Recent Posts

Preparing Your Home for Winter Damage

12/5/2024 (Permalink)

Here are some tips via Google on how to prepare YOUR home for the damaging winter weather.

1. Schedule a check-up for your furnace.

Hopefully you’re already in the habit of getting your furnace checked regularly. It’s recommended that a new furnace be checked every other year, and an older furnace (10 years and up) once a year.

2. Check your pipes at freezing point areas in your home. 

If you know cold weather is around the corner, check your pipes in areas that are more likely to freeze than others. Try to eliminate any source of cold air that may enter your home whether it’s through insulation or fixing windows that let in cold air. 

3. Insulate Your Pipes. 

After you’ve identified freezing points of your house and located any exposed pipes, wrap the exposed pipes with a sleeve, heat tape or insulation to prevent them from bursting.

4. Winterize Your Hose Bib.

In the event of an extended period of severe cold weather, we recommend that you cut the water off to the exterior hose bibs (also commonly known as the outdoor faucet) at the water shut off valve. After cutting this water off, turn the hose bibs “on” so that it allows for the water in the pipes to drain and not freeze. This will eliminate the need for those cumbersome protective covers. 

Testimonial

11/7/2024 (Permalink)

 Mrs. ShifflettHuntsville AL8/2024 "SERVPRO came out to do demolition for a toilet that had overflowed on our second floor and seeped through the living room ceiling. The team did a phenomenal job of prepping the area and getting the demo done in what I thought was record time. Liz, Will, Kaitlyn and Jordan left the Space cleaner than when they arrived. They were also super quick filing paperwork to our insurance company making the whole process so very smooth. Would highly recommend their services!"    Tara, thank you so much for your kind review! We were able to recognize the team members you mentioned for executing such a professional job.

Ways to Prevent Mold Growth in Commercial Buildings

11/4/2024 (Permalink)

According to JSE Labs here are some tips to prevent mold growth in your commercial building:

1. Get Regular Inspections and Surveys

Staying vigilant is one of the best ways to prevent mold from growing on your property. It’s a good idea to learn how to spot potential signs of mold such as warped or stained walls, persistent musty smells, and new or irregular allergy symptoms.

2. Repair Leaks as Soon as Possible

Mold thrives in moist, damp environments. That’s why it’s vital that you keep up with repairs to prevent mold from having a chance to form. Focus on areas that commonly collect moisture such as basements, crawlspaces, and attics. 

3. Keep Humidity Levels Low

Even if you aren’t dealing with active leaks in your building, certain areas can still be damp enough to attract mold and lead to problems in the future – especially if you live in a humid climate.

4. Clean Your HVAC Systems

Heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are common culprits of mold spreading. Any system that increases the flow of air can potentially allow mold spores to travel to various areas of the building, increasing the spread of mold particles throughout the property and making it much more difficult to identify the source and treat the issue. Routinely cleaning your HVAC systems is a great way to prevent mold from growing and traveling to other areas.

What to Do If You Find Mold In Your Building

If you identify mold in your building, it’s important to remove it safely and as quickly as possible. That's where SERVPRO of South Madison County comes in. 

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

  1. Emergency Contact - (256) 533-5335
  2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
  3. Mold Containment
  4. Air Filtration
  5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
  6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
  7. Restoration

Tips for Space Heaters in The Home

10/28/2024 (Permalink)

Space heaters are involved in 1 of every 6 home fires.  Furthermore, 1 in every 5 home fire deaths and half of all fires caused by home heating occur between December and February.

Here are a few steps that can prevent home fires caused by a space heater. (via American Red Cross)

  1. Make sure to always keep anything that gives off heat at least 3 feet away from flammable materials or items.
  2. Never plug more than one heating appliance into an outlet.
  3. Keep portable gas generators outside and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  4. If you have a fireplace, make sure your chimney is checked and cleaned by a professional once a year. Use a metal or glass screen that is large enough to prevent escaping embers.
  5. Never leave fires (or candles) burning, or heating appliances plugged in, while asleep, in another room, or when you leave your home.

Take note of the above and insure that your home has taken all of the necessary precautions.

Huntsville, AL Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any Size Disaster
  • Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
  • Locally Owned and Operated
  • Veteran Owned
  • Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Huntsville, not only the fastest growing city in Alabama, but also the state’s largest city. Nearly 400,000 residents call Huntsville and Madison County home, with almost 9,000 University of Alabama Huntsville students. With multiple storm events in the area annually, it’s important to keep your home, apartment or business dry when water damage occurs. SERVPRO® franchise professionals are ready to help right now.

When homes and businesses in the Huntsville, AL area require the best in water-fire-mold restoration, we’re Here to Help®

The Huntsville area has many museums, sporting events and nature attractions. Within the city, there are more than 65 parks featuring over 3,000 acres.  Weather in Huntsville can be unpredictable, with severe storms, wind and tornadoes being a concern in the spring and summer months. Huntsville businesses need help right away when a water damage or flooding emergency occurs. You can count on our Madison County franchises for your restoration needs. We have locally owned and operated locations near you that are available today to take care of your emergency. Our residential and business services include:

Our locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchises are available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Give us a call, and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”®

Our commercial cleaning professionals are trained to follow CDC protocols for all types of specialty cleaning services for hazardous materials including the novel coronavirus, biohazard and mold removal.

Contact your local SERVPRO for a free, no-obligation consultation with our team of IICRC certified damage restoration specialists. No matter the amount of damage, SERVPRO has over 50 years of experience and over 1900 franchises nationwide.

Create a Clean Air Environment in Your Home or Office

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Protect Your Indoor Air Quality with HEPA Filtration

We receive quite many calls during wildfire season from people whose families and pets are suffering from the effects of the smoke and particulates that permeate nearly everything. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration is the solution we recommend. HEPA filters remove microscopic airborne particles down to .3 microns. However, it must be a true HEPA filtration system. There are many air filters and vacuum cleaners on the market that claim to have HEPA filters, but they are not ‘true’ HEPA purifiers or scrubbers. The powerful, commercial grade air scrubbers SERVPRO uses to remove soot and smoke odors are true HEPA filters. They move a large volume of air and the exhaust air is extremely clean.

Most Common Causes of Water Damage

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

About 40% of all homeowners have experienced a loss from water damage. It can spread contamination, ruin your paint and damage your wood. The good news is that 93% of all water damages could have been prevented with the right knowledge. How can you protect your home from residential water damage? Here are seven ways to prepare.

1. DAMAGED PIPES

Plumbing systems, especially in older homes, are susceptible to stoppages and damage. To prevent plumbing problems before they start, be on the lookout for cracks, bulges, stains and other signs of moisture on your ceiling or floors. If you spot a leak, it could be a sign that there is damage in other areas as well. Spikes in your water bill could mean you have additional damage to your landscaping, flooring and foundation. Look out for pipes in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, cabinets and attics. If you see any signs of water damage, call a plumber right away to avoid larger problems in the future. Be sure to check and insulate your pipes every year before winter begins. Pipes can rupture and freeze within a few hours, soaking your entire house.

2. APPLIANCES

As appliances get older, their pipes can rust and their hoses can weaken. Dishwasher leaks can leave an unwelcome puddle on your kitchen floor. Common causes include worn gaskets, broken doors and clogged drains. It can cause damage to your tile, electrical wiring and paint. A great way to prevent buildup in your dishwasher is to run a quart of vinegar through the machine each month. You can also scrape and rinse before you load it.

Flooding caused by washing machines is usually caused by leaky hoses. The leak can worsen over time and cause damage to your home. A washing machine valve shutoff kit can prevent the six gallons of water per minute from flooding into your home.

Refrigerators produce a lot of access water that can pool on the bottom of them. Drain lines can also become clogged. If there is a leak in the water supply line that feeds your ice machine, you could come home to a lot of standing water. To prevent your refrigerator from flooding, be sure that it is well insulated. Make sure that you do not move it in and out of its normal position too often, and inspect it regularly for leaks.

3. CLOGGED DRAINS

Bathroom and sink drains can become quickly clogged with dirt, grease, hair and other substances. Pipes can break down, and structural damage is common. If drain clogs are not cleared, problems such as disease, sickness and aggravated health conditions could occur. If left unchecked, clogged drains can cause damage to other places in the home. For example, a clogged toilet can back up into your sink. You may even warp the floorboards and wall support. Small screens can help keep unwanted materials from clogging drains. Pouring boiling water down your drain once a month can help dissolve grease, soap scum and other debris before it clogs your pipes.

4. NATURAL DISASTERS

Hurricanes, breaking dams and snowstorms can all bring excessive water into your home, causing it to flood. Large amounts of water can’t be absorbed by the land, and may overflow into your home. A flood alarm and warning system can help you protect your home against a natural disaster. If you live in a coastal area, be sure to purchase additional flood insurance. Some folks living in flood-prone areas raise their homes on stilts to prepare for floods. Others install foundation vents or sump pumps. You can also grade your lawn away from the house. Make sure you know where the water main is and shut it off when you leave for an extended period of time. This way, you will not come home to any unwanted surprises.

5. HVAC UNITS

Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems within your home can cause floods. Be sure to have these systems inspected and cleaned regularly. If you know there is an impending storm, shut off your central air conditioning to prevent damage and risk of electrocution.

6. SUMP PUMP PROBLEMS

If your sump pump stops working, you could have a major flood in your basement. You will then have to deal with potential mold growth, water removal, and bacteria. To keep your sump pump working optimally, always make sure that it is standing upright. Be sure that the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear. Your outlet pipes should be joined tightly together and drained out at least six feet from your location. If you notice any leaks in your sump pump, call a professional immediately.

7. STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

Moisture dripping through your concrete and crawl spaces can lead to mold and rotting. Check your home regularly for these signs. Cleaning your gutters regularly and maintaining your trees and vegetation will keep unwelcome water from damaging your walls and foundation. You can also install flood protection devices, such as an alarm that goes off when it detects moisture. Make sure your home’s water pressure is not too high. If it is, pipes and hoses can fail under the pressure. You can install a water pressure gauge to help you keep it even. A water pressure regulator can help you in homes where the water pressure cannot be controlled.

PREVENTING RESIDENTIAL WATER DAMAGE

Residential water damage can be caused by natural disasters, clogged drains or damaged pipes. With the right precautions, you likely won’t have to worry about water damage for years to come.

Choose SERVPRO as your professional restoration company

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

What is Ozone Treatment and Odor Removal?

For some smells, traditional air fresheners and other methods are simply not enough to remove the smell entirely. Instances of fire damage, mold, and even rotten smells may be cause to get a professional ozone treatment done on your home or property.

Ozone is a colorless gas that is very reactive and that does have the ability to oxidize odors. Ozone is similar to the oxygen that we breathe save for the fact that each molecule is made up of three atoms of oxygen rather than two as in the air that we breathe.

An ozone generator is used in a professional ozone treatment to generate these ozone atoms, the atoms then attach to and react with the odor molecules to neutralize them. The machine works to break down the molecules and bacteria that are causing the smells and then breaks them down into components that do not stink.

Ozone treatments and ozone generators are highly effective and are great in cases like a house fire where there is smoke damage and difficult smells. Ozone treatments are great for just about any smell that is hard to tackle and that might not be easily removed with things like air fresheners and more.

Professional Ozone Treatments

It is important to note that it is always going to be best to have a professional ozone treatment rather than try to do it yourself for a few reasons. For starters, ozone can be dangerous in very high concentrations. An ozone machine does create high levels of ozone and can cause sickness if the machine is not properly vented and regulated. 

It is highly beneficial to have a professional ozone treatment as a means of removing tough and difficult odors to help make sure that your home is going to smell great and that there are no traces of any foul odors. Professional treatment is the most thorough and fastest way to get rid of tough odors that might be making it difficult to live in your home. A professional company is going to be able to come in and get rid of the smell quickly so that you can get back to living.

SERVPRO tips for Spring Cleaning

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Rising temperatures, more sunshine, and blooming flowers – spring is here! It’s a season of transformation as the snow melts away and flowers start to bloom, and one that motivates many to start a home improvement project (or two).

If you’re ready to upgrade your property – inside and out -- a great first step is preparing your home for warmer weather and checking for any damage that may have been caused by the departing season’s ice and snow. This not only helps you prepare for larger projects, but it’s also a great way to fix small issues before they turn into big problems.

Not sure how to get started? We’ve broken out some tasks organized by home area.

YARD

  • Inspect sprinklers for punctures and other damage that could lead to leaking and yard flooding. A leaking sprinkler, no matter how slow, could lead to a leak that can damage your basement or your home’s foundation.
  • Remove debris and leaves that can prevent new grass from growing underneath. Removing this debris will also help prevent harm to children who may fall on sharp branches.
  • Trim bushes, trees, and other foliage that may have grown out of control. Pruning branches helps remove dead branches that may blow into your home during a wind storm.
  • Check decks and patios for boards in need of repair, then clean the boards to extend the life of the wood. A damaged patio board could lead to injury if not fixed, and could also lead to extended damage throughout the patio.
  • Clean grill to get rid of old debris and mess. Excess grease can lead to a flare up and possible fire damage to your home if it’s located near your property. Cleaning a grill also help heat the grill faster.
  • Assess the state of your lawn furniture and equipment, repairing, washing, or replacing as necessary. If lawn furniture is broken or used, replace it to avoid injury to those who use it. Chairs can wear down after being exposed to the elements, and playground equipment may need to be inspected to avoid injury to family members.
  • Take inventory of your gardening equipment to make sure you have what you need for maintenance, flower beds, etc. Lawnmowers and other gardening equipment will require maintenance to continue functioning. For example, lawnmowers need oil changes once every spring or 50 hours of use to run well for years to come.

YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR

  • Clean gutters and downspouts to remove blockage and allow water to flow properly. Having blockage could lead to overflow that can fall along the foundation of the building or lead to structural damage of buildings in certain cases.
  • Check roof for missing shingles, damaged pipes, or anything out of the ordinary. If you’re not comfortable climbing on the roof, do a once-over with binoculars. Don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert for help if you notice anything out of the ordinary or are unsure if repair is needed.
  • Inspect your driveway for cracks or damage caused by thawing ice. Ice and snow lead soil to expand, which can lead to unsightly damage to your driveway. Cracked concrete can also cause damage to cars, mold in areas connected to basements or other structures, and tripping hazards.
  • Check outside-facing walls for damage to stucco, brick, or wood. Look for stains that could indicate water damage inside the walls. Stucco damage repair and damage to walls can be fixed by professionals.
  • Look for foundational cracks that may require repair. Not taking care of these now could lead to extensive water damage if there’s a flood. The water will spill into the cracks and could cause uneven floors in your home, mold growth, and leaking water into basements.
  • Find your home’s sump pump and make sure it’s still in working order. Check to make sure that the water drains properly and away from your home by clearing debris and pouring water into the pit.

YOUR HOME’S INTERIOR

  • Look for leaking around windows. This means caulking and weather stripping may need to be replaced. If you see cracks, it might be time for new windows. Failing to do so could mean your home will take longer to heat or cool, which could be a costly mistake.
  • Clean your windows and replace the mesh if needed. The mesh prevents debris from entering your home, and can help protect your home from unwanted insects.
  • Think about areas of your home that are typically neglected, like the blinds, rails, cabinets, drawers, and closets. Give them a good cleaning by using the appropriate products for the material type.
  • Check the A/C unit and clean air ducts to ensure your home stays cool during the hot summer months. Cleaning your home’s air ducts protects your HVAC system and ensures it continues to function throughout the year.
  • Inspect your attic for signs of rodents or other intruders. Their droppings could lead to wood rot in your attic and harmful health risks to your family.
  • Look for damp insulation or leaks caused by melting ice dams. During winter months, ice dams will need to be removed since they may lead to leaks in your attic which could cause mold in your insulation. Water damage may also occur as it leaks into your home’s walls.
  • Check your basement for dampness which could indicate a leak or potential flooding if heavy rain occurs. If you need basement water removal, rely on an expert to help you out, doing it alone may mean that you’re not properly dehumidifying your basement.
  • Go over all walls and ceilings for signs of water damage. If you see some signs of water damage, reach out for water damage restoration services to help address the issue.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SPRING CLEANING

These are simple actions that have long-lasting payoff, so make sure you’re going through them on an annual basis. Failing to do so could result in costly damage to your home that will require home restoration services. The small cracks and issues you see today can create much larger problems, especially if severe weather hits your area.

But remember that you don’t have to tackle all home projects on your own. If you have extensive water damage, mold, or other property damage, the experts at SERVPRO of Madison County are here to help. We’ll work with you to address the problems you may have found during your inspection and make sure that your home is safe from damage. 

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips for 2022

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Here in Huntsville, AL it's a tradition to enjoy the cooler nights outside around a homemade fire pit! Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of moonlit nights and toasted marshmallows, take a moment to check out some of these tips on fire pit safety: 

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

  • Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.
  • Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.
  • Check wind direction before lighting a fire.
  • Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
  • To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning. 
  • Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke. 
  • Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.
  • Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.
  • As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can. 

Keep these tips in mind during your s'mores night so that the only fire you have to put out is the one around the pit.