both naturally, by opening windows and doors, as well as mechanically, using fans.

The size and amount of fans you need will depend on the amount of area that is involved; the larger the room, the more powerful the fan you’ll want to use. You can rent high-powered fans to speed up the process even more.

• Dehumidify

In a contained area, like a basement or rec room, with limited outside access, you can remove excess humidity with a portable dehumidifier. 

Shut the doors and windows of the room and remember to change the water collection drawer of the humidifier regularly if it doesn’t self-drain.

• Remove Standing Water

If there are several inches of standing water, a portable sump pump can be used to move the water out of the house. 

Direct the hose of the pump out a door or window and make sure the water flow is directed away from the foundation of the house.

• Use a Wet/Dry Shop Vac

For smaller areas with less standing water, a wet/dry shop vac can help to suck up the excess. They can be particularly useful for salvaging water-damaged carpeting and flooring. 

Never use a regular household vacuum on wet surfaces as this could damage the vacuum and be careful when emptying the canister of the shop vac, particularly if the water involved is contaminated with sewage or other potentially hazardous material.

• Remove Water Damaged Furnishings

Any objects that have been damaged by water, including rugs, furniture, and other belongings, should be removed and set in the sun to both begin the drying out process and reduce the moisture level in the room.

Sheet vinyl or linoleum flooring should also be removed to speed up the evaporation process. 

Any wet insulation underneath water damaged flooring or inside walls should be removed and discarded.

• Remove and Carefully Dry Papers

Books and papers that become wet may not be salvageable, but for important items you can help prevent mold growth and slow the deterioration process by placing them in a plastic bag and putting them in a frost-free freezer. 

Aside from this step, it will be necessary to handle paper items carefully in order to preserve them, including cleaning them off with soft brushes and using rubber gloves for your protection. 

• Absorb Excess Moisture

Once standing water has been removed, you can use desiccants such as silica gel, clay, or calcium oxide to absorb any remaining moisture.  Place the desiccant in either an air-tight container or a sealed area such as a closet.  It may take days or even weeks for them to become completely saturated.

Act Quickly To Avoid Hazards

Again, the faster you act to begin drying out a water damaged room, the better your chances of avoiding water-related hazards, including mold growth, dust mites, and the release of non-microbial chemicals from formaldehyde-treated wood furnishings, plastics or PVC.  Scientific evidence shows that these hazards can cause serious health effects. 

Call The Professionals

Because water damage can permeate beneath the surface of floors and walls and continue to be an issue for days or even weeks after the original emergency, it makes the most sense to trust a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO. 

With extensive training, professional equipment, and the ability to respond immediately whenever disaster strikes, SERVPRO can ensure that your home is thoroughly dried out and returned to normal as quickly as possible.

It’s particularly important to have professional water mitigation when walls are damaged, as drywall can act as a wick and absorb moisture.

Even if the water damage isn’t visible, it can still lead to mold growth if it isn’t properly treated.

At SERVPRO we’re:

• trained to get beneath the surface, using specialized equipment such as moistures meters,
• infrared imaging devices and
• heavy-duty dehumidifiers and fans to ensure that your home is thoroughly dry and safe for your whole family.

When water damage occurs, getting the affected area dried out as quickly as possible is crucial.

To ensure the safety of your family, make sure you undertake the drying process properly, and don’t hesitate to call on the reliable water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.

Call (484) 841-6669

Does Water Damage Happen Immediately?

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth

It only takes a small amount of water to cause extensive damage, but just how quickly does that damage occur?

While some of the effects of water are immediate, there are other effects that may take days or even weeks to become apparent.

The extent of water damage depends on how long the water is allowed to stand or accumulate, but even after you stop the immediate cause there can still be lingering effects.

For this reason, it is imperative that you recognize exactly how water can affect your home and how to properly clean up after a water related emergency to prevent further damage.

Water Damage Within Minutes

The first signs of water damage will be to carpeting, fabrics and furniture items that come in contact with standing water. Porous materials like carpeting, fabric and paper will soak up and retain water, causing them to become discolored and begin to swell. 

Furniture that is standing on carpeting will begin to leech and stain the carpeting.

The first step in repairing the damage is to identify the source of the water and resolve it if possible.

In the case of a burst pipe or leak, shutting off the water supply to your home should do the trick.

If the cause is flooding from a storm then you’ll need to wait until the storm is over and begin removing the standing water as safely and quickly as possible.

Water Damage Within Hours

Even if you are able to quickly cut off the source of the problem, damage can still occur within hours of first contact with water.

As the humidity level rises, odors become apparent and fabrics that are not colorfast will begin to bleed, potentially staining other materials they come in contact with. 

Furniture and other wooden objects begin to chip, peel and swell.

In order to mitigate the damage to furniture and other wood surfaces, steps should be taken to remove the items and begin drying them out as soon as possible. 

In most instances, you’ll want to proceed cautiously, allowing the items to air dry to prevent the damage from getting any worse.

If the damage is too severe, items may not be salvageable.

Water Damage Within Days

By far the biggest risk related to water damage is the growth and spread of mold and fungi.

Mold requires moisture to grow, so as soon as surfaces become wet they provide the perfect environment for mold. 

Mold will begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure occurs and once it begins to grow it can spread rapidly and may cause health effects.

After flooding occurs, you’ll need to confirm that conditions are safe in order to begin cleanup, which includes checking for signs of mold growth.

The EPA has guidelines to follow in order to determine the safety of any structure for flood cleanup. 

Other damage that can occur within days of flooding includes severe warping and cupping of wood floors, blistering of paint and peeling of wallpaper as adhesives start to release.

Wood structural beams and other underlying parts of your home may also begin to swell, warp and split.

Water Damage Within Weeks

The damage caused by flooding can take as long as several weeks to become apparent and may be severe if immediate steps are not taken to thoroughly dry and clean the affected area.

To prevent spread, you should have your home’s HVAC system thoroughly checked and treated as this is the primary way that mold can infect an entire house.

Structural beams, floors, and ceilings may be drastically affected, making the home unsafe for occupancy.  

The Red Cross recommends carefully checking your home for any structural damage after a flood before you begin the cleanup.  

Trust The Pros To Make Repairs

Water damage can be devastating and it can continue to be a problem long after the immediate emergency is resolved.

To protect your home and family against the lingering effects of water damage, you need to ensure that the affected area is completely dried and cleaned.

While you may be able to handle some of this process yourself, you don’t want to take risks and that’s why it’s important to hire water mitigation professionals to ensure that the job is done right.

At SERVPRO, we’re prepared to respond immediately and we have the expertise and equipment necessary to get the job done right every time.

We’ll remove any badly damaged items and make structural repairs to ensure that your home is safe.

As devastating as flooding can be, not all water damage is immediately apparent.

To keep your home safe, stay one step ahead of water damage by trusting cleanup and restoration to the professionals.

Call (484) 841-6669

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

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Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

Spring temperatures are cool at night, and many people use space heaters to reduce heating costs and to heat rooms with inadequate heat distribution. Although space heaters are commonly used for this purpose, a report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies space heaters as being responsible for 53 percent of U.S. home fires, and the leading cause of home fire deaths. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester offers residents these suggestions from the NFPA on how to use electric space heaters safely:

• Keep children and pets away from space heaters at all times
• Never leaved a space heater unattended
• Turn your space heater off before going to bed
• Place space heaters at a minimum of three feet away from combustible materials
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are operating
• Make sure the electrical cords are not damaged and avoid the use of extension cords   

We Are Fire Damage Specialists

When a fire causes damage to your home or business, we want to help. We offer many services to clean and restore furniture, documents, and keepsakes and can store items while repairs are underway.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Fire Damage

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help®

Did you know that residential fires account 27 percent of reported fires and 70 percent of all fire injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top causes of residential fires in the home are cooking, heating, electrical, smoking, and candles. They suggest that residents should routinely check for hidden electrical hazards like damaged cords, discolored or warm wall outlets, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. Any of these issues should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

When Fires Happen, We Respond

No matter how vigilant we are regarding home fire safety, fires can still happen. When a fire causes damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Here to Help.® Fire, smoke, and water damage from firefighting efforts can cause damage to your home that can be costly if not repaired quickly. Fortunately, our team of professionals have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond to any residential or commercial fire damage emergency.  From your initial call we can be onsite within four hours, and we are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated

Biohazard Cleanup

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

It’s hard to imagine anything worse than a sewage backup in your basement

Whether you have a finished or unfinished basement, a sewage backup can cause a tremendous amount of damage and, let’s face it, it’s just disgusting.

While it can be distressing there is no cause for panic; it is possible to get the backup cleaned up and return your home to its previous condition.

Before you begin to tackle clean up it’s important to remember that a sewage backup is far different from any other kind of flooding.

That’s because raw sewage contains bacteria, fungi, parasites, and other contaminants so it’s important to take certain safety measures before you attempt to clean up. 

First Take Safety Precautions

Most utilities enter your home through the basement, so before you even think of handling fluids that have gathered there you need to make sure that the utilities are shut off. 

If your electric box is above the waterline, you can safely shut off the power yourself, otherwise, you should call the electric company and let them do it, but do not try to start cleanup until the power is off.

You’ll also want to ensure that there is no gas leak in the basement. It may be difficult with the presence of sewage but try and smell for a gas leak.

If you notice any signs of a gas or electric problem, including sparks, smoke or buzzing, call your utility company immediately and do not enter the basement.

Once you have ensured that the basement is safe to enter, you’ll want to shut off the main water valve to prevent any further water build-up.

Also, make sure that the plumbing in your house is not used while you are cleaning the basement as using sinks or flushing toilets could make the backup worse.

Next Prepare To Clean

Now that you’ve secured the area you need to take steps to prepare yourself for the cleanup job.

Because raw sewage is full of contaminants, you should be sure to wear protective clothing while handling it, including goggles, a ventilator, a face mask, rubber gloves, and rubber boots. 

Also, wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt and cover any cuts or open wounds with a waterproof bandage to help prevent infection.

Of course, contaminants aren’t the only nasty issue you’ll have to deal with during cleanup.

The smell of raw sewage can be overpowering so you need to ensure that the basement is well ventilated so that you aren’t overcome by the fumes.

Open windows or vents where possible and position fans at the top of the stairs to draw in the fresh air and don’t forget to take regular breaks to avoid getting sick from the smell.

Begin Cleanup

The first step of cleanup should be removing the backed up fluids and solids, which can be done with either a pump, a Shop Vac or a simple mop and bucket depending on the severity of the backup.

Many home improvement stores rent pumps and heavy-duty Shop Vacs for this purpose.

Whether you use a pump or a Shop-Vac, make sure you choose one with a wide enough hose so that it will work effectively without becoming clogged. 

With a pump, direct the hose out of the basement and make sure it is discharging the sewage outside and away from the foundation of your house.

A Shop Vac can also be very effective, just make sure you choose one with a large tank capacity and do not empty it into any sinks while the cleanup is in progress.

Shop Vacs are particularly useful for getting into tight spaces and corners so you can ensure that every inch of the basement is clean.

A mop and bucket can be equally effective, though it is more labor-intensive. Use a small shovel to clean up solid waste or apply warm water to dissolve solids, then soak up the liquid sewage with the mop and wring it out in the bucket.

Empty solid waste into heavy-duty garbage bags and be careful not to overfill them.

Any wood or fabric items that have become soaked will most likely need to be disposed of as wood, fabric, and particleboard will soak up the liquid, allowing it to seep in deeper and affect the structure itself.

Carpeting and carpet padding will also have to be ripped up and disposed of, using heavy-duty garbage bags to prevent leaks.

Wash and Disinfect

Once the sewage has been removed you can start the two-step process of washing and disinfecting. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wipe down all items and surfaces and then disinfect with a combination of one gallon of water and 1 ¼ cups of bleach.

Mix up a new batch of disinfectant every 20 to 30 minutes to make sure it remains effective.

Wipe down all large items with a rag and use a spray bottle on flat surfaces, then allow to air dry.

Don’t Forget Your Insurance

While most sewage backups may not be covered by a standard homeowner’s policy, it’s still a good idea to thoroughly document the damage before you start cleanup so that you have the necessary proof if you decide to file a claim.

You can check with your insurance agent to determine exactly what is covered in your particular policy.

Don’t Hesitate To Call In The Professionals

Though you may feel perfectly capable of handling a minor sewage backup in your basement, it’s always a good idea to call a professional water mitigation company to ensure that the job is done right.

Have more questions?

You don’t want to take any chances with the health and safety of your family, and professionals like SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are equipped to handle any emergency quickly and expertly so that you can breathe easier.

Why Rely On The Professionals?

Professional water mitigation companies like SERVPRO have the training and equipment to handle even the worst sewage backup.

We are ready to respond 24 hours a day and will arrive at your home as quickly as possible to begin the cleanup process.

We’ll employ professional-grade pumps, drying systems and sewage containment equipment to ensure that the backup is cleaned thoroughly and safely.

There’s more to water mitigation than just cleaning up the spill, however, and we’re prepared to handle that too.

We can also clean air ducts and provide thorough mold remediation to prevent any further mold growth.

We’ll help to preserve your belongings and restore your home to its previous condition and we’ll even help you to work with your insurance company to facilitate any potential claims.

When Clean Up Is Done

Once the backup has been thoroughly cleaned up, either by yourself or a professional water mitigation company, you can then safely address the underlying cause to prevent any future backups.

Remember, cleaning up a sewage backup in your basement should be handled quickly and carefully to avoid endangering your family.

That’s why your best option is to rely on the services of a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO.

We’ll arrive faster to any disaster and treat your home as if it were our own.

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are Specialists in Biological Cleaning

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

It has never been more critical to remain vigilant about the routine cleaning of high-touch surfaces in our homes and businesses. This is especially true for essential businesses and services that are required to remain open to keep Pennsylvania running during this global pandemic. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants commercial businesses to know that we are specialists in biological cleaning with years of experience. We follow the guidelines issued by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local authorities. The CDC recommends that high-touch surfaces be routinely cleaned and disinfected. High-touch surfaces include tables, counters, light switches, handles, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, and:

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

Call Us Today for a Proactive Cleaning

We use EPA-approved, hospital-grade products and are specialty trained to deal with biological pathogens. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is ready to respond to any specialty cleaning and disinfecting job.  We are on call and available to respond 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. Let us clean and restore your commercial business “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (484) 841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Biohazard Cleanup

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of “biohazard” as ‘an agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environments.’ Some examples of biohazards include human blood, animal waste, sewage, and medical waste such as sharps or needles. Biohazard spills are dangerous and should be cleaned by qualified professionals. Specialized training and experience are required for the decontamination of your home or business.  Biohazards may occur due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, or hoarding.  SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants residents and commercial businesses to know that we are prepared to safely clean and restore many forms of biohazard damage. Here are some examples of the kinds of biohazards we provide cleanup and recovery services for:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Sharps cleanup
• Urban camp cleanup

Sewage backups are one of the most common biohazard scenarios we respond to. We remove the sewage, contaminates and moisture and properly clean, disinfect and deodorize the area. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are on call and available to respond to your biohazard emergency 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. We’ll take care of your biohazard damage “Like it never even happened.” Call today at (484) 841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Restore Your Keepsakes

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

The firefighters have just left you are standing in the midst of your home that has been ravaged by fire. Not only is there damage to your home, but there is also damage to your furniture and other home contents caused by soot, smoke, ash and water used by the firefighters to put out the flames. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we provide content restoration services and approach every fire damage emergency with a “restore” versus “replace” mentality to help you save money and to help you preserve as many of your precious and irreplaceable family heirlooms that we can. We can’t always clean and restore all of your belongings back to pre-fire condition, but we can clean and restore many of your damaged contents using techniques like:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
   

We are on call to respond to any fire damage emergency 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provides quality contents restoration services to business owners and residents. Call today at (484) 841-6669.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses Advanced Technology to Restore Damage

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses advanced technology and techniques to safely clean and restore property damage? New developments and advancements allow us to restore damage to your business or home back to preloss condition more efficiently. Our use of technological advances to clean and restore a property quickly and effectively make us a premier cleaning and restoration company.  We also use specialized equipment such as:

• Moisture detection equipment: infrared cameras to identify water location
• Moisture measurement equipment: hygrometers and other meters are used to determine the extent of moisture saturation
• Water extraction equipment: submersible and gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted and portable extraction units
• Drying equipment: high-speed air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers to pull moisture form the air
• Odor removal and deodorization: air scrubbers and thermal foggers and deodorization agents
• Sanitizing agent, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments: deodorization products to control odors form excessive moisture and disinfection products to stop the growth of bacterial and other harmful microorganisms

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester uses these advanced technologies to safely and efficiently clean and restore property damage to your home or business.  We are available 24 hours a day to respond to any size emergency. We’ll take care of your property damage “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Why SERVPRO is the Top Cleaning & Restoration Company

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Did you know that SERVPRO technicians undergo a rigorous training and certification process? SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants commercial businesses and homeowners to know that our technicians have the training and experience to respond to property damage emergencies. Initial, 15 day hands-on and ongoing training is provided at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility on the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

In addition, employees undergo further training at their SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester are awarded certification after the successful completion of course materials and pass an examination after training on topics such as crew training, fire restoration, water restoration and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Web-based training is ongoing and keeps our technicians up to speed on industry standards.

We are proud to offer continuing education credit and non-credit classes to insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Southern Delaware County & West Chester staff including:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

If you experience a property damage emergency to your home or business, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours to respond to any size emergency. Call us today at 610-506-8919. We’ll take care of your property damage  “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is Independently Owned and Operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Here to Help with Fire Damage

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

According the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires have remained the major cause of fires in homes and commercial businesses in the U.S. since 2013. Fires can break out at any time. Lightning, faulty wiring, defective kitchen or other household appliances are just some of the other ways fire can damage your home or business. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants businesses and homeowners to know that we are equipped to respond to any size fire damage emergency and have the specialty equipment and training required to clean and restore fire damage to preloss condition. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the American Red Cross:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone

If you experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Water Damage

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

A broken valve on a pipe can release a torrent of water causing major damage to your business before you know it. It is imperative that water damage be mitigated as soon as possible to prevent costly structural building repairs. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can respond to any disaster within 24-hours, seven days a week and we want to help. We will begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately to get your business back to normal as quickly as possible. Our six-step process for water cleanup and restoration includes:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Water Removal
• Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification
• Step 5: Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Step 6: Restoration

Depending on the amount and type of water damage, we may provide some of these services:

• Caring For Your Belongings
• Storm Damage
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Building Services
• Commercial Water Damage

Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for residents and business owners. Call us today at (484) 841-6669 to find out about our water cleanup and restoration services. We hope you never have water damage to your home or business but if you do, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call Danielle 610-506-8919

IICRC Certified Firm

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and SERVPRO of West Chester is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County / West Chester

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and SERVPRO of West Chester specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO can Get Any Job Done!

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can respond to any disaster, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? You never know when you may be faced with the aftermath of a disaster, but SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants home and business owners to know that we are on hand and ready to respond to your emergency. Commercial business owners know that the longer it takes to get back to business, the more revenue is lost. Here are some of the many services we offer:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Biohazard removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for residents and business owners. Call us today at (484) 841-6669 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO can Handle Puffback!

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Most of us have never heard of a puff back, unless you or someone you know has had this disaster occur in your home or business. A puffback occurs when an oil burner backfires and sends oily soot throughout your home or business.  This anomaly can happen if a boiler is older, not well-maintained, or just malfunctions for technical reasons. 

A puffback can occur all at once, covering every surface in a structure with soot particulate.  Or, it might be gradual and not result in soot on every surface in a home or business, only a room or two.  This is not a healthy situation and you should not touch or breathe the particulate that – like bus and other exhaust – can be carcinogenic for us, especially for our children, elderly relatives and pets.

You’ll know if you’ve had a puffback!  It is usually quite easy to tell.  Soot covers all areas of the home or business & may range from light to very heavy particulate in every nook and cranny. In some cases, it is a fine layer that just appears to be regular dust.  However, this "dust" can “re-appear” hours after you clean, and there’s usually a strong odor of oil in affected rooms.  At SERVPRO of West Chester & Southern Delaware County, we have certified technicians who can make it, "Like it never even happened."

You can prevent puffbacks in one easy way:  Your best precaution against a puffback is to have your oil burner inspected annually, so that it’s in good repair.  This is no guarantee against having a puff back, but it greatly reduces your risk.   Keep debris, animal hair or anything that could interfere with proper functioning away from your oil burner.

What to avoid and tips for not making a bad puffback worse:  Do not attempt to wash wallpapered or flat painted walls, clean carpets or upholstered furniture. Avoid touching things.  

What you should do first: 

    •    Notify your insurance agent or company immediately and tell them that you have your local SERVPRO restoration company on the way.

    •    Most insurance companies know SERVPROs and our certified disaster recovery companies, so schedule a free walkthrough with Danielle Mortimer at (484) 841-6669 and we'll work with the insurance adjusters and get them the pictures, data and measurements needed.

    •    Next, most home and business owners policies encourage you to clean or hire a qualified disaster response company right away, to help you clean your property, return to the home and get your life back quickly; talk to your local agent about who to call.  A puffback is soot and it is particulate and can be carcinogenic if a lot is inhaled.  You will have soot on every surface in your affected area.

    •    Have a qualified team begin cleaning all affected areas as soon as possible, to prevent more damage.

    •    Soot travels & will re-appear if it’s not completely removed.

Tips on what NOT to do:

    •    Do not attempt to wash wallpapered or flat-painted walls. (incorrect cleaning cab compound the soot residue problem)

    •    Do not try to clean carpets and upholstered furniture. Avoid touching things. (Soot on your hands can permeate upholstery, walls and woodwork causing further damage.)

    •    Try not to walk on flooring in affected area because you will grind in soot and make it harder to remove.

    •    Do not use wet cleansers on anything, especially fabrics or porous materials!

Plan to call in professionals for help, whether it's our SERVPRO or another restoration team that has background checked, certified staff to clean up, so you can quickly get your life back to normal!

 #heretohelp

Call (484) 841-6669

Biohazard Cleanups

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

When faced with the danger of biohazard cleanup and restoration, did you know that qualified professionals should be called? SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants the business and homeowners to know that our highly trained specialists are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to your emergency helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We can also help you manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial biohazard services  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester provide:

• Crime Scene Cleanups
• Suicide
• Homicide Cleanups
• Blood Cleanup
• Accident Cleanup
• Hoarding Scenes
• Animal Waste/Remains
• Chemical Spills
• Tear Gas Cleanup

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a biohazard disaster, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester wants to help. No matter what your emergency may be, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage caused by biohazard for Southern Delaware County & West Chester residents and business owners. Call us today at (484) 841-6669 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Here to Help!

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

From disaster…

Time and again the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester have been on the front lines in post-catastrophe situations with their service being invaluable to adjusters and homeowners alike. From the mold created by catastrophic water leaks to soot and smoke removal after a house fire, we bring stability and efficiency to the job that only professionals can bring.

…to normal.

At the end of the day, you just want to turn the key, walk in the door, sit your things down, and sink into a soft chair to relax. You’ve just endured the trauma of some fire, water, or mold disaster and clean up and you don’t want to continue to be in the middle of a disaster area. We will strive to make your situation as painless as possible and when the job is complete  and you return to your normal way of living, it will have been our pleasure to have helped make it “Like it never even happened.” So, when or if you’re faced with any of the previously described problems, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester encourages you to call 610-506-8919  so we can help you remediate the damage.

Call for all your restoration needs (484) 841-6669

Always Here to Help

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

1700+ reasons why…

In the beginning, there was a painting business in California and from that SERVPRO was born. There are now currently over 1700 stores from our Atlantic Seaboard to our Pacific Frontier. Over seventeen hundred franchises tell the tale. We have grown phenomenally and are continuing to grow. Your business in Southern Delaware County & West Chester has been the cornerstone of that growth and we recognize that. Because of you, we strive to always put our best foot forward. Whether bagging up hazardous waste or speaking with insurance adjusters, our efforts are and always will be to give you our best.

Over five decades…

Without experience, the best intentions are fruitless. We, here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester have experience. In fact, we’ve got over five decades of professional cleaning and restoration know-how scattered across the country. The staff at our franchisees are well trained and professional when performing their duties and/or assessing your situation. If and when you are facing the discomfort of a high-stress situation; find us online or call us at (484) 841-6669 and we will put those years of experience to work for you.

Call (484) 841-6669

Air Purifiers

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we care about our communities health and safety. Are you one of the millions who suffer from asthma or allergies everyday? Do you own an air purifier? Do you think about the air quality of your home?

Maybe it's time to invest in an air purifier for yourself. You can buy one these days for under $80, the cost of a monthly cell phone service bill.

Most people who buy air purifiers do so in hopes of easing asthma, allergies or even just dust in their homes. The very best portable air purifiers are very effective at cleaning the air, mold spores, smoke, dust, and pollen at their highest and lowest speed.

Mold spores range from 1-30 microns, and air purifiers remove mold as small as .003 microns. UV light is helpful but is not required for removing spores. Mold spores die inside the HEPA filter due to the fact that it's a dry sterile environment. A quality HEPA air purifier removes airborne mold spores and keeps the air quality of your home at par.

If your kids or loved ones constantly suffer from asthma and allergies, test out a good quality air purifier to see if you notice a difference. You'll be glad you did.

Call (484) 841-6669

Why SERVPRO

1/31/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester, we have an amazing staff who work hard for you every day. From our owners, who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff, who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, we strive to provide top notch customer service.

If you are looking for a local company to provide professional and timely services, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is the place, and we won't let you down. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs you may have.

Call (484) 841-6669

24 Hour Water Damage Restoration

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (484) 841-6669

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call (484) 841-6669

Why are SERVPRO Trucks Green?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

You've most likely seen the restoration crews of SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester out and about in your neighborhoods helping to recover disasters from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

 Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

Call (484) 841-6669

When Disaster Strikes

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in Southern Delaware County & West Chester 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 cleanup and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester 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 Southern Delaware County & West Chester.

For all your restoration needs, call (484) 841-6669

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester for Fire Damage

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call us for any fire damage emergency. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7 to respond to your call. Our swift response will limit further damage and reduce your restoration costs.

Our team will start the restoration process right away. Our restoration process includes inspection and fire damage assessment, immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed), water removal and drying (if water damage is present), removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces, cleaning and repair, and restoration.

We're certified by the IICRC in fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call (484) 841-6669

Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

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 Southern Delaware County & West Chester specialize in cleanup and restoration services. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester do?

SERVPRO provides:

• Residential & commercial cleanup of: water/ flood damage, fire damage, and storm damage
• Mold remediation
• Restoration

SERVPRO 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

For all your restoration needs, call (484) 841-6669

Choosing the Best Mold Mitigation Company

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold mitigation can be a real concern whenever water damage occurs. 

Mold forms and spreads within 48 hours after water damage and the more it spreads, the more of a hazard it becomes.

It can cause serious health effects, especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. 

If you suspect a mold infestation in your home or business, the sooner you can do something about it, the better.

When water damage occurs, it can often be a real cause for alarm but you needn’t worry provided you choose the right mold mitigation company to help solve your problem. 

It might not seem like much of an issue but surprisingly, some customers can take as much as a week or even a few weeks to shop around and find a mold remediation company. 

Unfortunately, that time can allow mold to spread even further and become more of a danger.

If you’re experiencing a mold issue, you want to move quickly and begin mold mitigation as fast as possible

You’ll want a mold remediation company that responds within those critical first 24-48 hours and offers a full range of services dedicated to restoring your home and belongings to their pre-damage state as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Mold can be a challenging problem but choosing a mold mitigation company shouldn’t be

• You need a company with the proper training that is ready to respond quickly and put the top of the line equipment and techniques to use to address the problem thoroughly.
  
  
• Look for a company with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 
  This training will ensure that they are fully equipped to handle any residential or commercial mold infestation and provide complete mold mitigation services.
  
  
• That begins with responding as quickly as possible after your initial call. 
  A representative should instantly determine what equipment, resources and personnel will be needed to address your problem and get a team to your property within 24 hours.
  
  
• Once they arrive, the team should perform a thorough inspection and assess the extent of your mold mitigation needs. 
  
  
• Then they can begin taking steps to contain the spread of mold, including using negative air chambers and negative air pressure.

In order to ensure that the mold is stopped in its tracks, it’s necessary to tackle more than the visible signs of mold

Microscopic mold spores in the air are what spread mold throughout a home, so you’ll want a mold remediation company that uses specialized filtration equipment to capture those spores and powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA filters to prevent them from spreading.

Since mold can spread quickly in porous materials such as drywall and carpeting, any thorough mold mitigation should include removing and replacing those materials as well as using antimicrobial and anti-fungal products on materials that can’t be removed or replaced. 

Mold can affect more than your home itself, so you’ll want a company that does everything they can to help preserve family photos, documents, and other precious items.

When mold rears its ugly head, you don’t want to wait too long to act.  

Be an informed homeowner and you’ll be prepared to make the right choice for your mold mitigation needs  

In Southern Delaware County & West Chester, that choice is easy with SERVPRO. 

We offer full mold mitigation and remediation services so that you can have real peace of mind. We’re guaranteed to get there faster to any disaster and use our expertise to make your mold problem a thing of the past.

If you are experiencing mold, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester.

(484) 841-6669

Flooding? Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can ruin a home. Homeowners look at the standing water and want to give up before deciding to call a professional service to replace the damage caused by burst pipes or other failed plumbing and appliances.

Regardless of where the damage came from, SERVPRO is the water damage restoration and reconstruction company to use in Southern Delaware County. After the water has been pumped out, we continue to carry out an inspection from the foundation to the roof. Here are a few of the more common damages and how we rebuild after a disaster.

First things first, we replace damaged plumbing. Until we stop the source of the water, it is a waste of time to affect any other repairs. Our specialists are fully trained to replace bathroom fixtures, install new dishwashers or lay new intake pipe anywhere in the home. If the problem was a failed septic tank that backed up into the home or across the outside property, we can remove the old tank and set a new one, to include a new concrete cradle, in place.

Next, come the floors. If our inspection finds damage to the sub-floor, our technicians pull out each piece of the damaged frame and replace it. If necessary, we go down to the foundation and re-level the dirt or concrete to put down a surface without rolls or raised points. Our technicians have years of experience in framing and laying new wood floors that increase the value of the home and are appealing to everyone who sees them.

When it comes to walls, hanging new sheet rock is only the surface of what we do. Before putting up the new panels, we replace every bit of wall framing that shows water damage. Although we do not move load-bearing walls, we can expand closets or decrease a formal dining area to increase the living room for a young, growing family.

Rebuilding your home can be a lengthy process, but hiring the right company for the job can make it much less painful. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has the experience, training, and equipment needed to help you from the ground up. 

Winter Weather

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures, to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your home or business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County about completing an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

Call (484) 841-6669

Winter Storms

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

Remember, prevention is the best solution to water damage, but if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Call (484) 841-6669

Winter Fire Awareness

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%).

Carbon Monoxide

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

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year.

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart.

If you experience any fire, water, or mold damage, call (484) 841-6669.

What is an Ice Dam?

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.

Moisture entering the home from ice dams can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause respiratory problems.

• Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
• Take immediate action to get rid of the water source, clean the home environment and maintain its air quality.

Heat loss from a house, snow cover and outside temperatures interact to form ice dams. For ice dams to form there must be snow on the roof and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof's outside surface must be above 32 degrees F (freezing) while lower surfaces are below 32 degrees. These are average temperatures over sustained periods of time. For a portion of the roof to be below freezing, outside temperatures must also be below freezing.

The snow on a roof surface that is above freezing will melt. As water flows down the roof it reaches the portion of the roof that is below 32F and freezes. This causes the ice dam.

The dam grows as it is fed by the melting snow above it, but it will limit itself to the portions of the roof that average below 32F. So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid. This water finds cracks and openings in the exterior roof covering and flows into the attic space. From the attic it could flow into exterior walls or through the ceiling insulation and stain the ceiling finish.

If you experience any fire, water, or mold damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Cleaning Products - Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County Should Take Care of Your Property

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

A few of our cleaning products.

As your local mitigation, remediation and restoration company, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County carries a variety of professional cleaning products. We do not use the same cleaners that you can purchase in a store. SERVPRO® Industries have scientists on staff that formulate products that are designed exclusively for our franchise. You can be assured that the most effective products are being used to take care of your loss.

Our products are used to decontaminate, deodorize, clean leather & wood, for general cleaning and much more. Each of our products are labeled and specify proper cleaning use. As our customers, for your knowledge and comfort, our technicians carry the Safety Data Sheets per product.

We ensure thorough cleaning is maintained throughout each job because we think of your property as our own.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is available 24/7/365. We are a highly trained water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration company with many services not typically covered by other restoration companies.

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property mitigation, remediation and restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County today for your cleaning, mitigation, and remediation needs. (484) 841-6669

Holiday Coat Drive!

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester First Annual Holiday Coat Drive

Give back this holiday season!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester is accepting new and gently used winter coats for children and adults. All coats will be donated to various programs throughout Delaware County & Chester County. Coats can be dropped off at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. Please make sure coats are bagged at the time of drop off. Thank you for giving back to your community!

For more information, contact: (484) 841-6669

Coat donations are accepted from November 27th to December 27th

Coat donations can be dropped off at: 35 Lacrue Avenue #5, Glen Mills, PA 19342

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County and West Chester is always #heretohelp and give back to our community. We appreciate any donations given to our coat drive. Tis' the season of giving, happy holidays!

If you experience fire, water, or mold damage, call (484) 841-6669

Storms & Pets

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Severe storms can hit any place, even Glen Mills. If high winds, ice and snow, or heavy rains make evacuation necessary, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County knows that most of us will not leave without our pets.  We can repair water damage and storm damage "Like it never even happened,"^® but people and pets are irreplaceable.

Preparation for Glen Mills Pets:

• Maintain current information on all tags
• Secure tags to collars
• Consider microchips for animals that cannot wear collars or that may lose them
• In case you get separated, have photos of yourself with each pet
• Identify shelters and motels that accept pets
• Have a secure leash/harness and carrier for each of your pets
• Keep copies of each Rx for the pet(s)

Emergency Kits for Pets:

• Rabies tags, copies of vaccination records
• Medical records for pets that require extra care
• At least a 3-day supply of water and food for each pet
• Animal first-aid kit
• Favorite toys and blankets
• Treats
• Medicines
• Extra litter and litter box
• Bags for waste

If storm damage does hit your home, remember that We are Here to Help.^® 

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Call (484) 841-6669

Frozen Pipes

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

With the cold weather right around the corner, it raises concern about pipes freezing in homes and businesses. When pipes freeze, it leaves a huge mess of water damage to your homes and businesses. That is when you call SERVPRO to help you clean up the mess and fix the areas that were damaged from the water. Here at SERVPRO, we make it our job to make sure that the customer is happy with the outcome of the job.

Here are a couple things that will help to prevent your pipes from freezing:

• Keep your home or apartment thermostat temperature set to at least 55 degrees.
• Do not block heat to areas of your residence that contain plumbing or water fixtures. Keep doors open to bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and cabinets that contain pipes, especially those located on the north side of the dwelling, to expose the plumbing to warmer air inside the house.
• Prevent drafts of cold winter air by keeping windows and storm windows closed. Repair cracks or holes around doors and windows to keep cold air from blowing in.
• Cover pipes in unheated areas with heat tape or pipe insulation. 

If you plan to be away from your residence for an extended period of time, ask someone to check your house or apartment periodically. Show them what to do if water pipes freeze and where to locate your water shut-off valve in case of an emergency

Call (484) 841-6669

What to do in Case of a Fire

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to share tips about what to do in case of a fire.

• Have an escape plan and practice it.  Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a fire.  Your plan should identify all available exits from each room and routes that lead from the room to a safe, open air space.  Designate a meeting place away from your house, such as a neighbor's yard.  Practice your plan every few months, including at night, which is when fires are most deadly since it's more difficult to find a safe exit.
• Stay low and crawl to an exit to avoid smoke inhalation. Feel doorknobs to see if they're hot.  Never open a door if the doorknob feels hot.  That means there's most likely a fire behind it, and opening the door will put you in danger and fuel the fire with oxygen.
• Don't hide.  Even if you're scared, it's important to never hide under a bed, in a closet, or anywhere else that emergency responders wouldn't be able to find you. Try not to panic, and do your best to remain calm and make your way to the nearest way out of your house.

If you experience a fire, call (484) 841-6669

Here to Help with Fire Damage!

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fires come in many sizes, just as homes range from small to extravagantly large. Large homes might have the luxury of spaciousness, but that can also cause homeowners to have a more difficult time detecting problems early. Fire is one such problem.

When a home in West Chester burns, homeowners often worry about the amount of fire damage their home suffers. However, the smoke and particles in soot pose just as much of a hazard to residents. These particles can carry carcinogens and irritants that make breathing difficult. SERVPRO of West Chester removes all the damage, making your home, no matter how large or small, “Like it never even happened,” again, ready for your family to live in comfortable and familiar surroundings once more.

Removing charred building materials that once made up your home's interior can make your home seem bare, but it is part of the process we implement to prepare for new materials. Smoke-free, these materials pose no risk to your family's health.

Fire damage can impact any area of your home, from floors to ceiling, and we do our best to match new sections to undamaged areas. We know that continuity in your home, from one area of a wall to the next, is one of those small aspects that mean a great deal aesthetically. We want a clean, polished look for your home, just as we know your family appreciated before the fire.

Cleaning up the contents of your home is a job we perform by hand. Some items, such as knick-knack collections, clean up well on-site, in large tubs that we bring specifically for that purpose. Our team gathers together and transports other items, including large draperies and window blinds, for cleaning at our facility. Once completed, all steps, from the restoration of your home to cleaning and removal of soot and grime of your personal belongings and household furnishings, bring together your house, fully restored and waiting for your return home.

If you experience a fire, call (484) 841-6669

Mold in Your Commercial Property

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County understands mold and we want to educate our community about the best ways to prevent and treat your commercial property. 

Mold grows from mold spores which are too small to see unaided. Spores can survive harsh environments for many years. It can also grow almost anywhere. Mold needs to have above-freezing temperatures, protein such as animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet, and moisture or high humidity.

Mold grows rapidly, damages property, has a bad smell, is unsightly and can cause health effects.

If you have a small amount of mold on a dish, you can clean it. You can even throw it away. However, if you have a large amount of mold, you need licensed mold remediation from an industry professional. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a “large amount” as 10 square feet or more.

If you suspect your apartment or office building might have mold, you need to have a certified mold inspector out to examine the area. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County cannot identify what kind of mold you have, but we are licensed in mold remediation and we can repair the damage caused by mold.

When you have a concern about mold damage in your apartment or condominium, speak with your landlord or property manager if you think he/she should hire licensed professionals. Whatever the disaster, remember that SERVPRO is Here to Help.

If you suspect mold in your property, call (484) 841-6669.

Commercial Cleaning

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Businesses are starting to go back to work, so having a clean business environment during COVID is extremely important.

Americans spend most of their waking hours at work. While many businesses use a cleaning service, the actual cleaning performed is often minimal, with a quick vacuum and emptying of trash. Deeper dirt, dust, allergens, and pathogens remain in carpets, on blinds, and deep within the upholstery of office furniture. There are so many benefits to having a commercial deep cleaning done at your business, especially to protect your employees from COVID and other viruses.

Employees thrive and work better in a clean, and fresh environment. Think about it, no one would want to work in a dirty environment, especially people who have allergies, and other health conditions. Having a peace of mind about this pandemic during work is extremely beneficial to both employees and customers.

By doing a deep commercial cleaning, you also prevent the spread of viruses and diseases. This means less sick days, and healthier employees which is key. Prevent COVID and protect your employees!

It also is a more professional appearance when customers or clients walk into your business. If you have a clean environment, customers notice that as well. This will give customers peace of mind while attending your business during this pandemic. It also leads to long term cost savings. Having a deep commercial cleaning helps keep the cabinets, desks, and carpets in better condition, and having them last longer.

Consider having SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County do a deep commercial cleaning at your business. It just makes sense for your business to thrive in multiple ways. Protect your employees and customers today!

For commercial cleaning, call (484) 841-6669.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County hopes you never experience the devastation that comes with fire damage. However, in the event that disaster strikes, be aware that our IICRC certified technicians are qualified in all aspects of cleaning up the damage left by smoke and fire in your business or residence.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
Someone has called the fire department
You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
You are safe from the fire’s smoke
You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests you remember PASS:
Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
Sweep the nozzle side to side

If you experience any fire damage, call Danielle at (484) 841-6669

Smoke Alarms

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Since fire spreads fast once it is started, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Aston home. An alarm alerts you that danger may be present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to remember:

• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Closed doors help to prevent the spread of fire
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside

If your home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Set up an Emergency Ready Profile to Keep Your Business Prepared!

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Do you know what our Emergency Ready Profile consists of and how it can help you? 

Let us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County help you be prepared! Are you fully prepared for an emergency in your business? Be ready for any disaster or emergency with the SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County Emergency Ready Program. 

Our Sales & Marketing Manager can help you get an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) put into place for your business to benefit customers, businesses, and families. 

In the event of an emergency, a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The Emergency Ready Profile is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut off valve locations, and priority areas.  The ERP is accessible online using your computer or tablet. 

Give SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County a call! We can get you set up an appointment to see how we can get your place of business “ready for whatever happens.” 

To set up an Emergency Ready Profile, call (484) 841-6669.

Commercial Fires

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Commercial fires are something that nobody wants to think about or talk about, but unfortunately they do happen commonly, and put many people out of work after they happen.

Business owners face significant costs in damage, and property owners have significant losses and high repair costs.

As soon as the flames are put out, your insurance company should be the first contact as they will need to come out, inspect the damage, and file a claim. They will then supply you with the money you need to start the fire damage restoration and content cleaning process. It is important that you use a company that is properly certified, so call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has numerous professionals that are available 24/7 to respond to any emergency call for fire damage restoration. We will be available to come out to the site of the loss, and you will be in the right hands as far as getting the right services, protecting what you have left after the fire.

Taking action to have the necessary repairs made to your property can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to assist you.

If you experience a commercial fire, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669.

Causes of Commercial Water Damage

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

There are many causes of commercial water damage and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help you identify and prepare for them. 

Causes of Commercial Water Damage:

- Appliances and equipment. If your facility has equipment that utilizes water, leakage is an ever-present danger. Air conditioners, water heaters, or anything that uses tubes, pipes, gaskets, or filters to operate has the potential to leak. If that leak happens during off hours, you could be looking at major damage. The best thing to do is to regularly look over and maintain your equipment.

- Roofing. Make sure you’re checking your roof regularly. If you get a decent amount of water it means that your drainage isn’t working effectively. Keep in mind that every inch of water weighs in at around five pounds. Over time, this can cause incredible strain and lead to leaks.

- Pipes and drains. It is important to regularly check your pipes and drains, and make sure there aren’t any clogs or leaks. Also, during cold weather especially, you should be checking to make sure the pipes don’t freeze.

- Sprinkler systems. Many commercial buildings are equipped with sprinkler systems, which are great for minimizing fire damage, but not so great for water damage when they malfunction. The fifth cause is Mother Nature causes. Natural disasters like hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and flash flooding can do untold damage to your business. You certainly can’t control the weather, but you can control how ready you are for it.

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County with any commercial water damage that arises! (484) 841-6669

Causes & Categories of Water Damage

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Causes & Categories of Water Damage

An old poem has the line, “water, water, everywhere”. When you need to say this in your home or office, you know there is trouble. You may be looking at water damage. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County shares some different possible causes of water damage.

Causes can include:

• Leaky dishwashers or washing machines
• Clogged pipes
• Leaking roofs
• Broken toilet pipes
• Heavy rain
• Snow or ice

The amount of water damage depends on the amount of water and the cause of the damage.

It is also important to start cleanup as soon as possible. The longer your home or business is water-logged, the more damage. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Categories of Water Damage:

1. Clean water. It might come from an overflowing sink or a broken appliance. The water does not pose a threat to people. Keep in mind that any water will become contaminated after it stops flowing.
2. Gray water. This water is contaminated from the get-go. It comes from broken toilets or sump pumps. It might not look dirty, or it might be brown.
3. Black water. Like gray water, it might not look dirty. One major source of black water is broken sewage pipes. Another source is any water that has been standing still.

If you are experiencing water damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Water Damage

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

As homeowners, business owners or renters, we know that things go wrong from time to time such as fire or mold damage along with different types of water damage. One common problem is the kitchen sink. Kitchen sinks get clogged, pipes can burst, and they can overflow. The possibilities behind this are endless. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is always on-call and ready to save the day for your property! Here are some steps to take when the water starts flowing out of the sink and on to the floor:

• Shut off the faucet that allows water to flow to your sink
• Use a pitcher or any other type of large cup to get water out of your sink
• If you have a food disposal connected to the sink, check that and make sure it is not clogged
• If a clog is not solving itself, grab the plunger – they are not just for toilets
• Keep an eye on any water damage because this could lead to mold

You are encouraged to call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County when the job becomes too much and the water is overwhelming and all over the floors. We have highly trained professionals that are ready to head to any home or commercial building when cleanup or restoration is needed after any type of water damage. Do not hesitate to give us a call at any time. We are open 24/7 for your convenience.

If you are experiencing water damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Candle Safety

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

It’s that pumpkin latte time of year again, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be safe from fire damage and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your home.

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

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Do not let children near candles
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
• 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
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
• 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.

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 home, your friends at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are just a phone call away.

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Fire Extinguishers

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Smoke and fire damage is something all of us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County would like to see you avoid. In the event the worst happens and you are faced with this kind of disaster, you can count on us to lend a helping hand. We have a team of highly trained professionals to walk with you each step of the way when repairing the damage from smoke, water, and fire in your home.

Just to be safe, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County recommends you keep at least one fire extinguisher and know how to use it (them).

A fire-extinguisher may prevent fire damage and smoke damage from spreading throughout the home.

If you see a small fire that you take care of yourself, use the following tips.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the house and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if:

• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than personal injuries
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County explains the Types of Home Fire Extinguishers:

Classes A, B, and C fire extinguishers are found in both homes and businesses

• Class A is for cloth, wood, and paper
• Class B is for liquids that can burst into flame or explode, such as grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paints
• Class C is for electrical equipment like computers, tools, or anything else that is plugged in
• Most home-improvement stores sell multi-purpose fire extinguishers: Classes A:B:C

If you experience fire damage, call (484) 841-6669

Flood Damage

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Some of the many causes of a residential flood occurring in your home may include a severe storm, a busted pipe, a leaking toilet, accidental tub overflow, sewage problems, etc. The possibilities are endless! What a homeowner does AFTER the flood happens is very important.  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to share some post-flood tips. They are as follows:

• Keep children and pets away from the floodwater and all electrical outlets/appliances
• Furniture and other home décor may be waterlogged so take caution in moving those things because they may be heavier than usual
• If this was a flood caused by a natural disaster, let friends and family know you are safe
• Remember, electricity can run through plumbing so take extreme caution around active water

A residential flood will likely leave behind flood water damage in your home. Not only is SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County trained for situations like this, we are ready to help. Give us a call as soon as safety has been established and confirmed and the home is ready to be cleaned up and restored to its preloss condition. Our goal is to make your home look “Like it never even happened.”

If you experience water damage, call (484) 841-6669.

Keeping Southern Delaware County Safe During a Pandemic

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call for Commercial Cleaning (484) 841-6669

For proactive and reactive viral pathogen cleaning, one product we rely on is SERVPROXIDE. The disinfectant is effective against a range of pathogens, EPA-registered, and is NSF Rated which means rinsing isn't required on food contact surfaces. 

As our communities get back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations. At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Clean our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

If you want proactive or reactive cleaning for COVID-19 done in your business, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. We are here to help keep your business safe. (484) 841-6669

Finding all of the Water in Your Home After a Water Loss

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience water loss, call (484) 841-6669

Finding all of the water in your home after a water loss is critical for drying and safety.

Even sanitary water or clean water left standing can become contaminated within days. The longer the water is able to sit and get soaked into materials the greater the damage and the more extensive remediation and repairs. After a water loss, make sure to check these critical places for water or moisture:  

• Ceilings of rooms under the source
• Walls
• Floors
• Wet insulation
• Duct systems
• Crawl spaces
• Basements 

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we know how overwhelming a water loss can be. This is why we are here to give tips to help you through the process. When your home or business is affected by water damage, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for a trustworthy restoration team. We are here to help your home or business go back to normal. For any fire, mold, or water damage, call Danielle. (484) 841-6669

Fire Damage

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Homes can have issues from fire or smoke damage for various reasons. In the Holiday season home fires often occur from unattended candles and cooking accidents. In winter months they often occur due to fireplaces and wood stoves or from space heaters. In the spring and summer months fires often occur from issues related to barbecues and grills.

Fires from barbecues and grills typically cause the most damage to the outside of a home or building but damage can also occur inside due from fire or smoke but also from water damage from firefighting efforts.

Fires can be devastating to your home and life. It is important to be mindful of these reasons that fires can start so that they can be prevented.

If you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is the restoration company to call. We are leaders in fire, water, and mold damage restoration. We care about you, your family, and your home and will do anything to get your life back to normal. Call (484) 841-6669

Fire Safety in Your Home

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can be very frightening – they are scary, spread quickly and can cause devastating losses.  While we cannot completely fire-proof our homes, there are a few safety steps you can take to help protect your family in the event of a fire.

• Install and regularly test smoke detectors. Statistics show that working smoke detectors reduce the risk of death in a house fire almost in half! Fires spread quickly, and once that alarm sounds, you may only have a minute or two to escape.
• Practice Fire Drills at home. Since time is of the utmost importance during a fire, it is best to KNOW what do in the event of a fire.  What is the best escape route? Where does the family meet up outside?  In order to respond quickly, it is best to have a rehearsed plan ahead of time.
• Have fire extinguishers handy & know how to use them. Keep them in an easy access location near a likely source of fire – in the kitchen, the laundry room, etc.  And maybe buy a few extra and have your children practice using them (probably best to do OUTSIDE).
• Childproof your kitchen. To keep small children from accidentally turning on the stove, which may having something on it that could burn.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. Make sure to teach your children they are not toys.

While no one wants to imagine what they would do in the event of a fire, it is better to be prepared, and have a plan to help keep your family as safe as possible.  And if you do experience a fire, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. We are here to help you and your family in any fire, water, or mold emergency. (484) 841-6669

Main Causes of Cooking Fires

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call (484) 841-6669

Cooking fires are one of the most common fires that occur in a home. It is important to know the causes so that you can be mindful in preventing them.

The top main cause of a cooking fire are:

1. Towels or potholder left on the stove too close to the burner.
2. Cooking with hot oils.
3. Cooking on too high of heat.
4. Food that burns in the oven or on the stove top.
5. Microwaves 

The damage that cooking fires cause can be devastating to your home and family. It is important to implement safe cooking practices in your home at all time.

If you do experience a fire while cooking in your kitchen, be sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County right away. We know accidents happen and are here to restore your home or kitchen to make them look brand new. Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we are here to help 24/7/365. Give us a call for any fire, water, or mold damage to your home. (484) 841-6669

Here to Help Keep Your Business Safe

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Keep You Safe During COVID-19

As Pennsylvania is beginning to reopen and lift some of the restrictions set in place for the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are assessing how and when they’re going to reopen. Many are tasked with not only navigating the guidelines set forth by their state but are also working to establish an entirely new way of doing business. Regardless of industry, every business in America has had to make difficult but necessary decisions to develop a strategic plan of action for reopening.

For some, it’s allowing employees to continue to work from home for the remainder of the year. For others, it’s implementing a phased approach of reintroducing both employees and customers to their business environment. For all, a plan that involves a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation is of the utmost importance. Transparency and clear communication of reopening plans, both internally and externally, is proving to be critical for success and support during these trying times.

It’s clear that most businesses are listening to the CDC guidelines and recommendations and placing a higher emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation—for not only their employees to feel safe, but for the safety of their customers as well. These actions and higher standards are becoming the new norm in nearly every industry worldwide and will pave the way for the future of hygienic standards in business overall.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help keep your business safe and clean during these times. We care about your business and the safety of your employees and customers.

Give us a call at (484) 841-6669, We’ll take the worry for you.

Minimizing Water Damage

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

When it occurs, water damage is a significant problem for business owners. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help when this problem strikes. We are here to educate business owners on how to handle water damage and minimize its devastating effects.

Water Damage Basics
Some of the possible causes of water damage:

• Storm
• Flood
• Poor Ventilation
• Leaking Pipes
• Excessive Condensation
• High Humidity
• Damp Utility Closets
• Roof Leaks
• Damp Carpets
• Fire Sprinklers

Once water damage occurs on your property, you need to figure out where the water came from, the extent of the damage and how long the property has been damaged.

When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is the one to call. In any water, storm, fire, or mold damage, call us 24/7/365. (484) 841-6669

Steps to Take After a Storm

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Stay Safe

How to Stay Safe

• Check the local news to make sure your area is safe from the storm.
• Watch out for glass or broken nails
• Avoid standing water
• Look out for hazards such as damaged roofs, broken windows, standing water, or damaged walls.

Assess the Damage to your Home

Take pictures of the storm damage to send to your insurance company!

Roof Damage Signs

• Holes in the roof
• Damaged shingles
• Damaged gutters
• Ceiling leaks
• Dents on vents or gutters

Inspect your windows and doors for cracks and holes. Check the siding of your house, paint, and bricks for damages. Be sure to inspect air conditioning units as well.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

When contacting your insurance company, they will provide you with the next steps needed to make a claim. Your agent can answer any questions you may have about your claim. This will help you become compensated for the damages!

Contact SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help when your home or business is affected by storm damage. We are leading professionals in the restoration business and offer the best of care. Call us if you experience any storm, water, fire, or mold damage! (484) 841-6669

Set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your Business!

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Set up an Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County!

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is so important. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best. Call (484) 841-6669 any time during any emergency.

Here are some reasons why your company should get an Emergency Ready Profile^® today on every one of your buildings.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with any emergency you or your business may face. Set up an Emergency Ready Profile with us as soon as possible so that we can help you as soon as an emergency hits. Call (484) 841-6669 for any fire, water, or mold emergency.

Storm Damage

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage or your home packed and moved, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for any storm, water, fire, or mold damage. We are here to help 24/7/365! (484) 841-6669

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for any Storm Damage

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if you experience any storm damage!

Contact SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County to Perform Flood Water Removal in Your Property.

After a storm, floodwater can seep into various areas of your property and can cause severe damage. If not taken care of on time, the water can weaken your structure, cause mold growth, and wood rot. Fortunately, SERVPRO technicians can reduce the chances of these secondary damages from occurring if contacted on time.

What certification does SERVPRO have for restoration?

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers standards for cleaning and restoring damaged properties. Our technicians only highly trained, certified, and experienced technicians who can perform flood water removal in your property. We can complete the job according to the standards the IICRC has set.

What should I do after flooding occurs in my property?

It is essential to contact your insurance company to inform it about the damage and begin the claim process. Also, contact professional restorers without wasting time to avoid irreparable damage to your drywall, wood, and other porous materials. Also, avoid:

• Entering your property if it has suffered structural damage
• Walking through flood water without turning off the electricity first.
• Getting into contact with the contaminated water.

Can I turn off the noisy fans at night?

We do not recommend turning off the equipment since the more hours it runs, the faster the drying process occurs. Our SERVPRO team can place the drying equipment at strategic points to encourage optimal drying. Switching off the drying equipment can increase the drying time or provide an opportunity for secondary destruction like a mold infestation to occur.

How long can the odor linger?

Odors in your property can last for months or longer if not handled professionally. Floodwater can bring dead animals and different kinds of debris into your property, which can cause odors when rotting. However, with our approved deodorizing products, we can restore fresh air into your home. We can use water-based cinnamon to combat some odors. The product can replace foul odors with a pleasant scent.

It is vital to take immediate action when you experience flood damage in your property. Contact SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for efficient flood water removal. "Like it never even happened." (484) 841-6669

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with storm damage!

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rains may have caused damage that could potentially be dangerous. Collapsed roofs, window damage, collapsed walls, and standing water in your home or business may be present after a storm. Water can also soak into carpets, furniture, or building materials which can cause mold. If you smell gas, shut off your main gas line. Beware of exposed nails, broken class, or sharp objects on your property. Your safety is the most important thing! Be sure to contact SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County to help assess and restore the damages from the storm.

Photograph the Damage 

If your property is safe to be on, use a cellphone or camera to document and photograph damages so that you can show your insurance company. This can help ensure that you will be fully compensated by your insurance company.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent immediately to notify them of the storm damages. The company will send out an adjustor to determine the extent of the damage so that you may be compensated.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance 

The Federal Government may have declared your area that was affected by the storm as a disaster area. This means you may be eligible for low cost loans to help restore your property. This requires proper documentation to be filed.

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if your home or business has been affected by a storm. We are here to help restore any fire, mold, or water damages to get your life back to normal! (484) 841-6669

Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County?

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help!

Why should you choose SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County? Our professional crews care about you and restoring your property back to normal. We are here to help in any fire, water, or mold situation.

Here are what some of our customers had to say: 

“Two weeks ago, during TS Isaias, our basement started to flood. At a friend’s recommendation, we called SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. Danielle took our call and communicated with us through the entire ordeal. She is the epitome of a great human being. She arranged for a crew to come out as soon as they could. We appreciate her support, her calming us, her frequent texts to ensure that we were okay. She worked diligently to provide excellent service. She let us know when the truck was being loaded and on their way. Checked in when they arrived and followed up to see how things went and how we were doing. Our basement was dry in a very short time and looks great! The work crew was professional and complied with the regulatory guidance for the current pandemic. They talked us through their process and were efficient. We definitely recommend SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County to anyone needing help. We most certainly recognize Danielle's going above and beyond. She truly loves what she does, and it showed through for us! Thank you, Danielle and your crew.”

“Just wanted to let you know once again your guys came through with flying colors. I panicked on Friday evening with an emergency with a customer of mine. I called your office and you sent a team right out late on a Friday. They conducted themselves professionally and with respect to the client- who was over reacting and worried about COVID as well as the water damage. Shoe covers, masks, gloves full PPE and you covered all the floors. Thank you once again for the excellent service.”

“I used SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County when a tree fell on my house. This happen in the middle of the night. They came out within an hour and removed the tree and put a tarp on the roof. The next morning another team was out first thing and started in the house. I would highly recommend them for fast efficient service.”

We pride ourselves on helping our customers. Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for any fire, water, or mold damage to your home or business. (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County believes Benjamin Franklin would be proud of Glen Mills

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Benjamin Franklin organized the first volunteer fire department in Pennsylvania

Restore property from fire damage

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County urges all who live and work around Glen Mills to do whatever possible to prevent fires. If the worst happens, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has 24-hour emergency service every single day of the year.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669.

History: Fun Facts for Glen Mills

Not having to worry about coping with fire damage means there is time to learn some history about fighting fires in the United States. No surprise – Philadelphia has a starring role.

William Penn saw the devastation of the London Fire in 1666. When he founded Philadelphia in 1682, he made plans so the city would be less likely to suffer a similar fate. Measures included:

• Buildings made of brick instead of wood
• Laws that required regular chimney cleaning

The city bought its first fire engine in 1718 – that was great!

No one maintained it – that was not great.

In 1730, the city needed its fire engine, but the equipment didn’t work (see above).

Benjamin Franklin was not pleased. He wrote about the need for more equipment and better maintenance.

In 1736, Franklin created the first volunteer fire-fighting company.

Relevance to SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

The history shows our pride in the area and our commitment to Glen Mills.

If there is a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County will work to restore the property and its contents from damage caused by soot, smoke, and water.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

What To/Not To Do After a Fire

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

What to/Not to do After a Fire

In any situation involving a fire, your first priority should be safety. Fires can be extremely devastating, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with tips on what to do and not to do after a fire.

What to Do After a Fire

• It is important to limit movement within your home or business. This prevents soot particles from becoming embedded into carpets and upholstery.
• Keep your hands clean so you do not dirty any upholstery, rugs, and carpet.
• Place clean linens or towels on high traffic areas to prevent the spread of soot.
• If your electricity is shut off, empty out your freezer and refrigerator while keeping the doors propped open.
• Clean and protect any chrome by coating lightly with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash both sides of leaves on any houseplants.
• Make sure to change your HVAC system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT to Do after a Fire

• Do not attempt to clean or wash any walls or painted surfaces by yourself. Instead, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County for professional fire damage cleaning.
• Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting proper professionals, as these items can be dangerous when damaged.
• Do not use any canned or packages food product or beverage that may have been stores near fire, heat, or water. Instead, discard of these products as they can be dangerous to consume.
• Do not turn on any ceiling fans as they can be dangerous if the wiring is damaged.
• Do not send your garments to a regular dry cleaner as improper cleaning may set smoke odor into the garments. Instead, find a cleaner that specializes in fire and smoke damages.

Make sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if you have experienced a fire in your home or business. We are here to help you get back to normal!

Lightning

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities.  Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are only around 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck.  Here are a few lightning safety tips:

Be Aware  

Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities.  If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available.

Go Indoors

Remember the phrase "When thunder roars, go indoors."  Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder.  Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

Avoid Windows, Doors, Porches & Concrete

Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls.  Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.  

Avoid Water

Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building's plumbing.

Avoid Electronic Equipment

Do not use computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, stoves, or anything connected to an electrical outlet.  Lightning can travel through electrical systems, radio and television reception systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.  Equip homes and offices with whole-house surge protectors to protect appliances.

For any storm damage, be sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669

Different Levels of Commercial Damage

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Building

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County handles both residential and commercial damage/restoration.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

If your commercial business has suffered any damages, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669.

Adjusting to the New Normal

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

As we adjust to a new normal, so should your business. We know it may feel strange to go back to work or even a little scary. But there are things that you can do to help ease some of the worries that your team and customers may be feeling. 

Here are tips to consider for how you operate.

1. Identify essential employees, business functions, and other critical inputs
2. Prepare business continuity plans
3. Register for Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Here To Help you and your business by providing you with Certified: SERVPRO Clean. Our team of trained, experienced, knowledgeable, and empathetic technicians are prepared to help you.

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 24/7/365 to discuss how we can help clean your business and provide you with peace of mind at (484) 841-6669.

Broken Water Valve Water Damage Emergency in Chadds Ford?

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Broken Water Shut Off Valve Costs Thousands in Water Damage

Broken Water Shut Off Valve Costs Thousands in Water Damage

I’ll never forget the day we noticed our neighbor’s house was flooding. I heard a rumbling sound next door and when I looked in a side window, I saw a waterfall cascading down from the second story stairs and the entire first floor of her house was flooded! A defective toilet water shut off valve, (a petcock valve) had burst the night before and water had been running in her house for a whole night and day before we noticed. Thank goodness she had really good homeowners’ insurance because her entire home had to be restored and repaired as there was water damage in every room in her house. If your home experiences flooding for any reason, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County want the residents and business owners of Chadds Ford to know that we are water restoration experts and have a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to your water damage emergency 24 hours a day. Here is the process we follow when you call us with a water damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to help. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Chadds Ford “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Brookhaven Mold Damage Restoration and Cleanup

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold & Water Damage Restoration are Our Specialty

There’s so much to see and do in Brookhaven and the landscape can change with the weather, from the rich color of the autumn leaves to winter snowfall. 

Unfortunately, that can also leave both residential and commercial properties vulnerable to water damage. Whether you’ve got a private home or a business like the famous Tom Jones Restaurant, once mold invades it can become a costly problem.

Mold remediation can be essential in this area and that’s where the professionals at SERVPRO come in

We’ve been serving this community for 15 years and we pride ourselves in having the personal touch.

Since we live and work here too, we know what it’s like and we want to ensure that your home or business is safe.

Why Trust SERVPRO in Brookhaven?

Water damage is a serious matter that can have a devastating effect on both homeowners and commercial business owners alike.

At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of responding quickly to every emergency and providing the most professional results every time.

We’re ready to respond immediately 24 hours a day and we use state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. 

Speed is essential since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after initial water damage.

It can also be particularly important to act quickly when dealing with one of the many historic properties in the Brookhaven area such as the Caleb Pusey house.

Whether historic or brand new, every property deserves the best care and that’s what we provide, even ensuring that our technicians are trained in the most current mitigation techniques.

We’ll not only address the initial water damage, we’ll carefully remove and repair any damaged materials and safely dispose of anything that can’t be repaired.

Then we’ll use our professional-grade equipment to thoroughly dry every inch of your property and ensure that mold growth is stopped in its tracks.

What Makes Mold A Problem

It only takes a small water leak for mold to grow and spread in your Brookhaven home or business.

Once it begins, mold can spread rapidly, particularly if it gets into the air ducts, where it can begin to affect the entire building.

That’s why quick and thorough mold remediation is so important and why the professionals at SERVPRO take their jobs so seriously.

Mold thrives in any dark, damp area such as a basement, garage, attic, or closet and it can spread to fabric, clothing, and upholstery as well.

Since it is made up of microscopic spores, it can become a problem before you even realize it, which is why you should always rely on a professional water mitigation company to handle your water emergency.

Unfortunately, with the sometimes harsh winter weather in Brookhaven, water emergencies can be common and water damage can be a huge problem.

 Remediation The Right Way

Removing mold is about more than just scrubbing away those nasty patches of white or black. More often than not, visible mold growth is just the tip of the iceberg.

The only way to ensure that mold growth is completely eradicated at its source is with professional mold remediation services like those provided by SERVPRO.

We know exactly what it takes to treat the kind of water damage that homes and commercial businesses in Brookhaven often face and we’re prepared to respond whenever you need us.

We’ll arrive and assess the situation immediately and determine exactly what kind of response is required.

Then we’ll go to work to provide complete remediation because our ultimate goal is to restore your home or business to its previous condition. 

Of course, the cleanup of commercial property like one of the businesses at the landmark Cambridge Shopping Center can be more extensive, but no job is too big for us.

We follow the same basic steps as home mitigation for commercial properties and rest assured, we’ll treat your business with the utmost care.

As members of the community ourselves, we know how costly water damage can be to a business so our goal is to get your doors open to customers as quickly as possible.

We understand how important it is for mold remediation to be done the right way and that’s what we do on every job.

You wouldn’t trust your family or your customers to anything less than the best and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you turn to SERVPRO.

We’ve got the training, equipment, and personnel to ensure that mold growth is stopped at the source and your property is as safe as possible.

The Name You Can Trust In Water Mitigation

Life is beautiful in historic Brookhaven and the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO are committed to keeping it that way. When water damage strikes your home or business, you can trust us to handle your property as if it were our own. 

That’s the promise we’ve been making to the local community for over a decade and it’s one we proudly stand by.

Mold Mitigation Professionals You Can Trust

Water is an integral part of life in Brookhaven PA but it can also become a real problem at times.

Whenever MOLD damage strikes your home or business, you need to act fast and rely on the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.  

We’re a name you can trust and we’ll do our best to serve every member of our community with care.

You can reach us at (610) 549-1302 

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help.  We are SERVice PROfessionals and are ready to respond to your moment of misery.

Broken Water Valve Water Damage Emergency in Chadds Ford?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

A toilet is shown with a faulty water valve.

Broken Water Shut Off Valve Costs Thousands in Water Damage

I’ll never forget the day we noticed our neighbor’s house was flooding. I heard a rumbling sound next door and when I looked in a side window, I saw a waterfall cascading down from the second story stairs and the entire first floor of her house was flooded! A defective toilet water shut off valve, (a petcock valve) had burst the night before and water had been running in her house for a whole night and day before we noticed. Thank goodness she had really good homeowners’ insurance because her entire home had to be restored and repaired as there was water damage in every room in her house. If your home experiences flooding for any reason, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County want the residents and business owners of Chadds Ford to know that we are water restoration experts and have a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to your water damage emergency 24 hours a day. Here is the process we follow when you call us with a water damage emergency:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to help. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Chadds Ford “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Tornado Watch in Delaware County, PA

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Tornado Watch in Delaware County, PA

A Tornado Watch has been issued in the following Pennsylvania counties – Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia. Right now these counties are experiencing heavy winds and rains that are causing storm damage and will be lasting for the week. 

It is important to keep you and your loved ones safe during this Tornado Watch. Different ways you can do this are:

Before a Tornado:

Watch out for dark, rotating clouds. If you see one, take shelter immediately.

Listen for a tornado siren, if you hear one seek shelter immediately.

Turn on your TV/Radio to stay updated with the current weather and emergency instructions.

Avoid unnecessary car trips as you do not want to be caught outside if a tornado comes.

Bring outdoor furniture and other items that can blow away inside as they may become a safety hazard.

During a Tornado:

Take shelter immediately as flying debris and high winds can cause injuries.

Keep your windows closed and stay away from them. If a window breaks the glass can injure you.

If you are in a building, go to the basement or lowest floor. This is the safest location for you and your loved ones.

If you are in a mobile home, go to the nearest building or storm shelter as these will protect you more than you home.

If your car is hit by debris, stop, cover your head, and stay below the windows. You will be safer inside your car than outside of it.

If you are outside, lie down in a flat area and make sure to cover your head with your hands. You will be safer lying down than standing up.

After a Tornado:

Avoid entering damaged buildings as broken glass and exposed nails can injure you.

Keep away from downed power lines and objects touching them as they can electrocute you.

Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and gloves when walking through debris. Stepping on nails and glass can severely injure you.

If you experience any Storm Damage from this tornado, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to repair your home or business to return it back to normal. 

Preventing Electrical Fires in Your Business

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Electrical Fires in Your Business

Electrical fires can be extremely detrimental to your business. Damages can occur from both the fire and the water that is used during firefighting efforts.  As a business owner, it is important to know the steps to take to prevent electrical fires in your office.

Cords and Plugs:

Cords, plugs, and outlet damage are extremely common causes of electrical fires. If these items are tattered, frayed, worn out, or showing burn signs, they should immediately be replaced. Old cords that are in poor condition can overheat or spark which can lead to a fire. Replacing cords is a simple and non-expensive way to help prevent electrical fires. 

Outlets:

It is important to make sure your outlets are not overloaded, as this can be a huge risk factor for electrical fires. The United States Fire Administration recommends that power strips equipped with internal overload protection are purchased. These strips help ensure that a strip turns off when it becomes overloaded to help prevent fire damage.

Space Heaters:

Since space heaters are plugged in, they can be dangerous if not used carefully and correctly. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs should be kept away from equipment that can become hot and overheat. 

Wiring:

Faulty wiring is a huge hazard and should be addressed immediately. If a lamp is flickering or an outlet is sparking, an electrician should be consulted to repair them as soon as possible. Appliances that are hot to touch and overheating should also be checked out by an electrician.

Inspection:

Your business should be inspected for hazardous situations that could potentially cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help keep your business and employees safe with a thorough assessment of the outlets, wiring, appliances, and other fire hazards.

Taking a few moments to ensure your business is safe from electrical fires is an easy, non-expensive way to keep you, your business, and employees safe. If you do experience a fire, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to restore any damages and get your business back to normal.

Water Damage Emergency in Glen Mills?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is ready to respond 24 hours.

The High Cost of Water Damage

Each year water causes billions of dollars in property damage and the longer water damage is left untreated the higher will be the cost of repairs. Exterior repairs can help protect your home’s exterior. Water will naturally find the path of least resistance and will seep inside structures through damaged irrigation systems, broken downspouts, leaking roofs, failing seals around windows and doors and from severe weather events and snowmelt. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County offers these tips form the Insurance Information Institute to repair and protect your home’s exterior from water damage:

• Caulk and seal windows 
• Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs
• Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters
• Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house
• Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes
• Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house

Call Us Today

If you experience a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is ready to respond 24 hours a day, every day, and can be onsite in four hours to begin the cleanup and restoration process. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Glen Mills “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Is Your Business Certified: SERVPRO Clean in Chester Heights?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Our new program tells your customers that you care about their safety.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The COVID-19 pandemic has set new standards for cleaning in the nation. As businesses begin to reopen their doors it has become more important than ever to ensure customer and employee safety by performing frequent disinfecting and sanitization services.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County now offers a new, defensive cleaning program to proactively address the need for viral pathogen cleaning for commercial businesses in Chester Heights. This cleaning program goes beyond the scope of a routine janitorial service and adheres to the cleaning and decontamination standards established by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on your business type, size, foot traffic, congestion, and touchpoints, we will develop a customized program based on your specific needs. We will clean, disinfect, and sanitize all porous and nonporous surfaces, tools, furniture, and equipment, and will dispose of all hazardous materials. In the event there has been COVID-19 exposure, we will clean within 24 hours to get your business reopened quickly.

Our technicians are specialty trained and certified to perform a variety of biohazardous decontamination and chemical spill cleanup and restoration services and follow industry and CDC guidelines.

Certification

When your business has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned we place a decal on your door with the date of the cleaning so your customers will know when this cleaning was performed.

Call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County today at 484-841-6669. We’ll clean and restore your commercial business in Chester Heights “Like it never even happened.”

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County helps Glen Mills recover from fire damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County won’t allow fire to take over Glen Mills homes and businesses

Reclaim Control of Your Life

When a fire strikes a home or business in Glen Mills, there is so much devastation in such a short time that the people may feel they have lost all control over their lives.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669. We have 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year, so we can get technicians out to repair fire damage or water damage quickly.

Our technicians remove soot and smoke (both of which cause additional damage) and extract any water or moisture left from the fire-fighting efforts. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has technicians who are experts at restoring fire-damaged or water-damaged building materials and contents.

The emergency team members also document every object and part of the building, noting its current condition and keeping a record of the steps to restore it to the preloss condition. If restoration is not possible, they document the reasons. They make working with insurance companies less stressful than it would be alone. Even better, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County works with most insurance companies, allowing people to attend to their families and employees or clients.

If there’s an emergency, we’re Faster to any size disaster.  Call us at (484) 841-6669.

Check out our website for a look at our wide range of services.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Brookhaven Mold Damage Restoration and Cleanup

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO in Brookhaven, West Chester PA & Surrounding Areas

There’s so much to see and do in Brookhaven and the landscape can change with the weather, from the rich color of the autumn leaves to winter snowfall. 

Unfortunately, that can also leave both residential and commercial properties vulnerable to water damage. Whether you’ve got a private home or a business like the famous Tom Jones Restaurant, once mold invades it can become a costly problem.

Mold remediation can be essential in this area and that’s where the professionals at SERVPRO come in.  We’ve been serving this community for 15 years and we pride ourselves in having the personal touch. Since we live and work here too, we know what it’s like and we want to ensure that your home or business is safe.

Why Trust SERVPRO in Brookhaven?

Water damage is a serious matter that can have a devastating effect on both homeowners and commercial business owners alike. At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of responding quickly to every emergency and providing the most professional results every time. We’re ready to respond immediately 24 hours a day and we use state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. 

Speed is essential since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after initial water damage. It can also be particularly important to act quickly when dealing with one of the many historic properties in the Brookhaven area such as the Caleb Pusey house. Whether historic or brand new, every property deserves the best care and that’s what we provide, even ensuring that our technicians are trained in the most current mitigation techniques.

We’ll not only address the initial water damage, we’ll carefully remove and repair any damaged materials and safely dispose of anything that can’t be repaired. Then we’ll use our professional-grade equipment to thoroughly dry every inch of your property and ensure that mold growth is stopped in its tracks.

What Makes Mold A Problem

It only takes a small water leak for mold to grow and spread in your Brookhaven home or business. Once it begins, mold can spread rapidly, particularly if it gets into the air ducts, where it can begin to affect the entire building. That’s why quick and thorough mold remediation is so important and why the professionals at SERVPRO take their jobs so seriously.

Mold thrives in any dark, damp area such as a basement, garage, attic or closet and it can spread to fabric, clothing, and upholstery as well. Since it is made up of microscopic spores, it can become a problem before you even realize it, which is why you should always rely on a professional water mitigation company to handle your water emergency. Unfortunately, with the sometimes harsh winter weather in Brookhaven, water emergencies can be common and water damage can be a huge problem.

 Remediation The Right Way

Removing mold is about more than just scrubbing away those nasty patches of white or black. More often than not, visible mold growth is just the tip of the iceberg. The only way to ensure that mold growth is completely eradicated at its source is with professional mold remediation services like those provided by SERVPRO.

We know exactly what it takes to treat the kind of water damage that homes and commercial businesses in Brookhaven often face and we’re prepared to respond whenever you need us. We’ll arrive and assess the situation immediately and determine exactly what kind of response is required. Then we’ll go to work to provide complete remediation because our ultimate goal is to restore your home or business to its previous condition. 

Of course, the cleanup of commercial property like one of the businesses at the landmark Cambridge Shopping Center can be more extensive, but no job is too big for us. We follow the same basic steps as home mitigation for commercial properties and rest assured, we’ll treat your business with the utmost care. As members of the community ourselves, we know how costly water damage can be to a business so our goal is to get your doors open to customers as quickly as possible.

We understand how important it is for mold remediation to be done the right way and that’s what we do on every job. You wouldn’t trust your family or your customers to anything less than the best and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you turn to SERVPRO. We’ve got the training, equipment, and personnel to ensure that mold growth is stopped at the source and your property is as safe as possible.

The Name You Can Trust In Water Mitigation

Life is beautiful in historic Brookhaven and the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO are committed to keeping it that way. When water damage strikes your home or business, you can trust us to handle your property as if it were our own. 

That’s the promise we’ve been making to the local community for over a decade and it’s one we proudly stand by.

Mold Mitigation Professionals You Can Trust

Water is an integral part of life in Brookhaven PA but it can also become a real problem at times. Whenever MOLD damage strikes your home or business, you need to act fast and rely on the water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.  

We’re a name you can trust and we’ll do our best to serve every member of our community with care.

You can reach us at (484) 841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help.  We are SERVice PROfessionals and are ready to respond to your moment of misery.

Protect your Home From Storm Damage

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with any storm damage.

Ways to Protect your Home from Storm Damage

 Storms can happen anytime, and it is important to be prepared for when they do hit. Summer storms can bring violent weather that can cause major property damage such as winds, heavy rains, lightning, thunder, and hail. Taking precautionary measures can help you prepare and protect your home can help prevent extensive storm damage.

Secure Loose Items in your Yard

Outdoor furniture, grills, gardening equipment, lawn decorations, children’s toys can all blow away or be damaged during a storm. These items can also become dangerous with high winds and fly into your home, car, garage, or neighbors’ home. Bringing these items inside or in a shed can help prevent damage to both your home and these items.

Inspect the Roof and Gutters of Your home

Inspecting your roof for damaged shingles or gutters is important to making sure storms don’t prevent massive damage to your house. Damaged roofing and gutters can cause rainwater to leak into your house. It is important to inspect and repair these so that wind and storms do not damage your home further.

Inspect your Windows

Windows are a vulnerable part of your home during a storm as they can possibly leak or shatter. Making sure windows are properly sealed can keep out wind and rain during a storm. New windows are a great option as they are made of strong glass and are less likely to leak.

Protect your Home from Flooding

Flooding is an extremely common effect of a storm. It can lead to extreme water damage or mold. Checking your basement for leaks or cracks is an effective way to prevent flooding. Another important way to prevent flooding is to make sure your gutters drain away from your home.

Have a Backup Power Source

Storms commonly take out power which can be dangerous and inconvenient. Power is important to keep items in the refrigerator fresh and to make sure your cell phone and other devices are charged. Sump pumps may also stop working which may lead to basement flooding. Having a backup power source can keep you and your family safe from these occurrences.

Trim Large or Dead Tree Branches

Strong wind can cause branches to fly off of trees and into your home. Tree branches can also hit cars and power lines which can be potentially dangerous. Inspecting the trees around your property and making sure they are well trimmed can prevent extensive damage during storms.

Call SERVPRO for any Storm Damage!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to help with any emergency storm damage to your property. We are available 24/7/365 to help protect you and your property from all damages. Call Danielle 610-506-8919

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County restores damaged floors in Glen Mills

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t throw a rug on the floor; SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County will fix it

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is a part of the greater Philadelphia area, just like the other businesses in and around Glen Mills. We want every part of the community to do well, which is why businesses count on us to be Faster to any size disaster and to get the business back to normal operation after any kind of damage.

We might not notice the floors until something happens to damage them. Water from storms or floods or broken pipes can damage even concrete if left on its own and fire can leave soot and smoke damage even on marble. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help^®, regardless of the type of damage.  We take care of damaged floors from initial assessment through all of the repairs.

If the damage has exposed the floors to the outside, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County provides tarps and board-ups to protect the building(s) and contents. We also provide roof repair, making restoration easier and more cost effective because there is only one vendor.

Trained technicians clean and disinfect the floors, removing even hidden moisture, and mitigating any microbial damage. Count on SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County to clean, disinfect, and repair carpet, linoleum, marble, tile, and hardwood floors.

When fire and water take control of your life,

we help you take it back.

Call us at (610) 549-1301. When disasters start taking vacations, so will SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. Until then, we are available 24 hours/day, every single day.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/

Property Damage Insurance Claims High in Lower Chichester?

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

We are property damage restoration specialists in Delaware County.

U.S. Property Damage Claims

Did you know that property damage, including theft, accounted for 98.1 percent of insurance claims in the United States? According to the Insurance Information Institute, (III), six percent of all insured homeowners filed a property damage insurance claim in 2017. The III goes on to explain that claims fluctuate from year to year due to weather-related events. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants the residents of Lower Chichester to know that we are ready to respond to any size property damage call. We offer an array of cleanup and restoration services for homeowners and commercial business including:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services

24 Hour Emergency Service

From the moment you contact us, we can be onsite within four hours of your call, 24 hours a day seven days a week. Over the phone we will ask you a series of questions to determine the best approach to take to meet your needs including the number of technicians to deploy and the type of equipment to bring to the job site.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help. ^® Call us today at 484-841-6669. We will clean and restore your property damage in Lower Chichester “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Does Your Large Retail Store Have Property Damage in Thornton?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

We follow property damage repairs through to the completion of the job in Delaware County.

No Job is Too Big or Too Small

When damage harms your commercial business, it is critical to get the repairs done as quickly as possible in order to minimize the disruption to your customers and employees. Fire, water, storms, mold, biohazard spills and other disasters can cause damage when you least expect it, and if this happens to your business, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants to assure Thornton residents that our team of highly trained professionals is ready to help you get back to business. We have experience working on:

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

We provide an array of commercial building restoration services including:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants Thornton business owners to know that you can count on us to respond to any commercial property damage emergency 24 hours a day and we can be onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We will clean and restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

How Do I Dry Out After A Water Leak?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

The immediate aftermath of a severe water leak can be daunting.

Many surfaces, from books and furniture to floors and walls, can be damaged by water and that initial damage can lead to mold and mildew growth if not addressed quickly and thoroughly. (details about Brookhaven PA water damage restoration here) 

Since mold growth can begin within 48 hours after water damage occurs, it is crucial to begin the remediation process immediately and specific guidelines should be followed in order to ensure that the job is done correctly. (https://www.ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/documents/moldsop.pdf). 

While it is generally a good idea to rely on professional remediation services, there are some steps you can take to begin the process yourself:

• Get Air Circulating

The best way to begin the drying process is by moving air.  You can do this both naturally, by opening windows and doors, as well as mechanically, using fans.

The size and amount of fans you need will depend on the amount of area that is involved; the larger the room, the more powerful the fan you’ll want to use. You can rent high-powered fans to speed up the process even more.

• Dehumidify

In a contained area, like a basement or rec room, with limited outside access, you can remove excess humidity with a portable dehumidifier. 

Shut the doors and windows of the room and remember to change the water collection drawer of the humidifier regularly if it doesn’t self-drain.

• Remove Standing Water

If there are several inches of standing water, a portable sump pump can be used to move the water out of the house. 

Direct the hose of the pump out a door or window and make sure the water flow is directed away from the foundation of the house.

• Use a Wet/Dry Shop Vac

For smaller areas with less standing water, a wet/dry shop vac can help to suck up the excess. They can be particularly useful for salvaging water-damaged carpeting and flooring. 

Never use a regular household vacuum on wet surfaces as this could damage the vacuum and be careful when emptying the canister of the shop vac, particularly if the water involved is contaminated with sewage or other potentially hazardous material.

• Remove Water Damaged Furnishings

Any objects that have been damaged by water, including rugs, furniture, and other belongings, should be removed and set in the sun to both begin the drying out process and reduce the moisture level in the room.

Sheet vinyl or linoleum flooring should also be removed to speed up the evaporation process. 

Any wet insulation underneath water damaged flooring or inside walls should be removed and discarded.

• Remove and Carefully Dry Papers

Books and papers that become wet may not be salvageable, but for important items you can help prevent mold growth and slow the deterioration process by placing them in a plastic bag and putting them in a frost-free freezer. 

Aside from this step, it will be necessary to handle paper items carefully in order to preserve them, including cleaning them off with soft brushes and using rubber gloves for your protection. (http://www.ala.org/tools/cleaning-after-water-damage)

• Absorb Excess Moisture

Once standing water has been removed, you can use desiccants such as silica gel, clay, or calcium oxide to absorb any remaining moisture.  Place the desiccant in either an air-tight container or a sealed area such as a closet.  It may take days or even weeks for them to become completely saturated.

Act Quickly To Avoid Hazards

Again, the faster you act to begin drying out a water damaged room, the better your chances of avoiding water-related hazards, including mold growth, dust mites, and the release of non-microbial chemicals from formaldehyde-treated wood furnishings, plastics or PVC.  Scientific evidence shows that these hazards can cause serious health issues. (https://iaqscience.lbl.gov/dampness-impacts)

Call The Professionals

Because water damage can permeate beneath the surface of floors and walls and continue to be an issue for days or even weeks after the original emergency, it makes the most sense to trust a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO. 

With extensive training, professional equipment, and the ability to respond immediately whenever disaster strikes, SERVPRO can ensure that your home is thoroughly dried out and returned to normal as quickly as possible.

It’s particularly important to have professional water mitigation when walls are damaged, as drywall can act as a wick and absorb moisture.

Even if the water damage isn’t visible, it can still lead to mold growth if it isn’t properly treated.

At SERVPRO we’re:

• trained to get beneath the surface, using specialized equipment such as moistures meters,
• infrared imaging devices and
• heavy-duty dehumidifiers and fans to ensure that your home is thoroughly dry and safe for your whole family.

When water damage occurs, getting the affected area dried out as quickly as possible is crucial.

To ensure the safety of your family, make sure you undertake the drying process properly, and don’t hesitate to call on the reliable water mitigation professionals at SERVPRO.

https://g.page/SERVPRO-SDelaware?We-Love-Southern-Delaware  

Does Water Damage Happen Immediately?

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

buckled wood floor from water damage

Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth

It only takes a small amount of water to cause extensive damage, but just how quickly does that damage occur?

While some of the effects of water are immediate, there are other effects that may take days or even weeks to become apparent.

The extent of water damage depends on how long the water is allowed to stand or accumulate, but even after you stop the immediate cause there can still be lingering effects.

For this reason, it is imperative that you recognize exactly how water can affect your home and how to properly clean up after a water related emergency to prevent further damage.

Water Damage Within Minutes

The first signs of water damage will be to carpeting, fabrics and furniture items that come in contact with standing water. Porous materials like carpeting, fabric and paper will soak up and retain water, causing them to become discolored and begin to swell. 

Furniture that is standing on carpeting will begin to leech and stain the carpeting.

The first step in repairing the damage is to identify the source of the water and resolve it if possible.

In the case of a burst pipe or leak, shutting off the water supply to your home should do the trick.

If the cause is flooding from a storm then you’ll need to wait until the storm is over and begin removing the standing water as safely and quickly as possible.

Water Damage Within Hours

Even if you are able to quickly cut off the source of the problem, damage can still occur within hours of first contact with water.

As the humidity level rises, odors become apparent and fabrics that are not colorfast will begin to bleed, potentially staining other materials they come in contact with. 

Furniture and other wooden objects begin to chip, peel and swell.

In order to mitigate the damage to furniture and other wood surfaces, steps should be taken to remove the items and begin drying them out as soon as possible.

(https://www.nps.gov/museum/publications/conserveogram/07-07.pdf ). 

In most instances, you’ll want to proceed cautiously, allowing the items to air dry to prevent the damage from getting any worse.

If the damage is too severe, items may not be salvageable.

Water Damage Within Days

By far the biggest risk related to water damage is the growth and spread of mold and fungi.

Mold requires moisture to grow, so as soon as surfaces become wet they provide the perfect environment for mold. 

Mold will begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure occurs and once it begins to grow it can spread rapidly and become hazardous to your health.

As mold begins to grow, it causes a familiar musty odor, which can act as an early warning sign.

After flooding occurs, you’ll need to confirm that conditions are safe in order to begin cleanup, which includes checking for signs of mold growth.

The EPA has guidelines to follow in order to determine the safety of any structure for flood cleanup. (https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-10/documents/flood-related_cleaning_contractor_report-final-508_8.31.18.pdf)

Other damage that can occur within days of flooding includes severe warping and cupping of wood floors, blistering of paint and peeling of wallpaper as adhesives start to release.

Wood structural beams and other underlying parts of your home may also begin to swell, warp and split.

Water Damage Within Weeks

The damage caused by flooding can take as long as several weeks to become apparent and may be severe if immediate steps are not taken to thoroughly dry and clean the affected area.

This is particularly true if mold is present, as the longer, it is allowed to grow, the deeper it can spread, destroying the integrity of organic materials.

As mold spreads, it becomes an even greater health risk causing severe allergic reactions due to microbial growth.

If mold growth is widespread throughout the home, your family and pets may need to be evacuated in order to avoid serious reactions.

To prevent spread, you should have your home’s HVAC system thoroughly checked and treated as this is the primary way that mold can infect an entire house.

Structural beams, floors, and ceilings may be drastically affected, making the home unsafe for occupancy.  

The Red Cross recommends carefully checking your home for any structural damage after a flood before you begin the cleanup.  (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/home-structural-elements.html).

Trust The Pros To Make Repairs

Water damage can be devastating and it can continue to be a problem long after the immediate emergency is resolved.

To protect your home and family against the lingering effects of water damage, you need to ensure that the affected area is completely dried and cleaned.

While you may be able to handle some of this process yourself, you don’t want to take risks and that’s why it’s important to hire water mitigation professionals to ensure that the job is done right.

At SERVPRO, we’re prepared to respond immediately and we have the expertise and equipment necessary to get the job done right every time.

We’ll remove any badly damaged items and make structural repairs to ensure that your home is safe.

We’ll also inspect and treat your HVAC system and perform full mold remediation so that you and your family can breathe easier.

As devastating as flooding can be, not all water damage is immediately apparent.

To keep your home safe, stay one step ahead of water damage by trusting cleanup and restoration to the professionals.

You can see us on Google Maps here 

Space Heaters Can Cause Fire Damage in Aston

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Improperly used space heaters can be dangerous and can cause fires in Delaware County.

Space Heaters are the Second-Leading Cause of Home Fires

Spring temperatures in Southern Delaware County are cool at night, and many people use space heaters to reduce heating costs and to heat rooms with inadequate heat distribution. Although space heaters are commonly used for this purpose, a report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) identifies space heaters as being responsible for 53 percent of U.S. home fires, and the leading cause of home fire deaths. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County offers Aston residents these suggestions from the NFPA on how to use electric space heaters safely:

• Keep children and pets away from space heaters at all times
• Never leaved a space heater unattended
• Turn your space heater off before going to bed
• Place space heaters at a minimum of three feet away from combustible materials
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are operating
• Make sure the electrical cords are not damaged and avoid the use of extension cords   

We Are Fire Damage Specialists

When a fire causes damage to your home or business, we want to help. We offer many services to clean and restore furniture, documents, and keepsakes and can store items while repairs are underway.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants Aston residents and business owners to know that we have the training and state-of-the-art equipment to respond to any fire damage emergency. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Clean and Disinfect Essential Businesses in Concordville

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our team professionals are ready to respond to your fire damage emergency in Delaware County.

Here to Help®

Did you know that residential fires account 27 percent of reported fires and 70 percent of all fire injuries? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top causes of residential fires in the home are cooking, heating, electrical, smoking, and candles. They suggest that residents should routinely check for hidden electrical hazards like damaged cords, discolored or warm wall outlets, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers. Any of these issues should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

When Fires Happen, We Respond

No matter how vigilant we are regarding home fire safety, fires can still happen. When a fire causes damage to your home or business in Concordville, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help.® Fire, smoke, and water damage from firefighting efforts can cause damage to your home that can be costly if not repaired quickly. Fortunately, our team of professionals have the specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home to pre-fire condition. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is ready to respond to any residential or commercial fire damage emergency in Concordville.  From your initial call we can be onsite within four hours, and we are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will clean and restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 484-841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

How to Clean Up Sewage Backup in Your Basement

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage is dangerous

It’s hard to imagine anything worse than a sewage backup in your basement

Whether you have a finished or unfinished basement, a sewage backup can cause a tremendous amount of damage and, let’s face it, it’s just disgusting.

While it can be distressing there is no cause for panic; it is possible to get the backup cleaned up and return your home to its previous condition.

Before you begin to tackle clean up it’s important to remember that a sewage backup is far different from any other kind of flooding.

That’s because raw sewage contains bacteria, fungi, parasites, and other contaminants so it’s important to take certain safety measures before you attempt to clean up. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/sewage)

First Take Safety Precautions

Most utilities enter your home through the basement, so before you even think of handling fluids that have gathered there you need to make sure that the utilities are shut off. 

If your electric box is above the waterline, you can safely shut off the power yourself, otherwise, you should call the electric company and let them do it, but do not try to start cleanup until the power is off.

You’ll also want to ensure that there is no gas leak in the basement. It may be difficult with the presence of sewage but try and smell for a gas leak.

If you notice any signs of a gas or electric problem, including sparks, smoke or buzzing, call your utility company immediately and do not enter the basement.

Once you have ensured that the basement is safe to enter, you’ll want to shut off the main water valve to prevent any further water build-up.

Also, make sure that the plumbing in your house is not used while you are cleaning the basement as using sinks or flushing toilets could make the backup worse.

Next Prepare To Clean

Now that you’ve secured the area you need to take steps to prepare yourself for the cleanup job.

Because raw sewage is full of contaminants, you should be sure to wear protective clothing while handling it, including goggles, a ventilator, a face mask, rubber gloves, and rubber boots. 

Also, wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt and cover any cuts or open wounds with a waterproof bandage to help prevent infection.

Of course, contaminants aren’t the only nasty issue you’ll have to deal with during cleanup.

The smell of raw sewage can be overpowering so you need to ensure that the basement is well ventilated so that you aren’t overcome by the fumes.

Open windows or vents where possible and position fans at the top of the stairs to draw in the fresh air and don’t forget to take regular breaks to avoid getting sick from the smell.

Have more questions?
https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/sewage-cleanup
(484) 841-6669

Begin Cleanup

The first step of cleanup should be removing the backed up fluids and solids, which can be done with either a pump, a Shop Vac or a simple mop and bucket depending on the severity of the backup.

Many home improvement stores rent pumps and heavy-duty Shop Vacs for this purpose.

Whether you use a pump or a Shop-Vac, make sure you choose one with a wide enough hose so that it will work effectively without becoming clogged. 

With a pump, direct the hose out of the basement and make sure it is discharging the sewage outside and away from the foundation of your house.

A Shop Vac can also be very effective, just make sure you choose one with a large tank capacity and do not empty it into any sinks while the cleanup is in progress.

Shop Vacs are particularly useful for getting into tight spaces and corners so you can ensure that every inch of the basement is clean.

(https://www.hunker.com/13414692/how-to-clean-up-from-a-sewer-backup)

A mop and bucket can be equally effective, though it is more labor-intensive. Use a small shovel to clean up solid waste or apply warm water to dissolve solids, then soak up the liquid sewage with the mop and wring it out in the bucket.

Empty solid waste into heavy-duty garbage bags and be careful not to overfill them.

Any wood or fabric items that have become soaked will most likely need to be disposed of as wood, fabric, and particleboard will soak up the liquid, allowing it to seep in deeper and affect the structure itself.

Carpeting and carpet padding will also have to be ripped up and disposed of, using heavy-duty garbage bags to prevent leaks.

Wash and Disinfect

Once the sewage has been removed you can start the two-step process of washing and disinfecting. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wipe down all items and surfaces and then disinfect with a combination of one gallon of water and 1 ¼ cups of bleach.

Mix up a new batch of disinfectant every 20 to 30 minutes to make sure it remains effective.

Wipe down all large items with a rag and use a spray bottle on flat surfaces, then allow to air dry.

Don’t Forget Your Insurance

While most sewage backups may not be covered by a standard homeowner’s policy, it’s still a good idea to thoroughly document the damage before you start cleanup so that you have the necessary proof if you decide to file a claim.

You can check with your insurance agent to determine exactly what is covered in your particular policy. (https://www.farmers.com/learn/insurance-questions/flooded-basement/)

Don’t Hesitate To Call In The Professionals

Though you may feel perfectly capable of handling a minor sewage backup in your basement, it’s always a good idea to call a professional water mitigation company to ensure that the job is done right.

Have more questions?
https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/sewage-cleanup
(484) 841-6669

You don’t want to take any chances with the health and safety of your family, and professionals like SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are equipped to handle any emergency quickly and expertly so that you can breathe easier.

Why Rely On The Professionals?

Professional water mitigation companies like SERVPRO have the training and equipment to handle even the worst sewage backup.

We are ready to respond 24 hours a day and will arrive at your home as quickly as possible to begin the cleanup process.

We’ll employ professional-grade pumps, drying systems and sewage containment equipment to ensure that the backup is cleaned thoroughly and safely.

There’s more to water mitigation than just cleaning up the spill, however, and we’re prepared to handle that too.

We can also clean air ducts and provide thorough mold remediation to prevent any further mold growth.

We’ll help to preserve your belongings and restore your home to its previous condition and we’ll even help you to work with your insurance company to facilitate any potential claims.

When Clean Up Is Done

Once the backup has been thoroughly cleaned up, either by yourself or a professional water mitigation company, you can then safely address the underlying cause to prevent any future backups.

Remember, cleaning up a sewage backup in your basement should be handled quickly and carefully to avoid endangering your family.

That’s why your best option is to rely on the services of a professional water mitigation company like SERVPRO.

We’ll arrive faster to any disaster and treat your home as if it were our own.

Have more questions?
https://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/sewage-cleanup
(484) 841-6669

We Clean and Disinfect Essential Businesses in Garnet Valley

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Essential businesses in Delaware County can take advantage of our years of experience dealing with biological contaminants.

It has never been more critical to remain vigilant about the routine cleaning of high-touch surfaces in our homes and businesses. This is especially true for essential businesses and services that are required to remain open to keep Pennsylvania running during this global pandemic. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants commercial businesses in Garnet Valley to know that we are specialists in biological cleaning with years of experience. We follow the guidelines issued by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local authorities. The CDC recommends that high-touch surfaces be routinely cleaned and disinfected. High-touch surfaces include tables, counters, light switches, handles, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, and:

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

Call Us Today for a Proactive Cleaning

We use EPA-approved, hospital-grade products and are specialty trained to deal with biological pathogens. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is ready to respond to any specialty cleaning and disinfecting job in Garnet Valley.  We are on call and available to respond 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. Let us clean and restore your commercial business “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 484-841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

We Respond and Restore Biohazard Damage in Cheyney

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

We use protective gear to keep our employees and your family safe when cleaning and restoring biohazard damage.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of “biohazard” as ‘an agent or condition that is a hazard to humans or the environments.’ Some examples of biohazards include human blood, animal waste, sewage, and medical waste such as sharps or needles. Biohazard spills are dangerous and should be cleaned by qualified professionals. Specialized training and experience are required for the decontamination of your home or business.  Biohazards may occur due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, or hoarding.  SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County wants the residents and commercial businesses of Cheyney to know that we are prepared to safely clean and restore many forms of biohazard damage. Here are some examples of the kinds of biohazards we provide cleanup and recovery services for:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Sharps cleanup
• Urban camp cleanup

Sewage backups are one of the most common biohazard scenarios we respond to. We remove the sewage, contaminates and moisture and properly clean, disinfect and deodorize the area. SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County are on call and available to respond to your biohazard emergency 24 hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your first call. We’ll take care of your biohazard damage in Cheney “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 484-841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO® Uses Advanced Technology to Restore Property Damage in Chester Heights

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

We use advanced technology and techniques to safely restore damage to your property in Delaware County.

Did you know that SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County uses advanced technology and techniques to safely clean and restore property damage in Chester Heights? New developments and advancements allow us to restore damage to your business or home back to preloss condition more efficiently. Our use of technological advances to clean and restore a property quickly and effectively make us a premier cleaning and restoration company.  We also use specialized equipment such as:

• Moisture detection equipment: infrared cameras to identify water location
• Moisture measurement equipment: hygrometers and other meters are used to determine the extent of moisture saturation
• Water extraction equipment: submersible and gas-powered pumps and truck-mounted and portable extraction units
• Drying equipment: high-speed air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers to pull moisture form the air
• Odor removal and deodorization: air scrubbers and thermal foggers and deodorization agents
• Sanitizing agent, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments: deodorization products to control odors form excessive moisture and disinfection products to stop the growth of bacterial and other harmful microorganisms

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County uses these advanced technologies to safely and efficiently clean and restore property damage to your home or business.  We are available 24 hours a day to respond to any size emergency. We’ll take care of your property damage in Chester Heights “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 484-841-6669.

SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Delaware County

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will clean and restore your fire damage in Brookhaven “Like it never even happened.”

According the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires have remained the major cause of fires in homes and commercial businesses in the U.S. since 2013. Fires can break out at any time. Lightning, faulty wiring, defective kitchen or other household appliances are just some of the other ways fire can damage your home or business. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants businesses and homeowners to know that we are equipped to respond to any size fire damage emergency and have the specialty equipment and training required to clean and restore fire damage in Brookhaven to preloss condition. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the American Red Cross:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone

If you experience fire damage to your home or business SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to help. Our team of highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours. Call us today at 484-841-6669. We’ll take care of your fire damage in Brookhaven “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

We Respond to Commercial Water Damage Emergencies in Brookhaven

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We will clean and restore your commercial water damage “Like it never even happened.”

A broken valve on a pipe can release a torrent of water causing major damage to your business before you know it. It is imperative that water damage be mitigated as soon as possible to prevent costly structural building repairs. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County can respond to any disaster within 24-hours, seven days a week and we want to help. We will begin the cleanup and restoration process immediately to get your business back to normal as quickly as possible. Our six-step process for water cleanup and restoration includes:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Water Removal
• Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification
• Step 5: Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Step 6: Restoration

Depending on the amount and type of water damage, we may provide some of these services:

• Caring For Your Belongings
• Storm Damage
• Mold Remediation
• Sewage Cleanup
• Building Services
• Commercial Water Damage

Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for Brookhaven residents and business owners. Call us today at 484-841-6669 to find out about our water cleanup and restoration services. We hope you never have water damage to your home or business nut if you do, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated

Why SERVPRO can respond to any cleanup and restoration job in Glen Mills

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians will respond to your emergency in 24-hours.

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County can respond to any disaster, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? You never know when you may be faced with the aftermath of a disaster, but SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants home and business owners in Glenn Mills to know that we are on hand and ready to respond to your emergency. Commercial business owners know that the longer it takes to get back to business, the more revenue is lost. Here are some of the many services we offer:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Biohazard removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to help. We use advanced technology and techniques and we are available 24 hours a day. Our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage for Glen Mills residents and business owners. Call us today at 484-841-6669 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Together We Restore your Home in Southern Delaware County

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Together we get it done.

Life is full of mishaps and otherwise unwanted stress creators such as storms. Did you know that wind can reach speeds of up to 60 mph in severe cases?  This kind of wind in your Southern Delaware County home or business can cause several different kinds of damage, as well as leave areas of the structure vulnerable to rain and other water crisis such as broken pipes.  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County can work together with you to lower chances for incurring injury and/or cost due to storm damage.

Your part.

Preparedness is a necessary tool in your efforts to protect your home in Southern Delaware County.

It’s your house; so not only do you have a vested interest in lowering risks to your home and family; but that same preparedness creates a more stress-free environment. 

Be prepared for the worst when times are the best. Don’t wait until the wind is moving at speeds of forty mph outside before you start making calls and buying batteries. Do these things early on when there are no clouds in the sky.

Our part.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County promises to answer when you call. We promise that the person fielding your call will understand not only the proper responses to your cleanup and restoration questions but they will understand your vulnerable and stressful position as the owner/insurance adjuster.  We will use that understanding to make you as comfortable with what’s happening as possible. We will send the correct people, and the proper equipment to meet whatever needs have been created by the unfortunate event(s).

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Provides Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration Services in Upper Chichester

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians cleanup and restore your biohazard damage in Delaware County “Like it never even happened.”

When faced with the danger of biohazard cleanup and restoration, did you know that qualified professionals should be called? SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants the business and homeowners of Upper Chichester to know that our highly trained specialists are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to your emergency helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We can also help you manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial biohazard services  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County provide:

• Crime scene residues
• Suicide
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a biohazard disaster, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants to help. No matter what your emergency may be, we will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore damage caused by biohazard for Upper Chichester residents and business owners. Call us today at 484-841-6669 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

From Disaster to Normal in Southern Delaware County

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Time and again the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County have been on the front lines in post-catastrophe situations with their service being invaluable to adjusters and homeowners alike. From the mold created by catastrophic water leaks to soot and smoke removal after a house fire, we bring stability and efficiency to the job that only professionals can bring.

…to normal.

At the end of the day in Southern Delaware County, you just want to turn the key, walk in the door, sit your things down, and sink into a soft chair to relax. You’ve just endured the trauma of some fire, water, or mold disaster and clean up and you don’t want to continue to be in the middle of a disaster area. We will strive to make your situation as painless as possible and when the job is complete  and you return to your normal way of living, it will have been our pleasure to have helped make it “Like it never even happened." So, when or if you’re faced with any of the previously described problems, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County encourages you to call (610) 854-8769 so we can help you remediate the damage.

Why SERVPRO can handle any cleanup and restoration job in Chester.

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians restore your damage “Like it never even happened.”

Did you know that if you wait more than a week to have water repairs done the time and cost increase dramatically?  SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants the business owners and homeowners of Chester to know that our highly trained specialists are on hand to take care of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Our ability to immediately respond to your emergency helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We also can help you manage the insurance paperwork and process. Here are some of the residential and commercial services we provide:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a disaster, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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 damage caused by storm, water, fire, and biohazard for Chester residents and business owners. Call us today at 484-841-6669 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO is Ready to Help in Southern Delaware County

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

1700+ reasons why…

In the beginning, there was a painting business in California and from that SERVPRO was born. There are now currently over 1700 stores from our Atlantic Seaboard to our Pacific Frontier. Over seventeen hundred franchises tell the tale. We have grown phenomenally and are continuing to grow. Your business in Southern Delaware County has been the cornerstone of that growth and we recognize that. Because of you, we strive to always put our best foot forward. Whether bagging up hazardous waste or speaking with insurance adjusters, our efforts are and always will be to give you our best.

Over five decades…

Without experience, the best intentions are fruitless. We, here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County have experience. In fact, we’ve got over five decades of professional cleaning and restoration know-how scattered across the country. The staff at our franchisees are well trained and professional when performing their duties and/or assessing your situation. If and when you are facing the discomfort of a high-stress situation; find us online or call us at (610) 854-8769 and we will put those years of experience to work for you.

Sharing the SERVPRO History in Southern Delaware County

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is ready to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO Southern Delaware County?

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 Southern Delaware County specializes in cleanup and restoration services in Southern Delaware County. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County do?

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County provides:

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

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

Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County? 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 Southern Delaware County will keep you informed as they restore your damage so you will know what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked.  

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Who Should I Use for Restoration Purposes in Southern Delaware County?

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are business owners, homeowners, and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs.

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in Southern Delaware County is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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 Southern Delaware County is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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 Southern Delaware County

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVORO of Southern Delaware County is ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in Southern Delaware County 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 cleanup and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load to SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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 Southern Delaware County. Please contact us online or at 954-921-8992.

Commercial Fire in Sharon Hill

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

View Before & After Photos of a commercial fire we did in Sharon Hill, Pa we are a full reconstruction company.

Call us for any fire damage emergency. Our fire damage professionals are ready 24/7 to respond to your call. Our swift response will limit further damage and reduce your restoration costs. Our team will start the restoration process right away. Our restoration process includes inspection and fire damage assessment, immediate board-up and roof tarp service (if needed), water removal and drying (if water damage is present), removal of smoke and soot from all surfaces, cleaning and repair, and restoration. We're certified by the IICRC in fire restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has the training and specialized equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How To Choose The Best Mold Mitigation Company

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

You've got questions? We've got answers.

Mold mitigation can be a real concern whenever water damage occurs. 

Mold forms and spreads within 48 hours after water damage and the more it spreads, the more of a hazard it becomes.

It can cause serious health issues, especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. 

If you suspect a mold infestation in your home or business, the sooner you can do something about it, the better.

When water damage occurs, it can often be a real cause for alarm but you needn’t worry provided you choose the right mold mitigation company to help solve your problem. 

It might not seem like much of an issue but surprisingly, some customers can take as much as a week or even a few weeks to shop around and find a mold remediation company. 

Unfortunately, that time can allow mold to spread even further and become more of a danger.

If you’re experiencing a mold issue, you want to move quickly and begin mold mitigation as fast as possible

You’ll want a mold remediation company that responds within those critical first 24-48 hours and offers a full range of services dedicated to restoring your home and belongings to their pre-damage state as quickly and thoroughly as possible.

Mold can be a challenging problem but choosing a mold mitigation company shouldn’t be

• You need a company with the proper training that is ready to respond quickly and put the top of the line equipment and techniques to use to address the problem thoroughly.
  
  
• Look for a company with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 
  This training will ensure that they are fully equipped to handle any residential or commercial mold infestation and provide complete mold mitigation services.
  
  
• That begins with responding as quickly as possible after your initial call. 
  A representative should instantly determine what equipment, resources and personnel will be needed to address your problem and get a team to your property within 24 hours.
  
  
• Once they arrive, the team should perform a thorough inspection and assess the extent of your mold mitigation needs. 
  
  
• Then they can begin taking steps to contain the spread of mold, including using negative air chambers and negative air pressure.

In order to ensure that the mold is stopped in its tracks, it’s necessary to tackle more than the visible signs of mold

Microscopic mold spores in the air are what spread mold throughout a home, so you’ll want a mold remediation company that uses specialized filtration equipment to capture those spores and powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA filters to prevent them from spreading.

Since mold can spread quickly in porous materials such as drywall and carpeting, any thorough mold mitigation should include removing and replacing those materials as well as using antimicrobial and antifungal products on materials that can’t be removed or replaced. 

Mold can affect more than your home itself, so you’ll want a company that does everything they can to help preserve family photos, documents, and other precious items. 

When mold rears its ugly head, you don’t want to wait too long to act.  

Be an informed homeowner and you’ll be prepared to make the right choice for your mold mitigation needs  

In Southern Delaware County, that choice is easy with SERVPRO. 

We offer full mold mitigation and remediation services for residents of Glen Mills, Chadds Ford, and surrounding communities so that you can have real peace of mind. We’re guaranteed to get there faster to any disaster and use our expertise to make your mold problem a thing of the past.

Freezing Weather Ahead for Marcus Hook

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Freezing weather can cause numerous water damage problems to your Marcus Hook home or office. Prevention is the best solution for water damage.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has these tips to help prepare for a winter storm.

Winter Storms in Marcus Hook can bring high winds, snow, and ice. A winter storm can knock out power, water, and communication. 

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be prepared. Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.

You can’t prevent a winter storm, but you can minimize storm damage.

• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies. Supplies include warm clothes, extra blankets, flashlights, medicines, and food. Gather any items you will need if you lose power or communication
• Develop a communication plan. Have phone numbers written down in case you cannot use your mobile phone
• Know the winter storm terms. The National Weather Service (NWS) will report a(n):
• ADVISORY when they expect that weather conditions might be hazardous. Be cautious, and the conditions should not be life-threatening 
• WATCH when they predict heavy snow or ice, but cannot yet show when or which areas will be hit. NWS issues a WATCH 12 to 26 hours ahead of the predicted storm 
• WARNING when they expect 4 or more inches of snow or sleet within 12 hours or they expect ¼ inch or more of ice. Keep warm and dry. Minimize driving. Stay indoors
• Tell your local electric company if someone in your home needs power for medical devices. They will make your home a priority
• Install battery-powered or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors.

Remember, prevention is the best solution to water damage, but if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1408633655071-32caae446efef4ab2f4fcccdb55f725c/PrepareAthon_WINTER%20STORMS_HTG_FINAL_508.pdf

Are You Ready for Winter Weather?

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"...

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures, to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your home or business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
• Ask SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County about completing an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

What is an Ice Dam?

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.

Moisture entering the home from ice dams can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause respiratory problems.

• Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
• Take immediate action to get rid of the water source, clean the home environment and maintain its air quality.

Heat loss from a house, snow cover and outside temperatures interact to form ice dams. For ice dams to form there must be snow on the roof and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof's outside surface must be above 32 degrees F (freezing) while lower surfaces are below 32 degrees. These are average temperatures over sustained periods of time. For a portion of the roof to be below freezing, outside temperatures must also be below freezing.

The snow on a roof surface that is above freezing will melt. As water flows down the roof it reaches the portion of the roof that is below 32F and freezes. This causes the ice dam.

The dam grows as it is fed by the melting snow above it, but it will limit itself to the portions of the roof that average below 32F. So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid. This water finds cracks and openings in the exterior roof covering and flows into the attic space. From the attic it could flow into exterior walls or through the ceiling insulation and stain the ceiling finish.

Put a Freeze on Winter Fires

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

Heating

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths and injuries. December, January and February are the peak months for heating fires. Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, figuring in two of every five fires (40%).

Carbon Monoxide

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

Winter storms

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc on our daily schedules. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

Generators

Portable generators are useful during power outages; however, many homeowners are unaware that the improper use of portable generators can be risky. The most common dangers associated with portable generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution, and fire hazards. According to a 2013 Consumer Product Safety Commission report, half of the generator-related deaths happened in the four coldest months of the year, November through February, and portable generators were involved in the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools. 

Candles

December is the peak time of year for home candle fires; the top three days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Each year between 2012 and 2016, an average of 8,200 home candle fires were reported each year.

Electrical

Electrical home fires are a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Roughly half of all home electrical fires involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment, while nearly another half involved other known types of equipment like washer or dryer fans, and portable or stationary space heaters.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.

• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.

• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to Protect Pipes From Freezing

Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.

• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.

• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.

• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.

• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.

• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Bring Your Pets When You Have to Evacuate Your Home

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

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

Severe storms can hit any place, even Glen Mills. If high winds, ice and snow, or heavy rains make evacuation necessary, SERVPRO^® of Southern Delaware County knows that most of us will not leave without our pets.  We can repair water damage and storm damage Like it never even happened^® but people and pets are irreplaceable.

Preparation for Glen Mills Pets:

• Maintain current information on all tags
• Secure tags to collars
• Consider microchips for animals that cannot wear collars or that may lose them
• In case you get separated, have photos of yourself with each pet
• Identify shelters and motels that accept pets
• Have a secure leash/harness and carrier for each of your pets
• Keep copies of each Rx for the pet(s)

Emergency Kits for Pets:

• Rabies tags, copies of vaccination records
• Medical records for pets that require extra care
• At least a 3-day supply of water and food for each pet
• Animal first-aid kit
• Favorite toys and blankets
• Treats
• Medicines
• Extra litter and litter box
• Bags for waste

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests this website.

If storm damage does hit your home, remember that We are Here to Help.^® 

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Glen Mills

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Glen Mills

Freezing weather can lead to burst pipes in Glen Mills. Burst pipes lead to water damage and other hassles. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County has plenty of experience: The Federal Emergency Management Association reports that every year, burst pipes cause damage in a quarter of a million homes or offices. Prevention is easier than cleanup, so we're sharing these tips with Glen Mills.

Prevent Pipes from Bursting                                     

• Prepare before the coldest weather hits – burst pipes are most likely when the temperatures don't go above 20 degrees F
• Insulate areas that have exposed pipes
• Wrap pipes with several inches of pipe insulation
• Repair any drafty areas
• Keep the indoor temperature at least 55 degrees F, even while people are sleeping or are away
• Let cold water drip through the taps to keep pipes from freezing
• Remove all hoses from the outside taps
• If there are inside doors to uninsulated places (such as a garage or a storage room), keep those doors closed

In the worst case, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County will remediate storm damage and water damage “Like it never even happened”.                                                                                                                                            SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes.html

Why to Have an Emergency Ready Program for Your Business

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

I’m sure you are wondering what even is an Emergency Ready Program?  Let us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County help you be prepared! It is just that, are you ready at your place of business for an emergency? Be ready for any disaster or emergency with the SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County Emergency Ready Program.  Our Marketing Representative’s at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County can help you get an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) put into place for your business to benefit customers, businesses, and families.  In the event of an emergency, a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut off valve locations, and priority areas.  The ERP is accessible online using your computer or tablet.  Give SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County a call! We can get you set up an appointment to see how we can get your place of business “ready for whatever happens.”

What to Do When a Commercial Fire Hits

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fires nobody likes to think about or talk about, but unfortunately they do happen commonly, and they put many people out of work after they happen. Business owners face significant costs in damage, and property owners have significant losses and high repair costs. As soon as the flames are put out, your insurance company should be the first contact as they will need to come out, inspect the damage, and file a claim. They will then supply you with the money you need to start the fire damage restoration and content cleaning process. It is important that you use a company that is properly certified, so call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County!

               SERVOPRO of Southern Delaware County has numerous professionals that are available 24/7 to respond to any emergency call for fire damage restoration. We will be available to come out to the site of the loss, and you will be in the right hands as far as getting the right services, protecting what you have left after the fire. Taking action to have the necessary repairs made to your property can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to assist you.

The Dangers of Not using a Proper Restoration Company

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

The US estimates there were 1,319,500 fires in 2017. If you experience a house fire, the next step will be figuring out your financial loss, and the emotional toll it will take from losing sentimental belongings. SERVPRO believes in contacting a professional restoration company to restore your home immediately after a fire will help you get back into your home, and back to your day to day life sooner. It’s not enough to simply hire a fire restoration company after a fire; the company you hire must be capable. If you don’t hire a professional restoration company, your home could suffer some long-term effects from the fire.

As the saying goes, where there is smoke, there is fire. The damage a house fire causes can be awful. Destroying sentimental items can take an emotional toll, as they are items that cannot simply be replaced. However, the damage caused by smoke is as powerful as that of fire. The smell of smoke may not cause bodily damage, but the stench of smoke can linger long after the flames have been put out. Without professional help from a reputable fire restoration company, you and your family could inhale smoke for years, which is a threat to your lungs and your eyes. Individuals who already have problems with their lungs and eyes can experience greater problems if they inhale air stained with smoke for a prolonged time.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County if you ever have to unfortunately deal with the loss from a fire. We will get your family back to their life, sooner, and safer.

Fire Prevention Month in Southern Delaware County

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month is in October every year. This year the Fire Prevention Month campaign is, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Making a plan with your family to practice and plan an escape during a fire will be critical if you ever need to use that plan. During a fire, just seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires. Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This awful fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.

We think it is very important in informing our community about fire safety, as well as ways to prevent fires, and make sure your home is protected with smoke alarms, and the necessary safety equipment. It is also important to have the proper plan in place, in the event there is a fire. Make sure you call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County with any fire damage needs.

What to do When You Experience Black Mold

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is always unexpected, and can really come at any time of the year. Whether it’s from a storm, a plumbing leak or even from water that was used to fight a fire, water damage can have a long-lasting effect, even if it seems to be cleaned up. When water gets into your home, it can seep into your walls, your upholstery, your carpeting, and even behind hidden places you wouldn’t think to check. It may seem that it has all dried up, but if it is not cleaned properly and professionally it can be a breeding ground for black mold, which is a nasty substance that can cause serious problems for you and your family.

       There aren’t many studies done on black mold, but we do know that for sure it negatively affects people’s health. Some of the symptoms and health effects are mild, but they can become serious as well. It is important if you have water damage, to call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County right away to properly clean up the water damage, to prevent black mold from forming.

Wet Carpets after Water Damage in Aston

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Experiencing water damage can be overwhelming, and definitely not something that people that ever want to deal with, especially unexpectedly. If you get water damage in your home, and you have carpets where the damage was, it is important to keep an eye on the smell where the water damage was. Once the water damage is properly cleaned up by SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, you should keep an eye on the smell of the carpets where the water damage occurred. If you begin to smell a musty or dirty smell, that can be an indication of mold underneath your carpets.

               In most cases, mold will be discovered after it settles, and by then its growth is pretty rapid. If you suspect you have mold, you should call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County to come check it out. . Mold can be very dangerous, and making sure it is out of your carpets, is very important for your health. Mold can be deceiving, one day you may not even know it’s there, and then the next day it could be discovered.  If you still feel like your cleanup wasn't enough, or you feel there is mold hiding somewhere, contact us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County. We would be more than happy to pay you a visit and provide a professional opinion on the matter. Remember, it's very dangerous to have mold in your home.  Mold can have very serious side effects on you and your health. Get your mold remediated as soon as you can.

Pet Safety in Case of a Fire Damage in Aston

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared to help your pet stay safe in the unfortunate event of fire damage.

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County we love our pets as much as you love yours. We could not stand to see them injured or killed in a house fire but unfortunately fire damage can harm animals just as it can harm people in Aston.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County shares these ideas with you to protect your pet(s):

• When you design your fire escape plan, practice with your pets
• If there are fires outside, bring pets 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 Southern Delaware County reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside the Aston home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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

Kitchen Sinks Can Cause Water Damage in Brookhaven

10/16/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t cry over water damage in Brookhaven – SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help.

As homeowners, business owners or renters, we know that things go wrong from time to time such as fire or mold damage along with different types of water damage. One common problem is the kitchen sink. Kitchen sinks get clogged, pipes can burst, and they can overflow. The possibilities behind this are endless. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is always on-call and ready to save the day for Brookhaven residents! Here are some steps to take when the water starts flowing out of the sink and on to the floor:

• Shut off the faucet that allows water to flow to your sink
• Use a pitcher or any other type of large cup to get water out of your sink
• If you have a food disposal connected to the sink, check that and make sure it is not clogged
• If a clog is not solving itself, grab the plunger – they are not just for toilets
• Keep an eye on any water damage because this could lead to mold

Brookhaven residents are encouraged to call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County when the job becomes too much and the water is overwhelming and all over the floors. We have highly trained professionals that are ready to head to any home or commercial building when cleanup or restoration is needed after any type of water damage. Do not hesitate to give us a call at any time. We are open 24/7 for your convenience.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

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

Flooded House with Water Damage in Chadds Ford

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County immediately for residential flood damage cleanup.

Some of the many causes of a residential flood occurring in your home may include a severe storm, a busted pipe, a leaking toilet, accidental tub overflow, sewage problems, etc. The possibilities are endless! What a homeowner does AFTER the flood happens is very important in Chadds Ford.  SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to share some post-flood tips. They are as follows:

• Keep children and pets away from the floodwater and all electrical outlets/appliances
• Furniture and other home décor may be waterlogged so take caution in moving those things because they may be heavier than usual
• If this was a flood caused by a natural disaster, let friends and family know you are safe
• Remember, electricity can run through plumbing so take extreme caution around active water

A residential flood will likely leave behind flood water damage in the home in Chadds Ford. Not only is SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County trained for situations like this, we are ready to help. Give us a call as soon as safety has been established and confirmed and the home is ready to be cleaned up and restored to its preloss condition. Our goal is to make your home look “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

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

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives and Prevent Fire Damage in Aston

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

By installing a fire alarm in your home, you can lower your risk of being harmed in the event a fire breaks out in your Aston home.

Since fire spreads fast once it is started, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Aston home. An alarm alerts you that danger may be present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to remember:

• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Closed doors help to prevent the spread of fire
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside

If your Aston home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Smoke-alarms

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/safety-messages-about-smoke-alarms

Safety Tips To Prevent Fire Damage when using Candles in Glen Mills

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Enjoying a beautifully lit candle is relaxing. Cleaning up smoke damage and fire damage is not. Practice safety while using candles.

It’s that pumpkin latte time of year again, and SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to be safe from fire damage and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your Glen Mills home.

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

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Do not let children near candles
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
• 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
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
• 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.

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 Glen Mills home, your friends at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County are just a phone call away.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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 

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers in Aston

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent fire damage by knowing the different types of Fire Extinguishers for your home or business.

Smoke and fire damage is something all of us at SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County would like to see you avoid. In the event, the worst happens and you are faced with this kind of disaster, you can count on us to lend a helping hand. We have a team of highly trained professionals to walk with you each step of the way when repairing the damage from smoke, water, and fire in your Aston home

Just to be safe, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County recommends you keep at least one fire extinguisher and know how to use it (them).

A fire-extinguisher may prevent fire damage and smoke damage from spreading throughout the home.

If you see a small fire that you take care of yourself, use the following tips.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the house and call 9-1-1 when you are outside.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County wants you to know that you can try to fight a small fire only if:

• You can get to the fire extinguisher quickly. Fire is fast. Fire damage and smoke damage are less painful than personal injuries
• You know how to use the fire extinguisher

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County explains the Types of Home Fire Extinguishers:

Classes A, B, and C fire extinguishers are found in both homes and businesses

• Class A is for cloth, wood, and paper
• Class B is for liquids that can burst into flame or explode, such as grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paints
• Class C is for electrical equipment like computers, tools, or anything else that is plugged in
• Most home-improvement stores sell multi-purpose fire extinguishers: Classes A:B:C

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

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

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

Tips to Prevent Kitchen Fires in Chadd’s Ford

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe and always practice fire safety in the kitchen.

Many people are not aware that cooking equipment is a leading cause of fire damage and fire injuries in homes across America. In fact, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County  wants you to understands that some fires in Chadd’s Ford could be avoided by practicing fire safety in the kitchen.

To help prevent fire damage, SERVPRO of  Southern Delaware County shares these tips.

Be aware:

• 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 Chadd’s Ford home.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County reminds you that fire prevention is the best strategy against fire damage. If you would like to learn about more ways to prevent fires in your home, please visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/ for more information.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated. 

Rental Property and Mold in Brookhaven

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

If treated properly, mold does not have to destroy your Brookhaven home, office, or commercial property.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County understands mold and we want to educate our community about the best ways to prevent and treat your Brookhaven property to avoid costly repairs.

Mold:

• grows from mold spores
• spores are too small to see unaided
• spores can survive harsh environments for many years
• can grow almost anywhere 
• needs to have only
• above-freezing temperatures
• protein, such as in animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet
• moisture (high humidity is enough)
• grows rapidly
• damages property
• has a bad smell
• is unsightly

If you have a small amount of mold on a dish, you can clean it. You can even throw it away. However, if you have a large amount of mold, you need licensed mold remediation from an industry professional. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a “large amount” as 10 square feet or more.

If you suspect your apartment or office building might have mold, you need to have a certified mold inspector out to examine the area. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County cannot identify what kind of mold you have, but we are licensed in mold remediation and we can repair the damage caused by mold.

When you have a concern about mold damage in your apartment or condominium, speak with your landlord or property manager if you think he/she should hire licensed professionals. Whatever the disaster, remember that SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Links:

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm

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

What to do When the Kitchen Sink Overflows in Brookhaven

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t cry over spilled water – SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help.

As homeowners or renters, we know that many things can go wrong. This includes accidental fire, mold problems, and more. One common problem is the kitchen sink. They can get clogged, pipes can burst, and they can overflow. There are many reasons the kitchen sink may be overflowing – the drain is clogged and the water filled up quickly, a home owner had to walk away in the middle of doing dishes and forgot to go back and finish that chore, a child turned the water on and ran away (it happens!), etc. The possibilities behind this are endless. Do not cry over spilled water (or milk!). SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is always on-call and ready to save the day for Brookhaven residents! Here are some steps to take when the water starts flowing out of the sink and on to the floor:

• Shut off the faucet that allows water to flow to your sink 
• Use a pitcher or any other type of large cup to get water out of your sink
• If you have a food disposal connected to the sink, check that and make sure it is not clogged
• If a clog is not solving itself, grab the plunger – they are not just for toilets
• Keep an eye on any water damage because this could lead to mold

Brookhaven residents are encouraged to call us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County when the job becomes too much and the water is overwhelming and all over the floors. We have highly trained professionals that are ready to head to any home or commercial building when cleanup or restoration is needed after any type of water damage. Do not hesitate to give us a call at any time. We are open 24/7 for your convenience.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

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

Thunderstorm preparedness in Chadds Ford

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Although we cannot prevent thunderstorms, we can prepare for them.

Thunderstorms are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. Commercial properties and office buildings can experience severe damage in Chadds Ford area. Thunderstorms include lightning and can:

• Include winds over 50 MPH
• Create hail
• Cause flash floods
• Cause tornadoes

In most places, a thunderstorm can happen at any time of the year and at any time of the day.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County knows you cannot prevent a thunderstorm, but you can prepare:

• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Chadds Ford
• Sign up for your community’s warning system
• Cut down or trim trees that may fall on your home or office
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County repeats the warning, “When thunder roars, go indoors”.  You don’t have to wait for the thunder. If there is a thunderstorm warning, go inside. Once there:

• Unplug appliances
• Do not use landline phones in office or home
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings

If your office is near a large body of water:

• Do not swim or get in a boat, get to land immediately. Find shelter
• If you are in a car, don’t touch anything metal
• “Turn around. Don’t Drown. '' Avoid flooded roads. 6 inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep away your car.

A lightning strike during a thunderstorm can leave a wake of destruction in its path. This can range from minor electrical issues to fire damage. Lightning is also a major cause of injury or death from weather-related dangers.  Most people survive being hit by lightning, but they often have long-term problems.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1527866280447-8ee0ba123e9a7b91c75b97dfb62cb657/ThunderStorm_May2018.pdf

Possible Causes for Water Damage in Chester

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Be aware that common appliances in your home can be the cause of water damage.

Causes & Categories of Water Damage in Chester

An old poem has the line, “water, water, everywhere”. When you need to say this in your home or office, you know there is trouble. You may be looking at water damage. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County shares some different possible causes of water damage in Chester.

Causes can include:

• Leaky dishwashers or washing machines
• Clogged pipes
• Leaking roofs
• Broken toilet pipes
• Heavy rain
• Snow or ice

The amount of water damage depends on the amount of water and the cause of the damage.

It is also important to start cleanup as soon as possible. The longer your home or business is water-logged, the more damage. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is here to make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Categories of Water Damage in Chester:

1. Clean water. It might come from an overflowing sink or a broken appliance. The water does not pose a threat to people. Keep in mind that any water will become contaminated after it stops flowing.
2. Gray water. This water is contaminated from the get-go. It comes from broken toilets or sump pumps. It might not look dirty, or it might be brown.
3. Black water. Like gray water, it might not look dirty. One major source of black water is broken sewage pipes. Another source is any water that has been standing still.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

http://www.thewaterpage.com/water-damage-effects.htm

What to Do After Storm Damage in Glen Mills

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can happen at any time of the year. It only takes a small storm to create flooding, water damage, and possibly mold. Storms can also cause down trees, and roof damage from the powerful winds. First and foremost, the most important thing to do is to take safety precautions. Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. It is very important that you use extreme caution, and safety measures.

               Another important step is to take photographs. You should take photographs of all the storm damage, and make sure you print and save the photos. It is also important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible, so you can file a claim. They will then come out and assess the damage to your property. Also, look into federal assistance from storm damage. The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

               The most important thing is to act safely, and quickly in this unfortunate situation. While storm damage can be overwhelming, it is important to take the necessary steps to make the process go as smoothly as possible.

OSHA Guidelines for Fire Extinguisher Usage in Aston

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Be properly trained on when and how to use a fire extinguisher in Aston.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County knows that owning a fire extinguisher is not enough. Knowing the proper use of fire extinguishers can prevent fire from destroying lives in Aston.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers train their employees how and when to use fire extinguishers. OSHA does not allow untrained employees to use a fire extinguisher.  They should provide training shortly after the employee is hired, and then every year thereafter. OSHA also requires monthly inspections for fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers have to be placed where they cannot be moved or damaged. The carrying handle should be 3.5' to 5' above the floor.

Employees must know when to use fire extinguishers.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County suggests asking yourself these questions regarding fire extinguishers in your Aston business: 

• Have I pulled the fire alarm?
• Can everyone get out?
• Is the fire extinguisher easy to reach?
• Do I know how to use it?
• Is the fire contained in a small area?
• Is the smoke non-toxic?
• Do I have an escape route?

If you can answer “yes” to all of the questions, it is reasonable to use the fire extinguisher.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County reminds you that fire is fast. If you cannot contain it within 30 seconds, get everyone out of the area. Call 911 once you are outside.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/emergencypreparedness/index.html

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.157

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers

Commercial Flood Insurance in Chester

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

Tips to obtaining flood insurance for your Chester business.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides flood insurance. The NFIP doesn’t sell insurance. Buy flood insurance from an insurance agent.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County is interested in helping the businesses in our community become more educated on flood insurance. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses do not reopen after experiencing a devastating flood.

Check to see if you might be required to have flood insurance. Things to know in Chester:

• Standard commercial insurance doesn’t pay for flood damage
• The NFIP sets the rates
• Rates depend on:
  • whether you live in a flood plain
  • flood risk in your area
  • building’s age
  • building’s construction
• Building property insurance covers the building
• Personal property insurance covers the building’s contents
• NFIP suggests you need both types
• Policies go into effect 30 days after purchase

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County recommends the following:

• Check whether or not your area participates in the NFIP
• Check whether or not your area is part of the Community Rating The NFIP might have a discount
• Talk to your insurance agent when you need to make changes

Make sure your business is protected from the devastation that comes with unwanted flooding in your office.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.usa.gov/property-insurance

www.fema.gov

Preparing for Storms in Glen Mills

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

When storms are brewing, SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County will be there to help restore any damage caused by the storm.

When storms are brewing, we may not think destruction is headed our way but sometimes the inevitable happens in Glen Mills. 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 Southern Delaware County bring 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 subsided in Glen Mills, please continue to be careful walking about your structure 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 Southern Delaware County to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 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

What to do if you have PTSD during Thunderstorms and Lightning in Concordville

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding relaxation techniques during a storm can help reduce anxiety from PTSD.

Almost 7% of people in the U.S. have suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

People who have PTSD may experience panic during thunderstorms. Thunderstorms and lightning can set off a person’s alarm bells in Concordville.

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County offers these guides to coping with PTSD during storms:

The best strategy is to be prepared:

• Take care of your emotional health. See a therapist. Learn relaxation exercises. When you feel anxious, you can relax yourself
• Know when a thunderstorm is likely. Plan what you will do during a thunderstorm
• Take care of your physical health. Eat a healthy diet. Get enough sleep. Do not rely on alcohol or other drugs. Do not smoke or chew tobacco

During a Thunderstorm in Concordville:

• Slow down your breathing
• Look around. Notice where you are. Notice that you are in a safe place
• Distract yourself from the storm. Wear headphones and listen to music. Sit in a pop-up tent
• Talk with someone you trust

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/treatment/cope/coping-traumatic-stress.asp

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/PTSD-overview/epidemiological-facts-ptsd.asp

Tips for Staying Safe in Concordville During a Storm

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Stay away from windows during a lightning storm in Concordville.

Common safety rules and precautions state that the public should generally try to stay inside of a safe area or building when a lightning storm or thunderstorm occurs. There are many commercial buildings in Concordville. SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County wants to share the following safety tips for staying safe during a thunderstorm while inside of a commercial building:

• Stay away from all windows or glass walls, especially during a lightning storm
• Unplug appliances if possible
• Pay attention to all alerts and warnings, as a thunderstorm can develop into a tornado if powerful enough
• Avoid running water if possible since electricity can travel through plumbing

Weather is unpredictable. Although the weather can be predicted, it can also change in an instant without much warning. If a thunderstorm does happen to turn into tornado weather in Concordville, consider the following tips:

• If the commercial building has a basement or storm cellar, head there immediately
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck in the event of flying debris or shattered windows
• Do not leave the safe area until the local alerting system says it is safe to do so

Remember, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is Here to Help. Our trained team members will show up ready to go and can assist in cleanup and restoration after a thunderstorm, lightning storm and even a tornado.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

Sharing the History of SERVPRO in Chadds Ford

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in Chadds Ford, call SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

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 over 1700 Franchises in the United States and Canada.

What does SERVPRO do?

SERVPRO provides:

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

SERVPRO® of Southern Delaware County 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
• Commercial Cleaning

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County works directly with most insurance companies, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in Chadds Ford.

Why SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County?  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 Southern Delaware County will document every step so you will know exactly what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is independently owned and operated.

Commercial Water Damage in Aston Building

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

There are numerous situations where a commercial property might suffer extensive water damage. For example, a flood from a storm or overflowing river bank might deposit massive amounts of dirty water all over the first floor of a structure. Or, a burst/leaky pipe might cause water to collect in the spaces between the walls or floors in the structure, leading to mold growth and other issues in these hidden areas.

Whether it’s flood water damage or some other form of moisture intrusion, what should you do when the commercial property you’re inspecting has water damage?

One of the first things you’ll want to do when you discover signs of water damage is verify the extent of the damage. However, a simple visual check probably won’t be enough to reliably establish the full scope of the problem.

Water can soak into many building materials far from the source of the moisture intrusion without creating obvious signs of damage for a long time. 

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County take care of your commercial water damage.  We are available 24/7/365 and have the specialized equipment and experience that is needed to get your business back up and running as quickly as possbile.

Is Your Business Ready for an Emergency?

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Many businesses have an emergency contingency plan in place, but few have a plan to get back into their buildings following a disaster.

• It is estimated that 95% of disasters affecting regular business operations are internal or man-made, such as fire or internal flooding. • With the proper planning, you can better survive disasters when they occur.

Our SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.

A no cost assessment of your facility – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. It was purposely designed to contain only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save you a lot of time if ever needed. Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency.

Are you ready?

Be prepared for power outages from storms in Concordville

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can lead to power outages in Southern Delaware County

Managing Without Power in Concordville

 SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has seen storm damage lead to power outages.  

 A power outage can:

• Disrupt communication
• Make transportation difficult
• Shut down water pipes
• Close businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, ATMS, other services
• Lead to food spoilage
• Lead to contaminated water
• Disable medical devices

 During a power outage in Concordville, be sure to:

• Keep freezer & refrigerator doors closed. It will reduce the chance of food spoilage
• Use generators only outdoors and away from windows
• Disconnect appliances/electronics. Power surges can destroy equipment
• Have already set up plan to refrigerate medicines
• For people who use power wheelchairs, have a backup battery. You may also need a manual chair
• The local power company should already know that someone in your home relies on medical devices
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home or business
• If travel is safe, go to another location for proper heating or cooling
• Check on your neighbors.

 Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/index.html

Tips to Stay Safe During a Storm

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S. Flooding can happen near major bodies of water, but also inland.

Floods can develop slowly or quickly. Floods that come with no warning are known as flash floods.

Floods:
? Come from rain, snow, hurricanes, tornadoes, and storm surges
? Overflows of dams or other water systems
? Can cause power or water outages
? Damage buildings
? Create landslides
? Make roads impassable
? Sweep away people, animals, or cars

If you are in a flood in Southern Delaware County:
? If you have a warning, get to a safe place
? Don’t drive around barricades
? Don’t walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County likes the warning, “Turn around! Don’t Drown!”
? 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down. 12 inches of moving water can sweep a car away
? Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. The water can wash bridges away
? If your car is trapped in quickly-moving water, stay inside. If the water rises inside the vehicle, climb onto the roof
? If you are trapped in a building, go to the highest level. Do NOT climb into a closed attic. Floodwater can trap you. Go to the roof only if there is no other escape

Links:
https://www.ready.gov/floods
https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program

Every Home Should Have an Air Purifier

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we care about our communities health and safety. Are you one of the millions who suffer from asthma or allergies everyday? Do you own an air purifier? Do you think about the air quality of your home?

Maybe it's time to invest in a air purifier for yourself. You can buy one these days for under $80, the cost of a monthly cell phone service bill.

Most people who buy air purifiers do so in hopes of easing asthma, allergies or even just dust in their homes. The very best portable air purifiers are very effective at cleaning the air, mold spores, smoke, dust, and pollen at their highest and lowest speed.

Mold spores range from 1-30 microns, and air purifiers remove mold as small as .003 microns. UV light is helpful but is not required for removing spores. Mold spores die inside the HEPA filter due to the fact that it's a dry sterile environment. A quality HEPA air purifier removes airborne mold spores and keeps the air quality of your home at par.

If your kids or loved ones constantly suffer from asthma and allergies, test out a good quality air purifier to see if you notice a difference. You'll be glad you did.

ONE-FOUR-EIGHT Response!

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

What is 1-4-8? How can 1-4-8 help me? These are some of the questions we are about to answer for you, and show you how exactly 1-4-8 can help everyone involved. 1-4-8 stands for 1 hour, 4 hours, and 8 hours. This means that within one hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO franchise professional will contact you to arrange for service. That within 4 hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO franchise professional will be on-site to start mitigation services, even after hours. Within 8 hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the restoration plan will be communicated to the appropriate person (this may be the customer, the person responsible for billing, or the insurance adjuster). This does not apply under certain conditions, such as catastrophic events, or storm situations. Just know that we pride ourselves on 1-4-8. Give us a call 24/7/365 and we can get started on the 1-4-8! We here at SERVPRO of Southern Delware County look forward to serving you! 484-841-6669

Why you should chose SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County, we have an amazing staff who work hard for you every day. From our owners, who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff, who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, we strive to provide top notch customer service. If you are looking for a local company to provide professional and timely services, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is the place, and we won't let you down. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs you may have.

484-841-6669

SERVPRO Named to Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List for Tenth Consecutive Year

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO retains top ranking in restoration services category in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings.

SERVPRO maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 10th consecutive year in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. 

"This recognition affirms that SERVPRO is a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension, its customers," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., Chief Executive Officer. "The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer."

According to Steen, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

•SERVPRO's commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company's culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.

•SERVPRO's focus on continued development and support for proprietary software and systems to allow the company's operational capacity to keep pace with an aggressive growth strategy.

"Today, as a mature franchise organization with more than 1,700 locations under a single brand, recognition like this makes it clear we are reaping the rewards of having laid a solid foundation and a framework to handle quick growth. As our brand continues to grow, we will continue our winning strategy of supporting and improving upon our infrastructure and investing resources in training and support."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, helping both commercial and residential customers recover from property damage emergencies. 

Southern Delaware County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 484-841-6669

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Do You Know Why SERVPRO Trucks are Green?

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County 484-841-6669

You've most likely seen the restoration crews of SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County out and about in your neighborhoods helping to recover disasters from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

 Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

Home Maintenance to Prepare for Snow and Ice

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

The sight of falling snow is a beautiful part of the winter season, but it can also pose potential dangers for homeowners. Winter safety concerns caused by snow, ice and other conditions arise around the home's interior and exterior, requiring extra work on the part of homeowners to ensure no problems show up. Increased moisture during the winter months can lead to ice around the home, ice dams on the roof, and even basement flooding or damage to the foundation.

Watch for Water Issues on the Roof

Excess Snowfall

Large accumulations of heavy, wet snow can put tremendous pressure on the roofs of homes and buildings. Gravity tends to lend a helping hand with clearing snow from high-pitched roofs, but for flat or low-pitched roofs, you may need to intervene if the snow accumulation is severe.

Signs that the weight of the snow is compromising your roof may include visible sagging in the snow buildup, ceiling leaks in your upper floor, cracks developing in interior drywall or masonry, and creaking or popping sounds coming from the roof. In extreme scenarios, snow accumulation can lead to roof collapse.

Removing this snow yourself can be extremely dangerous, especially on multi-story homes or where there are already signs of roof damage. Because of this, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with professional rooftop snow-clearing services in your area before severe winter weather strikes. The earlier you can get the snow cleared after a major snowfall, the more likely you are to prevent serious damage.

Safety Precautions Following Residential Water Loss

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes in your home, it is essential to be safe when dealing with damaged items in your household. 

The effects of water damage in a residential home can either be controlled OR worsened depending on the actions taken. Here are a few tips on how to safely control the situation before help arrives:

DO

• Remove any undamaged items away from the contaminated area
• Prop up any upholstery items to avoid further damage
• Place aluminum foil or blocks of wood under wood furniture to prevent damage to personal items
• Stay out of rooms that have sagging and wet walls

DON'T

• Attempt to remove water using personal vacuum or hepa-vac
• Leave any paper items on wet surfaces such as books or magazines
• use any electrical outlets or appliances In the affected water area
• Leave standing water alone for an extended period of time as it could cause mold to grow

If there are any further questions, concerns or if you have water damage, call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County at (484) 841-6669.

What You Should Do if your Washing Machine Floods

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Washing machines use up to thirty gallons of water to clean our clothes on a regular basis.  If this convenient device were to flood, however, there would be extensive water damage to your home.  Disaster can strike when we least expect it, so it’s best to have some knowledge of what to do if you experience this problem. 

How to Fix the Problem

Cut off the electrical power supply to the washer at the fuse box.  Don’t stop the washer or immediately pull the electrical plug since doing so can lead to more flooding and possible electric shock. 

Remove the clothes from the washer and drain them in the sink to remove some of the water from the washer.

Check to see if the washer hoses are leaking water. Tighten the hot and cold water supply hoses, and ensure that the drain hose is properly in place.

Test the washer without laundry or detergent to ensure the problem is solved. 

To prevent your washer from flooding, do not put an excessive amount of laundry in the washer during a cycle, and make sure the machine was not recalled.

A water disaster can stem from a small problem, such as a washer leak.  If you experience any water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County can handle the loss for you and restore your property to its preloss condition.

Real Christmas Trees are Recyclable

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

After the holidays, don’t throw your real Christmas tree in the trash or set it on the curb. Real Christmas trees are biodegradable, which means they can be easily reused or recycled for mulch and other purposes. Here are some recycling options and tips on what to do with your tree after the holidays. Every community is different, but in general, you have these options:

Curbside pick-up for recycling: Many providers will collect trees during regular pickup schedules on the two weeks following Christmas.  There are often requirements for size, removing ornaments, flocking, etc. 

Take your tree to a drop-off recycling center: Most counties have free drop-off locations. Usually, you may take up to two trees to a drop-off location at no charge. 

Yard waste: Cut the tree to fit loosely into your yard waste container. 

Tree recycling/mulching programs: Tree recycling and mulching programs are a fast-growing trend in communities throughout the nation. Check with your local department of public works for information. They chip and shred the trees, then make the mulch available for use in your garden.  Your hauler will notify you of pick-up dates in your area. Be sure to check with your local hauler. 

Nonprofit pickup: Call for an appointment to have a nonprofit organization in your area pickup your tree. Some Boy Scout troops offer a pickup service for a small donation (often $5). 

 Other Recycling Options

 Soil erosion barriers: Some communities use Christmas trees to make effective sand and soil erosion barriers, especially for lake and river shoreline stabilization and river delta sedimentation management. 

Fish feeders: Sunk into private fish ponds, trees make an excellent refuge and feeding area for fish.

Bird feeders: Place the Christmas tree in the garden or backyard and use it as a bird feeder and sanctuary. Fresh orange slices or strung popcorn will attract the birds and they can sit in the branches for shelter. (Make sure all decorations, hooks, garland and tinsel strands are removed).  Eventually (within a year) the branches will become brittle and you can break the tree apart by hand or chip it in a chipper. 

Mulch: A Christmas tree is biodegradable; its branches may be removed, chipped, and used as mulch in the garden.

Paths for hiking trails: Some counties use shredded trees as a free, renewable and natural path material that fits both the environment and the needs of hikers.

Living, rooted trees: Get a rooted (ball and burlap or containerized) tree and plant it in your yard. (It's a good idea to dig the hole in the late fall while the soil is still soft, then plant the tree into that hole immediately after Christmas.) Living trees have a better survival rate in mild climates.  

Important: Never burn your Christmas tree in a fireplace or wood stove.

Look. Listen. Learn

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

While fire prevention week may be over, practicing fire safety should always be an important part of everyday living.  The theme for 2018's Fire Prevention Week is Look.Listen.Learn.  This theme aims to raise awareness of “three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire.” Those steps are:
LOOK for possible fire hazards in your home and eliminate them.
LISTEN for your home’s smoke alarms. Know that you may have only minutes to get out if a fire breaks out.
LEARN two ways out of each room of your home. Exits should be easy to access and free of clutter. After leaving the home, go to your family’s designated meeting spot, established when you set up a home fire escape plan.

The National Fire Protection Association provides resources, including community posters, for the public to use to educate others about home fire safety. For kids, the campaign has activity pages and Simon, a character who shares messages about fire safety.

October Is National Fire Prevention Month

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Month (and week) raises awareness about fire safety and home safety to help ensure your home and family are prepared in the case of an emergency. This is a perfect time to discuss fire safety with your family.  Every family's safety plans will differ from the next - that is why it is important to sit down with your whole family and plan your home's fire safety plans.  

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)'s 2018 campaign for Fire Prevention Week is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. A fire can be anywhere."

According to the NFPA*, in 2016 there were 352,000 home fires, and 3 out of 5 fire deaths occurred in homes without smoke alarms.
Less than 50% of homeowners have an escape plan.
Carbon monoxide is the #1 cause of accidental death.

These facts and statistics are reasons why your home needs to be equipped with the proper amount of fire safety equipment and alarms. Fire Prevention Month is a great time to kick start your families commitment to fire safety!

SERVPRO Understands the Mold Life Cycle and Can Remediate Problems

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Protection is critical when dealing with mold

Mold spores are everywhere. The only exceptions are hospital surgical rooms and maybe so-called ‘clean rooms’ needed for assembling some types of electronics. As inert spores, they are no more dangerous to homes or people than common house dust.

For homes in Southern Delaware County, mold damage is only a concern when three factors achieve the right levels of moisture, food, and temperature.

To halt mold growth and deal with the damage, SERVPRO technicians know to interrupt one or more of these factors.

The temperature range most mold thrive in is 68 to 86 degrees. That encompasses the comfort range for nearly every home in Pennsylvania. Raising the temperature is fairly simple, all we have to do is turn off the air conditioning for about an hour.

Since homeowners cannot live like that and it is too expensive to keep a home under 68 degrees, we can only alter the temperature in a commercial building like a warehouse.

Spores feed and grow on common building materials like ceiling tiles, drywall, and wood. Even the insulation in walls and attics can serve as food.

As the mold colony grows, spores extend growths called hyphae to dig into the materials and feed.

If they penetrate deeply, the only way to remove the mold is to remove the infested drywall or other material.

Since it is impossible to remove all building materials from the home to prevent mold growth, SERVPRO technicians concentrate on interrupting the moisture.

The source for most moisture in a home is a leak or drip from a poorly connected or damaged pipe.

The simplest way to find the source is to trace the mold growth and follow it to its origin.

We do this with visual inspections and an air content meter which measures the number of spores in the air.

Once we find it, technicians tighten the connection, repair the pipe or another leak source, or simply replace the damaged section. For complicated repairs, we recommend for the homeowner to hire a plumber.

SERVPRO Provides Proper Protocols for Successful Mold Remediation

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

We are here to help

Looking at everywhere mold can choose to grow on your property, it is no surprise that it often finds a comfortable spot in your basement.

Basement mold is a common occurrence that many homeowners face, especially since mold only needs water, oxygen, and food to grow.

Lack of sunlight is also a plus for these fungi to proliferate.

Gravity sends water to the lowest spot in your home. So, it makes sense that your basement or the crawlspace under your Southern Delaware County area home has the highest chance of mold damage.

Regardless of what some sources might say, the species or amount of mold growing in your home has zero impact on your mold remediation process, and any amount or species may cause health effects.

SERVPRO technicians follow specific guidelines designed to focus on controlling mold growth found in your home.

We use EPA-registered disinfectants, negative airflow machines, and plastic sheeting to help reduce the spread.

Our team of SERVPRO IICRC-industry certified professionals removes saturated materials and additional debris and pay close attention to detail, cleaning every surface.

Each material requires a specific cleaning method or a combination of cleaning methods to achieve favorable results.

However, our technicians have years of experience performing mold remediation services and work in a quick, efficient manner to save you time and money.

SERVPRO Quickly Establishes a Drying Plan Based on the Initial Assessment

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Any time water gets inside your residence, removing the excessive moisture within 48 hours is essential. If wood or paper materials stay wet for longer, then microbial formation can take place. Water can also saturate contents and building materials inside your home ruining them.

After something like a pipe break or an appliance malfunctioning takes place and causes water to flood your house, extraction occurs to pull out any standing water and moisture inside porous materials. The next step in any water removal project is the drying process. Rapid drying of contents and structural components is essential to prevent secondary damage and mold growth.

Before drying begins, the area gets tested to determine the extent of damage the moisture has caused. Our SERVPRO technicians check the temperature, relative humidity, and moisture content of wood and drywall. Once we figure out how wet the region got, we can formulate a drying plan.

The initial drying plan includes how many air movers and dehumidifiers get set up in the affected area. The plan also indicates drying goals. The drying goals are set by determining what the conditions were before the loss took place.

The ending goal is determined by coming up with a dry standard. To establish a dry standard, humidity, temperature, and the moisture content of drywall and wooden materials in unaffected areas of the building get tested. Once the standard is designated as the drying goal, our IICRC certified team uses their knowledge and experience to determine the right pieces of drying equipment to rapidly dry out moisture until it is back to preloss conditions.

Cleanup and Rebuild Needed After a Water Problem? Call SERVPRO

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can ruin a home. Homeowners look at the standing water and want to give up before deciding to call a professional service to replace the damage caused by burst pipes or other failed plumbing and appliances.

Regardless of where the damage came from, SERVPRO is the water damage restoration and reconstruction company to use in Southern Delaware County. After the water has been pumped out, we continue to carry out an inspection from the foundation to the roof. Here are a few of the more common damages and how we rebuild after a disaster.

First things first, we replace damaged plumbing. Until we stop the source of the water, it is a waste of time to affect any other repairs. Our specialists are fully trained to replace bathroom fixtures, install new dishwashers or lay new intake pipe anywhere in the home. If the problem was a failed septic tank that backed up into the home or across the outside property, we can remove the old tank and set a new one, to include a new concrete cradle, in place.

Next, come the floors. If our inspection finds damage to the sub-floor, our technicians pull out each piece of the damaged frame and replace it. If necessary, we go down to the foundation and re-level the dirt or concrete to put down a surface without rolls or raised points. Our technicians have years of experience in framing and laying new wood floors that increase the value of the home and are appealing to everyone who sees them.

When it comes to walls, hanging new sheet rock is only the surface of what we do. Before putting up the new panels, we replace every bit of wall framing that shows water damage. Although we do not move load-bearing walls, we can expand closets or decrease a formal dining area to increase the living room for a young, growing family.

Rebuilding your home can be a lengthy process, but hiring the right company for the job can make it much less painful. SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County has the experience, training, and equipment needed to help you from the ground up. 

Winterizing Tips to Prevent Mold Growth

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Warm and Dry is better than cold and wet

The wet season in the winter months is one of the best times of year for molds to grow and expand. 

Many times mold is contained near sources of water where it can easily grow and reproduce. 

As it grows, mold can break down and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives.

Mold can be killed, but if it is not removed properly, it can remain in the area just cleaned and the dry spores can be released into the air. 

Prevention is key to keep your health from being affected by mold and homes and buildings strong.

Here are some winter weatherizing tips to keep mold at bay:

• *Keep all areas clean - mold feeds on dust
• *Make sure all seals on windows and doors are not compromised and in good working condition
• *Clean and repair roof gutters regularly
• *If there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.

The 2 most important things to remember when trying to prevent mold growth are - keep everything clean and keep everything dry.

Houseplant Mold Prevention Tips

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

They're beautiful, but you need to be aware too

Many people have houseplants in their homes - they are used for both decoration and for helping to improve air quality. 

Unfortunately, houseplants can also be the source of mold. 

Since plants require a lot of moisture to survive, it makes them the perfect feeding grounds for mold.

Mold needs 3 things to thrive - food, oxygen, and moisture. 

Organic matter, such as soil and leaves, are some of the mold's favorite foods. To prevent active growth in plants, treat them just like any other part of your home.

That is to control the moisture levels.

Listed below are mold prevention tips that will lower the chances of houseplant mold.

• don't overwater - follow the watering instructions that came with the plant
• cinnamon - this natural, harmless, anti-fungal substance can be added to the soil
• gravel - adding gravel to the bottom of the soil will help the plant drain more efficiently

By following these tips, you can still enjoy the benefits of having plants in your home.

The Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails, water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 

What is a Hurricane?

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

A hurricane is a huge storm!  It can be up to 600 miles across and have strong winds spiraling at speeds of 75-200 MPH.  A hurricane usually lasts for over a week, moving 10-20 MPH over the ocean.  Hurricanes gather heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters and rote counter-clockwise around an "eye" in the Northern hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern hemisphere.  The "eye" is the center of the storm and is the calmest part.  When a hurricane comes onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can damage buildings, trees, and cars.

Hurricanes only form over really warm ocean water of 80 degrees F or warmer.  The atmosphere must cool off very quickly the higher you go.  Also, the wind must be blowing in the same direction and at the same speed to force air upward from the ocean surface.  Winds flow outward above the storm allowing the air below to rise.

Hurricanes are separated into categories based on their intensity and wind speeds:

Category 1 - very dangerous winds will produce some damage - 74-95 MPH

Category 2 - extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage - 96-110 MPH

Category 3 - devastating damage will occur - 111-129 MPH

Category 4 - catastrophic damage will occur - 130-156 MPH

Category 5 - catastrophic damage will occur - winds greater than 157 MPH 

Hurricane Safety

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane season starts June 1 and lasts until November 30.  A hurricane WATCH means that there's a POSSIBILITY that hurricane conditions could occur within 36 hours.  A hurricane WARNING means that sustained winds of at least 74 MPH are expected within 24 hours.

Before a hurricane

*have a disaster plan

*board up windows

*bring in objects from outside that could blow away

*know where all the evacuation routes are

*prepare disaster supplies kits for your home and car

During a hurricane

*stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas

*always stay indoors.  Leave mobile homes and go to a shelter

After a hurricane

*stay indoors until it is safe to come out

*do not attempt to drive in flooding water

*stay away from standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines

Who Names Hurricanes?

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

From 1950-1952, hurricanes of the North Atlantic Ocean were identified by the phonetic (A, B, C, etc.) alphabet.  In 1953, the US Weather Bureau switched to women's names.  The naming rights now go by the World Meteorological Organization, which uses different sets of names depending on the part of the world the storm is in.  Around the United States, only women's names were used until 1979.  It was then decided that they should alternate a list that included men's names too.  There are 6 different name lists that alternate each year.  If a hurricane does significant damage, it's name is retired and replaced with another one.  Here are the names that will be used to identify the hurricanes for 2018:

Alberto

Beryl

Chris

Debby

Ernesto

Florence

Gordon

Helene

Isaac

Joyce

Kirk

Leslie

Michael

Nadine

Oscar

Patty

Rafael

Sara

Tony

Valerie

William

How Can I Protect My Home from Water Damage

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Preventing water damage is a whole lot cheaper than paying for repairs.  Here are 3 easy prevention tips:

*Ensure good drainage

Clean your gutters

Direct downspouts 5-10' away from the house

Slope your yard away from the foundation

*Test your sump pump

check your sump pump once a year

Test more frequently during storm season

*Fix water leaks

repair any noticeable dripping pipes

check for dark spots under pipes and on ceilings

repair any cracked caulking

inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles

Water damage is the #1 culprit that can weaken your home's foundation and the very core that holds your house together.

What to Do When Your Basement Floods

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

A flooded basement can give any homeowner a feeling of helplessness and panic.  If this happens to you, try not to over-analyze the situation - it may not be as bad as you think.  Here's some tips to help you if you ever find your basement flooded.

*make sure to shut off any power around the area, including electricity and gas.  NEVER enter a flooded area while the power is on

*take action as soon as you notice flooding, unless the water is caused by rain.  In this case, wait until it's passed before getting to work

*if your basement has a floor drain, check to make sure it didn't become clogged.  Keeping it open and working will help drain the water

*start removing water by using a sump pump, pool pump, wet/dry vacuum - depending on the amount of water

*move damaged items out of the basement to dry in a well ventilated area

You may want to call a professional for help if the water was more than several feet deep or if you see mold or mildew developing.

Smoke Alarms - Why, Where, & Which?

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Every year in the United States, about 2000 people die in residential fires.  A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm.  This often allows a family the precious, but limited, time to escape.  About 2/3 of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms.

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms.  In general, alarms should be placed in the center of a ceiling or, if you place them on a wall, they should be near the ceiling.

There are 2 types of smoke alarms:

Ionization - these alarms are more responsive to flaming fires.  They use "ions" or electrically charged particles, to help detect smoke in the air

Photoelectric - these alarms are more responsive to smoke or smoldering fires.  They use a light beam to help detect the presence of smoke.

Whichever type of smoke alarm you choose, it's imperative that you change the batteries twice a year and best them every month.

How to Easily Avoid Commercial Fire Hazards

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

We all know how important it is to have working fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and fire sprinklers.  What you may not be fully aware of, is that is is also very important for employees to do their part to keep fire hazards to a minimum.  Here are a few examples of how to do that.

*Excessive Clutter

Files, folders, and papers need to be disposed of once they are no longer needed.  All of these items can easily fuel an office fire.

*Electrical Problems

Overloaded extension cords or old surge protectors can become fire hazards.  Electronic devices should be powered down when not in use.  All wiring should be in good working order since old wiring is just as dangerous to a commercial building as it would be in a private home.

*Negligance

Mistakes can happen to anyone.  These could include leaving a stove or burner on in the kitchen/break room, burning something in the microwave, or smoking in non-designated areas.

An ounce of prevention could prove to be very beneficial when it comes to keeping your commercial property safe from fire hazards.

Do's & Don'ts Following a House Fire

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

There are so many emotions and questions following a house fire that it is hard to know what you should or shouldn't do.  Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind:

DONT'S

*Do not enter your home until you've gotten permission that is is safe to do so

*Do not start or move your car if it has been damaged

*Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot yourself

DO'S

*Contact family members/loved ones to inform them of the fire

*Attend to frightened pets and ensure their safety and comfort

*Call all utility providers (electric, gas, water) to notify them of the fire

*Call homeowners insurance company to begin the claim process 

Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if/when a severe storm hits. Here are a few of them.

*Clear limbs and trim trees - during a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home's exterior or break a window

*Secure fences - ensure that fences are properly secured to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds

*Secure furniture - heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home.  You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your home or garage

*Protect your valuables - protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take them items with you if you evacuate.  Make sure important documents, such as insurance policies, certificates, etc., are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

How to Stay Safe When a Winter Storm Threatens

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Even though it's still officially summer, we all know that winter will be here before we know it!  Below are some tips to keep in mind for the upcoming code weather.

*Know your area's risk for winter storms

*Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping

*Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power

*Stay indoors and off the roads

*Never use a generator, camp stove, or charcoal grill indoors as these can start fires, cause electric shock, and/or cause carbon monoxide poisoning

*Monitor local news and alerts for emergency information and instructions

Fire Damage in Apartment Unit

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responded immediately to an emergency call at an apartment complex in my territory.  It started from a pan left on the stove with the gas still on.  Tenant went next store for a visit and forgot what she had cooking on the stove.  All the smoke and the smell alerted the entire building of the fire.  After the local fire department came out and did their job we were allowed in the unit to start the clean up.  Needless to say in that short period of time there was much damage to all her personal items and also to the walls, floors and carpets.  We came in with all the necessary equipment to clean up and also to try to salvage her personal contents.  Cleaning contents is such a tedious procedure but by the time our crew had completed the clean up, much of her personal property was salvaged.  She was so very happy to return to her apartment especially with the bulk of her personal belongings.  Another job well done by our crew!

Mold in Apartment building

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold takes over apartment!

A picture is worth a thousand words.  The apartment unit was neglected for quite a long time. 

It seems that the tenant left town without notifying the landlord. 

Needless to say, there were water leaks all over the unit that went on for over a month. 

One cause was a broken pipe.  The other was water left on in both the bathroom and kitchen that flooded the entire unit. 

By the time we were alerted to this disaster, the only way we could re-mediate this mold was total demolition.  Our guys started the procedure. 

When it was halfway completed I stopped in with the landlord. 

It looked like a bomb went off in the apartment.  The next time I visited it was all cleaned up and ready for rebuild. 

Heavy flooding and Winds

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

The recent rain storm with heavy winds reeked havoc in our area.  We received numerous emergency calls.  Most of the calls resulted from the nearby river overflowing it's banks and caused major chaos in the area.  Homes had to be evacuated until water receded then we began the job of major clean ups.  One home in particular had no basement so the living quarters in the home was the first floor where the family basically spent all their time. Our crew got there and immediately started the extraction and placing all the necessary equipment in the areas needed.  Needless to say the job was completed in record time and the family was able to return to their home in a timely manner thanks to SERVPRO.

Storm damage

7/20/2018 (Permalink)

A major office complex called SERVPRO during a very bad wind storm.  Their first floor was flooding from ground water and to make matters worse they lost their power.  The maintenance manager called us immediately.  Our crew got the necessary equipment together and was on their way.  We were also advised that some of the equipment in the production shop was soaked.  When they arrived there was still standing water but the water had begun to recede.  The company got their emergency generator started and all was good to proceed with the work.  It seemed that aside from the outside water source a pipe had broken in the basement causing most of the damage.  After the water valve was turned off the manager called a plumber to fix the pipe.  Our crew did the cleanup in a timely manner with all the required equipment.  The owner was so very happy that he only had to close shop for one day since SERVPRO did such an amazing job.  Each day a company is closed money is lost.  This owner was so very happy for himself and also for his employees that didn't lose any work time.

Water Damage

7/20/2018 (Permalink)

One of my valued COI's called regarding water damage in one of the first floor offices.  It seems that the water heater stationed in the rear of the building leaked so bad that it had to be replaced by their plumber.  In the meantime water had soaked all their carpeting and some of the desks on that floor.  It was about 1000 sq.ft of water soaked carpeting.  Our crew got out in a timely manner and began extraction.  The air movers and dehumidifiers were all brought it to do their job.  Some of the carpeting had to be removed and replaced but the majority of the carpeting was saved.  My customer was so very happy with the efficient way SERVPRO handled this job.  He advised he will recommend us to all his friends that are business owners.

Happy Birthday America

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

We will soon be celebrating our country's birthday.  The 4th of July is a very special day in our country's history.  When the 13 colonies broke away from the United Kingdom we became The United States of America.  It is a time of celebrating with food, drink, fireworks, and for some a day at the beach.  SERVPRO is celebrating this special day as a sponsor in the Wawa for America Festival. This is a special time for all of us.  While we are taking in all the festivities we must remember that safety is of the utmost importance.  Only professionals should be handling fireworks.  Too many accidents occur when the rules are not followed.  Have fun but also take a moment to realize what this holiday is all about. God Bless America!

Memorial Day

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces.  We visit cemeteries and memorials to honor those who have died in military service.  Many volunteers place an American Flag on each grave in national cemeteries.

Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day - Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving, whereas Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U. S. military veterans.  SERVPRO honors all our military and are so very proud of their service to our country.  We appreciate their total dedication and sacrifice.  God bless them all!  We are so very grateful for all they do for us.  They protect us and our country.

Holiday Season cooking

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

Now that this holiday weekend is approaching we all want to gather for wonderful food, drink and time with our families.  It is also a time when wonderful meals are prepared on the outside grill (weather permitting) and also the standard stove and oven.  Just a word of caution while preparing these wonderful meals.  This is a time when SERVPRO experiences many emergency calls for kitchen fires.  Please do not leave the stove unattended and make sure all those wonderful dishes do not burn and cause smoke damage and worst of all a fire. Please be extra cautious.  If you do have an emergency and require SERVPRO please do not hesitate to call us immediately and we will be there to resolve your dilemma.  Enjoy your day!

Daylight Savings

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

This weekend is daylight savings time.  It is time to put your clocks one hour ahead. "Spring Forward". This is a great time to change your batteries in your smoke detectors and your carbon monoxide detectors.  It is always a great idea to change the filter in your air conditioner.  Yearly maintenance by a trained HVAC company is a great way to extend the life of your air conditioner and also your heating system.  This will prevent any unnecessary costs for repairs.  Your system will perform more efficiently and provide energy savings.  After experiencing snow, ice, wind and power outages this month Spring is such a welcome change.  The month isn't over yet so if you experience any problems with flooding, bursting pipes or any other issues please call SERVPRO. We will definitely help you get through these problems.

Frozen Pipes

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

This frigid weather has caused so many problems for both residential and commericial COI's.  Our office has been inundated with emergency calls.  There are several precautions to take to help prevent these problems.  Please always keep your heat on especially in basements.  Wrap pipes if necessary and make sure windows are sealed from any drafts.  Once a pipe breaks please turn off water at main location.  Contact your plumber to fix the pipe and call SERVPRO.  Our crew will be out as soon as possible with their equipment to clean up and get things back to normal. We work day and night to mitigate all these situations. Every day a commercial business is closed is a day that money is lost for that company.  When it happens in your home we want to get things back to normal for your family and salvage any precious items that are flooded or damaged when these pipes break.  Call SERVPRO for the best service and for peace of mind.

Holiday disasters due to Water Damage

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

The holiday should be a happy time for everyone but this was not the case this past Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for two families.  I had the phones for the "on call crew" the week leading up to Christmas. The first emergency call I received was from a family who had their water supply line from their upstairs toilet break.  Water leaked down to all three of the floors. I immediately notified our on call crew and they got there as soon as they could to start the clean up.  Since the water went through all three floors it flooded their living room where they had their beautifully decorated tree and all the gifts for their children.  Needless to say all the gifts were ruined and their beautiful tree destroyed.  Despite all this grief the owner was in such good spirits.  She said these things do happen at the worst times but she is so grateful for all she is blessed with including a wonderful husband and three beautiful children. This is the true meaning of the holiday - not material things but the love we have for each other.

Commercial Sewage Damage

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

Last Friday afternoon I received a call from one of my clients.  She is the Property Manager of a low income high rise facility.  In a total panic she described to me her problem.  It seems that there was a sewage back up on the first floor of the building that affected four apartments and the bottom level where her office is located.  I advised her that SERVPRO will be out there within the next hour.  We had to pull our guys from jobs they were currently assigned to.  Our crew worked from Friday afternoon through the weekend and are there today (Tuesday December 5) to complete the mitigation.  No words can describe what our crew did to clean up this facility.  The sooner the job is complete the sooner these residents can return to their apartments.  Soon we will be starting the rebuild process.  Since starting with SERVPRO two years ago this is the largest job I have experienced with one of my clients.  I am in constant contact with her to make sure all is taken care.  Her cell phone is her office since her own office was part of this disaster.  It gives me such pride knowing that we can help our valued clients and relieve some of their burden and put their lives back together again. 

The Holiday Season

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Now that the Holiday is quickly approaching SERVPRO would like to put out a word or two of caution.  The greatest number of fires over this season are caused by Christmas tree fires and over loaded extension cords.  If you do purchase a live tree please make sure it is amply watered.  Another concern is that your pets may be extra curious and want to attack the tree or chew on the lights and cords.  Please take extra caution with all pets for their safety and your own.  Please also be careful of lit candles.  Although they are quite beautiful they are a danger if not watched closely.  This is also true of your fireplace.  Please be very careful of the falling ash that may ignite quickly.  Taking all this into consideration SERVPRO wishes everyone a Joyous Holiday.

Northern California Fires

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

Since I have family in that area these fires are extremely personal to me and our family here on the East Coast.  Watching the news and being 3000 miles away gives you a total feeling of helplessness. Lives were lost and there are many families still missing.  Homes were destroyed not to mention the beautiful vineyards that produced such wonderful grapes and wine.  We can only hope that these fires will end soon and people can begin putting their lives back together.  Thank God my family there is safe with only smoke and ash on their property.  The air there has gone from very unhealthy to unhealthy.  Hopefully that will change soon and all will be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors once again. Our prayers are with everyone there.  SERVPRO is always there to help everyone in need. 

SERVPRO and The American Red Cross

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Texas.  The danger is not over yet.  This hurricane is still causing major flooding and loss of lives.  Help is on the way but there is so much to contend with at this time.  Placing the homeless in safe shelters and making sure they have food and water and any essentials that they need to survive is the number one priority.  Many of our SERVPRO offices will be heading there to help and work along with the Red Cross to get this area back to normal and a safe environment once again.  We had flooding and storms in our area several weeks ago but nothing compared to the devastation that is going on in Texas at this time.  

Get rid of mold caused by water damage

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let it get this bad

We have all had experience with certain types of mold in our homes or apartments at one time or another.  

The important thing when this happens is to get the professionals to handle it properly.  

SERVPRO has the trained and certified crew that you need to handle this unsightly job for you 

Our technicians use EPA standard products to make sure the job is completed safely and in a timely manner.  

We take pride in making your home safe again and in keeping it that way.

We are a phone call away and are ready to perform the mold remediation for you.  

At the first sight of any mold issues please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Recent flooding in our area

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

It will be two years in November that I have been working at SERVPRO in Southern Delaware County.  I have never seen this type of constant emergency before.  During the last 2 weeks the flooding in this area has been non stop.  Our crew have been working day, night and weekends to help all our neighbors with their water problems.  There are a lot of grateful people out there due to our constant attention to their needs.  We got to each job as soon as we could then went immediately to the next one.  It has since slowed down a bit but we will always be ready for the next emergency.

Gas Explosion

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Our production crew was really put to the test last week when they were called for this job.  A gas oven exploded.  It was located in a very large bakery warehouse. Aside from the normal debris that had to be restored by our SERVPRO crew there was raw dough and flour all over the warehouse.  It was on the rafters, the ceiling, all over the equipment and also on the massive floor that housed the huge warehouse.  It took time, patience and a good deal of work and sweat.  This explosion happened during one of our worst heat waves.  If it were 97 degrees outside it had to be 100 + in that warehouse.  Our crew did a great job cleaning up and restoring this facility to clean, working order.  Owner was very happy that he could start baking again!

Cleaning Contents

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

Being a Sales and Marketing Manager with SERVPRO I rarely get the opportunity to see first hand all that is involved in the cleaning and packing up of all the personal contents of one of our valued customers. I have always known how hard our crew works to get the job completed properly and as soon as possible. This particular family had major fire damage.  All their contents were packed up and sent to our warehouse for cleaning and restoration.  I watched each step of the process from unpacking contents to cleaning each individual item then packed up again to be delivered to the family after our major fire clean up.  There were precious memories included in this process from baby photos, family memories and all other items that were so important to this family. This process was tedious and painstaking but our crew made it look easy and were happy to do it.  This family is now back in their home after our fire restoration enjoying again all their memories.

Spring Cleaning

4/19/2017 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning

Spring is in the air! With the warmer weather comes the tradition of spring cleaning, a time to organize and clean the environments home, business, office we encounter on a daily basis.Perhaps you are selling a home and want to vanquish years of cigarette smoke odor that won't go away, or want to see if your ducts or HVAC system needs to be cleaned.

SERVPRO franchises also off the cleaning services:

• Carpet Cleaning


• Upholstery and Drapery Cleaning


• Ceiling and Wall Cleaning 


• Hard Floor Cleaning

Whatever your spring cleaning needs, SERVPRO has you covered.

Call SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY today at(484)841-6669to discuss or schedule your necessary spring cleaning services.

The Importance of Cleaning Dryer Vents

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

Before and After Dryer Vent Cleaning.

What is an Ice Dam?

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

Diagram of an Ice Dam

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.

The first signs of snow damage on your roof will be either water flowing from your ceiling or water stains. As soon as water or water stains appear you should perform some type of clean up and remediation .

To prevent further damage including mold damage and mold growth, immediate action and correct action must be taken as the snow melts on the roof or when ice damming occurs. In most situations the snow will still be melting when you see the water damage.

Roofs are not the only places that can get snow damage. Basement water damage can be caused by snow. Water can find the smallest entry ways, even the most tight sealed home can eventually create cracks letting snow melted water, damaging basement walls and flooding basements.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need water removed or your home dried out, contact us SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY (484)841-6669.

We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

MARCH is RED CROSS MONTH

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO PROUD NATIONAL SPONSER OF AMERICAN RED CROSS

Around 3.1 million people donate blood through the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross collects and processes about 40% of the nation's blood supply to approximately 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide.

Volunteers constitute about 90% of the American Red Cross workforce, making it possible to respond to nearly 70,000 disasters every year, most of them home and apartment fires.

Every year, march is declared Red Cross Month by the president of the United States. The American Red Cross celebrates by honoring the "everyday heroes" who support and carry out the mission of the Red Cross by donating,giving blood, taking a class or volunteering. SERVPRO began a partnership with the American Red Cross in 2013, and became an official Disaster Responder partner in 2016. The Disaster Responder program provides families and individuals immediate support, comfort and assistance when a disaster, such as a house fire, happens to them. Disaster Responders also help communities prepare for disasters ahead of time by participating in preparedness activities such as the Smoke Alarm Installation Campaign.

To learn more about the American Red Cross, or about how you can get involved,visit redcross.org.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/19/2016 (Permalink)

Freezing can create leaks, because the frozen water expands and cracks the copper tubing. Not only do you have little to no water supply, but when the pipes do thaw out, you can have some serious leaks to repair.

How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing.

•Keep all water-supply piping away from outside walls, where it could be exposed to cold winter weather.
•If it is imperative to have pipes located on an outside wall, they must be well-insulated. Piping insulation is sold in both rubber and fiberglass.
•Insulate pipes in all other unheated areas as well, such as crawl spaces, basement, attic, and garage. Fix the source of any drafts (such as near cables, dryer vents, bathroom fan vents, windows) and insulate pipes at risk.
•Before winter, close the water shut-off valve inside your home that provides water to outside spigots, and then drain each line by opening its spigot until it no longer drips. Close the spigot.

What To Keep Pipes from Freezing in Subfreezing Temperatures.

•Keep garage doors and outside doors closed, and plug up drafts.
•Open all faucets, both hot and cold water, to just a trickle, to keep water moving in the pipes to help to prevent icing.
•Set the thermostat to at least 55ºF both day and night—no lower. Higher is even better, especially if your home is not well-insulated.
•Keep doors to all rooms open to allow heat to flow to all areas, which helps to warm the pipes in the walls.
•Open the cabinets under the kitchen and bathroom sinks so that the warmer air temperature of each room can flow around the plumbing. (Be sure to keep cleaners and other hazardous chemicals away from children and pets.)
•Check your forecast to see if you’ll be having subfreezing temperatures sometime soon.

What to Do When Pipes Freeze: Thaw Frozen Pipes.

•If no water comes out of a faucet, or it comes out slowly, suspect a frozen pipe. Check all faucets in the house to determine if the situation is widespread. If it is, open all faucets, turn off the main water to the house, and call a plumber.
•If only one pipe is frozen, turn on the appropriate faucet to help get the water moving in the pipe once it thaws. Locate your nearest water shut-off valve to the break. Don’t turn the water off at this point, unless you find that the pipe has actually burst.
•Try the hair-dryer trick. Locate the area where the pipe has frozen. Then, starting at the faucet and working backward along the pipe line until you reach the frozen section, work the dryer up and down the pipe. Continue warming the pipe until full water pressure returns to the open faucet. Then reduce the faucet flow to a trickle until the cold snap has ended. Caution: When using a hair dryer, be sure that it and its cord will not be near any water that might start to flow through a crack in a burst pipe.
•If water starts to gush out of the pipe while you are warming it, unplug the hair dryer and close the nearest water shut-off valve immediately. Keep the faucet open. Call a plumber to fix the burst pipe.
•If you can not reach a frozen pipe to warm it, call a plumber and shut off the water supply to the pipe. Keep the faucet open.

SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 484-841-6669

SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home.

When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores that become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of [[Franchise Name]] for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  

Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today -(484-841-6669)

SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY

Faster to your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Water Damage Event

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 484-841-6669

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Southern Delaware County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

This Southern Delaware County home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 484-841-6669

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the tust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 

484-841-6669

Happy Labor Day 2016

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

Stormy and Blaze from SERVPRO

Your friends at SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY,PA would like to wish all of our customers a Happy Labor Day 2016. Have a great and safe weekend to ALL. Call us at 484-841-6669 if you need our services. We are 24 Hours 7 days a week. So if you need our services we will be ready!.

Board Ups

8/5/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Building at a school in Chester,PA

There are many situations that can lead to broken windows and doors including accidents, storms, fire fighting, and vandalism. With commercial board up services, your building is provided temporary security and protection. No matter what season, temporary tarps can protect your building from rain, wind, and snow.Whenever you need temporary board up and tarping services for your business in Southern Delaware County

Call SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY (484)841-6669

What you can expect from our commercial board up services:

• Secure and enclose all openings and vulnerable areas
• Temporary building enclosures
• Barricades
• Repair and/or tarp roof damage

For Immediate Service in SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY,Call SERVPRO

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 484-841-6669

Residential Services

Whether your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY]home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROsoutherndelawarecounty.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Biohazard Cleanup

7/12/2016 (Permalink)

Hotel Bathroom

“You would never know it to look at this room, but unfortunately this was the scene of a suicide. SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY has the equipment, expertise, and experience to perform bio remediation services after traumatic events like this. In this case, we were able to remove all bio matter and restore the space to sanitary conditions. We wish these tragedies would never happen, but when they do, SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY is here to help. You can trust our team to treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.”

SERVPRO OF SDC 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in GLEN MILLS,PA.

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 484-841-6669

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of SOUTHEN DELAWARE COUNTY

SERVPRO of SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

FIREWORK SAFETY

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Have a fun but Safe Fourth of July from your friends at SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY

Fireworks can be great fun. Unfortunately, every year, people get hurt because they fool around with fireworks.

-From 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 18,500 fires caused by fireworks.

-These fires included 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 16,900 outside and other fires. An estimated two people were killed in these fires.In 2014, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 10,500 people for fireworks related injuries; 51% of those injuries were to the extremities and 38% were to the head.

Make sure you’re not one of them by following these few simple rules:

1.Use fireworks outdoors only

2.Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities

3.Avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper

4.Be careful when lighting the fuse

5.Never relight a “dud” firework

6.Only use fireworks as intended

7.Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy

8.Use common sense.

9.Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

10.Obey Local Laws

WE'RE HIRING

6/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO OF SDC IS HIRING

SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY is currently hiring Production Technicians and Crew Chiefs. Call our office  at (484)841-6669 for more details. Or stop in today to fill an application out: 35 Lacrue Ave, Suite 5, Glen Mills,PA,19342.

10% OFF COUPON

6/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPROS 10% OFF COUPON

Use our 10% off you next cleaning service!

Coupon is good for new customers as well as existing!

Cleaning services you can get 10% off are listed in our coupon such:

• Carpet Cleaning
• HVAC
• Upholestrey
• Air Ducts
• Floors, etc.

Call us today at (484)-841-6669 and mention this blog on our website!!

Carpet Cleaning Services Available For Your Home or Business!!

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

One of our locals churches using our services for the their yearly Carpet Cleaning!

Carpet Cleaning Services Available For Your Home or Business!!!

-We can help make your carpet look good as new! SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY IN GLEN MILLS PA offers carpet cleaning for your home or your business. Best of all, your carpets will be DRY within hours so you can resume your life.

Our cleaning services also include hot water extraction, upholstery cleaning, hard wood cleaning, grout and tile cleaning, and steam cleaning just to name a few. Plus, we offer ...a line of environmentally conscious green products which are safe for your kids and your pets.

CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT CARPET CLEANING!!
484-841-6669

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County

5/23/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County Facebook Page!!

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County now has it's own Facebook page.'Like' our new page and follow us at our Southern Delaware County location.

Click the link below to go right to our Facebook page.

Like us on Facebook

What is a Puffback?

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

A furnace after a puff back occurred.

A puff back is a misfiring in the furnace that can send soot throughout your home, covering drapes, bedding, furniture, cabinets, walls, and everything in between. It requires expensive cleaning and restoration in addition to repairs on your heating system. If this happens to your home call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County we are here to help and handle any size loss from small to large.

Does your Drying Vent Need Cleaning?

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Before and After Picture of a Dry Vent that was clogged then cleaned.

• When was the last time that you had your dryer vent cleaned?  Have you ever had it cleaned?  Did you know that overheated or clogged dryers cause 17% of all home fires in the US
• According to the US Fire Administration, between 2002 and 2004 clothes dryers counted for about 15,600 reported structure fires, 15 deaths and 400 injuries annually. “Failure to clean” is the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings.
• Lint and debris can build up in your clothes dryer duct causing your dryer to exhaust at less than optimum efficiency. This creates potentially hazardous conditions including carbon monoxide intrusion and the possibility for fires. If a gas clothes dryer is improperly vented or the exhaust duct itself is blocked by lint or debris, carbon monoxide can be forced back into your living space.
• A clean exhaust duct prevents heat, moisture and, in the case of gas clothes dryers, carbon monoxide from being trapped in your home. When this type of spillage occurs, energy, natural resources and time are all wasted because your appliance works too hard and runs longer than necessary. Moisture can also cause damage to drywall, wallpaper, ceilings and other building materials.

Full Range of Restoration Services

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

House Restorations

The professionals at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

• Board Up

• Carpet Repair and Installation

• Document Drying

• Dry Cleaning

• Drywall Installation

• Drywall Removal

• Electrical

• Electronics Restoration

• Fine Art Restoration

• Furniture Restoration

• General Contracting

• Hardwood Floor Repair

• HVAC Services

• Linoleum Floor Repair

• Marble Floor Repair

• Move Out

• Painting

• Plumbing

• Portable Power

• Roof Tarp

• Roofing Services

• Scalable Resources

• Temporary Fencing

• Temporary Warehouse Space

• Tile Floor Repair

Be Prepared with an ERP

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

An example of what our ERP app on an ipad and cellphone.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens.” In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.

Call SEVPRO of Southern Delaware County 484-841-6669 to establish your Emergency Ready Profile!  

Cleaning Services

4/19/2016 (Permalink)

Our Production Technician scrubbing a carpet at a commercial business.

SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County performs the following Cleaning Services:

• Air Ducts
• HVAc
• Biohazard,Crime Scene, and Vandalism
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Drape & Blinds Cleaning
• Ceilings,Walls and & Hard Floors
• Deodorization

Call SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN DELAWARE COUNTY TODAY AT 484-841-6669. We can make it "LIKE IT NEVER EVEN HAPPENED".

Where does Mold Come From?

4/14/2016 (Permalink)

Mold appeared on a ceiling after a water leak occurred.

Mold -growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing

Residential mold prevention and control

• Cleaning and repairing roof gutters, to prevent moisture seepage into the home
• Keeping air-conditioning drip pans clean and drainage lines clear
• Monitoring indoor humidity
• Drying areas of moisture or condensation and removing their sources
• Treating exposed structural wood or wood framing with an EPA-approved fungicidal encapsulation coating after pre-cleaning (particularly homes with a crawl space, unfinished basement or a poorly-ventilated attic 

Mold -Hidden behind a wall eventually grows through.This leads to small spots of Mold on the inside of the walls.  Some examples how Mold can start growing?

-Humdity

-Condensation

-Water Leaks

-Leaking Roof or Attic

-Flooding

-Damp Basement

-Water Stains

-Paint

-Rust

-Blocked Gutters

-Poor Ventaliation

-Standing Water

If you notice signs of mold in your home then you should consider having SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County come out and check it.

Air Duct Cleaning

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

Most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors. The air you breathe has a substantial effect on you and your family's health.

Over the course of time, with normal use, air duct systems accumulate a mass of contaminants including dirt, dust, dust mites, bacteria, fungi, hair, dander, chemical residues, etc.

Reasons to have you air ducts cleaned:

-Creates a healthy living environment for your family.

-Reduces dust, pollen and Dust Mites.

-Proven to aide allergy and asthma sufferers.

-Removes bacteria growth & mold.

-Breathe cleaner air.

-Get rid of pet hair and odors.

-Lowers heating & cooling energy bills.

-Improved heating & cooling efficiency.

Fire Prevention

2/17/2016 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

-U.S. Fire Departments responded to an estimated annual average of 156,600 cooking-related fires between 2007-2011, resulting in 400 civilian deaths, 5,080 civilian injuries and $853 million in direct damage

-Two of every five home fires started in the kitchen

-Unattended cooking was a factor in one-third of reported home cooking fires

-Two-thirds of home cooking fires started with ignition of food or other cooking materials