Archived Blog Posts

What is Water Damage Insurance?

Name: SERVPRO of Moore
Address: 316 N. Broadway St., Moore, OK, 73160
Telephone: (405) 289-9401

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is insurance money that is paid out when your house is affected by water damage.

Water damage is insurance money that is paid out when your house is affected by water damage. It helps deal with the pairs. While SERVPRO of Moore comes in and helps restore your home, insurance companies ensure there are enough funds for the home restoration.

Situations Where Water Damage Insurance Works

There are situations where insurance companies will pay for the damages caused to your home. Here are the situations when your insurance will pay for your water damage:

Accidental leaks- Insurance will take care of leaks from pipes and broken washers that cause water damage.
Burst pipes- Water damage from burst pipes due to frozen pipes and any other incident will be covered
Damage from fires- If the water was used to put out a fire and caused damage to your property, the damage will be insured.
Roof leaks- If there was water damage to the interior of your house because of a roof leak, that would be catered to by insurance. The only thing you need to ensure is the leak was not caused by a fallen tree or a caved-in roof that was not fixed.
Water damage from storms like heavy and sudden rain,
Ice dam- Insurance will cover ice dams built in your gutter in cold months. If these ice dams result from neglect, you will not get them fixed.

Situations When Water Damage Will Not be Covered by Insurance

There are also times when your insurance will not work for water damage. Knowing about these will help you be careful with the care you give your home and figure out when you can rely on insurance and when to deal with it independently. Here are the situations where insurance will not cover water damage:

Flood damage. Any damage caused by extreme flooding will not be covered
Water damage is caused by negligence or lack of maintenance. If your home gets water damaged because you did not fix leaks when they occurred or did not carry out regular checks, then this will not be covered
Damage for intentional acts. If you set your ho on fire or turn off the heat in winter, then you will not be compensated for whatever damage
Water damage from backup sewer lines. You need to get a proper cover for that
Cost of repairing source. No compensation will be given for a broken heater or washer.

Affordable Ways To Prepare Your Home for the Storm Season

3/30/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Moore is close by and ready to respond to storm and disaster events.

With tornado season upon us again, it’s high time to review some helpful SERVPRO of Moore tips on home storm preparation. Your house is probably your biggest investment; ensuring you have preventative measures in place as we enter the storm season can go a long way to protecting your home from the damage brought about by natural disasters. Without further ado, here are SERVPRO’s eight practical and affordable ways to prepare your home for the storm season:

Clean Your Gutters And Drains

The first places you may want to look at during your storm preparation process are your gutters, downspouts and drains. They play a crucial role in directing rainwater from your roof and away from your house, so it’s essential to ensure they’re free from leaves, debris, and other obstructions. A visual inspection of these roofing components before a storm can help put your mind at ease, knowing that you’ve done your due diligence in fending off roof leaks and basement flooding.

Conduct the Necessary Roof Repairs

It’s best to enlist roof repairs and maintenance regularly to ensure your roof remains stable and in good condition. Getting the cracked or missing shingles on your roof repaired before upcoming storms can help you prevent wind and water from getting through the structure and wreaking havoc inside your home.

Create Your Emergency Supply Kit

A major storm can easily cut off the power and water supply in your area. On top of that, roads can also become flooded or blocked. While no one wants to think these situations can happen to them, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Stocking up on necessities that can last for at least three days is a smart move and must be at the top of your home storm preparation tips. This will help you be more comfortable with the essentials while the storm rages on outside.

Items to stock up on should include:

Non-perishable food and bottled water
First-aid kits, emergency medical supplies, and other necessary medications
Flashlights with spare batteries
Blankets
Clothing and toiletries
Essentials for your pet

Aside from these essentials, you may also add your personal identification and cash to your emergency kit. Important documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, wills, insurance policies and other files must be stored in secure storage, like a safety deposit box in your home.

Protect Your Windows

Your glass windows are among the most vulnerable parts of your home, especially in extreme natural disasters like tornadoes. High winds and flying heavy debris can not only send shattered glass flying everywhere but also introduce extensive and expensive damage to your interior.

Nailing pieces of plywood to the outside window frames is an affordable way to protect your windows from flying debris — and yourself from pieces of broken glass. Many property restoration companies can perform this service for you so you don’t have to keep a stock of plywood during storm season.

Cover Your Air Conditioner

During a storm, your outdoor air conditioning unit will be exposed to high winds, heavy rains, and airborne projectiles that can enter it and cause all kinds of damage. An easy and effective solution for this is to invest in a manufacturer-approved protective cover.

Avoiding tarps, garbage bags, and other DIY solutions and getting the proper material may seem pricey at first. However, it’s a worthwhile investment that effectively wards off unwanted debris and moisture that can negatively affect your unit.

Clear Your Yard

Another affordable home storm preparation tip you can follow right now is to clear your yard of anything that can be blown around during the storm. Patio furniture, grills, potted plants, bikes, and other items must be moved indoors. On the other hand, outdoor sculptures like garden gnomes can be secured using burlap or ropes.

While you’re at it, having nearby trees and shrubs evaluated and trimmed is also a good idea. Strong winds can dislodge branches, uproot healthy trees, and cause larger accidents, so securing the surrounding greenery increases the chances of your home — and your trees — surviving the storm.

Listen to the Authorities

The authorities and weather institutions are there to ensure your health and safety, so it’s always best to listen to and take their suggestions seriously, especially when they’re telling you to evacuate. Trying to protect your property by staying home is not worth risking your life.

If you need to evacuate, unplug all appliances, turn off your utilities, and grab only what you need.

If you’ve not been asked to evacuate, listen to updates about the hurricane or storm on the radio, TV, or internet. It’s also recommended to stay inside and away from windows to avoid injuries from broken glass or flying debris. Ultimately, have your emergency supply kit easily accessible so you can leave anytime, especially if you have been ordered to evacuate.

Getting Back to Normal

It’s never easy to prepare for (let alone imagine) overwhelming property damage after a catastrophic storm. However, anticipating the worst-case scenario will help you and your family pave the way to getting back to normal, no matter what happens after the disaster.

Once you have checked off all the home storm preparation tasks listed above, it’s time to plan ahead by identifying the professionals you might need to contact once the storm has passed. For example, knowing a reputable storm recovery team in your area can give you peace of mind knowing you have someone who can help you get things back to normal.

Facing a major storm can leave you feeling worried about your property and your loved ones’ safety. And while these natural disasters can’t be prevented, following the storm preparation tips above can significantly minimize the blows your home will receive. But more importantly, knowing who to turn to after a disaster grants you the assurance that no matter what tomorrow brings, you can get the help you need to restore your property.

If you’re looking for 24/7 flood damage cleanup and storm recovery for your home or business, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Moore now. Our experts are here to make this disaster feel like it never even happened.

Benefits Of Hiring A Water Damage Restoration Company

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® of Moore Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration.

Water Damage Restoration is a process that helps to return your home or business to its preloss state. This includes cleaning up and sanitizing the affected area. It also involves restoring structural stability and repairing water damaged materials.

Water damage restoration is usually not something that a homeowner can perform on their own. Unless you have the right equipment and tools, you could end up putting yourself and your property at risk. Using SERVPRO of Moore will ensure that all areas are cleaned and restored to a state of health. In addition, you may be able to avoid mold if you have an effective drying plan in place.

Mold growth is a problem that can occur in homes with standing water. Bacteria can thrive in damp areas, and people and pets may become sick. When you have a leak, it is a good idea to have it taken care of as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Moore can use ozone generators to kill off existing mold spores and disinfect the affected areas.

A good water damage restoration service will be able to identify any hidden problems. For example, a stain on the top of your home could indicate a leaky roof or faulty plumbing. To minimize further damage, you may want to install additional ventilation in the affected areas. You can also install paints that are water-resistant.

SERVPRO of Moore will likely need to remove any building materials that are not salvageable, as they can contribute to future problems. During the restoration process, we may also use antimicrobials to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Performing a water restoration project requires extensive knowledge of construction. You should also be aware of your insurance coverage. Some homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover the costs of a water restoration project. But, a proper assessment will be able to help you decide if you need to file a claim.

Another benefit of having SERVPRO of Moore is that they will be able to identify and eliminate any hidden moisture problems that can harm you and your property. They can also repair and replace any damaged materials, as well as disinfecting the affected areas.

Having a proper water restoration plan in place will prevent you from dealing with the same issue again. Once you have a proper plan in place, you will be able to dry out your property quickly. Depending on the amount of water involved, you may be able to remove some items yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Up Water Damage in Your Property

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

Removing water quickly helps reduce drying time and helps prevent secondary damage to your structure and flooring.

Step 1: Identify the source of the water

In cleaning up water damage is to identify the source of the water. This will help you determine the type of water (clean, gray, or black) and the appropriate steps to take for removal and cleanup. Some common sources of water damage include broken pipes, leaking appliances, and flooding from heavy rainfall or storms.

Step 2: Extract and dispose of standing water. Once you've identified the source of the water, the next step is to extract any standing water and dispose of it properly. This will help prevent the water from spreading and causing further damage to your property. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a sump pump to remove standing water, and dispose of it according to local regulations.

Step 3: Dry out affected areas

After removing standing water, it's important to dry out any affected areas to prevent mold growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers to circulate air and speed up the drying process. It's also a good idea to remove any wet materials, such as carpeting or drywall, that cannot be salvaged.

Step 4: Restore damaged items and surfaces

Once the affected areas are dry, you can begin the restoration process. This may involve cleaning and disinfecting any items or surfaces that were damaged by the water, such as furniture, clothing, and walls. If necessary, you will need to hire SERVPRO of Moore to help with the restoration process.

How Long Does Mold Remediation Take?

3/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Moore has you covered. We prevent future mold growth so you can live in a healthy home or business

Oftentimes, mold will show up in a home or business and homeowners may wonder how long it takes to clean up this issue. The answer to this question is a little tricky because there are several factors that determine how long it will take for the mold remediation process to be complete.

The First Step: During the initial stage of the process, SERVPRO of Moore will remove any contaminated materials and cordon off any areas that are being treated so no one can enter the area that is being cleaned. Once the team is ready to get to work, they will apply professional cleaning solutions and antimicrobial agents to contaminated areas such as walls and floors. Once this is done, the team will seal off these areas with plastic to prevent spores from re-entering and spreading throughout the home or business.

Next, SERVPRO of Moore will treat any areas that are particularly impacted by mold with special chemicals or techniques such as fogging, UV light, ozone, or blasting. This will take a few days and the team will be sure to stay away from any contaminated areas while the chemicals are being used.

Depending on the severity of the mold, the team may also apply an encapsulant to certain areas to help with their removal and inhibit future growth. This is especially helpful when there are stubborn mold spores present that cannot be removed by simple biocide treatments or a thorough cleaning.

After the entire process is complete, the team will inspect and ensure that all of the areas that have been contaminated are clean. This will be done by testing for any traces of mold or fungus. If there are any traces of fungus, then the team will reapply the antimicrobial solution or encapsulant to these areas until they are completely clear.

Once all of the mold is gone, SERVPRO of Moore will then thoroughly dry the areas that have been contaminated. This can be done by running dehumidifiers, fans or air scrubbers. This is an important part of the cleanup as moisture is one of the key factors in mold spore growth and spreading throughout a property.

SERVPRO of Moore will Re-Inspect & Repair Damaged Items Once the contaminated items have been properly disposed of and all areas that have been cleaned are dried, the team will then replace any damaged areas with new ones that have been cleared and repaired. This will help to restore a home or business to its original condition.

The most common time that mold remediation will be required is after a major leak or water damage has occurred in a building. This can take a little longer than other types of mold removal due to the fact that the mold needs to be dealt with before it can spread throughout the structure and create further problems.

It is important to realize that although it is possible to remove mold, there will always be a small number of spores in a home or business that will cause issues for the residents and workers in the building. Luckily, with the proper mold removal procedure, most of these spores will be killed and won’t cause any serious issues. This is why it is so important to hire SERVPRO of Moore to handle these issues, as they are trained to properly remove all of the mold spores and make sure that the problem isn’t going to re-occur in the future.

What You Need To Know About Fire Restoration

3/23/2023 (Permalink)

The aftermath of fire damage affects not only the structure of your property but also your personal belongings.

When your home is damaged by fire, the damage may seem minor, but if not properly documented, it may lead to more problems later. Without professional help, your insurance company may deny any future claims. Fire restoration services to help you document the damage and file accurate claims. In many cases, fire restoration services take over before your insurance company does. They can help you rebuild your home or business after a fire. SERVPRO of Moore is one such company. We assist with documentation, emergency board-up, soot removal, demolition, and repair of damaged areas.

The cost of fire damage restoration can be expensive, especially if you lose time or have several items to be restored. Fortunately, there are many ways to minimize your cost. By following a few simple guidelines, you can avoid the rising costs of fire restoration. First, prevent fire from spreading. In the event that a fire occurs, it is best to contact a professional fire damage restoration company as soon as possible. The sooner you begin the restoration process, the less expensive it will be.

Depending on the size of the fire, there are many different ways to determine the cost of fire damage restoration. The cost of simple single-fuel fires can be much less than a complex fire with artificial materials and incomplete combustion. Additionally, the cost of fire damage restoration can depend on the type of fire extinguisher used to put out the blaze. Carbon dioxide extinguishers don’t cost anything extra, but chemical extinguishers can leave toxic residues.

The smoke in a fire causes visible and invisible damage to your home. Fire damage restoration services use sophisticated equipment to provide superior results. You can start the restoration process by increasing ventilation in the affected area. You can use dry-cleaning sponges, rubbing alcohol, or vinegar to remove embedded particles. Trisodium phosphate is particularly helpful in releasing embedded particles. Soot removers made for smoke damage are also useful.

Water damage can also damage your possessions. Firefighting water can damage materials, causing mold growth. Firefighting chemicals also leave behind a messy mess. Using the services of SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration professionals is vital. We are licensed and insured. Our goal is to make this disaster feel "Like it never even happened." and get your home back to its original condition sooner.

The Basics of Water Damage

3/22/2023 (Permalink)

Client had a toilet leak that caused water damage to residential property, we placed dehumidifiers to remove moisture

Water damage is a widespread issue that can be caused by many different causes. Pipes break, sinks and toilets overflow, roofs leak, and more can all lead to this problem.

When homeowners experience water damage, it’s essential they contact SERVPRO of Moore immediately. We’re specialists in cleaning up and restoring properties that have been affected by floodwaters.

Water damage restoration begins with an inspection and assessment. Whether due to a burst pipe or natural disaster, conducting an exhaustive examination is paramount in order to safeguard your home and personal belongings from further harm.

A comprehensive assessment can accurately measure the extent of water damage, identify potential hazards and craft a strategy to resolve them. It also serves as an essential step when filing insurance claims and scheduling repairs.

If you detect signs of water damage, don’t hesitate to contact a reliable restoration company like SERVPRO of Moore. We will guide you through the process of repairing your property quickly and effectively.

Once an initial assessment is conducted, SERVPRO will provide you with an assessment of damages and an estimate for cleanup and restoration costs. This information can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies or contractors eager to begin work as quickly as possible.

Once the damages have been identified, technicians can begin to extract moisture. They may use equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to expedite this process.

This process is necessary to prevent hidden mold growth from taking hold. Mold poses a serious health hazard, potentially leading to respiratory illness and allergies.

Water damage, if left unchecked, can have devastating effects on a structure and even lead to collapse. If left unchecked, water damage could potentially destroy everything in its path.

Water damage is one of the most hazardous scenarios that can happen to a residential or commercial property. Not only does it cause extensive structural damage, but also damages furniture and other belongings as well as opening the door for mold growth.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

homeowners insurance policy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keep Your Business Clean and Odorless

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

A commercial building getting a HVAC Duct cleaning

If you have a busy office, you may notice that over time, the carpets become dirty and stained. When this happens you can call SERVPRO of Moore and we can clean your carpets and upholstery, making it like new.What about the areas you don't see? It's easy to determine that your carpets and upholstery need to be cleaned; you see these things everyday. What about your air ducts and HVAC system? Maybe because you cannot see the dirt and dust, it's not often thought about.Air duct and cleaning of your HVAC system can possibly, extend the life span of your system. By cleaning your system, you help eliminate the amount of dust and mold circulating throughout your building and provide cleaner and better smelling air. Mold can cause negative health affects but with preventive maintenance and cleaning, you can help control this!

Crime Scene Clean Up Services

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

A crime scene zoned off for SERVPRO Bio Hazard crew

Crime scene cleanup isn't something anyone wants to think about and hopefully never experiences.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Moore is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. If a crime scene clean up or suicide clean up is needed, Our team will be discreet and work with you on your needs. Currently, we work with several local police departments for their crime scene clean ups and bio-hazard needs. SERVPRO of Moore understands that when tragedy happens, it is unexpected and the goal is t o get you back in your home as quickly as you are ready.

SERVPRO Storm Disaster Process

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

A residential property damaged by heavy storms

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of Moore will have a Professional on-site to help ensure the water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

INSPECTION:

We will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES:

Then we will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step

MONITORING:

To help ensure your home or business

and belongings are dried to appropriate

industry standards, we will monitor the drying process. The updates will be

consistently communicated to you.

RESTORATION SERVICES:

Lastly we will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A final walk-through of the job-site will be conducted

with you to help ensure the property was returned to pre loss condition.

Clogged Toilet Can Cause Water Damage

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

A residential bathroom toilet clogged causing water damage

When you think of overflowing toilets, you may picture a small flood confined to your commercial bathroom. However, if this type of overflow goes unnoticed, your commercial building could have much more extensive sewer damage. The unattended water may travel down walls and through ceilings to affect two floors or more. When this major destruction takes place, you need to call SERVPRO of Moore Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices..

Stop the flood. A flooded toilet may continue adding water to your building unless you cut off the water supply. Turning off the water may help minimize the damage or at least stop it from getting worse.
Tear out materials. Because you're dealing with sewer damage, any materials or furnishings that got wet may need to be removed and thrown away. This can include flooring, drywall, insulation and ceiling materials. These items often have to be tossed because sewage usually contains fecal matter, viruses, bacteria, chemicals and other potentially harmful contaminants.
Disinfect the space. Once the items that can be torn out have been, you need to make sure your commercial space is thoroughly cleaned. The cleaners used will depend on the type of surface getting cleaned, but any sewage company that often deals with this type of cleanup will have the cleaners and equipment needed to get the job done right.
Dry out the space. Putting dehumidifiers to work ensures your building is rid of excess moisture. If extra water remains, even in the form of humidity, you may have to deal with mold growth in the future.
Repair the damage. The final step in this cleanup process is repairing any of the damage that was done. If building materials were torn out, they need to be replaced to return your building to normal.

Sewer damage requires an extensive cleanup to ensure your building is safe for inhabitants. If you skip any important steps, you may have to deal with secondary damage sometime down the road

6 Steps to Fire Damage Restoration

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke damage to a residential property affected by fire damage

If you have suffered from fire damage, and your home has sustained smoke damage or soot damage, you may wonder what your next step should be. Navigating the fire cleanup process can be difficult and confusing, but here are the SERVPRO of Moore guidelines to follow to make your course of action a bit easier.

Call for Emergency Services

Contact a fire restoration company as soon as possible. Most companies offer 24-hour services and can assist you right away.

Appraisal of Damage

Most companies send a professional to assess your home for smoke damage, soot damage and water damage. From there, it is possible to create a plan for repair.

Damage Prevention

Fires frequently damage or threaten the integrity of windows, doors, roofs or walls. These can all be temporarily repaired so that further damage does not occur before the fire restoration process can take place.

Water, Smoke and Soot Removal

Once you have ensured that your home does not sustain additional damage, the fire restoration company can begin to remove water from the home and repair water damage, if there is any. Smoke cleaning and soot cleaning occur at this point to remove traces of the fire from the surfaces of your home, such as ceilings, walls and floors.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

The next step is for the company to clean and repair any salvageable items in the house, such as furniture or cabinetry. In addition, the air is usually scrubbed by special equipment to improve the air quality inside your home.

Restoration of Finishes

After the major structures and furniture have been repaired, it is time to bring your home back to its pre-fire condition. Sometimes, this is minor, such as repainting a room. Other times, it can be more complicated, such as small construction projects.

After a restoration company has completed its work, all signs of smoke damage should be removed, your home should be back to its original condition and all signs that a fire has occurred should be gone

Can I Free My Crawl Space From Mold

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

Mold in a residential bathroom

SERVPRO of Moore knows crawlspaces are tricky exactly because of what they are: crawl spaces with little room to move, and even less room to get in difficult areas to clean up mold damage. These spaces are usually dark and dank and very poorly sealed, as well, making them ripe for mold infestation as damp and water damage set in – especially after a flood. So if the crawlspace in your home is infested with mold…how do you clean it?

Try Media Blasting

Despite how it sounds, “media blasting” isn’t playing your boombox loud enough to get reported to the neighborhood homeowners’ association. Media blasting is the practice of spraying tiny particles of non-harmful substances at a surface at extremely high speeds, causing the particles to abrade away anything on that surface as if sanding it. In fact, the practice used to be called sandblasting until sand was replaced as the medium due to the dangers of inhaling particles. Media blasting can:

Sand away any mold on the surfaces in your crawlspace without damaging the surface underneath
Allow you to access hard-to-reach places
Let you clean away mold without having to actually come into contact with the substances
Enable you to also clean underneath homes, and not just in crawlspaces

Media blasting can actually be pretty messy, but it leaves you with mold-free surfaces that have been scoured entirely clean.

So How Can I Media Blast My Crawlspace?

Media blasting requires some pretty heavy duty equipment, so it’s usually best to leave it to a professional. Specialists who understand media blasting have the appropriate equipment and protective gear to ensure the process can be done safely and thoroughly to minimize mold exposure and ensure complete eradication of your mold problem. Media blasting can also be used for mildew, and various other growths you may wish to remove from your home – or for removing old paint before repainting your house.

Hurricane Tips

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

waves crashing on the sidewalk

You may ask why SERVPRO®? SERVPRO® of Moore is not only large enough to handle the needed commercial losses, but also handles storm work from hurricanes to flooding across the states. SERVPRO® of Moore always will make sure you are up to date with the weather and tips on what you need to be prepared for certain events that may or may not take place. Our team will strive to travel when needed to support other locations and will always make sure we take care of as many of customers as we can during the tragic event that has taken place. Make sure you are following your local SERVPRO® of Moore to stay up to date on community events and weather alerts to stay prepared and ready.

Manage Your Commercial Building the SERVPRO way

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

inside a commercial building

Whether you own a commercial building or manage many commercial buildings, they present unique challenges when something goes wrong. Proper maintenance can prevent little problems from becoming large-scale problems. If they do, SERVPRO® of Moore is ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.” And while we are available 24/7 for your repair and restoration needs, we’ve compiled three tips from professionals across the industry that can prevent your commercial building structure from incurring a major loss:

Maintain your roofing structure. Fixing leaks as soon as they arise instead of putting them off to deal with later will significantly decrease your chances for a major loss. Whether the issue is minor or major may only be detectable by professionals. Either way, it’s imperative to address the problem sooner rather than later.
Regularly check your fire control system. Whether it’s a communication line in your system that has gone down or fire suppression sprinklers aren’t working, your fire control system should be checked regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly. Responsible action and routine maintenance check can prevent significant damage to your building structure.
Schedule regular HVAC maintenance. Commercial HVAC systems differ significantly from home HVAC systems. Which means they are significantly more complicated and usually require professional assistance. Proper planning and scheduling routine professional exams will allow parts to be replaced when needed, as well as checking for any major faults.

As you can see, the old adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ definitely applies to your commercial building structures. However, even with regularly scheduled maintenance and quick action on the part of the building manager, things can go awry. SERVPRO® of Moore has professionals that will answer your call immediately and begin taking actions to limit the damage. Our trustworthy and confident staff will develop a plan, move quickly, and execute flawlessly. We are a leader in the restoration industry, and our professionals are faster to disaster any size.

WATER DAMAGE VS. FLOOD DAMAGE

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

a flooded road with a warning sign

WHAT IS WATER DAMAGE

SERVPRO®? of Moore wants you to Imagine this: You're home, sleeping. Your spouse wakes you up after returning from their late-night bathroom trip and says the toilet is flowing like Niagara Falls (and for some reason, these things only happen late at night when everything is closed).

This unfortunate incident is considered water damage. Water damage usually results from an internal issue within the house (i.e., the above toilet scenario or your pipes bursting). It is different from Flood Damage.

FLOOD DAMAGE

Flood Damage is usually caused by Mother Nature raging outside your home. For example, when Claudette flooded your living room and ruined all the furniture, or a creek bed overflows during heavy rain.

Unlike water damage, flood damage comes from natural sources like storms, lakes, rivers, and streams, and the difference is huge in terms of how and if you can file claims.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR COVERAGE

Pull out your insurance policy right now and look over it. Most likely, you have coverage for water damage (but always double-check as some insurance policies will only cover certain types).

Generally, most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. So what can you do? Make sure to research and consider purchasing a flood insurance policy.

SERVPRO®? of Moore TO WRAP UP:

Although they seem similar, the difference between flood damage and water damage is significant when it comes to your homeowner’s policy coverage and what you pay out of your wallet.

In general, flood damage results from a natural disaster like a tropical storm. On the other hand, water damage is caused by something in your home, like burst pipes. Your insurance policy generally covers water damage. But unless you specifically purchase a flood insurance policy, you’ll be footing the bill for any natural disasters yourself.

5 Ways To Prevent House Fires

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

a home damaged by fire

We’ve all heard the stories, or at least seen someone's story on tv. It starts out of nowhere, then- before they knew it- FIRE! The damages of a fire can be disastrous, In fact, there are about 365,500 house fires in the U.S. every year. On average, 7 people die in U.S. house fires every day. SERVPRO®? of Moore wants to help keep your home and loved ones safe, it is critical that you follow these 5 tips.

Smoke Alarms

This one should be a no-brainer. Smoke alarms are absolutely essential for keeping your home safe. Make sure you install at least one on every level of your home and inside all the bedrooms in the house.

Battery Changes

Having smoke alarms is great, as long as you alway remember to make sure they’re working. Test the smoke alarms once per month, and if the batteries are dead, replace them.

Checking The Home

Be sure to check certain systems in your home regularly. You may even want to hire a professional to ensure that your home is thoroughly inspected. The things you should regularly check include; the condition of your home’s electrical system, the natural gas/LP gas system in your home, and the air conditioning and heating units in your home.

Kitchen Safety

One of the most common causes of house fires is something going wrong in the kitchen. To ensure your safety in the kitchen, SERVPRO®? of Moore wants you to follow these practices: When you’re cooking on a stove and need to leave the stove for a minute or two, turn it off rather than letting it cook unattended. Don’t cook while under the influence of any drugs or alcohol, or if you’re tired. Also, ensure that no clothes or rags are left on or near a burner.

Safe Use of Wires

Faulty wiring and outlets are one of the top causes of house fires. So make sure your wires and outlets are working properly. Do not attempt to plug or unplug anything if your hands are wet. Also, don’t pinch or cover electrical cords with items like rugs.

If all of the above steps are followed, and the unthinkable fire still occurs, remember that SERVPRO®? of Moore fire damage restoration experts will be ready and faster to your disaster and make it feel “Like It Never Even Happened”.

Tornadoes and Hailstorms - Damages, Seasons,and Details.

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

someone watching the storm forming

SERVPRO of Moore and many of us are all too familiar with tornadoes and their associated thunderstorms, hail storms, and the property damage these cause. In fact, it’s common to learn at an early age how best to prepare for these frequent natural disasters; general tips include going into your basement (if you have one) or navigating to a room without windows, staying low, and covering your head. While these basic facts are certainly helpful to remember, there are many additional facts and helpful tips you may not be aware of when it comes to these potentially violent weather events and their subsequent damage.

On a basic level, a tornado is a forcefully rotating column of air, descending from the clouds of a thunderstorm. This column of air is commonly referred to as a funnel cloud. The Enhanced Fujita scale measures the strength of a tornado’s wind, from EF-0 to EF-5, with EF-5 being the strongest.

Tornadoes are often accompanied or precipitated by severe thunderstorms, including hail. Hail is considered a form of precipitation, as it’s solid ice that forms during thunderstorm updrafts. When raindrops are carried upward and freeze, they collide with liquid water droplets; this process compounds and increases the inches in diameter of the hail size before its weight can no longer be supported by the wind, so it falls to the ground.

Safety Mold Tips To Know

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

mold in living area

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold spores throughout your home or business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home or business.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of Denton for mold remediation services or a visual inspection

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 Moore 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 – (405) 289-9401

Got Mold?

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

mold in bathroom

If you think you might have mold in your home, the longer you wait to investigate, the worse it could get.

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Black mold produces allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent

SERVPRO of Moore specializes in Mold Remediation.

If you see signs of mold, call us today - (405) 289-9401

How To Prevent Common Causes Of Water Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

water damage

Water damage can cause all sorts of problems when inflicting a home. These can include structural damage and mold growth, both of which are extremely dangerous to anyone living on the property. Taking care of water damage is essential when ensuring the safety of any residents. Water damage can spread quickly, and the longer it sticks around, the more damage that will occur. SERVPRO of Moore wants you to know acting now is the best way to minimize both damage and any hazards that come along.

Natural Causes

Properties can sustain serious water damage from all sorts of natural disasters that cause water damage. Floods and heavy rainstorms are among the most common reasons for natural causes of water damage. Though these disasters don’t tend to occur every day, there is still a reason to ensure that your home is stable and strong enough to withstand damage.

With that being said, here are some SERVPRO of Moore preventative measures that can be taken to waterproof your home. This ensures that no water can make it from outside the home to the inside and cause water damage. You can walk outside the exterior of the house and run down a checklist of items you will need to investigate. Gutters and downspouts are a huge aid in keeping water outside of the home, particularly when you are experiencing heavy weather. Be sure that these are always kept clear, sealed, and intact.

You will also need to inspect the roof for missing or broken shingles. These can lead to leakages in the attic. This needs to be repaired as soon as possible and, most importantly, before a storm.

Check door frames and window frames to ensure that everything is sealed properly. Separation, crack, or soft spots are signs that the sealant isn’t as effective as it is meant to be. If you notice any of these, be sure to repair them immediately to avoid water damage.

Internal Causes

Water damage can also come from inside the house. Water is utilized in our daily lives, so naturally, accidents are bound to happen. Most commonly, issues like these come from burst pipes, malfunctioning appliances, and faulty plumbing. Unfortunately, these problems can go under the radar, since they aren’t usually as explosive as natural disasters. Watching for signs of water damage is essential to avoid large amounts of damage.

On walls, ceilings, and floors, watermarks will start to appear. These may look like darker or yellowing spots, as well as water rings present. Textures in the walls/ceilings may also change. These changes can include flaking, bubbling, or cracking in the drywall or paint. Additionally, walls may feel soft to the touch. Paint can also begin to sag if it is holding enough water behind it. Tile, laminate, or wood flooring will warp, crack, or split if it has been affected and water will continue to seep through. Be sure to go through your home and check the flooring, even if they aren’t visually changed. They could also feel damp or soft.

Avoiding Water Damage During Major Storms

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

home damage by high winds and heave rainfall

Major storms are one of the main ways that water damage occurs in homes. Our water damage restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Moore commonly deal with the aftermath of storms as they go out to remove water and repair damage in our clients’ homes. As a result, they know several of the most important ways to prevent water damage during a storm. Here are five of these specific ways to keep your home safe during a storm.

Caulk Around Your Doors And Windows

The high winds from a storm can push water against your home with a surprising amount of force. As a result, the water will quickly find its way through any small cracks or holes around the doors or windows. Fortunately, you can easily prevent this problem by applying a fresh layer of caulk around all these points of entry to your home.

Repair Any Cracks Or Holes In The Foundation

Water is crafty and will find its way through any small cracks or holes in your home’s foundation. To make matters worse, this water will gradually cause water damage as it builds up inside your home. Moreover, these cracks and holes often lead to easily-forgotten areas of a home, like basements and crawlspaces so the damage can easily go undetected for a long period of time. Make sure that you have your foundation inspected regularly for any cracks or holes and have it repaired immediately if any are detected.

Move Vulnerable Items Above The Flood Level

While the preferred option is obviously to keep water out of your home completely during a storm. In cases of extremely severe storms, however, some degree of damage may not be preventable. When this is the case, you should move all vulnerable items in your home to higher ground to keep them safe from any floodwater. These items should, at a minimum, include electronics and important documents like passports and birth certificates.

Secure Patio Furniture

Your patio furniture is a great addition to your yard, but they can become deadly projectiles in a storm. This happens when the high winds from the storm picks them up and throws them toward your home. Thus, if you know a storm is imminent, you should place all the patio furniture and other loose items in a safe place where they won’t be able to cause damage during a storm.

Keep Your Rain Gutters Clear

Finally, keeping your gutters clear is a must for protecting your home from water damage during a storm. If you fail to do so, the rain from a storm will run over the top of your gutters, and the pool around your home significantly increases the likelihood that your home sustains water damage.

5 Ways To Prevent House Fires

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

home damaged by fire, water and smoke.

Smoke Alarms

Battery Changes

Having smoke alarms is great, as long as you alway remember to make sure they’re working. Test the smoke alarms once per month, and if the batteries are dead, replace them.

Checking The Home

Kitchen Safety

Safe Use of Wires

Fire Damage Restoration Process

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Home damaged by fire

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO® of Moore has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you give us a call. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us arrive quickly with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, SERVPRO of Moore can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

SERVPRO of Moore uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

HOW TO RESTORE YOUR HOME AFTER A NATURAL DISASTER

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO here to help

It’s been a tough year for everyone, and natural disasters have taken a toll on many homes. If your home has been affected by a hurricane, tornado, or another disaster, you may be wondering how to restore it to its former glory. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to get your home back in shape. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to restore your home after a natural disaster. Whether you’re dealing with water damage, wind damage, or something else, these tips will help you get your home back to normal. So if you’re ready to start the restoration process, read on!

The first step is to assess the damage. Take a look around your home and make a list of all the damaged items. Once you have a list, you can start to prioritize which repairs need to be made first. If there is structural damage, this should be your first priority. Structural damage is any damage that affects the load-bearing components of a home, such as the foundation, walls, ceilings, and/or roof. This type of damage can make a home unsafe to live in and can be very costly to repair.

In addition, if there is water damage, you will need to dry out your home and remove any mold or mildew that has formed. Water can enter your home through holes or cracks in the foundation, windows, or doors; through the roof; or from rising floodwaters. Once inside, water can damage floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. It can also lead to mold growth, which can pose serious health risks.

Once you have assessed the damage, it’s time to start cleaning up. First, make a plan of action. Write down what needs to be done and in what order. This will help you stay organized and avoid overlooking any important tasks. Then start with the basics. Begin by cleaning up any debris that may be inside or outside your home. This includes broken glass, downed tree limbs, etc. Finally, move on to bigger tasks next. If there is water damage, start by drying out the affected areas. Then, you can begin to repair any damage that has been done.

After you have cleaned up the debris and repaired any damage, it’s time to start thinking about prevention. Take a look at your home and identify any areas that are vulnerable to future disasters. Make sure you have strong doors and windows and consider installing storm shutters or hurricane straps. For example, storm shutters are one of the most important things you can do to protect your home from damage during a severe storm. They can be made from a variety of materials, but the most common type is metal. Taking these precautions will help you avoid future damage and make your home safer in the event of another disaster.

Restoring your home after a natural disaster can be daunting, but it is possible with the help of a professional restoration company. SERVPRO of Moore has years of experience helping homeowners recover from storms, floods, and fires. Contact us today, and we will get started on restoring your home to its original condition.

Why You Should Hire Restoration Specialists: Part 2

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Part 2:

In part one, we covered several benefits of hiring restoration specialists to handle your water loss. These include the health and safety risks, efficiency, and potential for mold growth after a water loss. There are three more reasons why it’s in every owner’s best interest to use professionals when your property is damaged in a water loss:

SERVPRO® of Moore is a leader in water cleanup and restoration. As a premier restoration company, we help to ensure your damage is mitigated according to industry standards. Our IICRC certified professionals will survey, inspect and assess the full scope of damage to not only mitigate but expose potential future damage as well. This wholistic approach ensures that your home is safe and sound so it’s “Like it never even happened.”
Our technicians have access to professional equipment and the knowledge to use it. From special heaters to dehumidifiers to moisture meters, we will help to ensure that the job is done to industry specific standards. SERVPRO® of Moore is made up of a proven system of professionals and professional grade equipment that enables us to return your property to preloss condition in most cases.
Finally, when we set up a containment area, we have already removed damaged materials and assessed which materials are salvageable. At SERVPRO® we work to restore rather than replace, whenever possible. This is not only better for the environment, but we know your property is both valuable and sentimental. And when your property is functional, you can get back to your daily routines and important business. Our teams are efficient, professional, and committed to quality.

Our knowledge, experience, tools, and techniques are why we are a leader in both residential and commercial water restoration. In times of chaos, SERVPRO® of Moore will expertly and quickly restore order and function to your property.

Why You Should Hire Restoration Specialists

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

So, you had a water leak, and you’re not sure if you can handle the job yourself or if your situation requires a team of professionals. There are many reasons why you should always have your property inspected by professionals after a water loss.

SERVPRO® of Moore utilizes the correct equipment and our professional knowledge and expertise to get the restoration process completed as quickly as possible, returning your home to pre loss condition in most cases.

Here are additional reasons why you should always hire professionals to mitigate water damage.

Part 1:

Health and Safety: A professional company will assess if there is any contamination from gray or black water. They will also assess whether or not there is any microbial growth or mold, and remediate if detected.
Efficiency: Our experts work quickly so you can get your schedule and routine back on track. Extending the time for remediation by hiring the wrong company or attempting to do it yourself will only further complicate an already uneasy situation.
Mold: Mold is present after moisture has occurred. Whether it’s rain, burst pipes, ice dams that have leaked into a roof or even excessive humidity, the main culprit of mold growth is time. Mold growth can begin to occur within 48 hours of moisture's appearance.

Affordable Payment Options Today

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

A hand holds a phone and reads affordable payment options

If you need financing, we've got options.

At SERVPRO® of Denton, we know we show up after a major unexpected event in your life. We also know that insurance doesn’t always cover a high deductible and sometimes may not cover a loss at all. However, the process of mitigation, repair, and restoration must continue. That’s why it’s important to have financing options available to you in your time of need. The financing process is straightforward, easy, and most of all quick! Here are some quick facts to help you make the right decision for your home:

Check rates in less than 2 minutes
Fixed monthly payments
Loans typically funded in 1-5 days
No prepayment penalties
Zero equity required
Fixed rates and terms

We have affordable payment options for any home improvement project!

APPLY NOW:

https://app.gethearth.com/partners/SERVPRO-of-denton/julio/apply

CONTACT HEARTH DIRECTLY:

(512) 686-4141
support@gethearth.com

Maintenance Tips for Commercial Buildings

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Two technicians work on a water pump standing in several inches of water

No matter the scale of the commercial job, SERVPRO® of Moore is prepared and available, 24/7

Whether you own a commercial building or manage many commercial buildings, they present unique challenges when something goes wrong. Proper maintenance can prevent little problems from becoming large-scale problems. If they do, SERVPRO® of Moore is ready help make it “Like it never even happened.” And while we are available 24/7 for your repair and restoration needs, we’ve compiled three tips from professionals across the industry that can prevent your commercial building structure from incurring a major loss:

Maintain your roofing structure. Fixing leaks as soon as they arise instead of putting them off to deal with later will significantly decrease your chances for a major water loss. Whether the issue is minor or major may only be detectable by professionals. Either way, it’s imperative to address the problem sooner rather than later.
Regularly check your fire control system. Whether it’s a communication line in your system that has gone down or fire suppression sprinklers aren’t working, your fire control system should be checked regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly. Responsible action and routine maintenance check can prevent significant fire damage to your building structure.
Schedule regular HVAC maintenance. Commercial HVAC systems differ significantly from home HVAC systems. Which means they are significantly more complicated and usually require professional assistance. Proper planning and scheduling routine professional exams will allow parts to be replaced when needed, as well as checking for any major faults.

The Ins-and-Outs of Commercial Restoration

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

A pipe in a warehouse sprung a leak and water is spraying everywhere

Water leaks spring from many sources including this warehouse

There’s never really a “good time” for a commercial restoration project. Often they come out of necessity, without any warning, bringing your business to a screeching halt. With that in mind, we work fast - without sacrificing quality or thoroughness - to get your business back up and running after sustaining water or fire damage.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Commercial water restoration can present unique challenges, but it’s nothing we haven’t already conquered before. Our on-site team is comprised of Water Damage Restoration Technicians, Applied Structural Drying Technicians, Odor Control Technicians, and Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technicians, and each plays a key role in our process.

These technicians are expertly trained and equipped with top-of-the-line equipment to limit water damage and jumpstart the restoration process.

Learn more about SERVPRO Professional Franchise Training and Certifications.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Like with water damage, our fire damage restoration process involves a highly skilled team of expert technicians, armed with top equipment and unmatched training. The team includes Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians, Odor Control Technicians, Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technicians, and even Water Damage Restoration Technicians to restore any damage caused by putting out the initial fire at your commercial property.

And, whether it’s a fire or water damage restoration project when all is said and done we will not only keep our “Like it never even happened,” promise, but we can affirm that your commercial property is SERVPRO Certified clean, leaving no doubt around the cleanliness and safety of your property.

Disaster Recovery Team

It’s important to act fast when a natural disaster strikes your commercial property, and that’s why we have strategically placed storm teams who are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They’ve dealt with damage from tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, blizzards; you name it, they’ve seen it before, and no job is too large for our teams.

And beyond commercial restoration, in the event of a storm or natural disaster, our SERVPRO Large Loss Division will come to your rescue. We know damaged equipment or products can not only cost you money but cost you time in re-opening your business, which is why we ensure every large loss is overseen by a Commercial Operations Manager. This person a seamless communication in replacing damaged equipment or goods.

Learn more about our Disaster Recovery Team.

Commercial Fire Restoration-What to Expect

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

A mattress lies burned on the ground covered in ashes and soot

This residential home suffered a fire loss that we mitigated and restored

After a fire at your business you have a long list of tasks ahead of you. Once the fire trucks leave, you are left with fire damage as well as smoke and water damage. You might be wondering exactly where to begin. It's a good idea to consider hiring a restoration company to handle everything from start to finish.

Why Should I Hire a Restoration Company?

A professional mitigation company specializes in disaster assessment, cleanup, and restoration. Technicians can begin the process from the moment you make a call, any time of day or night. They will go through the steps that will get your building back to the way it was before the fire. They can take care of:

Inspecting and assessing the damage
Boarding up and tarping the roof
Removing and drying the water
Removing smoke and soot
Cleaning and sanitizing
Building restoration

What Is the Restoration Process?
First, technicians will visit your property to assess the fire damage. The fire area will be inspected along with adjoining areas to check the extent of repair needed. To maintain security, professionals will board up compromised windows or doors and cover the roof with a tarp to prevent further water or storm damage. Water removal will begin right away. Technicians will clean walls, carpet, window treatments and items of smoke and soot. Throughout the process, the company will provide your insurance adjuster with documentation.
Once your building is clean and sanitized, restoration can begin. Professionals will make smaller repairs where needed, such as installing drywall, laying new carpet or repainting surfaces. They will clean your belongings and restore items whenever possible rather than replacing them. Fire mitigation for areas with major damage may include rebuilding. Professionals can reconstruct rooms where needed.
Trusting a professional restoration company can help you through the process of repairing fire damage and ease the burden on you. At SERVPRO® of Moore we are here to help.

Why You Should Board Up Your Building

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Wires hang down from ceiling, walls and ceiling are entirely black with soot

Commercial fires present unique challenges such as the loose wiring, water and smoke damage

Owning a commercial property requires a high level of care and consideration. Aside from routine maintenance and upkeep, you also have to decide what to do when unexpected events do occur. SERVPRO® of Moore offers board up services, which can be an essential for properties in our geographic area considering how prone it is to strong winds and thunderstorms. Read on to learn benefits that come along with boarding up your commercial property.

Protect your property from the elements. Windows are the most vulnerable part of your property. Even if you only have damage to one window, it is important to board up this window to prevent further damage. This broken window could serve as an entry point for water and cause damage to the inside of your building. This will leave you more problems to deal with than you had initially, and will create a bigger hassle for you.

Protect your property from vandals and thieves. Broken windows may be an entry point for more than just water or dirt-thieves and vandals often see broken windows as an easy access point. Boarding up your windows protects your assets. If an intruder did enter your building and sustained an injury, you could be liable. Boarding up also protects you from this potential risk.

Maintain your insurance coverage. Many insurance providers require you to board up your property after damage to ensure that more damage is not done. If you do not comply with this part of your insurance policy, you may lose coverage, which will create a whole other set of problems for you, especially if your property is already damage.

Contact SERVPRO® of Moore for any board up services that you may require. Whatever your commercial property needs, SERVPRO of Moore is here to help!

What Makes Us Experts

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

We don’t call our SERVPRO of Moore restoration professionals things like “specialists” and “experts” for nothing. And they certainly don’t get to be that way overnight.

So what exactly does go into training the experts who time and time again uphold our promises of being faster to any disaster and making your restoration project look "Like it never even happened."

The Certifications

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification: The IICRC sets the bar for the entire cleaning and restoration industries, and it’s our priority to not only meet but exceed those standards. Our specialists take to heart the IICRC’s best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and more.

Employee Certification Training: Our program is designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. It includes SERVPRO crew training and additional training in fire and water restoration and carpet and upholstery cleaning.

The Training House

The true foundation of our Franchise training is a 15-day hands-on program at our SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility.

Here, team members get to work in the Training House, a model home where they can apply what they’ve learned in cleaning and restoration in simulated real-life situations. Taught by certified instructors, the course ensures our SERVPRO specialists are indeed experts who can handle anything because they’ve seen everything.

You can learn more about the Training House on our SERVPRO YouTube page.

e-Learning and Continued Education

Even after joining one of our Franchise teams, SERVPRO experts have plenty of resources to keep them at the forefront of new technologies or processes in the industry.

Our library web-based training courses sharpen the skills and expertise of all our specialists. And SERVPRO of Moore even offers credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate adjusters and franchise staff, to improve their skills in emergency mitigation.

Courses 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)

Contact Our Team

If you’re ever facing a restoration emergency, find peace of mind with SERVPRO of Moore. Call us at (405) 289-9401 or request help online.

Cleaning the Mess You Can't See

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

You take pride in your home or commercial property, and work hard to keep it safe, clean, and comfortable. But what about the messes that might be hidden to the untrained eye; things like dirt and dust beneath the surface, or mold that can create foul odors and deteriorate the condition of your property?

That’s where SERVPRO of Moore comes into play. We’re not just experts in restoration, but in cleaning and mold removal as well. Take a look at a few ways our experts can help you maintain a cleaner home, be it with a visit from our team or just a few pointers you can use around the house.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Our team attacks dirt and dust beneath the surface of your carpeting or upholstery with top-of-the-line equipment and industry leading expertise. The difference a clean carpet, or clean upholstery, can make in your home is noticeable. If you think the color in your carpet is beginning to fade, give us a call to bring your home back to life!

Air Duct Cleaning

For homeowners, “cleaning the air ducts” is a chore that often goes forgotten. As the old saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” But keeping your air ducts clean is vitally important for a number of reasons. Not only can it keep dust and other allergens from spreading throughout your home, but it can improve the heating and cooling efficiency of your home if air is flowing through clean ducts.

Remember to regularly run a feather duster along your ducts, and to change your air filters as often as is necessary; most homes need a change every 90 days, but some homes with pets can require a change as often as once every 30 days.

Odor Removal

Most cleaning services can’t top SERVPRO’s expertise in effectively deodorizing your home. Our residential cleaning services can rid your home of unwanted odors coming from sources you might not even be able to see.

Lightning Facts for Moore Residents

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

As one of the leading weather-related causes of death or injury in the nation, lighting deserves to be understood better so we can be both awed and avoidant of it.

At SERVPRO® of Moore, we strive to be knowledgeable, proactive and preventative in approaching the stormy seasons of Oklahoma.

Here are some flash facts about lightning:

While the speed of light (when we see the bolt) is 670,000,000 mph, the actual speed of a strike is only 27,000 mph. Need help visualizing this? Imagine traveling to the moon in only 55 minutes.
Everyday, there are over 3 million flashes of lightning (about 44 strikes each second). The earth is struck by lightning more than 100 bolts each second.
Lightning can help plants grow through creating nitrogen oxides by its heat and combining with moisture to provide nitrate-rich water for plants.
The width of a bolt is only about 2 to 3 centimeters (about the size of a thumb) but it spans a length of about 2 to 3 miles.
Lightning can reach up to 50,000°F, which is about 5x hotter than the sun’s surface.
Thunderstorms aren’t the only source of lightning; it can be found in volcanic eruptions, forest fires, nuclear detonations, snowstorms and hurricanes.
Using surge protectors won’t actually protect your appliances against direct strikes, so make sure to unplug all of your equipment.
Using the phone while indoors is actually the leading cause of injuries by lightning within a household.
You can easily be struck by lightning even if the eye of the storm is 10 miles away.

Lightning isn’t something to mess with or worth taking any chances at the risk of death or injury. It must be taken seriously, but we can admire the beauty and nature of lightning without compromising our safety.

And should your home or commercial property incur any damage from a lightning strike or other severe weather event, we're on call 24/7 and faster to any disaster. Just give us a call at (405) 289-9401 and we'll be on our way.

What the Hurricane Categories Actually Mean

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

While we don't get hurricanes, we can still be affected by their weather patterns, and we often have friends and family who live where hurricanes occur. So what do the hurricane categories actually mean anyways?

Hurricanes are categorized by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which is rated 1 to 5 based on maximum ongoing wind speed. The scale was developed in the 70s by Herbert Saffir, an engineer in Miami, and Robert Simpson, a meteorologist and former director of the National Hurricane Center.

The scale doesn’t factor other hazards that result from hurricanes such as storm surges, flooding and tornadoes, but it does estimate the probable damage of property. Although category 3 or higher are known as major hurricanes, all categories have the ability to result in major damage.

At SERVPRO of Moore, we’re committed to understanding the storms our communities are enduring and finding practical solutions and preventative measures for each scenario. Here’s a rundown of the different categories of hurricanes to watch out for:

CATEGORY 1 — Winds are 74 to 95 mph

Winds are considered very dangerous and expected to produce some damage. Homes with well-structured frames might suffer roof damage, large tree branches could snap or trees with shallow roots may fall over. If power lines or poles are damaged, it could result in power outages lasting up to several days.

CATEGORY 2 — Winds are 96 to 110 mph

Winds are considered extremely dangerous and expected to cause extensive damage. Houses may endure major roof damage and trees could easily snap or be uprooted, blocking roads. It is expected for an almost total power outage to occur and last up to a few weeks.

CATEGORY 3 — Winds are 111 to 129 mph

Winds are expected to cause devastating damage. Framed homes will suffer major roof damage including removal of parts of the roof. Trees are easily snapped and uprooted, blocking major roads. Electricity and water expected to be unavailable up to several weeks post-storm.

CATEGORY 4 — Winds are 130 to 156 mph

Winds are expected to cause catastrophic damage. Houses will experience severe damage including a loss of the majority of the roof structure as well as exterior walls. Trees will be snapped and uprooted along with power poles, isolating areas in the community. Power outages can last up to months and the area will remain uninhabitable for weeks to months.

CATEGORY 5 — Winds are 157 mph or more

Severe winds are expected to cause catastrophic damage as well. Houses will be destroyed, including total roof failure and collapse of walls or structure. Trees and power poles that have fallen will isolate communities. Outages are expected to last for weeks or months as well as the area being uninhabitable for quite some time.

SERVPRO of Moore hopes to serve the community by providing this knowledge for people to understand and always be weather prepared.

Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

A roof is a vital protective feature of your home, but you lose that protection when strong winds cause roof damage. These are some features of a roof that can determine wind damage and tips for preventing it.

Factors Contributing To Damage

Protecting your home's roof means understanding its vulnerabilities, which may include:

Construction materials
Construction quality
Age
Shape
Slope

Some materials are better suited to withstand the elements than others. For example, slate roofs are significantly more durable than asphalt roofs, though roofs over twenty years old should have routine inspections for hidden damage that could worsen after a storm.
When wind hits your home's sides, it starts to move upward, creating pressure as it goes, until it reaches the edges of your roof, where it exerts a maximum force. It then travels along your roof's surface, where it creates a suction-like pull against roof materials that can be strong enough to loosen or dislodge shingles. Sound construction can help a roof withstand these forces. Roof damage is also avoidable when roofs consist of multiple panels having 30-degree slopes.

How To Prevent and Reduce Damage
Routine roof inspections are critical for protecting your roof from wind damage. Scheduling inspections during mild seasons can ensure that you have plenty of time to perform repairs before severe weather hits.
Wind can also indirectly damage your home if it carries debris that it deposits on your roof. The weight of tree limbs and other objects, including laws furniture that strong winds are capable of lifting to your rooftop, can puncture, crack and loosen shingles. Clearing objects and debris from the ground surrounding your home can help prevent them from landing on your roof during a storm.

Storm Recovery
When roof damage happens, it is crucial to protect your home with tarping and begin repairs as soon as possible. If a storm results in damage to your home's interior, you can count on a storm restoration service like SERVPRO of Moore to handle the clean-up.

Holiday Fire-Safety Tips

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

The holidays are upon us and decorating for Christmas is something we all love to do. Pretty lights, candles, and decorations enhance the holiday spirit - however, if they are not used carefully, your holidays may go from festive to frightening.

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

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

Properly Prepare for Seasonal Travel

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you will be traveling this holiday season, SERVPRO of Moore recommends to leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure a warm enough temperature inside to help prevent freezing pipes. But what about the trip itself? When you hear the phrase “emergency kit,” do you think of a first aid kit? A collection of supplies nestled in a closet somewhere, just in case they are needed? What about an emergency kit for your vehicle? Do you have one? Do you know what to put in one, should you decide to make one?

The NSC (National Safety Council) recommends including:

Nonperishable, high-energy foods
Drinking water
Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help
Car cell phone charger
Jumper cables
Fire extinguisher
Duct tape
Rain poncho
Compass
Flashlight with extra batteries
Cold weather items: snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction • A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, and tripod jack
A Tool kit and/or multipurpose utility tool
Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, non-latex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers, and instant cold compress

Do consider what you might need and assess what you should add or remove, depending on your destination, weather conditions, or the duration of your trip. You should check your emergency kit at least every six months, and restock items that you use or that have expired.

Why Replace When You Can Restore?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

A before and after photo restoration of a home with wood floors.

Our motto is restore rather than replace, and we have a few reasons behind it.

Here at SERVPRO® of Moore, our motto is that it’s always better to restore than replace.

Why do we believe this so firmly? Let’s first understand the difference between restoring and replacing. Restoring means to bring back to its original condition, while replacing means to substitute the original with an equivalent.

At first glance, replacing may seem like the way to go but we’re here to show you the raw benefits of restoration.

Restoration maintains the character.

Older houses and buildings oftentimes have iconic historic elements, whether it be vintage cabinets or doors. If these items are destroyed by a flood, any replacement you find will never compare to the original elements. By restoring these keepsakes, you’re able to preserve the look and feel of your home or business.

Restoration is cost-effective.

It may seem like replacing would save more money as you may have to purchase tools and products (or a service) to restore your home items, but in reality, restoration is much cheaper in the long run. You need to be critical when thinking of getting rid of a time that is made from older, more durable materials that have proven to last through the generations. When you replace an item, you will often be required to continue to replace it frequently over time.

Restoration takes less time.

Restoration happens as quickly as you want it to, as you’re taking the matter into your own hands. However, replacing items like windows or doors has a much slower turnaround and can take a few months until they’re made (and remember, you have to think of installation time too).

Restoration is better for the environment.

Restoration is a much greener solution as it reduces the amount of waste. Think of all the landfills that are packed with discarded doors, windows and cabinets that easily could’ve been restored.

All things considered, your return on investment is much greater when you restore items, especially when measured over a long period of time.

Call Us Today

Before you replace, give SERVPRO® of Moore a call 24/7 for any restoration needs: (405) 289-9401.

Types of Odors Impacting Your Business

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

A water bucket sits in the middle of the floor of a commercial building

Flood damage is one of three common causes of foul odors in your commercial property.

Lingering odors can cause a lot of problems for your business, so it’s important to know the different types of odors and what their main cause is so you can identify and eradicate them.

Odors are typically the product of a fire, flooding or infestation of mold, each having their own causes, attributes and ways to remediate them. The important part to remember is you must discover the cause of the odor before you do anything else. Only then can you find the appropriate response and solution to the problem.

At SERVPRO® of Moore, we hope to not only serve you in all of your restoration needs but also be an educational resource so you can be prepared in the case of an unfortunate event. Here are some different types of odors and what their typical cause is:

Odors from fire

Odors that result from fire are often smoky smelling and can be caused by soot, smoke damage to materials such as wood or entrapped smells within walls, furniture or even clothes. If the cause is soot, it is typically easy to identify as it appears black and powdery in appearance. Smoke can also be the underlying issue from burned food or a larger building fire and can consist of different fumes and chemicals, so it’s best to act quickly in eradicating this odor. Those who work or reside in the building can have their health compromised from these lingering odors.

Odors from flooding

These odors are typically pungent smelling and can be caused by sewage, growth of bacteria and mold/mildew. An example of this occurs if there is a burst pipe in which the sewage and wastewater will diffuse this odor. This flood water also contains bacteria that can absorb into porous furniture and provide a health hazard to those in the building.

Odors from infestations of mold

This odor is described as earthy, stale and damp. Mold that is left alone for too long can grow, which results in the production of gases that are known as microbial volatile organic compounds. These gases are basically the waste products of mold, leaving a musty odor to disperse through the building.

Overall, it’s best practice to act quickly when you notice an odor, even after the restoration process is complete. You never know how the bacteria within these odors can impact you and the people within the building.

Why You Need Professional Cleaning After Fire Damage

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Two Servpro® technicians are cleaning the ceilings of a home

Restoration and cleanup from even the smallest fire is no simple chore, which is why our experts are trained to make it "Like it never even happened."

After a fire happens, the first thing you want to do is get your household back to normal as soon as possible. It’s tempting to think small fires have little impact and can easily be cleaned up or restored.

However, it’s necessary to understand that even the smallest fires can have the worst impact. Not only that, but fire restoration and cleanup is nothing like weekly household chores. It takes a lot of time, effort, equipment, training and knowledge to be able to safely clean your house after fire damage.

This is why it’s crucial to call a professional cleaning service after a fire has damaged your home. Yes, there may be some things you can do on your own to mitigate the damage but it’s always best to phone a professional first so you don’t put your household at more risk.

After a fire happens, there is a lot more damage than meets the eye. Your house may have water damage as well from firefighters putting out the fire, which can lead to mold and other health hazards. Fire damage also almost always means there will be smoke and soot damage, which can have long-term effects on your health if not resolved properly.

Smoke and soot can settle in your home in the most unlikely of places and leave a lot of items within your property unsalvageable. If not cleaned immediately, they can even cause more damage, sometimes permanently. Burned debris can release harsh chemicals damaging your lungs and if ash comes into contact with your skin, it can irritate you.

Some of these health effects may not even show up immediately but can take a few months or years to make a difference if your house isn’t cleaned properly.

Ultimately, attempting to clean your house after a fire on your own exposes yourself to danger, especially if you don’t have the right attire or equipment. The common vacuum cleaner won’t filter out small particles but instead blow them into the air where they can be breathed in, and store-bought odor eliminators may only work temporarily and smoke will probably return.

Luckily, you don’t have to go through this cleaning process alone. Professional cleaning services like SERVPRO® of Moore want to put you and your household’s safety first, and we have the means to do so.

We have smoke deodorizers that actually target the smoke and soot to specifically eliminate them from hidden places. We are trained to do this, and we have the time and resources to help you properly clean and restore your property.

Our goal is to assess the damage, secure the building from other elements and people, and improve your home’s air quality and ventilation so your life can get back to normal.

Caring for Your Belongings After an Emergency

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

A living room with a couch and television, water is on the floor

Standing water damage in a residential living room threatens to damage home electronics and other precious belongings.

SERVPRO experts understand that your home or commercial property is more than just a structure; fire, water, and storm damage can affect your belongings as much as they affect the structure itself.

So what do you do to care for your belongings after an emergency? The answer is multi-faceted.

Contents Restoration

First, with the help of SERVPRO of Moore experts, assess what items can be restored. Our teams can pretest your belongings to determine what can be restored via one of a handful of safe and effective cleaning methods.

They include:

Dry Cleaning - Used to clean light residues or to pre-clean items that will ultimately need a deeper cleaning.
Wet Cleaning - Used to remove moderate to heavy residues.
Spray and Wipe - Effective for items that cannot withstand wet or dry cleaning.
Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if cleaned by other means.
Abrasive Cleaning - Involves deep scrubbing to create agitation of the surface being cleaned.
Immersion Cleaning - Belongings are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

SERVPRO experts always seek to “restore” rather than “replace” whenever possible. This not only helps preserve your precious keepsakes but can also save you the money to replace items not covered by your insurer.

Learn more about our restoration cleaning methods.

Electronics

Of course, some of your most vulnerable possessions when water damage strikes are your electronics, and water-damaged electronics can present a dangerous hazard in your home or commercial property.

First and foremost do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by water. Allow an expert to coordinate the restoration of impacted electronics like televisions, and computers. We work with qualified electronics technicians who are trained to safely clean and inspect your damaged electronics.

And when it comes to salvaging water-damaged electronics, time is of the essence. Those experts act swiftly, starting with a thorough cleaning of the exterior to prevent further corrosion and damage. However, to reiterate, urgency should never take precedence over personal safety. Our teams at SERVPRO of Moore are faster to any disaster, and we take calls 24 hours a day.

Documents & Photographs

Important documents and photographs should be handled with great care if damaged. Mishandling of these items can exacerbate damage beyond the point of restoration.

While some documents might not be restored to perfect condition, SERVPRO experts can do a tremendous amount to minimize damage by employing a combination of…

Air Drying
Dehumidification
Freezer Drying
Vacuum Freeze Drying
Vacuum Thermal Drying

We are experts at contents restoration and will guide you through the process to preserve your important belongings.

Leading Causes of Residential Fire Damage

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Firemen spray water from a hose on a house fire

Both the fire itself and the aftermath needs to be dealt with as quickly as possible in order to minimize possible damage.

The team here at SERVPRO of Moore is no stranger to housefires. In 2018, there were 379,600 fires, which resulted in over $8 million dollars of loss. Between 2009 and 2018, there was a 4% increase in fires at residential properties.

Cooking is the leading cause of residential fires, accounting for 197,200 fires in 2018. Heating systems were the second leading cause of residential fires. Electronic malfunctions caused 25,700 fires in 2018. Aside from unintentionally/carelessly started fires, these were the three leading causes of residential fires over a ten year period.

It can be hard to protect your home from all the potential dangers, but SERVPRO of Moore is here to help in the instance that anything does happen to your residence. Give us a call at (405) 289-9401 or submit an information form!

Common Causes of Mold

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold spreads quickly and can easily take over an area when the conditions are right.

No matter how clean a home you keep, mold will always be present in your home. Mold serves an important part in nature and does serve an important role when very low levels are present. However, when the conditions are just right, mold can thrive and take over an area, which can cause significant damage to your property. Here is a list of common causes of mold and some appropriate preventive measures that can be taken for each:

Leaking. Moisture attracts mold. That is essential to remember when working to prevent mold on your property. Leaks that can cause mold an occur in many places in your home. One such common cause of mold are leaking pipes. It is important to remember that your property is full of both visible and non-visible piping. Mold may be growing on an out-of-sight leak. Water could also be leaking into your house form an external source, such as rainwater that comes along with a storm. Regularly check your attic for structural damage and standing water, and keep an eye on the ceiling for signs of water damage.

Poor ventilation. When clean air is not properly entering your home and contaminated air is not adequately exiting your home, a number of complications can arise. This can create pockets of moist air, which is a condition that mold thrives in. This issue commonly occurs in kitchens or bathrooms, as activities carried out in these rooms often create large amounts of steam. Fans can help with ventilation by allowing the air to better circulate in the room. Keep all the appliances in each room well-ventilated by maintaining their vents, and keep your air filters clean in general.

Humidity. Your home can be exposed to humid conditions naturally due to the area weather or a particularly stormy season. Mold feeds off humidity, but humidity also prevents puddles and damp materials in your home (think laundry) from dying properly and thoroughly. These wet or damp places create ample opportunities for mold to grow and spread. If you used a humidifier in your home, be sure that your humidifier is running below 55%, as anything higher than that is the level needed for mold to start growing. Ensuring that your home is well-ventilated can help ensure that that the humidity level does not increase indoors.

SERVPRO of Moore is proud to offer mold remediation services. If you know you have a mold problem give us a call! If you suspect that their may be growth after water damage, we have several types of checks we can perform to assess the extent of the damage. Give us a call today at (405)289-9401 or submit an information form and we will get back to you shortly!

Deep Fried Turkey, Safety Tips Edition

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Deep fried turkey is tasty, but always remember safety first.

It’s nearly a tradition of its own. Deep Fried Turkey has become a widespread delicacy, and is usually on the menu somewhere for Thanksgiving. Everyone knows that deep frying a turkey is a quick method of cooking that provides a crispy and flavorful bird. However, deep frying a turkey is a more dangerous method of cooking. Having gallons of hot cooking oil over an open flame can be a recipe for disaster. The National Fire Protection Association discourages the use of outdoor, gas-fueled deep fryers due to their risk of injury and damage to your property. If you still choose to use a deep fryer for your holiday feast, please follow the following safety measures provided by the National Fire Prevention Agency:

Set up your deep fryer on a flat surface, more than 10 feet away from any structures.
Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry before slowly placing it in the hot oil.
Do not leave the fryer unattended. Continuously monitor the temperature of the oil.
Protect yourself. Lids and handles can become very hot and cause burns. Wear proper personal protective equipment.
Have a fire extinguisher ready at all times. A multipurpse, dry-powder unit is best. Be sure to keep children and pets away from the area while cooking.

PASS Fire Extinguisher Tips

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

A red fire extinguisher sits on a kitchen counter

Fire extinguishers can save lives and limit property damage.

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS.

Pull the pin, pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
Aim low. Point at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Sweep from side-to-side.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with it before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and coworkers to do the same. Remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home or facility. A fire can happen at any time, but being prepared and knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can not only save lives, but also save money in repairs to property damage.

With Fire Damage, Expect Water damage

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Image of home kitchen following house fire damage.

Fire damage can take a toll, but so can water damage incurred from putting out the original fire.

Imagine a restoration company shows up at your house after you’ve had a fire, and the first thing they check for is water damage. Doesn’t that seem a little counterintuitive, especially considering how fire and water are opposites?

However, fire and water are much more like kindred spirits than you would think, especially when it comes to how they impact each other in damaging structures, spaces and belongings.

When there is fire damage, there is almost always going to be water damage. Think about when the fire department is involved in a house fire — most likely, your space will get hosed down. Or if your building has a sprinkler system that can be triggered by smoke or intense heat, the structure that has been burned will be immediately soaked with water. Consider the way fire can bend and damage structures, including pipes that may leak within a building.

All of these scenarios can occur because of fire damage, so it is necessary that whatever restoration company you’re working with must understand the ins and outs of fire damage restoration but be well-versed in other categories of restoration as well.

This is especially true because water restoration is a major part (and the first task) of the fire damage restoration process. Before someone can effectively treat your fire damaged household, you must first mitigate the water damage. This includes examining and evaluating the damage that may have been done to your drywall, floors, ceilings and/or belongings.

Also, did you know that if water stays around long enough, it can result in mold growth and damage? So fire damage can start the domino effect causing your space to be damaged by other elements.

That’s why SERVPRO® of Moore provides experts and services for all types of damage restoration — fire, water, mold storm and commercial. This way, you don’t have to wait for the water restoration company to show up before you can start the fire restoration process. You can have them treated simultaneously!

If you ever have damage from not only one but multiple causes, make sure to invest in a company like SERVPRO® of Moore that has its hand in all aspects of restoration. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending a lot more time and money than necessary.

Why Replace When You Can Restore?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Side by side before and after of a restoration project.

Our motto is restore rather than replace, and we have a few reasons behind it.

Here at SERVPRO® of Moore, our motto is that it’s always better to restore than replace.

At first glance, replacing may seem like the way to go but we’re here to show you the benefits of restoration.

Restoration maintains the character.

Older houses and buildings often times have iconic historic elements, whether it be vintage cabinets or doors. If these items are destroyed by a flood, any replacement you find will never compare to the original elements. By restoring these keepsakes, you’re able to preserve the look and feel of your home or business.

Restoration is cost-effective.

It may seem like replacing would save more money as you may have to purchase tools and products (or a service) to restore your home items, but in reality, restoration is much cheaper in the long run. You need to be critical when thinking of getting rid of an item that is made from older, more durable materials that have proven to last through the generations. When you replace an item, you will often be required to continue to replace it frequently over time.

Restoration takes less time.

Restoration is better for the environment.

Restoration is a much greener solution as it reduces the amount of waste. Think of all the landfills that are packed with discarded doors, windows and cabinets that easily could’ve been restored.

All things considered, your return on investment is much greater when you restore items, especially when measured over a long period of time.

Call Us Today

Before you replace, give SERVPRO® of Moore a call 24/7 for any restoration needs: (405) 289-9401.

Professionally Service Your Heating Unit Before Winter

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Servicing your heating unit prior to the winter season will ensure you and your home stay safe.

Most Moore residents don’t generally think about their heating unit until it’s time to crank up the heat or there's an impending ice storm of doom heading our way. However, neglecting this crucial piece of home equipment when it’s not in use could wind up costing you in the long run. Higher heating bills while inconvenient are manageable, but fire cleaning and smoke cleaning costs tend to be more expensive. Here are some tips to keep your furnace in good working condition.

Get Your Heating Unit Professionally Serviced

The general rule of thumb is to get a professional to inspect and service your heating unit once a year, typically in the early fall. This timing gives you the opportunity to fix any problems a technician finds before temperatures drop and you need to turn up the heat. Professional furnace technicians typically do the following during an annual inspection:

Clean your furnace
Test for operational efficiency
Tighten loose hardware and replace any broken parts
Check the wiring for fire hazards

The last action is essential to preventing home fires and avoiding additional fire cleaning costs, including flooding and smoke remediation.

Perform Simple Heating Unit Maintenance Throughout the Year

While it is best to have a professional take on more complex heater maintenance tasks, there are some easy things you can do throughout the year to keep your heating unit in prime condition. The most critical thing is to replace your filters regularly — every 90 days is standard for some filter types. If you have pets, however, it is best to switch the filters every 60 days.
You also need to check your thermostat to ensure it is working in tandem with your furnace’s electrical system. Circuits can get tripped and if they aren’t fixed, it can cause a larger, more expensive issue down the line. Finally, make sure you choose a sensible temperature for your home so as not to exhaust your system and keep your heating bills down.

Avoid the need for fire cleaning. If you diligently maintain your furnace, it will thank you with years of worry-free and fire-free warmth.

Protecting Your Home During Storm Season

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Dark skies over the downtown district of a city.

Storm skies and a tornado over downtown Oklahoma City.

Protecting Your Home During Storm Season

Residents of Oklahoma City are no stranger to thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and strong winds. Tornado season is really all year in Oklahoma, but a peak does occur late March through August. This is when the prime conditions for tornadoes are met in Oklahoma. AccuWeather has predicted that there will be a five percent increase in the number of tornadoes that touch down in Oklahoma this, which could mean anywhere from 1,350 to 1,450 tornadoes. Tornadoes and the other acclimate weather associated with them mean that areas all over Oklahoma are at an increased risk of facing severe weather events during this period of time. Here is a list of preventive measures Oklahoman home and business owners can take to protect themselves and their properties against the challenging weather ahead:

-Keep the trees and branches near your home trimmed. This will make them more resistant to wind. Excess water can weigh down smaller and/or weaker branches, causing them to break off at a higher rate than larger branches. Take this into account when maintain your foliage.

-Secure fences and outdoor furniture. Heavy winds often accompany storm season. Protect the exterior of your home by ensuring that anything that could potentially turn into flying debris during acclimate weather is properly secured or stored.

-Protect critical areas. Storms and winds are a major threat to doors, roofs, and windows. The installation of temporary protection during a stretch of time where acclimate weather is predicted to occur again and again can prove to be incredibly beneficial to both business and home owners. SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City is happy to provide board up services to both commercial and residential properties.

-Check your gutters. Be sure to clear your gutters of any debris and to ascertain that your downspouts are draining away from your home. Buildup in your gutters can cause storm water to overflow which cause both internal and external damage to your property.

It is our sincere hope that these tips will help to protect your home or business during storm season. In the event that your home is affected by storms, fires, leaks, flooding, mold, or any other sort of undesirable incident SERVPRO of Central Oklahoma City offers reconstruction and restoration services to help you manage the damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (405) 289-9401

Archived Blog Posts

What is Water Damage Insurance?

Affordable Ways To Prepare Your Home for the Storm Season

Clean Your Gutters And Drains

Conduct the Necessary Roof Repairs

Create Your Emergency Supply Kit

Protect Your Windows

Cover Your Air Conditioner

Clear Your Yard

Listen to the Authorities

Getting Back to Normal

Benefits Of Hiring A Water Damage Restoration Company

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Up Water Damage in Your Property

How Long Does Mold Remediation Take?

What You Need To Know About Fire Restoration

The Basics of Water Damage

Standard Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Keep Your Business Clean and Odorless

Crime Scene Clean Up Services

SERVPRO Storm Disaster Process

Clogged Toilet Can Cause Water Damage

6 Steps to Fire Damage Restoration

Can I Free My Crawl Space From Mold

Hurricane Tips

Manage Your Commercial Building the SERVPRO way

WATER DAMAGE VS. FLOOD DAMAGE

WHAT IS WATER DAMAGE

FLOOD DAMAGE

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR COVERAGE

SERVPRO®? of Moore TO WRAP UP:

5 Ways To Prevent House Fires

Tornadoes and Hailstorms - Damages, Seasons,and Details.

Safety Mold Tips To Know

What to Do:

What Not to Do:

About Our Mold Remediation Services

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (405) 289-9401

Got Mold?

How To Prevent Common Causes Of Water Damage

Natural Causes

Internal Causes

Avoiding Water Damage During Major Storms

5 Ways To Prevent House Fires

Fire Damage Restoration Process

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

Step 7: Restoration

HOW TO RESTORE YOUR HOME AFTER A NATURAL DISASTER

Why You Should Hire Restoration Specialists: Part 2

Why You Should Hire Restoration Specialists

Affordable Payment Options Today

Maintenance Tips for Commercial Buildings

The Ins-and-Outs of Commercial Restoration

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Disaster Recovery Team

Commercial Fire Restoration-What to Expect

Why Should I Hire a Restoration Company?

Why You Should Board Up Your Building

What Makes Us Experts

The Certifications

The Training House

e-Learning and Continued Education

Contact Our Team

Cleaning the Mess You Can't See

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Air Duct Cleaning

Odor Removal

Lightning Facts for Moore Residents

What the Hurricane Categories Actually Mean

CATEGORY 1 — Winds are 74 to 95 mph

CATEGORY 2 — Winds are 96 to 110 mph

CATEGORY 3 — Winds are 111 to 129 mph

CATEGORY 4 — Winds are 130 to 156 mph

CATEGORY 5 — Winds are 157 mph or more