What To Do First When Water Damage Strikes Your Home

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO employee setting drying equipment on a water mitigation project.

Did you know that 29% of all insurance claims yearly come from water and freezing damage? That gives your home a good chance of experiencing some water damage. Even if it hasn’t happened before, it is essential to be prepared for any possibility. So what do you do when water does strike? Do you call emergency services? Do you call SERVPRO? Well…give us a few moments to answer those questions for you and let you know the most important steps to take to minimize damage.

There are several things to consider when water starts to enter unwanted areas. We’ve listed some of the most important ones down below.

- Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to do so.

-Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home when access to the electrical panel is safe from electrical shock.

-Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.

-Move any paintings, art, objects, computers, documents, or other sensitive valuables to a dry place.

-Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

-Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

These are six essential things to consider when water infiltrates your home. But the most important of them all is to call your local SERVPRO as soon as you face any water damage. We are open 24/7 and ready to react to emergencies promptly. We have the equipment, the people, and the knowledge to restore your home to the point that it never even happened. We do everything we can to preserve every inch of your home. Our team does the dirty work so that you don’t have to!

The Steps We Take To Restore Your Water-Damaged Home

11/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment drying out a trampoline fun center effected by water damage.

Here at SERVPRO, we look to do everything with quality and excellence. Whether it is your business or home, we do everything we can to make it "Like it never even happened." So when it comes to water damage, nothing changes. If your basement floods or a small pipe leaks, we will fix it quickly and efficiently. 

Water can quickly destroy parts of your home, especially if not addressed appropriately. So we take the steps needed to restore and protect your property. 

• The first thing we do is make sure all water is removed from the affected area so that we can start the drying process. Sometimes that might require using equipment to pump out standing water.

• Sometimes drywall is involved. In that case, we cut 36 in. from the floor and remove the damaged drywall. 

• Next, we spray the area with an antimicrobial to kill the spread of bacteria and mold. When carpet is affected, we steam clean it to remove dirt that might still be present from the incident.

• Finally, we set drying equipment in specific locations to remove moisture efficiently, which usually takes at least three days.

Water restoration can be a lengthy process. But we do everything to ensure you don't have to think about your water accident again. We have all-natural chemicals to spray damaged areas and respect your property as if it were our own. 

No matter the size of your water damage, we will do everything we can to fix it. We have the equipment, the manpower, and the drive to serve you with everything we have so you don’t have to think about it again. Don't hesitate to contact us at SERVPRO NE Grand Rapids, Ionia & Montcalm Counties, and Big Rapids/Fremont. We're available 24/7 and here to make it like it never happened.

How Damaging Can Water Be to Your Home?

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water can be devastating.

Family and friends love to enjoy the pleasures of water together at all times of the year. Whether it be a summer day on Lake Michigan, or a ski trip to Northern Michigan. Water is something we all love in all forms. But we know that too much of it can cause problems. Water damage to your home or business needs to be remedied quickly with the least downtime to your daily business functions.

If not addressed quickly, water damage can be catastrophic to your home or business. A storm, flood, or plumbing problem can leave your home with extensive water damage. Damage can come from clogged gutters, clogged drains, exposed water supply lines, leaking water pipes, faulty appliances, and septic tank overflow.

Whether it’s from large amounts of rain, busted pipes, or clogged toilets, when water seeps into your home's infrastructure, it can become hazardous and costly. Current statistics for 2022 say that on any given day, water damage emergencies affect upwards of 14,000 people and household water damage costs $20 billion annually. (iPropertyManagement.com).

Water damage can also ruin standard house systems like electric and plumbing, resulting in thousands of dollars of remodeling if not taken care of appropriately. Mold is a secondary result of water damage inside a home. The mold that grows due to excess moisture can become a health threat to you and your loved ones causing significant respiratory issues.

Calling your local SERVPRO promptly when your home experiences water damage is the best way to limit further damage and preserve the health of the people you love. We’ll work closely with you to cause as little disruption to your home or business as possible. 

No matter the size or type of water damage, we have the experience and equipment to deal with it. SERVPRO techs are professionally trained and will make it "Like it never even happened."

The Importance of Planning for Storms

10/22/2022 (Permalink)

Without warning, nature can take a violent turn. Rain, wind, fire, and snow can lead to major damage leaving you uncertain and overwhelmed by these destructive storms.

Did you know that every year over 3,500 people die in America from natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes? Economic losses due to natural disasters reach 1 billion dollars. These are staggering statistics, so it is essential to have a plan in case the unexpected happens.

As dangerous as storms can be, you must have a plan on how to react. Here are three steps to stay safe during a natural disaster.

1. Create an emergency care kit that includes necessary food, water, batteries, flashlights, and any other items that might be helpful to you and your family during a storm.

1. Check to ensure emergency equipment is in proper working order: test generators, flashlights, radios, and battery packs. Check to see that storm shutters and windows close and lock properly.

1. Take an inventory of your personal belongings to ensure that you have enough property insurance to replace any possessions. Taking an inventory will also speed up the insurance claim and recovery process. Take pictures and write down descriptions of your items. 

Each of these steps will put you and your family in a better position to endure a storm that could occur in the future. Make sure that everyone in your family understands and knows the plan. Preparation is the key to good outcomes, which is why it is wise to prepare for anything. 

Here at SERVPRO, we do everything we can to protect you, your family, and your belongings from the devastating effects of storms. Not only are our employees professionally trained, but we are available 24/7 and can react to your emergency quickly and efficiently. Don't hesitate to call us. We're right here to make it like it never happened.

SERVPRO NE Grand Rapids’ Response to Hurricane Ian

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Ian approaching Florida as a category 4 storm.

Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida on Wednesday, September 28, 2022, as a category 4 storm. It ripped through the Fort Myers area with wind speeds up to 150 mph. After the storm made landfall, millions of Floridians quickly experienced widespread damage, including power outages and extreme flooding. Families were trapped in their homes due to fallen trees and debris. Sunday night's death toll had risen to at least 62 individuals. Search and rescue missions quickly went into action to find missing people. This storm has quickly become one of the most devastating hurricanes to have ripped through the state of Florida in recent memory.

SERVPRO reacted quickly to the news of storm damage by activating hundreds of storm teams and sending them to help the most affected areas. Franchise teams packed up all the necessary trucks, machinery, and equipment to appropriately deal with the water and storm damage. Our SERVPRO Grand Rapids NE franchise loaded up as soon as possible and began the twenty-hour drive from Michigan, even driving through several feet of water to reach their final destination in South Florida. They arrived Friday night and have already been helping to mitigate water damage caused by the flood waters in schools, homes, and businesses.

Our teams are highly trained and equipped with the proper hardware to complete the mitigation process efficiently. SERVPRO's storm teams are prequalified to address the damage and ready to help you navigate the insurance claims process coordinating necessary paperwork. We're standing by to walk alongside you.

We know that storms can be devastating. You can trust our storm recovery teams to help get you back in your home or business as quickly as possible. We serve so that you can get back on your feet quickly because no one should go through a natural disaster alone. We are only one call away and available 24/7. Disasters strike at a moment's notice, and we are here to help make storm damage like it never happened.

North Grand Rapids Water Damage and Mold Remediation Project

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians spraying chemicals on damaged areas of a basement.

Surprisingly, water damage is not just caused by a flood or a busted pipe. Many homes need mold remediation due to high levels of humidity, roof and foundation leaks, and even from overflowing washing machines. 

Since mold spores are microscopic, they can float in the air and enter through windows, doors, and even HVAC systems. They can even come into your home with clothing and pets. Without being addressed, mold can spread and cause prolonged health problems.

Recently, our team took on a mold and water damage remediation project in northern Grand Rapids, Michigan, dealing with high humidity levels causing persistent mold growth. Our team went to work using SERVPRO's specific procedures to remove the mold and prevent further damage.

Water and Mold Remediation Process

1. First, we started by HEPA vacuuming all the wood framing in the damaged location to remove the mold particles. HEPA vacuums remove 99.9% of airborne pollutants.

1. Then we sprayed the damaged area with a pet and kid-friendly chemical that kills the mold and prevents it from growing back and spreading to other places around the house.

1. From there, we set up drying equipment for several days to remove the air's moisture and fully dry the damaged structures from the original water.

1. Finally, we used a stronger than bleach chemical called MMR to clean the affected areas and remove any stains from the damaged areas.

This week-long process makes surfaces look like the mold never even happened.

When to Call About a Water or Mold Problem

If your home or business begins to smell musty and feel damp or wet, or if anyone starts to show prolonged allergic symptoms in your home, call us to diagnose the issue and determine the best action plan to resolve your mold issues. 

Mold can pose dangerous health problems to you and your loved ones. Be proactive and take care of your mold damage at the onset before it causes more significant issues down the road. If you have a mold problem, call us at (616) 647-4300.

Emergency Response Plan in Case of Fire

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

This house fire not only damaged the inside of the home, but it also destroyed the garage and the vehicles in it.

Did you know that in only 3 ½ minutes, a fire in your home or business can reach up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit? They can kill people in the building within minutes. Fires are extremely dangerous, causing danger to life, expensive damage repair, and cleanup costs.

Stay ahead of unexpected events with an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP). When disaster strikes, be prepared. An ERP is an in-depth plan created by one of our SERVPRO representatives for your business. It contains all the essential information needed to respond to an emergency quickly. This plan allows our team at SERVPRO to start the mitigation project so your business gets back on its feet. These plans are tailored to your facility with access to an app to feature the emergency process and contact information. 

An ERP is a no-cost assessment of your facility with a profile document that contains critical information. It's a short time to complete, but it will save time and effort over the long haul. 

An ERP contains information such as insurance, subcontractor contacts, primary on-site maintenance contact, and an in-depth building description of where control panels, fire extinguishers, etc., are located. We'll give you a guide to getting back into your building after a fire and help you identify the line of command for authorizing mitigation work. 

These plans are vital for your business to ensure safety and minimize damage and losses. With an Emergency Readiness Plan, you'll know what to do in case of disaster and avoid any interruption to your business.

Having a plan will give you and your employees peace of mind. The consultation and plan are free. You can download the "SERVPRO Ready Plan" mobile app on your iPhone or Android device. Learn more about the app here. 

Give our SERVPRO NE Grand Rapids office a call to set up an ERP appointment for all your properties today!

Flood Preparation for Commercial Buildings

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

A flood can severely impact your business!

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

Contact a Mitigation Company

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

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

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

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

Emergency Ready Program (ERP)

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for a disaster?

What is an ERP and how can it benefit your business in the event of an emergency?

ERP, which stands for "Emergency Ready Profile" is a service that SERVPRO provides and is 100% free! What's the catch you ask? That's the best part, there is no catch! We take your emergency needs very seriously in the event of a disaster, and with that comes a great sense of responsibility to get your business back up and running as soon as possible! The latest research shows that up to 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. The majority of businesses that survive have a readiness or preparedness plan in place. It's like having an insurance policy for your peace of mind. When your business is ready for whatever disaster may strike, no matter how your business was affected, your clients don't have to be.

Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place can greatly minimize interruptions to your business. When you know what to do in advance, the result is mitigation in a timely fashion. It can assist in limiting fire and water damage.

Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place is a simple process

We will come to you and do a no cost evaluation of your facility/business
This is a great value and is completely free to you!
A detailed document that contains crucial information required in case of an emergency
It will not take much time at all and should not disrupt your normal operations, but will save you valuable time if ever needed.
Instructions that will help you get back in to your facility as soon as possible
When you have an immediate plan of action it can greatly minimize the length at which your business is inactive
You have the premiere Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration company ready to spring into action
Confidence of knowing that an industry leader is close by and ready to serve you.
Establishes a chain of command authorizing work to begin
Crucial in saving time so we can begin work of mitigating the damage which in the end saves you money
Important details of your facility, where are all the shut-offs, areas of priority, and main contact information.
Having this information in place is crucial! Knowing where all the shut off valves are, areas of concern, and who to contact make all the difference in the world when disaster strikes!

Ready to put your "Emergency Ready Profile" In place? Give us a call!

(616) 647-4300

16 firework safety tips!

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to keep a safe distance from the fireworks!

The National Council on Fireworks Safety’s (NCFS) mission is to educate the public on the safe use of fireworks and encourages consumers to follow the following safety tips before engaging in fireworks celebrations:

1. Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

2. Know your fireworks – Read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.

3. A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.

4. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

5. Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

6. Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.

7. Do not hold a fireworks item in your hand.

8. Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.

9. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before you discard it.

10. After purchasing fireworks, always store them in a cool, dry place.

11. When using fireworks always have a connected hose, bucket of water, or another water source nearby.

12. Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.

13. Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

14. Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place them in a metal trashcan away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

15. Ensure all pets and animals are away from fireworks noise.

16. With the rise in stress-related disorders affecting American servicemen and women pay special consideration to individuals who may be sensitive to loud noises in proximity to your fireworks show.

If you have any questions regarding how to properly use fireworks we encourage you to consult your local dealer.

About The National Council on Fireworks Safety – The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the public about the safe and responsible enjoyment of consumer fireworks. For more information, visit http://www.fireworkssafety.org.

Stay safe this summer and 4th of July, and if a firework accident leaves your home with fire damage make sure to give us a call!

Campfire safety tips!

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

It's important to stay safe around campfires!

Having campfires and making smores are common summertime staples in the great state of Michigan! However, camp fires can quickly get out of hand if they are not monitored or properly managed. Here is a list of tips and tricks to keep in mind this summer while sitting around the campfire!

1. Be aware of your surroundings by making sure the campfire is set up away from dry grass and leaves. Dried out grass and leaves catch fire easily, and they spread fire quickly too. Also, make sure your campfire is far away from hanging free branches that could catch on fire.
2. Keep the size of the fire relatively small. Large fires are riskier, and pose a greater chance of getting out of control.
3. It’s always a good idea to keep a shovel and water close by when you’re having a campfire, so you can safely put the fire out when finished. According to smokeybear.com, to put a fire out, follow these steps: Pour lots of water on the fire, and drown ALL embers, not just the red ones. Pour water until hissing sound stops. With your shovel, scrape any remaining sticks and logs to remove any embers. Make sure that no embers are exposed and still smoldering. Continue adding water, dirt or sand and stir with a shovel until all material is cool. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos/campfire-safety/how-to-maintain-and-extinguish-your-campfire
4. If you are enjoying your fire at a campground or RV park, make sure to follow park rules for starting and putting out fires.
5. Never leave a campfire unattended.
6. Do not put anything other than wood into the fire.
7. Do not pull sticks out of the fire when blazing
8. Check out the weather before starting a campfire, and do not make one if the forecast shows wind. Wind can cause the fire to spread!
We hope that by sharing these tips, you will feel confident hosting a campfire for your friends and family! However, if fire damage does occur, we are here to help and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Enjoy the smores, everybody!

Why you should have a sump pump in your home!

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

A helpful diagram of how a sump pump works in your home!

Dealing with water damage in your basement is no laughing matter. A home owners’ basement is an important part of their home. It can be used for a variety of reasons including an additional bedroom, a lounge area, and storage. Important items in your life can get damaged if you have a water loss down there.
One of the main things protecting your basement from water is your home's sump pump! You may not know what sump pump is and what its use in your home is. Here's some helpful information on what it is, and what it does!

What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is in charge of pumping water that enters your basement out of your home and into an area where it is safe to drain. The device sits in a "sump" which is a pit dug into the lowest point of your home, generally this is either the basement or a crawl space. When it rains the soil around your home becomes oversaturated. When excess groundwater funnels toward the sump pump and begins to fill with water, the pump activates and begins to remove the water from the pit.

Do I need a Sump Pump?
Many Michigan homes already have a sump pump installed. Sump pumps are recommended for homes that are in areas that receive heavy rain or snow, built on a flood-prone plot, or have had water issues in the past. A sump pump is also recommended for homes that have a finished basement. Even though they may not be high risk, it’s important to protect the livable area.

How often should I check my sump pump?
It is recommended you should check your sump pump every 3 to 4 months to ensure that it is working properly! This is very important for insurance purposes. On most standard home owner insurance policies water damage caused by sump pump failure isn't covered. You can add coverage for an additional cost, but if you aren't willing to go that route, regularly checking that your sump pump works is your best bet!

Dealing with water damage in your basement? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Fire extinguisher tips in the work place

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher in in the work place.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the most common emergency small businesses must plan for is a fire. Fire extinguishers can be invaluable tools to help fight smaller fires in the workplace. Here are some tips on how and when to properly use a fire extinguisher!

Placement
There are certain legal requirements for fire extinguishers that every business has to follow. These rules can vary from state to state and city to city, so it's important to look up your local ordinances to ensure you're operating within fire code. There are general OSHA guidelines that require a fire extinguisher within 75 feet of locations where employees work, and one in stairwells.

Usage
When using a fire extinguisher it's important to remember the simple training technique, the PASS method.

P - Pull the pin on the extinguisher
A - Aim the hose nozzle low toward the base of the fire
S - Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until extinguished.

Fire extinguishers are meant to handle only small fires. If a fire becomes too large, or the environment becomes too dangerous, employees should know when and how to evacuate the area safely; and if appropriate, sound the fire alarm or call the fire department immediately.

Dealing with fire damage in your business? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Dealing with a biohazard in your commercial building

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Portions of an office quarantined due to a biohazard.

Owning a business means dealing with situation you may not have considered before. For instance, handling a biohazard in your building. A biohazard is a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment, such as blood or fecal matter. Because accidents are bound to happen, you may find yourself wondering what to do in case of a biohazard in your commercial building.

Anytime a business is dealing with a biohazard, there are procedures to follow set in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. These guidelines were made to keep employees safe. According to Spaulding.co, the most common type of biohazard that happens in the work place is spilled blood. If a small amount of blood is spilled on a hard surface, it is possible to take care of the cleanup without calling a professional. However, to be compliant with OSHA standards, any employee who regularly handles the cleanup must have completed Bloodborne Pathogen Standards training. The employee must also be provided with personal protective equipment, and they must be using an approved disinfectant product. Lastly, any biohazard waste needs to be clearly marked and properly disposed of.

If you are still unsure of when to call for help, consider the dinner plate theory. If the size of the blood shed is grater than the size of a dinner place, it's best to call a professional. Also, if the blood/biohazardous chemical spills on carpet, calling a professional right away is the safest option.

When it comes to biohazards, anybody who comes into contact with the affected area is at risk for blood born pathogen exposure. If there is any doubt in your ability to take care of the biohazard yourself, call SERVPRO. Our teams are expertly trained, use state of the art equipment, and are faster to any disaster.

Dealing with a biohazard in your business? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Preparing for Spring storms!

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

An extreme example of flooding that can be caused by spring storms!

Like the old saying goes "April showers bring May Flowers", but April showers can also bring along serious disaster to home and business owners. With winter and the snow long behind us (hopefully!) and spring in full swing, thunder storms and potential floods are on their way in. Just because it's about to start raining, doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared to prevent all the water damage you can! Here are some helpful tips to keep your house dry and your wallet stuffed all spring long!

1. Regularly check on your sump pump to ensure it can remove water at a sufficient pace during heavy rain fall.

2. Make sure you have digital copies of all your important documents in case they get wet or destroyed.

3. Inspect your basement windows by making sure they are properly sealed and caulked. This greatly reduces the chances of rainwater entering your home! If your basement windows have seen better days, consider getting them replaces. Newer windows generally have stronger and longer lasting seals.

4. If your West Michigan home or business is in an area where flood risks are high, consider purchasing sandbags! If water is approaching your home or business, sandbags can prevent water from coming in low basement windows or doorways.

5. If flood water does end up entering your home, act fast to put all valuable and electronics in a high place out of reach of the water.

If your house or business ends up with water damage from a Spring storm this year, don't delay, give us a call! (616) 647-4300!

Fire safety tips for the home

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

One of a home owner's worst nightmares!

A house fire can be one of the most devastating things a home owner can go through. The fires can range from a small kitchen fire to an entire inferno that consumes the whole house. While fires can cause a massive amount of money to the home owner, the most important issue during a fire is personal safety. When a fire starts you may only have a minute or two to escape safely after smoke alarms start to go off. Here are some tips to help make sure you are prepared in case of a fire in your home.

Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are an essential piece of home safety, and are critical when it comes to fire safety. The faster you are alerted to a fire, the quicker you can respond appropriately, and the quicker you can escape a potentially life threatening situation. Its recommended by the National Fire Protection Association to keep a smoke alarm on every level of the house, and one in every bedroom. They also recommend checking the batteries once a month.

Escape Plans
Having an escape plan is incredibly important when it comes to fire safety. As mentioned earlier when your smoke alarm goes off you may only have a couple of minutes or less to get out of your house safely. Preparing an escape plan with planned routes out of the house is of the utmost importance. An understanding of your house layout is important as well in case your original exit plan is blocked by fire or debris, that way you can make an adjustment on the fly if need be.

Dealing with a fire in your home? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Be careful heating your home in the winter!

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

A demonstration of a space heater catching fire

During the cold winter months we experience in West Michigan, people are doing just about everything they can to keep warm inside of their homes and apartments. While it's important to stay warm, making sure you are doing it safely is just as important. Many of the tactics people use to keep their house warm are also serious potential fire hazards. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when heating your home.

Space Heaters
Space heaters are an extremely popular method of heating areas of your home that trend colder than the rest of the house. Between 2014 and 2018 space heaters accounted for 14% of all home fires, and 19% of fire related deaths. Space heaters need 3 feet of open space around it to help prevent fires. Never place shoes or other items in front of a space heater to warm them up. As well space heaters should not be plugged into an extension cord, as this can cause them to overheat and start fires. Make sure as well to never leave a space heater on an unattended.

Fire Places
Fire places in homes can be a huge draw for home buyers and while they can make a living space feel comfy and warm during the winter months, they can also be a huge fire hazard. Obviously a fire place will have an open flame, so make sure to keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away at all times. If you use your fire place regularly, you should make sure to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year. Burning wood produces a thick, oily, substance called creosote that builds up in the chimney and is highly flammable.

Gas Furnaces
A well maintained gas furnace is usually the safest and most effective way to heat your home. If your furnace is old or hasn't been properly maintained you could be at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. With gas furnaces you may also be at risk of natural gas leaks. Gas leaks can cause fires and explosions if ignited.

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire in your home? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300!

The danger of ice dams

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

This diagram shows how an ice dam is formed

With winter fully upon us in West Michigan, the chances of dealing with a devastating water loss in your home are significantly higher than the rest of the year. Michigan winters bring challenges to homeowners that aren't seen in warmer parts of the country, and this can cause severe damage to your home or business if you are not careful. One of the biggest causes of winter time water damages are ice dams on your roof.

What is an ice dam?
An ice dam is a large build up of ice on the roof of a building that prevents water from melted snow or ice from draining safely off of your roof. Its formed when heat from the home escapes through the roof of the house and melts snow into water. This water will refreeze into solid ice and block further melted water from draining. With nowhere to go, standing water will start to find its way inside the building by seeping underneath the shingles. This water can cause massive damage to the ceilings and walls in your home, and can end up being very costly to repair.

How to remove an ice dam?
When an ice dam forms on your roof it is imperative that you take action to remove it immediately before it can cause any internal damage. One way to do this is to use a blunt mallet to break up the ice in chunks and remove it entirely. This is dangerous work and should only be done by a professional with roofing experience. Another way you can remove an ice dam is by filling a tube of pantyhose with calcium chloride. If you lay this tube horizontally across the dam it will melt over time and allow standing water to flow freely off of the roof.

How to prevent an ice dam?
Prevention is the best defense against an ice dam, and can save you a lot of trouble and money. Scraping snow off the roof is a good preventative measure, preventing it from ever melting and forming ice. Proper insulation will also help in preventing ice dams. Heat escaping through the roof of a building is the main cause of ice dams. Proper insulation will also have the added benefit of lowering the cost of heating your home.

If you have water damage from an ice dam be sure to give us a call! (616) 647-4300

SERVPRO First Responders Bowl!

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Air Force and Louisville are set to face off in the 2021 SERVPRO First Responders Bowl!

SERVPRO is set to host the fourth annual SERVPRO First Responder Bowl, a great college football game honoring the everyday frontline heroes in towns and cities across the nation. This year's game will be played Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at SMU's Gerald J. Ford Stadium, located on the campus of Sothern Methodist University (SMU) in University Park, Texas. Kickoff for the game is set for 2:15pm (CT) on ESPN.

Each year, SERVPRO asks their franchises nationwide to submit the name of a first responder in the local community to be considered for special recognition at the game. SERVPRO selects one first responder from this group of nominees to be honored with an award.

In previous years, through the generosity of corporate partners, the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl has been able to provide thousands of free tickets for first responders to attend the bowl game with their families.

Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, LLC says it best, "SERVPRO deals with the aftermath of the unexpected every day, but first responders deal with the unexpected when it's happening. They are the first on the scene, putting themselves in harm's way to protect people and property. The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is our opportunity each year to say 'thank you' on a national stage to these brave men and women - and their families - who set an example of courage and sacrifice for all of us."

So please join us on December 28, 2021 to honor first responders everywhere!

What is soda blasting?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO Technician soda blasting in a house!

No matter the age or specific location, most homes in West Michigan, are prone to mold growth. What many homeowners don't realize, however, is that some mold cleanup strategies work better than others. If the crawlspace, attic, or other hard-to-reach area in your home has fallen victim to fungal spreading, mold soda blasting may be the answer.

What Is It?

A powerful technique indeed, mold soda blasting is a process that uses different types of media to clean mold from surfaces. While baking soda is the most common material used in combating mold damage, dry ice and sand are also used. This strategy is relatively new and can take less time and work than older methods.

How Does It Work?

Using a high-pressure compressed air spray, the mold cleaning professionals remove mold from tricky spots. Although baking soda is soft in texture, its granules have a scratchy surface that can break up mold. Afraid of inflicting damage on your home itself? Not to worry; mold soda blasting is tough on the fungal culprit but easy on mold-affected surfaces.

What Are the Steps?

The experts stress the importance of addressing a mold issue quickly. Once you’ve put the cleanup plan into motion, the pros will inspect your home to determine areas of mold growth. Be sure to inform the mold cleaners of any past flooding or other water damage so they can pick the right solutions. The crawlspace is usually a hot spot for mold issues in most homes. After the cleanup process has reached its end, the professionals may vacuum the area and wipe off surfaces.

Whether you have a mold-infested crawlspace, or you suspect the spores may have extended into other parts of the house, it is crucial to delve into cleanup beyond surface-level. Not only is mold soda blasting a heavy-duty form of cleaning; it is also an innovative strategy that aligns with busy lifestyles and tight schedules.

What are air scrubbers?

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

An example of the type of air scrubbers we use regularly!

Air scrubbers, or negative air machines, are a portable air filtration machine. It draws air from the surrounding area and passes that air through a series of filters. These filters efficiently remove particles from the air to improve indoor air quality.

Why does SERVPRO use Air Scrubbers?
The goal of every restoration job is to safely and efficiently return the indoor environment to preloss condition for the customer. Any job that involves cleanup of sewage, mold and or fire damage will generate significant amounts of particulates and odoriferous gases. These contaminants are a direct result of the damage itself, as well as the necessary process of treating and cleaning damaged materials. An air scrubber helps prevent these undesirable and potentially harmful particles and gasses from remaining in the indoor environment.

Mold Remediation
Mold remediation projects can release large quantities of mold and fungal spores into the air. These indoor air pollutants can affect the health and comfort of occupants. Air scrubbers are equipped with multiple pre-filters for removal of visible airborne particles. The final stage filter, HEPA, captures microscopic particles and microbes such as fungal spores. HEPA filters can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns.

If you have odors from sewage, mold, fire, or water damage, let one of our professionals remove and remediate odors "Like it never even happened."

Your items can be restored

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Items from a fire loss in our Ozone treatment room.

After a fire or water loss in your home, you can be left searching for answers on what to do next. When disaster strikes you can be sure that SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, Ionia, and Montcalm Counties can be on the scene faster than the competition. While getting the structure cleaned up and restored as closely to its original state as possible will likely be your first priority, getting the items in your house that were damaged restored may be the last thing on your mind.

You may not know this, but depending on the level of damage your items have taken, they may be able to be restored to preloss condition. Losing items that are valuable to you monetarily or emotionally can be a gut wrenching experience, but just because something was damaged during a fire or water loss, doesn't mean you should automatically write it off as lost. We use the latest industry techniques to make sure you can keep the items from your home that are important to you.

Here's a quick run down of some of those techniques:

Ultrasonic Washing. Items that can be washed with water are placed in a tub with cleaning solution. Ultrasonic waves are pushed through the water creating millions of imploding bubbles that scrub the item clean.

Dry Sponges. Dry sponges are a special type of sponge that is used to wipe soot off of items. The chemicals within the sponge help it draw soot from the items it scrubs without smearing it on the item.

Ozone Treatment. This is a process where items are placed in a room and ozone gas is filtered through the room. Ozone binds with particles that produce smells and neutralizes the odor at the source. This method is primarily used to get rid of the smell of smoke.

Before you decide to throw away items after your fire or water loss consult with a SERVPRO professional to see if those items can be restored.

Get your emergency storm kit ready!

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

An emergency kit can keep you ready for a long loss of power!

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When disasters like these strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO is always here to help and give you tips on a basic emergency kit in case the unpredictable happens.
In a year filled with the unexpected, one thing that 2021 has shown us is to always be prepared. Here are some basics you should have in your emergency storm kit.

Basic emergency supply kit should include these recommended items:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
•  Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust Mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (To shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell Phone with chargers and a backup battery

If winter storms have you dealing with unprecedented disaster, give us a call. We're faster to any disaster and ready to take your call 24/7. Give us a call at (616) 647-4300.

Emergency Ready Program (ERP)

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Download the app today!

One of the worst things that can happen to any business owner is experiencing a massive disaster that puts you out of business. As many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them has a preparedness plan in place. Planning in case of a disaster can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. It can help you act faster to an emergency, and recover quicker.

At SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, Ionia, and Montcalm Counties, we offer an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. Having an ERP in place will help you minimize business interruption, and get you back in action as quick as possible. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The best part about our Emergency Ready Profiles? They're 100% free of charge. We want you to be as prepared as possible in case of an emergency. If you're interested in this wonderful service we offer, be sure to give us a call. (616) 647-4300.

About SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont

SERVPRO of Big Rapids/Fremont specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

How to prevent ice dams on your commercial properties

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Ice build up on a house roof

Every year in west Michigan we deal with an excessive amount of snow and cold temperatures that take a toll on your property. When the snow falls the last thing you think about ice dams that form on your commercial properties and the damage that they can cause. With some steps of prevention and things to look for you can save a lot of headache and money this winter season.

Things to look for when you suspect you have an ice dam problem.

• You see icicles forming behind the gutter

• Ice or water starts to form on the siding or around windows

• Ice begins to build on top of the gutters or lower edge of roof

• You see icicles forming on the edge of your roof this can be with or without gutters

• Ice begins coming through the soffit vents or through the soffit itself.

Preventing Ice Dams

• You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake or a broom or plastic shovel. Keeping the excess snow from building up on the edge of the roof

• Heated cables are another prevention tip for ice dams. Attached with clips along the roof's edge in a zigzag pattern, heated cabled combat ice dams that lift shingles and cause leaks.

These simple tips and things to look for will make it easier to know what the next steps are when dealing with water leaks in your home. Prevention is the key focus, but sometimes the damage is done to the property and cleaning up the water that made its way in from the roof is the top priority, and that's where SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, Ionia, and Montcalm Counties comes in and can make it "Like it never even happened."

Dealing with water damage from an ice dam? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Tips on preventing commercial mold damage

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

A mitigation specialist tackling mold growth on a wall

Vigilance is key when preventing mold growth. When mold strike in your commercial property, you need to act fast to limit the amount of damage done. A professional mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, Ionia, and Montcalm Counties, can address mold issues in homes and businesses as well as help property owners. If mold growth occurs, be sure to give us a call as soon as possible to minimize any damage and stop the mold from spreading.

Increase the heat
One way to prevent mold from growing in your commercial property is to increase the heat. When the walls on a property are too cold, moisture particles in the air condensate, creating a damp film that leads to mold formation. In the summer keep the thermostat on a low heat setting, and insulate the walls on the property.

Reduce Steam
Steam is a common cause of commercial mold damage. To reduce steam, business owners should:

? Not allow standing water to sit in the dink or a drinking glass.
? Install and use an extractor fan in the bathroom to clear the steam after a hot shower or batch.
? Put wet clothes outside on a clothesline to dry instead of indoors.
? Run the ventilation fan on the range hood to suck up steam from liquids boiling on top of the stove.

Maximize Air Flow
An easy way to keep commercial damage from mold at bay is to open the windows and let cold air circulate inside the property. Open windows keep surfaces dry and push mold spores outdoors. To further increase airflow and reduce hidden pockets of air, pull furniture away from walls. If mold is spotted behind furniture or curtains, we can help eliminate it.

Other Mold Prevention Tips
There are other ways to prevent commercial damage from mold. Here are some additional tips we recommend to business owners and home owners:
? Fix any leaks from dripping pipes and water overflows
? Keep the roof in good repair especially if the roof is flat
? Throw away mold damaged items such as books and rotting food.

Dealing with Mold in your property? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

The fire dangers of Christmas decorations

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

When real Christmas Trees go un-watered they have a higher chance of catching fire.

Christmas is one of the most wonderful times of the years, where decorations inside and outside of the home light up the night and keep you and your family comfy during the cold December nights. While Christmas lights and trees are sure signs of the holidays, many can also end up becoming dangerous fire hazards. If you aren't careful your happy holidays could turn into a disaster very quickly. Make sure to understand the dangers of your holiday decorations to ensure you and your family enjoy a Merry Christmas.

- Real Christmas Trees. Real trees are the most popular option for Christmas Trees. Around 78% of Americans choose a real tree for their home, and spend over one billion annually on their trees. Without proper care a real tree can be engulfed in flames in under a minute. Make sure to keep water in the base of the tree stand to prevent it from drying out, and never put your tree close to a fireplace, candles, or other open flame.

- Fake Christmas Trees. Most fake Christmas trees pose less of a fire hazard than real trees because they are treated with flame retardant chemicals. Flame retardant does not mean a fake tree cannot catch fire however and similar precautions should be taken as if you had a real tree. Because of the chemicals added to fake trees, smoke from them in case of a fire can contain toxic chemicals that can be extremely harmful.

- Christmas Lights. Just because your Christmas lights worked last year don't assume they will this year. Make sure to check each strand for broken bulbs and nicks in the cord. Any exposed wires on the string of lights could lead to a fire if they come into contact with a flammable source.

- Male to Male Extension Cords. Male to Male extension cords are a relatively rare type of power accessory. You won't find them in many reputable hardware stores, but they have popped up online in recent months. These cords have two prong end and when plugged in electricity is constantly flowing to the unplugged prongs. This can lead to serious physical damage if touched. They also produce a lot of heat on the exposed end and can cause fires if they come into contact with anything flammable.

Unexpected fire damage raining on your holiday parade? Give us a call and we can make it "Like it never even happened." (616) 647-4300

Ready faster to any disaster

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

One of our dedicated team members getting air movers into place to dry out the walls.

On the day before Thanksgiving around 4 P.M. we got a call that Ross College of Grand Rapids had suffered a water loss from a fire suppression sprinkler breaking. Despite being late in the day before a holiday, we were on the scene in a matter of minutes. Water poured out of the fire suppression system for 15 minutes, while that may not seem like a long time, it's an eternity with how fast water can pour out of a broken sprinkler head.

We had three crews on the scene to start mitigation services, and got to work immediately extracting an impressive amount of standing water from the main floor and basement. Water had made its way into the walls and in some areas of the basement ceiling. We ended up setting up over 100 air movers to dry the walls and ceiling throughout the building, that ran for nearly three days. In total over 3,000 sq feet of commercial property was damaged from only 15 minutes of water running through the broken sprinkler head.

When dealing with a water loss, time is a serious factor in how much damage can be prevented. When time is of the essence there's no one better to call than SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, Ionia, Montcalm Counties and Big Rapids/Fremont. We have the manpower, equipment, and can do attitude to get to your emergency faster than the competition 24/7/365. We work harder to fix your worst nightmare, and give you the peace of mind that things will be back to normal soon. To put it simply, we make it "Like it never even happened."

Dealing with water or fire damage? Give us a call 616-647-4300

Steps to take after an apartment fire

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

A fire rages in an apartment building

When a fire breaks out on a rental property it can be hard to figure out who has to pay for the damages. Whether you rent out commercial or living space, the liability after a fire is pretty straightforward. Tenants will be responsible for damages done to their personal belongings, such as furniture and appliances. As the property owner you will be responsible for most of the damages done to the building itself. Following a fire you may be responsible for the following tasks after an apartment fire:

? Communicating with Fire Fighters. These first responders can help you assess the safety of your building. You and your tenants will likely want to enter the apartments to get an idea of the damage done. You won't be able to enter the building until it is deemed safe.

? Starting the Claims Process. You have to get in touch with your insurance provider to report the apartment fire. Your agent may give you a list of fire restoration professionals that they prefer you use. You may also want to make sure your renter calls his or her insurance provider to start the claims process for personal belongings.
? Documenting Fire Damage: You need to take pictures of the structure, make lists of damaged appliances and record other furnishings you owned that were damaged.

? Securing the Property. You need to secure the property for two reasons. First, you need to protect the safety of those who may want to enter the building, such as your renters. Putting up warning signs may be enough to keep people out until it is safe to enter. Second, you need to keep vandals and thieves out. You may need to board up windows and put up a security fence.

After an apartment fire, you need to take the proper steps to ensure that everyone, including yourself, is safe and fully aware of the damage liabilities. While you aren't responsible for all of the damages, you do have a lot of financial responsibility.

Dealing with fire damage in your rental property? Give us a call! (616) 647-4300

Three ways a winter storm can damage your property

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Old roofs are susceptible to roof collapses under heavy snow accumulation.

During the winter in West Michigan, lake effect snow storms can dump massive amounts of snow in a short period of time. While Michiganders are generally well equipped to deal with snowfall, blizzards can cause a large amount of damage to your property if you are ill-prepared. You can help prevent irreparable damage by:

? Replacing your building's roof every 20-30 years
? Updating appliances
? Insulating your building's plumbing system

Damage from a storm can catch property owners off guard, especially if they are new to owning their own property. Here are some of the most common damages inclement winter weather can do to a building.

1. Plumbing Issues
A common cause of burst pipes is cold weather brought on by winter storms. Lowered temperatures cause water to freeze inside of pipes. The frozen water then increases the pressure inside of your building's plumbing system. Pipes can burst under this pressure and can result in devastating water damage. If you experience a burst pipe, stop the flow of water immediately to prevent further damage.

2. Roof Collapse
Roofs are engineers to carry at least 20 pounds per square foot. When a winter storm hits, the snow can pack on top of your roof putting extra weight and strain on the structure. An older roof can cave in under the stress of packed snow. Ice dams are another common cause of roof collapse. Insurance companies will often cover a replacement roof if you have experiences this type of storm damage.

3. House Fires
Property owners crank up the heat during inclement weather by using furnaces and gas heaters. This increases the risk of a fire, especially if appliances are outdated. The stress of added heat can cause the old appliances to catch fire, causing sever damage to the building. To prevent a fire, keep your heating and electrical systems updated before a storm hits.

su

Dealing with damage from a winter storm? Give us a call! 616-647-4300

How to protect your pipes from bursting

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Your pipes freezing can cause bursts like this and lead to devastating water damage.

Many properties in the state of Michigan are unattended during the winter months. They could be a vacation home that only gets used in the summer, or a primary residence where the owners have gone south for the winter. While your house remains empty during the cold winter months, the risk of your water pipes freezing and bursting rises exponentially. Even a relatively short trip away can cause serious damage to your home if the proper steps aren't taken before hand.

? Insulate your pipes. Pipe insulation can be one of the most effective and cost efficient methods of preventing your pipes from freezing. Almost all pipe insulation fits easily over the outside of the pipes, and some forms of insulation can protect to temperatures of -50 degrees Celsius.

? Let faucets drip. While this may sound counterintuitive at first, running water has a much harder time freezing than standing water. Letting the faucets drip can also help relieve pressure in the pipes so that if water does freeze, the pipes are less likely to burst.

? Leave the heat on. While you may be running the heat in an empty house, keeping the heat on will help prevent your home from dipping into freezing temperatures. You don't need to keep it as warm as you would if it were occupied, 55 degrees or higher is appropriate to keep your pipes safe.

? Open interior doors. To some degree, most homes have an uneven distribution of heat throughout the structure. Leaving all of the interior doors open helps circulate heat evenly throughout the home.

? Drain your pipes. Removing the water from your pipes is one of the best ways to prevent pipe bursts. With no water standing in the pipes none can freeze, and with the water main turned off to the house, no water would pass through on the chance you experienced a burst.

Dealing with water damage from burst pipes? Give us a call! 616-647-4300

The danger of sewage backups

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

An example of a sewage backup in a home bathroom. Only trained professionals should attempt sewage remediation.

Water damage can come from a variety of sources. One place in your home water damage can come from is the sewage pipes. Sewage back-ups in your home can be as dangerous to your health as they are to the items and structure of your home. Sewage can contain a variety of disease causing pathogens and should only be handled by professionals.

Here are the key principles homeowners should know about sewage back-ups and how to handle the situation with caution:

- Sewage contains a variety of pathogenic - disease causing - fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Anyone who works on sewage losses must have updated vaccinations, including one for Hepatitis B.

- Sewage exposure is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including anyone under two or over 60, those who are pregnant, ill, recovering from surgery, on prescription drugs or chemotherapy, or are AIDS victims.

- It is not safe to stay in a building that's flooded with sewage unless the contaminated area can be completely sealed off and placed under controlled air flow so that there will be no cross contamination of unaffected areas.

- Highly absorbent sewage-saturated materials, such as carpet, pad, upholstery, bedding, wicker, paper, or even fabrics that can; be washed in hot water (130°F/54°C) for at least 10 minutes, must be contained and disposed of properly. This goes for sewage-saturated drywall, insulation, and several other structural materials too. There's simply too great a health risk involved if any of these materials are dried in place and cleaned only.

- Only the most highly trained professionals should attempt sewage remediation work. Then, a "third party" indoor environmental professional can provide post-remediation verification or "Clearance testing" to ensure that the home or building is safe to re-occupy.

Dealing with a sewer backup in your home? Give us a call! 616-647-4300

How to keep mold out of your bathroom

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over your bathroom! Keep reading for preventative tips and tricks! If all else fails, we are here to help!

Mold can be a common occurrence after an instance of water damage. Mold requires water, food, an oxygen to grow, all three are prevalent after a water loss. However, one of the most common places mold grows in a home is in the bathroom. This can happen with only regular use and no extraordinary circumstances occurring. Here are some helpful tips to prevent mold growth in your bathroom.

Frequent Cleaning

The best method to prevent mold growth is keeping the bathroom clean. You should aim to thoroughly clean every part of the room once a week, including:

• Toilet
• Bathtub
• Sink
• Floor
• Vents
• Shower

Tub and tile cleaners are likely to have enzymatic properties. Enzymatic cleaners are designed to eat through organic material, such as mold.

Timely Repairs

Bathrooms are vulnerable to frequent leaks. If one pipe leaks or one supply line breaks, resulting water damage can lead to mold if the problem is not resolved quickly.

Proper Air Flow

Maintaining airflow to an area by keeping vents open can prevent mold spores from settling and multiplying on surfaces. Ventilation also helps prevent stagnation and helps control the humidity in the room, two factors that often lead to mold contamination.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Mold damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

What to do when lightning strikes?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes in an open field, a dangerous area to be during a thunder storm.

Lightning is one of the most common occurrences during a storm, it is also one of the most dangerous. Lightning strikes at random and it's impossible to predict where it will hit. While you have a million to one chance of getting struck by lightning, it can start fires and deal damage to trees and buildings easily. It's important to act quickly when the first signs of lightning appear and act accordingly, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.

When Outside

• Remember the 30-30 rule. When you see lightning count for 30 seconds, if you hear thunder before 30 seconds are up head to shelter immediately. Suspend activities for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

• If you are caught in an open area, act quickly to find adequate shelter. The most important action is to remove yourself from danger.

• Stay away from concrete floors or walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

When Indoors

• Avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm. DO NOT bathe, shower, wash dishes or have any contact with water during a thunderstorm as lightning can travel through plumbing.

• Avoid using electronical equipment. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, and radio and television reception systems.

• Avoid using corded phones. Corded phones are NOT safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, cordless or cellular phones are safe to use during a storm.

Storm damage can happen fast and leave you searching for answers on how to recover. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and SERVPRO of Ionia & Montcalm Counties responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Northeast Grand Rapids home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

What causes damage during a storm?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

One of the many end results of a storm. This tree was uprooted by high winds, and fell onto this house causing damage.

Since the beginning of April, West Michigan has seen eight occurrences of severe storm weather according to the National Weather Service. Storms during this time left hundreds without power and caused thousands of dollars worth of property damage. Thunder storms are one of the most common severe weather threats seen in Michigan, but what in these storms brings about so much damage?

High Winds
Thunder storms have the potential to reach wind speeds of up to 120 MPH, and can cause enough damage to rival a tornado. Wind becomes capable of damaging structures between 40-50 MPH. High speed winds can uproot trees, knock down powerlines, damage roofs, and turn lighter objects into high speed projectiles.

Hail
Thunder storms are capable of producing hail of all sizes. Large hail can dent cars, damage roofs, and even break windows. On average hail storms last only 5 minutes, but are responsible for an estimated one billion dollars of damage annually.

Lightning
Lightning occurs regularly during thunderstorms. Each flash takes an average of 0.2 seconds and can heat up the air surrounding it to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightning can cause fires if it strikes something flammable, and when hitting a house can surge though and permanently damage appliances plugged into outlets.

Flooding
Storms can be capable of producing flash floods within minutes of rainfall. Rising water can cause mudslides, tear out trees, and destroy buildings. Along with physical damage, flood water can produce health risks when mixed with sewage, chemicals, and debris that get swept up during the flooding.

Storm damage can happen fast and leave you searching for answers on how to recover. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and SERVPRO of Ionia & Montcalm Counties responds immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your Northeast Grand Rapids home or business back to pre-storm condition.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

Some helpful tips to avoid water damage in your home

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Check your pipes!

It is probably no surprise that water damage is one of the most common, not to mention costly claims that insurance companies receive. That is because water damage can be a year round risk. With that being said there are steps you can take to make sure you are doing everything you can to prevent unnecessary mishaps and or incidents from taking place. We realize that not all water damage incidents can be completely avoided but we certainly can do our part to minimize those incidents.

Let’s start with the outside; make sure you are disconnecting your hoses in preparation for winter. This should be a part of your Fall to-do list. If you leave your hoses attached, standing water can freeze in the hose and back into your pipes. If you are lucky it will only block water flow, the worst case however is that it causes pipes to burst creating damage to walls, floors and your foundation. So disconnect those hoses!

Cleaning out your gutters and downspouts is another great way to prevent water damage. This should really be done twice a year. If you are not properly cleaning them out,  you are left with standing water in your gutters. This can cause damage to your roof and gutters. And when the water has nowhere to go and it can back up under your shingles. So don’t neglect your gutters!

Inside your home it is important to know where your water main is. Plumbing experts say that knowing where the main water shut off is key to preventing a major water loss.It supplies water to the entire home so in the event of a potential water issue, you are prepared. Another helpful tip is knowing how to maintain your appliances. Appliances are one of the top causes of water damage in a home. Maintaining them can make all the difference. It’s also good to check the water lines for any leaks. If you do find evidence of a leak anywhere in your home, it is highly recommended to investigate it immediately and take the necessary corrective steps to get it fixed! Ignoring leaks of any kind from anywhere in your home is never a good idea. It can lead to unnecessary damage, mold, dry rot and structure damage. 

For more helpful tips, or if you have any questions please call us at (616) 647-4300

Is your home a fire Hazard?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can be prevented with some simple precautions

A fire can happen within minutes and with little to no warning - it starts with the smallest of flames, then it spreads while it searches for fuel. And before you know it you could have a life threatening situation on your hands. But fires can be prevented and with some very simple precautions. It is important that we take the time to be diligent in fire safety. It may seem tedious and an inconvenience, but I promise you losing your home or business to a fire can be a much bigger inconvenience. Here are some simple precautions you can take.

• Smoke alarms can double your chance of you surviving a fire. And it goes without saying that in your home or business, you should have several.
• Do not be neglectful when it comes to testing them. Check the batteries regularly
• You should test them once a month and change the batteries every 6 months
• Keep fire extinguishers in your home. Make sure they are easily accessible
• In your kitchen keep paper towels, hand towels and curtains away from burners
• If your microwave is not built in, make sure it is free of surrounding clutter and has good ventilation
• Do not have more than one heating device plugged into an outlet

In the event that you have experienced a fire, there are a few questions to ask such as:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• What electrical or slip and fall hazards are there?
• Determine what activities are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be very heavy so be careful

We here at SERVPRO understand how devastating a fire can be. And that is why we always strive to be the very best in cleaning up after a fire. Our motto is “Like it never even happened.” We have highly trained technicians and project managers that will walk you through the process with care and compassion. We will work with you from start to finish and work to get you back in your home or business safely and quickly. 

If you have experienced a fire in your home or business, please call us at (616) 647-4300

Storms can be devastating

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Storm or Flood Damage? Call us today (616) 647-4300

Storms can be devastating to any business or home. A multitude of issues can cause damage including wind, heavy rain and flooding. And it can happen quickly and with little warning. Inclement weather is not on a schedule and there is never a convenient time for flooding and storm damage to affect your business or home. Even if we can plan ahead, the destruction they can leave behind can be life altering. Cleaning up after a storm can mean lost revenue for your business, and if your home is affected it can mean time away from work.

At SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and SERVPRO of Ionia & Montcalm Counties we take tremendous pride in handling the devastation caused by severe storms. We have the training, the experience, the know how and the equipment to handle any loss caused by storm damage. It does not matter what size your property is, we will respond quickly to clean your property and manage the restoration process. Our motto is “Like it never even happened,” and that is exactly what we strive for each and every time. 

What can you do until help arrives?

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Are there any electrical and “slip and fall” hazards?
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be very heavy, so be careful when attempting to remove these on your own

What to do after flooding:

• Remove excess water by mopping or blotting
• Gather lose items from floor
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and table items
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting

We are proud to be a part of your community and our goal is to provide businesses and residents with the fastest response times and our absolute best work each and every day!

What is an ERP?

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Is your business ready for a disaster?

What is an ERP and how can it benefit your business in the event of an emergency?

ERP, which stands for “Emergency Ready Profile” is a service that SERVPRO provides and is 100% free! What’s the catch you ask? That is the best part, there is no catch. We take your emergency needs very seriously in the event of a disaster, and with that comes a great sense of responsibility to get your business back up and running ASAP! The latest research shows that up to 50% of businesses close down following a disaster. The majority of businesses that do survive have a readiness or preparedness plan in place. It’s like having an insurance policy for your peace of mind. And when your business is ready for whatever disaster may strike, no matter how your business was affected, your clients don’t have to be.

Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile in place can greatly minimize interruptions to your business. When you know what to do in advance, the result is mitigation in a timely fashion. It can assist in limiting fire and water damage.

Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place is a simple process

• We will come to you and do a no cost evaluation of your facility/business

This is a great value and is completely free to you!

• A detailed document that contains crucial information required in case of an emergency

It will not take much time at all and should not disrupt your normal operations, but will save you valuable time if ever needed

• Instructions that will help you get back in to your facility as soon as possible

When you have an immediate plan of action it can greatly minimize the length at which your business is inactive

• You have the premiere Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration company ready to spring into action

Confidence of knowing that an industry leader is close by and ready to serve you

• Establishes chain of command authorizing work to begin

Crucial in saving time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which in the end saves you money

• Important details of your facility, where are all the shut-offs?, areas of priority and main contact information

Having this information in place is crucial! Knowing where all the shut-off valves are, areas of concern and who to contact make all the difference in the world when disaster strikes.

Ready to put your “Emergency Ready Profile” in place? Give us a call!

(616) 647-4300

Fire, smoke, and soot damage services!

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's equipment, expertise, & experience sets us apart from the competition. Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Give us call!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids/Ionia & Montcalm counties has IICRC Certified and Trained Restoration Technicians on staff to assist with All your Fire, Smoke and Soot Clean-up needs.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids / Ionia & Montcalm Counties will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Give us a call! 616-647-4300!

Campfire Safety Tips!

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Having a campfire is a summer staple in Michigan. Check out our tips for having a safe and fun campfire!

Having campfires and making smores are common summertime staples in the great state of Michigan! However, camp fires can quickly get out of hand if they are not monitored or properly managed. Here is a list of tips and tricks to keep in mind this summer while sitting around the campfire!

1. Be aware of your surroundings by making sure the campfire is set up away from dry grass and leaves. Dried out grass and leaves catch fire easily, and they spread fire quickly too. Also, make sure your campfire is far away from hanging free branches that could catch on fire. 
2. Keep the size of the fire relatively small. Large fires are more risky, and pose a greater chance of getting out of control. 
3. It’s always a good idea to keep a shovel and water close by when you’re having a campfire, so you can safely put the fire out when finished. According to smokeybear.com, to put a fire out, follow these steps: Pour lots of water on the fire, and drown ALL embers, not just the red ones. Pour water until hissing sound stops. With your shovel, scrape any remaining sticks and logs to remove any embers. Make sure that no embers are exposed and still smoldering .Continue adding water, dirt or sand and stir with a shovel until all material is cool. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos/campfire-safety/how-to-maintain-and-extinguish-your-campfire 
4. If you are enjoying your fire at a campground or RV park, make sure to follow park rules for starting and putting out fires. 
5. Never leave a campfire unattended. 
6. Do not put anything other than wood into the fire. 
7. Do not pull sticks out of the fire when blazing
8. Check out the weather before starting a campfire, and do not make one if the forecast shows wind. Wind can cause the fire to spread!

We hope that by sharing these tips, you will feel confident hosting a campfire for your friends and family! However, if fire damage does occur, we are here to help and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Enjoy the smores, everybody!

When water damages surprises you

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids/Ionia & Montcalm counties understands that water damage can happen when you least expect it. That's why we're open 24/7!

A recent customer of ours came home to find water damage in his house after he had been away on business. There was water damage in his garage, the entire main level of his home, as well as parts of the basement. The source of the water damage was a broken water line, and the water was likely sitting for a while before the customer came home and found it. On our first day on the job, our expertly trained technicians took out all affected flooring, as well as removed the bathroom wall panels. We also removed the drywall, insulation, and set up 14 air movers and 3 dehumidifiers to dry out the structure. Throughout the next few visits, one of our project managers monitored the home to see how everything was drying. Once the drywall and flooring were no longer wet, we treated them with an antimicrobial to discourage mold growth and sanitize the structure! We are proud to say that the homeowner was happy with our work, and we were able to restore a large chunk of the damage that otherwise would’ve needed replacing. While we hope this never happens to your Grand Rapids Michigan home, we are here to help if it does. 

SERVPRO goes to SCHOOL!

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Trust the team in green to take care of your commercial property damage!

SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids / Ionia & Montcalm counties can remediate many different types of damage your commercial building may face, including vandalism. For example, this local elementary school was vandalized after perpetrators broke in and discharged fire extinguishers indoors. The white residue from the extinguishers covered the floors, books, desks, and teaching materials, leaving the school in a disastrous state. Due to the significant amount of damage, the school had to shut down for a few days, which allowed our crews to start cleaning and restoring the school to its pre-damaged condition! We took each individual library book back to our shop to get thoroughly and meticulously cleaned, while other members of our team started working on the floors and structure of the school. We are grateful for the opportunity we had to serve our local community by restoring the damage done to this school. While we hope it never happens to your commercial business, we are prepared to help if it does. Our phones are on 24/7, and we have emergency crews on stand by! You can count on SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids/Ionia & Montcalm counties to be there when you need us most. 

There in a Flash for your Commercial Emergency Needs

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been in the game since 1967, making us a trusted national leader in Commercial restoration services! ( Photo by Keenan Barber)

SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when it started out as a painting business. Fast forward 2 years later, SERVPRO founders Ted and Doris Isaacson started franchising SERVPRO as a professional cleaning and restoration company! Since then, SERVPRO has continued its growth, and there are now 1,900 + franchises! Needless to say, we’ve been in the game a long time. SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids / Ionia & Montcalm counties is one of the trusted national leaders in fire, water, and mold remediation, as well as specialty cleanup and restoration services! ( Biohazards, Covid-19 Disinfecting, Vandalism cleanup, and odor removal! ) You can trust our professional team to take care of your commercial businesses, no matter how big or small! We have emergency crews on standby 24/7 ready to respond to your emergency commercial damage needs. Whether your commercial property has faced water, fire, mold, or any other type of specialty damage, you can count on the experts at SERVPRO of  North East Grand Rapids / Ionia & Montcalm counties! (616) 647-4300

Prepare your home for Spring Storms!

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with your storm damage needs! We are available 24/7!

Spring has sprung in Michigan, which means we get to celebrate the fact that we won’t have to deal with snow for a long, long time! (Hopefully--you just never know in Michigan!) However, we will have to deal with thunderstorms and the possible water damage they may cause in our Grand Rapids Michigan homes or commercial properties. Here are a few ways you can prevent water damage or flood damage in your home or business this spring!

1. Regularly Check on your sump pump to ensure it can remove water at a sufficient  pace during heavy rainfall. 
2. Make sure you have digital copies of all your important documents in case they get wet or destroyed. 
3. Inspect your basement windows by making sure they are properly sealed and caulked. This greatly reduces the chances of rainwater entering your home! If your basement windows have seen better days, consider getting them replaced. Newer windows generally have stronger and longer lasting seals. 
4. If your Grand Rapids Michigan home or business is in an area where flood risks are high, consider purchasing sandbags! If water is approaching your home or business, sandbags can prevent water from coming in low basement windows or doorways. 
5. If you still end up with water damage or flood damage this spring, don’t panic! SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids/ Ionia & Montcalm counties is here to help! We are available 24/7 to meet your emergency water damage or flood damage restoration needs! 

6 insane (but true!) Facts about FIRE!

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

There are a LOT of crazy facts about fire and how it works. Keep reading to learn something new!

6 insane (but true!) Facts about FIRE! 

1. Did you know that fire makes water? If you hold a cold spoon over a flame, water vapor will condense on the metal. Give it a try for yourself! 
2. Earth is the only planet that has enough oxygen to allow fire.
3. America’s deadliest fire occurred on a steamship on April 27, 1865. The steamship, called “The Sultana”, was 6 times over the capacity limits when the boilers on the ship exploded. This explosion started a massive fire that left 1,547 people dead. 
4. Have you ever noticed how fire isn’t always orange, or that it sometimes changes color? The color of the flames is related to how much oxygen is in the fire. For example, a fire with low oxygen flames gives off a yellow hue, while fires with high oxygen levels show off a blue flame. 
5. Did you know that a house fire will double in size every two minutes? This is another reason why it is VITAL to have an evacuation plan that everyone in the family is familiar with. 
6. The Great Fire of London took place in 1666, and wrecked 80% of the beautiful city, and took about 200,000 human lives. Interestingly enough, this massive fire actually helped to end the bubonic plague by killing most of the rats that were carrying the disease. 

Facts and information courtesy of: 

https://www.history.com/news/plague-pandemic-great-fire

https://skysaver.com/blog/10-surprising-things-didn't-know-fire-skysaver-rescue-backpacks/

Unplugging your hair styling tools

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Turning off your hair tools is only the first step. Make sure you unplug them too!

If you live in a household where family members use hair tools, you’ve probably experienced the anxiety of wondering if they turned off and unplugged the curling iron, blow dryer, or straightener before leaving the house. Unfortunately, electric beauty tools such as these are a recurring cause of house fires and painful skin burns. Keep reading to view our safety tips to keep your home and family protected against house fires and burn injuries!

1. Turn off and unplug your devices. This tip is pretty self explanatory, but it’s necessary to keep your home, yourself, and your family safe! If you frequently forget to turn off and unplug your devices, consider setting an alarm or writing a reminder on a sticky note! If you only turn off your hair tools, but don’t actually unplug them, consider this quote from https://www.hsiprofessional.com : “Unplug your flat iron (or other electric hair tool) after using it. Even though your flat iron may be turned off, any plugged in appliance is still electrically live. Unplug your flat iron to avoid any chance of an unexpected electrical problem.
2. Keep your electric beauty / hair tools away from anything wet such as sinks and tubs with water in them. 
3. Use a mat or heat resistant stand. While you’re doing your hair,  you are going to want to put your blow dryer or curling iron or straightener down at some point. Always place your device on a heat resistant mat, a clean, non-flammable countertop, or on a heat resistant stand.  The goal is to avoid placing electronic beauty tools on carpet, towels or other materials that could melt or catch fire. 
4. Make sure that all of your hair products such as hairspray or dry shampoo are a safe distance from your plugged in / hot beauty tools. Beauty products can be flammable!
5. Don't wrap the cord around your hair tools when you’re finished! Tightly wrapping the cord around your still warm styling tool could cause shorts or burn the electrical cord and expose the wires. A short in the cord could also cause your iron to turn off unexpectedly the next time you use it, or to not turn back on at all. A better bet is to lay the cord back and forth loosely on top of itself and then put it away for storage. 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Fire damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Michigan Restaurants are Open for Indoor Dining!

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

What local restaurant are you heading to first?

Happy February, Friends! This is an exciting month to be a Michigan resident! For all of you who are sick of eating take out at home and/or cooking, it’s time to celebrate, because Michigan restaurants are now open for indoor dining! But before you head out to your favorite restaurant, keep in mind that there are regulations put in place by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to reduce the spread of Covid-19 as much as possible. According to Michigan.gov, indoor dining in groups of up to 6 people is allowed, and the indoor capacity cannot exceed 25%.  There is also a 10:00 PM curfew set in place, and of course,  masks and social distancing are required. As long as you follow these guidelines, you are good to go! Grab your mask, hand sanitizer, and wallet, and get out there and support local Michigan restaurants! Happy indoor dining, everybody! Cheers to no dishes tonight!

SERVPRO can often save your hardwood floors!

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Hardwood is a porous building material, and can retain a significant amount of water, which in turn causes the floors to warp, swell, or break down

A common worry our customers have when dealing with water damage is saving their hardwood floors. Thankfully, SERVPRO can often save hardwood floors! Hardwood is a porous building material, and can retain a significant amount of water, which in turn causes the floors to warp, swell, or break down. After SERVPRO removes the water, they will begin the drying process to save your floors! The first step is to manipulate the temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture. Our professional crews use specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to remove water retained by the wood, and other hard-to-access moisture. They’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the wood returns to acceptable drying goals! If you are concerned about water damage on your hardwood floors, make sure to call us right away! The longer you wait to get your floors dried, the more damage there will be. SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids is available 24/7 to meet all your emergency needs---all you need to do is call! (616)-647-4300. 

The 5 types of Fires

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that fires are categorized into into 5 different classes?!

Did you know there are FIVE different types of fires?! Fires are categorized into 5 different classes, and each class has different elements that make it unique. 

Class A: Class A fires are defined as ordinary combustibles. To put it in simpler terms, these types of fires use commonly flammable material as their fuel source. Wood, fabric, paper, trash ,and plastics are common sources of Class A fires. This is essentially the common accidental fire encountered across several different industries. Trash fires are one such example. Class A fires are commonly put out with water or monoammonium phosphate. (https://www.strikefirstusa.com/news-articles/five-classes-of-fires-fire-extinguishers-stop-them/)

Class B: Class B fires are fueled by flammable liquids, such as gasoline, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints, solvents, and alcohols. These fires also include flammable gases such as propane and butane. Class B fires do not include fires involving cooking oils and grease. (https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-fires.html)

Class C: A Class C fire is one in which an energized electrical element is the cause of the fire. “Energized” means that the electrical component  is connected to a power source. Class C fires  may be started from faulty wiring, a short circuit, damage to power cords, overloaded electrical outlets, or overheated/overcharged devices. (https://blog.koorsen.com/what-is-a-class-c-fire-extinguisher-used-for 

Class D:  Class D fires are characterized by the presence of burning metals. However, not all metals are flammable. Sodium, potassium, uranium, lithium, plutonium, calcium, magnesium, and titanium are all examples of combustible metals. According to www.elitefire.co.uk, the most common type of class d fires involve magnesium and titanium. (https://www.elitefire.co.uk/help-advice/detect-and-extinguish-class-d-fires/)

Class K: Last but not least, we have Class K fires. According to the following quote from https://www.strikefirstusa.com; “A Class K fire is defined as a cooking fire involving combustion from liquids used in food preparation. Technically a type of liquid fire, Class K fires are distinct enough to warrant their own classification. Cooking fires are fueled by a wide range of liquid cooking materials. Greases, cooking oils, vegetable fat, and animal fat are all fuel sources found in Class K fires.” https://www.strikefirstusa.com/news-articles/five-classes-of-fires-fire-extinguishers-stop-them/

No matter what type of fire you experience, SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids is here to help! Our professional crews have been expertly trained to restore the damage done to your home or business. Call us today to set up a free quote! (616)-647-4300

Training Demonstration!

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

One of the best ways to learn is by watching our peers. Thanks for the hands on demonstration, Joey!

No matter how much experience you have, there is always something new to learn! Here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, we like to give our employees the opportunity to hold a training demonstration for the rest of the staff. The training demonstration could be on anything from cleaning the trucks, to how to use a specific tool! Everybody has something to bring to the table, and we love getting the chance to learn from our peers. In this photo, our asset manager, Joey, is giving us a demonstration on how to clean out hoses from the water trucks. Joey has been with us for about 4 years now, and has learned A LOT about the restoration business. We appreciate Joey taking the time to put together a training demonstration for us! 

SERVPROXIDE--Now available on Amazon!

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROXIDE is a professional residential, commercial, & hospital disinfectant that kills and eliminates 99.999% of viruses and bacteria!

Did you hear the good news?! SERVPRO’s very own SERVPROXIDE is now available on Amazon! SERVPROXIDE is a professional residential, commercial, & hospital disinfectant that kills and eliminates 99.999% of viruses and bacteria! Keep reading to learn more about this professional cleaning agent!

• KILLS AND ELIMINATES 99.999% OF VIRUSES AND BACTERIA—Reduces the spread of germs and pathogens on all treated surfaces. EPA registered product.

• 100% BIODEGRADABLE SURFACTANT—Proprietary hospital-grade disinfectant that sanitizes hard and soft surfaces, and is environmentally responsible.

• SAFE FOR USE AROUND FOOD, CHILDREN AND PETS. Safe for use around equipment used for food preparation. 

• DISINFECTS AS IT CLEANS—Sanitizes hard non-porous surfaces in 60 seconds, and provides 99.999% sanitization of food contact surfaces.

• SAFE TO USE EVERYDAY—For general purpose use. Does not require gloves.

Professional cleaning power at your fingertips. Now available on Amazon. https://amzn.to/39sbsjb

Get to know SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids!

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

With over 15 years of experience in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is ready to serve you!

With 15 years’ experience SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids has been serving Grand Rapids and its neighboring cities for years. Through experience and compassion we have gained a reputation as the premier restoration service in our community. Owners Brent and Jessica Griffioen go above and beyond for their clients and employees treating everyone as a part of their family. The same compassion applies to the services our franchise location offers. We understand that every job is unique and must be handled delicately to ensure that all parties are satisfied when the process is over. We work with both homeowners and local businesses to offer the highest possible standard of professionalism and safety. We pride ourselves on the honest inspections for your home with concerns of damage from anything from water to bio-hazard issues. We are a preferred vendor for large insurance companies and participate by invitation in structured vendor programs and contracts. We have developed relationships with insurance companies that create an easy work environment within your home that makes your policy claims efficient and worry free. Our company goal is to help minimize the interruption and make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes to your life, home, or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids..

If you would like to schedule service or an estimate for your home or business, please call today! (616)647-4300

IICRC Certified Firm

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm!

SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

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

Does your commercial building have a mold problem?

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a commercial building in as little as 48 hours

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from your commercial business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

 If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –616-647-4300

When Storms or Floods hit Grand Rapids, SERVPRO is ready!

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Photo Caption: Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Grand Rapids!

SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Grand Rapids area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams  that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

We are the Cleaning experts!

12/13/2020 (Permalink)

Give your customers peace of mind with a SERVPRO certified proactive cleaning for your commercial business!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning!

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO OF NE GRAND RAPIDS (616)647-4300

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

Avoiding Kitchen Fires During the Pandemic

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Residential kitchen fires have majorly increased during the pandemic! Keep reading to learn how to keep your home and family safe!

The global pandemic has changed all of our lives in one way or another. For many people, one of the biggest changes is not being able to go to restaurants. Because of this, people are cooking at home more, which has caused an increase in residential kitchen fires. According to https://www.newschannel5.com/ , “During the COVID-19 pandemic, The Red Cross suggests revisiting your exit plan in the case of a fire to lessen your risk of being seriously injured or killed. We're believing that because more people are at home, we're seeing an increase," said Crystal Fisher of the Red Cross. To avoid having a home fire, there are a few things you can do to keep your home and family safe. 1.) Make sure your smoke alarms are working and are up to date. 2.) Review your exit plan with your family in case of a fire. 3.) Use timers when cooking so your food doesn’t overcook and burn. 4.) Keep any flammable substances away from the stove area. If all else fails and you do end up having a kitchen fire, call 911 right away! Once the fire department puts out the fire, give us a call! We’ll be there to give you peace of mind, and restore the fire damage done to your home or business. 

Connecting during Covid

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

A simple phone call goes a long way when you can't meet in person!

Creating meaningful relationships, and maintaining open communication with insurance agents and adjusters is extremely important in the restoration business. Insurance agents and adjusters can provide us with helpful information that the customer might not know or be aware of! Agents and adjusters are also great referral sources, and can connect us with customers who need our assistance! To show our appreciation for our local agents and adjusters, we like to treat them each month to a little something special. Sometimes that means taking them out for drinks, participating in golf outings, or dropping off treats and goodies to let them know we care! 

However, our monthly treats and visits are looking a little different lately due to the Coronavirus. With many of our local agents and adjusters working from home, we’ve had to get creative with how we connect people! This year has been hard on everyone, so now more than ever it’s important to let people know you appreciate them. If you can’t connect with your agents or adjusters in person, a simple phone call goes a long way. Taking the time to call someone on the phone just to check in shows that you care and that you haven’t forgotten about them. Other ways we are supporting our agents and adjusters is by sending gift baskets made by local businesses. If a gift basket isn’t in the budget, a simple thinking of you card sent in the mail is a great way to let your agents and adjusters know you care! Other ways to support your agents and adjusters is to like, follow, and recommend their business pages on social media. We know these ideas aren’t a replacement for connecting face to face, but it’s a great way to maintain your relationships until you can safely meet again in person! 

Restoring Your Grand Rapids Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Any flooding or water damage that happens to your Grand Rapids commercial property is often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Tips and Tricks to keep your kids calm during a storm

11/29/2020 (Permalink)

Try turning a scary storm into an interesting science lesson!

Storms and severe weather can cause major stress, especially when kids are involved! We know it’s not easy to keep a child calm during a storm, but we hope these ideas help!  According to http://toysinthedryer.com/, the first and most important thing you can do is to keep yourself calm. If you are not calm, your kids won’t be either.

 Another tip from https://www.boystownpediatrics.org/ is to turn the storm into a science lesson! The following quote says “Explain how the thunder and lightning works. Have you ever noticed how pure colors are right before a storm or how the lightning looks like a giant light show? Point these things out to give them something to marvel at, rather than be afraid of.” Another way to keep kids calm during a storm is to keep them busy. Sometimes keeping them busy means following their normal routine, while other times it means reading a book, playing on an iPad, or watching tv. Another tip to keeping your kids calm during a storm is to simply hug it out. Sometimes kids just need to feel safe and secure, and a hug from mom or dad can do just that! To read about more ways to keep children calm during a storm, check out the following websites!

1. https://www.boystownpediatrics.org/knowledge-center/help-kids-scared-thunderstorms, 
2. http://toysinthedryer.com/

What to do about wet insulation

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Depending on the situation, it is possible to resuse wet insulation by letting it dry out.Keep reading to learn more on what to do with wet insulation

If your home or business has wet insulation due to water damage, you might be wondering what to do with it. Many people have questions such as “Is it still usable?” or, “Is it safe?” To answer those questions, the answer depends on what type of insulation you have. For instance, if you have spray foam insulation, there is no need to worry! According to localinsulationpros.com, “If your spray foam closed cell insulation is wet you don’t need to worry. Spray foam closed cell insulation comes with an air-tight sealant and a moisture barricade. The best thing is that the water will hardly penetrate inside the insulation. Often, the water will easily evaporate from the surface. Where possible, you can simply wipe the excess water using a towel to safeguard the absorbent and wooden areas of your home.” If you have fiberglass insulation, it is possible to reuse it safely, but it depends on the situation. According to an article on https://home-energy.extension.org, “Glass Fiber insulation is made from strands of glass fiber and temporarily loses its thermal resistance when it gets wet. However, if it can dry out and has not become compacted, it will retain its insulating properties.” On the other hand, this article also says that if the insulation takes more than 2-3 days to dry, it should be removed and replaced by a professional. To learn more about what to do with other types of insulation, ( such as cotton, foam board, or cellulose) head to https://localinsulationpros.com, or call our office at 616-647-4300!

Water, Fire, and Mold, Oh my!

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Check out this stairway! Before our crew was called in, this is what the customer's stairs looked like. Fire damage, water damage, and mold growth!

Sometimes when SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids gets called out on a job, there are multiple types of restoration work that needs to be done. For instance, if a customer’s home or business catches on fire, the fire department will use hoses to put the fire out. So now the structure not only needs fire restoration, but water mitigation as well. Furthermore, if a structure with both fire and water damage sits for a while, it could turn into a fire, water, and mold restoration job! Unfortunately, that is what happened to a recent customer of ours. When the customer’s home started on fire, the local fire department responded to hose the structure down. Thankfully, no humans or animals were hurt! After that, the house sat for a few days as the customer worked with their insurance provider. By the time we were called in, there was fire, water, and mold damage! Fortunately, our crews are expertly trained in fire, water and mold cleanup! The customer was devastated from the loss, but was able to rest assured that SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids would restore the damage done to their home. 

Time is Money!

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

We're prepared to arrive faster to any size disaster!

Every hour spent cleaning water damage to your business is an hour lost of revenue. We offer fast, 24 hour emergency services, 365 days a year. Don’t let water damage take time and money away from your business! You can trust the experts at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to take care of your emergency water damage needs efficiently and professionally. 

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

Restoring a Commercial Building

11/7/2020 (Permalink)

Before + After of a soot stained ceiling!

This West Michigan commercial business suffered a large fire loss that left the building covered in black soot. Though nobody was hurt, an extensive amount of damage was done to the building and the contents inside. Thankfully, this business owner gave us a call to take care of the damage! Our crews were efficient, meticulous, and professional as they worked hard to restore the wreckage. It took a large crew, late hours, and lots of grunt work, but it was worth it in the end as the building was restored! Check out the photo of the before and after of the ceiling! 

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

Do you ever think twice about your outlets?

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

It might not seem like a big deal, but checking on your wall outlets could save you a lot of trouble!

How often do you give your outlets a second glance? If you’re like most people, probably not very often. However, checking on your outlets every once in a while is crucial, and could save you from a fire starting in your home. According to www.preferredlinkins.com, “Just like a damaged cord can cause some serious damage, so can an outlet that has become loose overtime or that was installed or replaced incorrectly. Usually fires within an outlet are caused by missed connections resulting from contacts that are worn out.” 

Next time you plug something into your outlets, take a closer look. If you see a spark, or if the outlet itself feels loose, get it fixed right away. Just like it’s important to check on other appliances in your home, do yourself a favor and start inspecting your outlets regularly! Taking this extra precaution could save you from experiencing a fire!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Fire damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Mold Prevention for Bathrooms

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over your bathroom! Keep reading for preventative tips and tricks! If all else fails, we are here to help!

Bathrooms are typically very humid and full of moisture, which is why it’s not uncommon to experience mold growth. If you are struggling with recurring mold growth in your bathrooms, there are a few preventative measures you can try. We all know that mold flourishes in areas with lots of moisture, so lowering the amount of water in the air can help prevent mold growth. Check out these appliances that can help lower moisture levels!

1. Exhaust fans---most bathrooms have exhaust fans, but they aren’t always big enough to circulate air throughout the entire bathroom. According to earn.allergyandair.com, "These [exhaust fans] should be used whenever water is being used in large quantities to dispel the steam in the air. However, it is important to ensure the exhaust is filtered to an outside vent, not into another space like the attic where it can lead to humidity and mold developing in that area."
2. Dehumidifiers---if you don’t have an exhaust fan in your bathroom, or if the fan isn’t powerful enough to prevent mold growth, adding a dehumidifier is a great option. Dehumidifiers help control the moisture in the air, which is extremely helping in stopping mold growth. 
3. Air Conditioner---Purchasing a portable AC unit for your bathroom is another way to combat moisture levels if you don’t have an exhaust fan. You can either place the AC unit in a window if you have one, or connect it to a vent hose that has access to a window for optimal air circulation. 

We hope that these preventative options work out for you! If you have any questions or need help with mold remediation, we’ve got your back! 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Mold damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

The Top 5 Causes of Water Damage!

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help with all your water damage needs! 616-647-4300

Nobody wants to deal with water damage, so it’s a relief to hear that in more than 90% of cases, water damage is preventable! Keep reading to learn about these causes, and what you can do to prevent them!

Plumbing Issues

Water damage and plumbing issues seem to go hand in hand. To keep plumbing issues at bay, make sure you regularly check the plumbing systems in your home at least once a year. According to Hippo.com, “It’s important to inspect the plumbing systems in your home at least once a year to ensure that there aren’t any problems with hoses or pipe joints. You should also keep in mind that plumbing pipes have a long lifespan. Brass pipes can last for as many as 70 years while copper pipes can last for more than 50 years. The average lifespan for galvanized steel pipes is often between 20 and 50 years.” https://www.hippo.com/blog/top-5-reasons-water-damage-house

Washing machine leak 

Washing machine leaks can cause major damage to your home. Make sure you regularly check the supply hose for any damage or detachment issues to save you a lot of heartache in the future! According to hippo.com, ideally, you should change your supply hose at least every 5 years. Additionally, try not to over stuff your laundry machine. “Constantly stuffing too many clothes into your washing machine could loosen gaskets and valves or cause cracks. Take good care of your washing machine and your washing machine will take good care of you.” https://www.hippo.com/blog/top-5-reasons-water-damage-house

Bursting Water Pipes

When temperatures drop during winter months, it’s not uncommon for pipes to freeze and burst. We all know how cold Michigan can get, so protecting our pipes is crucial! An easy way to protect pipes from the cold is to use heat tape or pipe sleeves on both hot and cold water pipes. If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep your garage door shut as much as possible!

Aging water heaters

Like all household equipment, water heaters have a shelf life. Sure, you could wait until yours starts leaking to replace it, but if you’re trying to avoid water damage, it’s best to replace it every ten years. 

Blustery Weather

Snow is beautiful to look at, but if your home isn’t prepared for it, a snowstorm could cause major damage. To prepare your home for winter, make sure your rain spouts and gutters are clean. It’s also smart to check windows and doors to make sure the caulking didn’t crack. Lastly, ice dams can ruin your roof if not taken care of. According to Hippo.com, “If it snows where you live, be wary about the formation of ice dams on your roof. This happens when the heat inside your home causes water to melt in the middle of your roof. The water then refreezes near the edges, forming a dam that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up can leak into your home and damage ceilings, walls and other areas of your home. To prevent ice dams from forming, insulate your attic to keep heat from rising and reaching the roof.”

Well there you have it! The top 5 most common reasons for water damage in your home! With regular maintenance, these issues are usually preventable. However, if you find yourself dealing with water damage in your home, give us a call! We are here to help you with all of your water damage needs!

Cell Phone Apps that can help you during a storm!

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

These apps can be helpful during a serious storm event. Check them out!

Did you know that there are smartphone apps that can save the day during a storm? Whether it’s a tornado, thunderstorm, or hurricane, these apps are useful in stressful storm situations. Just make sure you download them before the storm hits so you don’t waste your battery! 

Nextdoor

The app links up users who live nearby with the help of geolocation. This can be useful for anyone looking to connect with neighbors during an emergency.

Zello

This push-to-talk app is redefining the walkie talkie! Zello works just like a walkie-talkie, and it allows you to send images or audio to local channels focused on emergency relief!

Firechat

Firechat is a messaging app that can work without any cell phone signal or access to the internet. This makes the app extremely useful during major storm events.

Weather+

Available to iPhone users, Weather+ allows you to get the latest updates on storm events. With this app, you can stay on top of current weather conditions and weather for the rest of the week to come.

ABC News App

Available for download on iPhone, the ABC News app is a great way to keep up to date with the storm and any damage it may have caused. 

Like always, SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is here when you need us most! If your home or business has faced storm damage, give us a call! We are available 24/7 to meet your emergency needs. (616) 647-4300

References: percentotech.com/bobbyjdavidson/technology-hurricane-florence/

Let the thunder roll!

10/18/2020 (Permalink)

We've got the vehicles, equipment, and expertly trained crews ready to meet your storm damage needs!

When Storms or Floods hit North East Grand Rapids and our surrounding communities, SERVPRO will be ready! 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit West Michigan, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Head to www.nationalbreastcancer.org to learn more about breast cancer, and how you can raise awareness!

October is many people’s favorite month of the year. The leaves have changed color, the weather is cooler, and Halloween festivities are right around the corner. On top of all that autumn goodness, October is also breast cancer awareness month! 

According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of women each year and affecting countries at all levels of modernization. In fact, 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. These statistics are alarming, which is why it’s important to spread awareness not only in October, but all year round! To learn more about breast cancer and how you can spread awareness, head over to https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts 

(All statistics and facts listed in this post were found on https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts) 

Accidents happen...

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Accidents happen, and when they do, we've got your back!

Nobody plans on their home or business catching on fire, but accidents happen every day. Small fires can start at your home or business for a variety of reasons.  Fires caused by space heaters, candles, cigarettes, or small grease fires can potentially be put out quickly using a fire extinguisher depending on its severity and size.  However, it is important that you are equipped with the proper extinguisher and the knowledge of how to properly use it. The following are 3 different types of fire extinguishers:

Type A: able to put out burning paper, wood, or fabric

Type B: works best to put our fires caused by oil, butane, or gasoline

Type C: best for electrical fires

These types may be further categorized such as a “2-A” extinguisher vs a “4-A” extinguisher. You may find that it would be best to keep more than one type in your Rockford home or Grand Rapids commercial property in order to be prepared for any type of fire.  If you find that a fire explodes in your home or business that is bigger than a small grease fire, call 911 immediately.  Your safety and the safety of those around you is most important!!! While we hope this never happens to you, we are here to restore the fire damage in case it does. Our crews are experienced in dealing with all types of fire damage, and they pride themselves on treating each customer like family. 

Let the thunder roll!

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

We've got the vehicles, equipment, and expertly trained crews ready to meet your storm damage needs!

When Storms or Floods hit North East Grand Rapids and our surrounding communities, SERVPRO will be ready! 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit West Michigan, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

Mold can grow ANYWHERE!

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let mold keep you from feeling comfortable in your home or business. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is here to help!

Did you know that Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors? This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is false!

Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your Cedar springs home, or your Grand Rapids business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation ASAP! 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is there for you when you need us most!

Faster to any STORM disaster!

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is dedicated to helping you with storm damage cleanup. Call us today! 616-647-4300

Floods, tropical storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and even severe thunderstorms, can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses. When a natural disaster occurs, most companies that respond to storm damage are unable to handle the damage when it's wide-spread. SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids has the resources to handle massive severe weather events--meaning no disaster is too big! We’ve even sent in teams to help with hurricane damage out of state!

Our staff are highly trained Storm Damage Specialists. Our training program include the following:

• IICRC Trained and Certified
• Employee Certification Training 
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Why SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids?

• A Trusted Leader in the Storm and Water Restoration Industry.
• Faster to any size disaster.
• Faster to any size emergency.
• No job too large.
• Catastrophic storm and major event response.
• Every large loss is supervised by an operations manager or project manager to ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.
• Our ability to dispatch trained production professionals.
• 24-hour emergency services
• Ready to help 24/7/365

We're a locally owned company with natural resources.   We are proud to be a part of our community and strive to provide the residents and business owners in our area the fastest response times and our best work each and every day!

Have Storm or Flood Damage?

Call Us Today (616) 647-4300

How Hoarding Impacts Water Damage

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Hoarder Houses are at a higher risk for water damage. If you suspect water damage in your home, give us a call for a free quote! We are here to help!

Hoarding not only causes damage to your health and mental state of mind, but to your home as well. For example, did you know that hoarder houses are at a higher risk for water damage?

Because of the clutter, hoarders often put home maintenance (such as roofing and pipes) on the back burner, which could lead to pipe breaks and roof leaks. That being said, if water damage does happen, it can be difficult to find due to piles of contents hiding the source. This also makes it hard to restore the damage because of the clutter surrounding the affected area. Additionally, when there is water damage, it is not uncommon for mold growth to happen as a result. Consider the following quote from 24hrflood.com:

“A pipe could develop cracks or leaks, and this problem would not be found for months or even years, becoming a breeding ground for mold. This danger can last even longer when you consider that the clutter in the house must be removed before remediation can occur, leading to mold continuing to grow for a longer period of time. Mold spores can also be released into the air during the cleanup, due to all the moving and touching of damaged materials affected by the mold.”

If you find yourself needing help with hoarding cleanup, water damage restoration, or mold remediation, we are here for you! Give our office a call today for more information on how we can best serve you. We look forward to hearing from you! SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 616-647-4300!

IICRC Certified!

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is an IICRC Certified Firm!

You can trust our professional crews at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to restore your home or business from fire damage. Why can you trust us? Because we are an IICRC Certified Firm! IICRC--The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification creates the standards for the restoration industry. The IICRC also provides restoration companies with training and certifications! IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo to let customers know they’ve had the proper training and certifications to get the job done! 

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

We know that you have many choices when it comes to choosing a restoration company. We want to assure you that SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is a certified firm with professionally trained techs and project managers to get the job done the right way. Here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, we also value customer service and make sure to treat each customer as if they were family.  We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to meet all of your emergency needs. 

About SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids

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

EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm

IICRC - Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration

Day 1 of National Preparedness Month

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare your commercial building for storms!

Happy September! Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month?! While Michigan storms may not be quite as bad as those impacted by hurricanes, the storms we do get can still cause severe damage! The last thing anybody wants to deal with is property damage, especially when you’re a business owner. Keep reading to find out how to prepare your commercial business for future storms! 

One of the most important ways to be prepared for a storm is to have a response plan set in place. According to ready.gov, the following points are extremely important to include in your response plan.

• Two-way communication system for reaching employees/customers and emergency services
• Map of multiple evacuation routes
• A designated location for employees to meet inside your facility or at a nearby shelter
• Checklists of tasks for people to complete before, during and after a storm

After a plan is created,  do a few trial runs to make sure it works, and fix any tweaks if needed! 

Another important part of preparing your commercial building for a storm is to ensure the structure and the backup equipment are properly maintained. Getting the roof inspected once a year, and making sure the weatherstripping calk is in place may sound simple, but it makes a huge difference in keeping your employees and business safe during a storm. It is also highly important to make sure your equipment is in working condition. According to bobbitt.com,  “Having the right equipment in place to keep your facility running during a storm is often  overlooked. Maintenance and placement of this equipment must be well thought out. In your plan, specify who, when, where and how emergency equipment will be maintained” 

Lastly, in order to prepare your commercial building for a storm, you need to protect the business’s assets and valuables. Another insightful quote from bobbitt.com states this: “Machinery, product inventory, supplies and technology systems are a few of your business assets that may be at risk. Ask yourself these questions to help prevent a loss of resources:

            -Where are your valuable business assets located in the building?

-Are these resources physically protected? How -are they protected?

-What resources are crucial for business operation?

-Are these assets owned and insured?

-What assets are leased and what is the liability if they are damaged?

We know this list may seem daunting, but it’s better to be over prepared than not prepared at all! We care about you and your business, and will be here for all your emergency needs! We’re just a phone call away!

 616-647-4300

Storm Trailer!

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Our storm trailer is locked, loaded, and ready to meet your emergency needs!

The word STORM often leaves people feeling scared and uneasy--especially during hurricane season. Whether you are talking about rainstorms, snow storms, or hurricanes, we want you to know that we are here for you! SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is fully equipped to handle whatever type of storm comes your way. In fact, we have an entire trailer locked, loaded, and ready to roll whenever a storm hits! Mother nature doesn’t abide by office hours, and neither do we! SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to meet all your emergency needs. Though we can’t control the weather, we can help you minimize the damage done to your home or business after a storm event. 

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

When storms hit NE Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Soda Blasting!

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have graffiti that needs removing? Give us a call today for a free quote! 616-647-4300!

Finding graffiti on your Grand Rapids area commercial building isn’t an ideal situation. Maintaining the outside appearance of your business is important for attracting customers! Fortunately, SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids has you covered! One of our favorite techniques for graffiti removal is soda blasting. According to raptorblastor.com, “Soda blasting is a form of abrasive blasting that uses sodium bicarbonate as an abrasive media. The soda is propelled using compressed air or water to blast a surface.”  To put it in simpler terms, sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, is put into an air compressor and is used to blast away unwanted graffiti.  Not only can soda blasting remove graffiti, it can also be used to get rid of soot damage following a fire. Check out our latest video showing the soda blasting technique on a Grand Rapids commercial building! 

What is a Smoldering Fire?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Smoldering fires have no flames, are slower to spread, and have lower temperatures than flame fires!

When most people think of a fire, they picture tall orange flames, extremely hot temperatures, and maybe a marshmallow or two. 

However, there is another kind of fire that can be just as dangerous as the regular fires we see. These fires are called Smoldering fires. Smoldering fires differ from flame fires in a few ways. Where flame fires have visible flames, smoldering fires are flame less. Flame fires start in the gas phase, where smoldering fires start on the surface of a solid. Flame fires reach high temperatures, where smoldering fires have lower temps. Flame fires spread fast, where smoldering fires are up to ten times slower than the latter. Smoldering fires also produce more toxic gasses than flame fires do.  According to sciencedirect.com, smoldering fires are defined as “Slow, low temperature, flames form the combustion of a solid fuel.” To put it in layman's terms, smoldering fires are a flame less, low temperature burn. Once these smoldering fires are ignited, it is a challenge to put them out. This makes them one of the top leading causes of residential fires. 

If you experience a smoldering fire in your home or business, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! The team at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is happy to help you through this process, and restore any damage done to your home or business. Call us today at 616-647-4300!

Toxic Smoke

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire in your home or business, give us a call to restore the smoke damage!

We all know that when a house or business goes up in flames, it's typically followed by LOTS of smoke, which is full of toxic chemicals.  Consider the following quote from https://www.uphelp.org/ “A typical structure fire may generate literally tens of thousands of toxic chemicals and gasses as a variety of materials and products are burned.” YIKES! That’s a LOT of toxic chemicals. When most people think of a structure fire, their first few thoughts are usually getting everyone out safely and assessing the damage. While these are extremely important things to worry about, a lot of people forget to think about how breathing in the toxic chemicals in smoke can affect their overall health. 

If you ever experience a fire in your home or business, make sure to call 911 ASAP! After the fire has been put out, find a place to stay with either friends, family, or a hotel. Even if your home or business isn’t completely destroyed, it’s still not safe to stay there until a professional restoration company cleans, disinfects, and sanitizes the structure. SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids is here for you! Our professional crews are expertly trained on the proper procedures, equipment, and products needed to restore the smoke damage in your home or business. We care for all of our customers, and want you and your family to be safe from inhaling toxic smoke. We offer free estimates, and are conveniently opened 24/7 to meet your emergency needs. While we hope you never experience a fire loss, just know that you can count on us to restore the damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

The dangers of Flash Flooding

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Beautiful overhead view of the dams in Rockford, Michigan.

Since we are experiencing lots of rain these days, we wanted to provide you with some helpful information on flash floods--especially because many of our customers live close to lakes and rivers. Cities like Grand Rapids, Lake Odessa, Lowell, and Rockford are known for their flowing rivers and all sports lakes!--Not to mention charming boutique shopping areas! However, as fun as living near the water might be, it can put home/business owners at a high risk for water damage due to flash flooding. 

According to weather.gov, flash flooding is the number 1 cause of weather related deaths in the United States, so it’s important to be aware of how they work, and what to do if you experience one. 

There are two key factors that make up flash floods: 1.) Intensity of the rainfall, and 2.) The duration of the rainfall. Soil conditions, as well as ground cover also play a role in flash floods. 

Flash floods can be unpredictable. Sometimes they happen within a few minutes of a storm, while other times they start after many hours of intense rainfall. However, most flash floods are caused by slow moving thunderstorms, or heavy rainfall from tropical storms and hurricanes. 

Another important factor to note is that flash floods can be extremely strong. They can rip out trees, move large boulders, and destroy buildings, homes, and bridges. They can also cause dangerous mudslides, as well as reach heights of  30 feet or more! Please remember that even if flood waters appear shallow, they can still be dangerous. 6 inches of water might not seem hazardous, but if it's moving fast enough, it can knock you off your feet! Even as little as 2 feet of water can float a car! For your safety, and for the safety of those around you, never try to walk, swim, or drive through fast moving flood waters. Turn around, go a different way, and get to higher ground until it’s safe. If your home or business ever experiences water damage from flash flooding, don’t hesitate to reach out! We value your property and personal belongings, and want to give you peace of mind by restoring the damage. We are here when you need us most!

Proactive Cleaning your Rockford Michigan Business

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today for a free cleaning and sanitizing quote for your commercial building.

When Michigan's Stay Safe, Stay Home order gets lifted, and it’s time to open your business back up, will you be ready for your employees & guests?!

We can help you get ready with proactive cleaning!

We offer preventative COVID-19 cleanings, as well as cleaning + sanitizing for confirmed or suspected cases of the virus.

Show your employees and customers that you care by taking proactive steps to slow the spread of germs in your Rockford, Michigan commercial building. 

Our dedicated crews can sanitize the entire building, so you can safely welcome back guests and employees with open arms!

While we don’t know how long this pandemic will last, one thing you can count on is the TEAM in GREEN!

We’re essential, we’re open, and we’re ready to tackle whatever comes our way!   

The importance of a restoration plan.

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you restore your Grand Rapids Business!

It’s important to have a restoration plan in place for your Grand Rapids business, in case of an unforeseen disaster or damage. FEMA’s most recent report states that at least 40% of businesses fail to reopen following a disaster event. Having a SERVPRO® restoration services respond right away, no matter the hour, can make a big difference in how quickly your Grand Rapids business is able to recover!

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. That being said, SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

A few businesses that we handle are as follows:

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

Here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids, we believe in treating every client like family. We will take the time to understand your needs, so that you can rest easy knowing we will get the job done right. Call us today to set up a free estimate for your Grand Rapids commercial property!

616-647-4300

The Covid-19 Storm

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Let us put your mind at ease by performing proactive cleaning to fight back against this pandemic!

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the world like a storm.

There may not be rain or high winds, but it's path of destruction is just as treacherous.

More cases of COVID-19 are being confirmed everyday, leaving people anxious and stressed.

While we can't take away the fear surrounding this virus, we can give you peace of mind. 

Don't panic-- We are here to help.

SERVPRO offers proactive clean up of facilities to minimize the transmission of emerging viral pathogens.

Our services include fogging, facility or structure cleaning and disinfecting.

In addition to cleaning homes, we also service grocery stores, restaurants, schools, churches, healthcare facilities, nursing homes, offices, and everything in between!

Let us put your mind at ease by helping you fight this virus. 

We are committed to providing a rapid response to this outbreak 24/7

Call us today! 616-647-4300!

Making your candles last longer!

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Make your candles last longer! Keep reading to learn more!

Candles are one of those things that almost everybody loves. They smell good, they're a great way to add decor to your home or office, and they make the PERFECT gift! 

On the other hand, candles (at least high quality ones!) can cost a pretty penny. Thankfully, we found these awesome tips that can make your candles last longer!

Tip #1. Freeze the candle. The wax being hardened will make it burn slower!

Tip #2. Burn the candle just enough for a small pool of melted wax. Sprinkle salt into the wax pool to slow the melting!

Tip #3. Trim the wick before lighting. Longer wicks cause the wax to burn quicker.

As always, when burning candles, it's important to remember to blow them out before leaving your Grand Rapids home or office. It's also important to keep lit candles out of reach from children and pets. However, if anything should happen and your home or business suffers from fire damage, give us a call! We are here to help you 24/7. 

.
#themoreyouknow #SERVPRO #heretohelp #candletips

Catastrophic Candles!

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Proceed with caution when burning candles in your Grand Rapids home or business!

Do you have candles in your Grand Rapids home or business? We're guessing you do!

With their lovely scent and glowing flames, it's hard to remember that candles cause a lot of harm when not taken care of properly.

Check out these alarming facts about candles from www.nfpa.org

Candles are responsible for:

•3% of reported home fires
•3% of home fire deaths
•6% of home fire injuries
•5% of the direct property damage in home fires

Moral of the story, proceed with caution when burning candles in your Grand Rapids home or business! 

While we hope you don't need to call us, if you ever find yourself in need of fire damage restoration services, give us a shout. We’re here for you 24/7.

President's Day!

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

In honor of President’s Day, consider the following quote from Martin Van Buren, who was the 8th president of the United States.

“It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't.”

One of the reasons this quote is so popular is because it’s applicable to all areas of life! You can apply it to your job, raising your kids, your marriage, school, or a project.

At SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids, we apply this quote to every single job, every single day. We understand that your home and business are important to you, and we take pride in our ability to do the job right!. Maybe your home suffered water damage from a pipe leak, or your business experienced fire damage from a space heater. No matter the situation, SERVPRO of North East Grand Rapids is ready to respond ASAP! Our professional crews are expertly trained, and have years of experience enabling them to do the job right!

Flood Damage VS. Water Damage

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know the difference between Flood damage and Water damage?!

Flood Damage Vs Water Damage

The terms “Flood damage” and “Water damage” are commonly used in the restoration industry. Most people would hear these terms and assume they mean the same thing; however, they actually have some key differences!

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, a flood is defined as: “A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land or, of 2 or more properties from:

• overflow of inland or tidal waters
• unusual and rapid accumulation or run off of surface waters from any source
• Mudflows
• Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above.”

The defining factor that separates flood damage from water damage is pretty simple; it all depends on where the water comes from. Flood damage comes from natural sources. Water damage comes from inside the home (dishwasher leak, washing machine overflow etc.).  

Knowing the difference between flood damage and water damage is not only important for mitigation purposes, but for filing insurance claims as well! Make sure you know what type of loss your insurance covers in case you find yourself dealing with water or flood issues.

When it comes to water damage, flood damage, or any other type of damage, you can count on SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to restore your home or business. We have professional crews available 24/7, and advanced equipment on hand to make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

( Photo Taken by jim gade on Unsplash )

Soot VS Smoke

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know how soot and smoke damage can affect your home?

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids realizes that fire damage has many components, including smoke and soot damage. Keep reading to learn more about soot damage, smoke damage, and the difference between the two.

Smoke Vs Soot: What’s the difference?

Smoke occurs when there is incomplete combustion--meaning not enough oxygen to burn the fuel completely. In complete combustion, everything is burned, producing just water and carbon dioxide. When incomplete combustion occurs, not everything is burned. Smoke is a collection of these tiny unburned particles. Each particle is too small to see with your eyes, but when they come together, you see them as smoke.

 (Source: https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/748-what-is-smoke )

Soot, is a fine black or brown powder that can be slightly sticky, and is a product of incomplete combustion. A major component of soot is black carbon. Soot is made up of a variety of chemicals, and its exact composition depends on what is being burned.

 (Source: https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Soot )

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. At SERVPRO, we care about you and your family, and want to make this situation as painless as possible. We will treat you like family, and respect your items as if they were our own. If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a fire, give SERVPRO a call. We’ll restore the damage and make it “Like it never even happened.”

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Use your ceiling fan to keep warm this winter!

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Gently running your fan clockwise can help your home stay warm this winter!

An easy way to save money on heat this winter is by using your ceiling fan! Running your ceiling fan on low in a clock wise direction circulates warm air into your home or business. Since heat rises, the air by the ceiling is warmer than the air by the floor. According to todayshowhomeowner.com, “The reason the fan is set to rotate clockwise on low is to keep from creating a strong draft, which would cool you down just like it does in summer. Instead, the air near the ceiling is pushed up and outward, causing it to circulate down near the perimeter of the room. Since the air at floor level is warmer, the thermostat can be set lower, saving money and helping the environment at the same time. Any heat generated by the fan’s motor is a bonus in the winter, so you can keep it running whether you are present in the room or not.”

SERVPRO cares about our customers, and we love sharing useful home and office tips with you guys! That being said, if your home or office building is ever in need of restoration help, give us a call! SERVPRO’s team members are experts in mold, water, and fire restoration. We also do biohazard cleanup, as well as carpet and general cleaning! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We look forward to working with you!

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Customer Quotes!

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Celebrating all of our customers from 2019, and looking forward to 2020!

We know you have many options when it comes to choosing a restoration company. SERVPRO believes in providing outstanding service, as well as treating every customer like family. But don’t take our word for it, check out these quotes from our amazing customers!

“Amazing team and an amazing job!! When our washer flooded our basement, they were quick to help and did a truly amazing job! It really is like it never happened!”

“These guys are Awesome! Quick, thorough, knowledgeable and Professional.”

“Very professional, great time management, answered all our questions, and very sympathetic in a stressful situation.”

“Our church had a pipe break sending a large amount of water into our children’s area. SERVPRO worked around the clock to get us back up and running. Hands down amazing service!”

“Great service. Came late on a Thursday afternoon and spent 4 hours hauling away carpet backer and baseboard. Everything was dried up by the weekend.”

“I was very impressed with the work that SERVPRO did for us. They were prompt, friendly, and professional. They took the time to fully discuss the scope of the work before they started. After the work was complete, they did a thorough walk through and made sure our expectations were met before they left. Great work!”

We are incredibly thankful for each and every customer who chooses SERVPRO for restoration work. If your home or commercial building is in need of damage clean up, give us a call! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

SERVPRO visits animal Shelters!

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO had the BEST time visiting Bellwether Harbor animal shelter!

Recently, SERVPRO had an incredible opportunity to visit two wonderful animal shelters and drop off donations. One of SERVPRO’s favorite activities is connecting with the local community.  Everyone in our office loves animals, so we were excited to meet a need and visit these awesome shelters! The staff at both shelters were great! They gave us tours, provided us with helpful information, and let us play with the animals! It was great to see people in our community working hard to make a difference for abandoned, neglected, and abused animals. It was difficult to leave the shelters at the end of the day, but we left knowing our donations were given to two amazing facilities! A big thank you to Caitlyn from the Kent County Humane society, and Carmen from Bellwether harbor! Your dedication to helping animals has not gone unnoticed!

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Cleaning your Commercial Building

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

If you need help cleaning your commercial building, SERVPRO can help!

An important part of owning a commercial building is keeping it clean. If a building is not maintained, the risk of mold, external damage, internal damage, and health risks dramatically increase. When you take care of your commercial property, you will attract and keep customers, make the building look nicer, and keep occupants inside happier and healthier. Another reason to stay on top of your commercial property is the improved productivity a clean environment brings. When there is less clutter around to distract employees, they will in turn work faster and harder. Consider this list from woodard247.com of essential cleaning supplies to keep in your building:

-vacuum cleaner

-Broom and dustpan

-Sponge Mop

-Plastic Buckets

-Rubber Gloves

-Dust Towels

-Cleaning towels

-Glass cleaner

-wood polish

-bleach

-Floor Cleaner

-Soft Scrub

-Stainless steel polish / powder

-mold and mildew cleaner

-disinfectant wipes

-air freshener

Using these supplies regularly will keep your commercial space tidy. However, if the mess gets out of hand, SERVPRO can help. If your commercial property is in need of any type of restoration, call the professionals at SERVPRO. Our crews are expertly trained in mold, fire, water, and general cleaning restoration. With our phone lines open 24/7, we are ready to serve you make the damage “Like it never even happened”.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a storm damage, fire, and smoke or water damage event. We also specialize in general cleaning and bio-hazard clean up. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Rockford Santa parade!

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Our box truck is ready for the Holidays!

Here at SERVPRO, we love getting to know our local community! One of our favorite ways to get involved is through the Rockford Michigan Santa Parade! Every year in December, Rockford puts on a festive parade to celebrate the holidays, and we love being a part of it! A few Saturdays ago, SERVPRO employees along with their families met up for a quick breakfast before the parade. We carpooled to Rockford, and decorated a SERVPRO box truck with blinking lights and a pretty wreath. Despite the cold, everyone loved passing out candy and packets of hot chocolate to the kids watching the parade. It was a fun way to connect with our community, and say hi to those who have supported us! Can’t wait until next year!

How Seasonal Affective disorder can impact the work place

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Keep reading to learn how S.A.D can impact the workplace, and what you can do to reduce symptoms!

The winter months are commonly called “The most wonderful time of the year.” Holiday parties and the excitement of the first snow fall leave people buzzing anticipation for the festivities to come. While good tidings of comfort and joy may be the theme this season, many people are stuck feeling the exact opposite. In fact, over 10 million people suffer from Seasonal affective disorder during the cold months, according to themuse.com. Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, causes hormones to change during the winter, reducing the brain’s serotonin levels due to lack of sunshine. Serotonin is commonly nicknamed “The happy chemical”, because it regulates mood. It’s important to be aware of SAD and how it affects people, so themuse.com complied a list of symptoms to watch out for. Sadness, fatigue, insomnia, and weight gain are common symptoms of SAD. Other symptoms include inability to concentrate, irritability, increased desire to be alone, and a greater need for sleep. Because of these symptoms, SAD can have a negative impact in the work place. Mood changes and tiredness can cause coworkers to become argumentative, and the inability to focus can make it hard for employees to meet deadlines and get work done in a timely manner.

Although there is no set cure for SAD, there are many ways to reduce its impact in the work place. Encouraging open and honest communication between coworkers and supervisors is a great place to start. If an employee feels they are able to talk to a supervisor about their struggles, it eases feelings of stress and irritability. It also helps the supervisor understand what is going on with their employees. If a supervisor notices work not being completed as quickly, or a general sadness with their employee, open communication will allow employees and supervisors to come together to find a reasonable solution. Another way to reduce the impact of SAD at work is to take regular breaks. Breaking up the day with a quick walk or a step outside can do wonders to combat SAD. Another effective tool is to change your diet. Around the holidays, people tend to overload on sweets and carbs, which can negatively impact your mood. According to integrativepsychiatry.net, foods rich in omega 3 fats will help serotonin work better by reducing brain inflammation.  Last but not least, getting a light therapy lamp for your home or office can help reduce the affects of SAD. These lights mimic rays from the sun, which helps the brain produce serotonin. Therapy lights, sometimes called “happy lamps”, are not a cure all for SAD, but they are known for improving mood and increasing energy levels.

Unfortunately, SERVPRO can’t cure seasonal affective disorder. However, we can make your life easier by restoring water, fire, and mold damage done to your home or business. Our expert teams take pride in the cleaning and restoration process, and work diligently to make the damage disappear, “Like it never even happened”.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Michigan Storms!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a storm can be overwhelming. Call SERVPRO for help!

There is no denying that living in Michigan has its advantages. We are surrounded by the great lakes, we get to experience all 4 seasons, and we have many beautiful cities that are perfect spots for vacations and sightseeing. Although Michigan is a wonderful state, it does have its disadvantages; a big one being storms. Throughout different parts of the year, Michigan is either experiencing a storm, or on watch for one. We have thunderstorms, blizzards, tornadoes, wind storms, ice storms, and hail storms. Each one of these storms can impact your home or commercial property in multiple different ways. A rough wind storm or tornado can make a tree crash into your home. A heavy thunderstorm can cause flooding in your commercial building. An ice storm can cause pipes to freeze and burst. The possibilities involved with storm damage are endless, and it can be an overwhelming process when you find yourself left with the aftermath of a severe storm. When Michigan storms cause damage to your home or property, SERVPRO is ready to help. Our phone lines are open 24/7, and our restoration teams are expertly trained to handle any situation that comes their way. Rest assured that SERVPRO is there for you when you need them most.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Biohazards in the work place!

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Leave the bio-hazard clean up to the experts at SERVPRO!

Biohazards in the work place: When to call for help

Owning a business means dealing with situations you might not have considered before. For instance, biohazards. According to vocabulary.com, a biohazard is a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment. Because accidents are bound to happen, you may find yourself wondering what to do in case of a biohazard at your commercial building.

Anytime a business is dealing with a biohazard, there are procedures to follow set in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. These guidelines were made to keep employees safe. According to Spaulding.com, the most common type of biohazard that happens in the work place is spilled blood. If a small amount of blood is spilled on a hard surface, it is possible to take care of the cleanup without calling a professional.  However, to be compliant with OSHA standards, any employee who handles the cleanup must have completed Bloodborne Pathogen Standards training. The employee must also be provided with personal protective equipment, and they must be using an approved disinfectant product. Lastly, any biohazard waste needs to be clearly marked and properly disposed of.

If you are still unsure of when to call for help, consider the dinner plate theory. If the size of the blood shed is greater than the size of a dinner plate, it’s best to call a professional. Also, if the blood/biohazardous chemical spills on carpet, calling a professional right away is the safest option.

When it comes to biohazards, anybody who comes into contact with the affected area is at risk for blood born pathogen exposure. If there is any doubt in your ability to take care of the biohazard yourself, call SERVPRO. Our teams are expertly trained, use state of the art equipment, and are faster to any disaster.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a storm damage, fire, and smoke or water damage event. We also do bio hazard cleanup as well as general clean up. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Water, fire, or mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Watch out for Puffbacks!

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Puffbacks can make a huge mess. Call SERVPRO for help!

The snow is falling and the temperatures are dropping. Winter is here! It’s about that time of year where people turn on their heating systems that have been sitting idle for months at a time. If you are lucky, your furnace or boiler will start right up with no issues. If you’re not so lucky, starting up your heating system might result in a puffback. According to tuckey.com, a puffback occurs when an oil burner back fires and spits out smoke and soot, making a mess of your home or business!  Puffbacks happen for a number of reasons, so it’s helpful to keep them in mind for preventative measures. Problems such as leaks in oil supply piping, or a defective oil spray nozzle can result in a puffback. Improper heater shutdown, faulty chimney and heater installation, poor ventilation, or clogged heating systems are other common causes for puffbacks. Damage done to the home or business due to puffbacks can range from minimal to severe. Keep an eye out for these warning signs to prevent puffbacks from affecting your home or business! Oil leaks, loud noises when starting up the heating system, noise after shutting it off, and strange smells are all an indication that something is wrong. It’s important to take care of those warning signs quickly so they don’t lead to puffbacks that cause severe damage. However, if you do experience a messy puffback, don’t hesitate to give SERVPRO a call! Our professional crews use the latest technology and safe cleaning products to restore damage done to your home or business!

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Why SERVPRO?

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Our team is ready to help!

We know that you have many options when it comes to choosing a restoration company. So why go with SERVPRO? What makes us different? We asked some of our employees what it is about SERVPRO that makes us stand out. Here are some of their answers.

“SERVPRO is special because we treat each and every customer as if they were family. We go above and beyond to help during a difficult time and sure the customer is happy with the end result and the work we did”.

“Our bright neon colors make us stand out, but more than that, we are always willing to go the extra mile for customers. Top to bottom excellence in customer service”.

“SERVPRO stands out because of the passion and dedication of the crews. Everyone from our amazing owners to our newest team members display so much love for each other and our clients on a daily basis.”

“I think the answer is simple. SERVPRO doesn’t believe in “good enough.” We don’t quit until we are positive it’s the absolute best we can do. Our customers are going through a difficult time when they call us. It’s our job and our pleasure to treat the customer with dignity and respect. We don’t treat our callers like a number. We treat each caller as if they were a member of our family coming to us for help.”

Notice a theme in these statements? SERVPRO stands out because of the dedication our employees have for the job. SERVPRO is different because our professional crews aim for excellence when it comes to restoring your home or commercial building from damage. Lastly, SERVPRO is different because when you call us, you’ll feel like you’re talking to family. If your home or business suffers from damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO. We genuinely care, and we will work hard to restore the damage, “Like it never even happened”.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Winter Driving Safety

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Traveling in the snow can be dangerous! Read this article for tips on staying safe!

On the road in a snowstorm: safety and precautions

Nobody likes to hear the words “Snow Storm”, or “blizzard” when they’re heading out the door, as traveling in them is often treacherous. Forceful winds, blinding white outs, and black ice are just a few reasons to stay home during a Michigan snow storm. In fact, Winter storms contribute to more than 2,000 road deaths every winter and nearly half a million crashes, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. While avoiding the roads is best way to stay safe, if you absolutely must drive, here are some precautionary tips to help you stay safe!

            Before heading out, take some time to prepare an emergency kit to keep inside your vehicle. Stock your kit with blankets, gloves, snow boots, flashlights and batteries. Also include a shovel and a bag of sand or cat litter. If you find yourself stuck, abrasive materials like the sand or litter will help your tires gain traction so you can get yourself out. Other items to include are first aid kits, food and water, cell phone chargers, antifreeze, and window washer fluid. Once you’ve got all your emergency items, fill up the gas tank, windshield wiper fluid, oil, and antifreeze before hitting the road.

When you’re actually on the road, drive slowly to avoid skidding and sliding! Don’t slam the brakes, and take it easy going up and down hills. If your route leads you over a bridge, use caution. According to NbcBayarea.com, highway exit ramps and bridges freeze first and are extra slippery. It’s also important to avoid using cruise control during a snowstorm. Even the faintest tap of the brakes to turn off cruise control can cause you to spiral and lose control of the vehicle!

            While we hope everyone stays safe this winter, (On AND off the roads!), we know that Michigan Blizzards often result in damage. Snow storms wreak havoc not only to roads and vehicles, but to family homes and commercial buildings. If you find yourself with excess water from frozen pipe bursts, roof leaks from ice dams, or any other type of winter storm damage, give SERVPRO a call. Your homes and businesses are important to us, and our professional teams will work hard to restore your property and give you peace of mind during these cold months. Stay safe out there, and don’t hesitate to give us a call! We’re available 24/7!

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties damaged by storms. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

How water affects hardwood floors

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let this happen to your hardwood floors! Call the restoration professionals at SERVPRO!

Hardwood floors are a classic way to update a home or business. However, if they become saturated with water, you could have a big problem! Water and wood is never a good mix, as the water causes hardwood floors to rot, weaken, and fall apart if not treated quickly.

Because natural wood is an organic substance, it can only stand the effects of water for short periods of time. Wood absorbs water fast, and will cause irreversible damage if not treated as soon as possible. The longer the water sits and sinks into the wood, the worse the damage will be. There is also a risk of mold growth if you wait too long to treat water-soaked wood.

Should large quantities of water ever come in contact with your hardwood floors, it is best to call a professional restoration company right away. However, if you are unsure, there are a few ways you can tell if your hardwood floors are impaired and in need of restoration. If the wood becomes stained or discolored, if mold starts to grow, or if it starts cupping, (when the wood dips in the middle with the edges raised up) the wood is likely damaged. Another sign of water damage is when the wood starts buckling, which refers to when the wood pulls away and rises from the sub floor. Buckling is seen in cases of severe water damage, such as extensive flooding, or when water has been left soaking in the wood for extended periods of time. If you ever find yourself in a situation where water has saturated your hardwood floors, give the restoration experts at SERVPRO a call. SERVPRO uses advanced equipment, powerful cleaning agents, and professional crews to make the damage “Like it never even happened”.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a water damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

The importance of Mold containment!

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold containment chambers isolate the mold spores to keep them from spreading to unaffected areas!

The importance of mold containment

Weather it’s a flood, sump pump failure, or roof leak, we can safely assume that mold growth stems from some form of excess moisture. To ensure the mold remediation is done well, one of the most important parts of the process is containing the mold. Containing the mold is important because it stops mold spores from spreading to other areas. It also makes the cleanup process easier because it keeps the dust and other debris away from areas that aren't affected. Consider the following quote from mastertechmold.com on the importance of mold containment. “Mold is a living organism, meaning that its main purpose in life is to grow. It wants to continue to grow and spread. Containment is meant to limit the spread of mold growth within the area”.

When it comes to containment, a common, effective way to isolate mold is to create a containment chamber. These chambers are made up of polyethylene sheets and are set up to separate the mold from other parts of the building or house. The next step would be to close off all entry points to the contaminated room until the mold is removed with an air scrubber, which purifies the air. Next, all the debris should be properly disposed of. Then, a HEPA vac should be used on all previously exposed surfaces before tearing down the containment chamber. It’s also helpful to spray an antimicrobial agent on the previously exposed structure.

When it comes to removing mold the correct way, look no further than the experts at SERVPRO! Our teams will set up the proper containment and restore your home! SERVPRO will make the damage disappear,  “Like it never even happened.”

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Mold damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Do you know what type of water you're dealing with?

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Contaminated water should only be handled by experts. Call SERVPRO if your home or property is flooded with contaminated water!

Did you know that not all water is the same, and that there are different types of water that can damage your home or property? Being able to identify the type of water that caused damage in your home or property is important. Knowing the type of water ensures that the clean up will be done quickly and correctly. There are three different types of water that everybody should know about: Clean water, Gray water, and Black water.

If a pipe breaks in your home, or if rainwater floods your basement, it is considered clean water. When clean water is left untreated, it becomes gray water. Gray water refers to untreated clean water that has been exposed to bacteria and other variants, which makes the water unsafe. Black water is hazardous, highly contaminated water full of fungi, chemicals, and bacteria. This type of water is normally caused by sewage damage, or any kind of natural disaster. It is extremely important that black water is only handled by trained professionals. Keep reading for some ways you can help minimize water damage while you wait for help to arrive!

Before help arrives, shut off the water source, and turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building or house. Only shut off the circuit breakers if there is a safe way to get to the power distribution channel. Do not go into rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may be present. The next thing you can do is remove as much of the water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe away excess water from wood furniture, and prop up any wet upholstery to allow more drying. When it comes to contaminated water, stay away from sewage and items affected by sewage. Make sure not to walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread contaminants to unaffected areas. Do not use house hold fans to dry the contaminated water, as the air flow could spread bacteria. Throw away any food or personal hygiene items that have come in contact with black or gray water.

Here at SERVPRO, we care about your home and your safety. When you have a water damage, don’t leave your home or property to chance. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids! Our expert teams will make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Flood damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Flood damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Document Restoration

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses the same document restoration technique as the library of congress!

Crack the riddle: What does SERVPRO and the library of congress have in common?

If you guessed document restoration techniques, you are correct!

When a business suffers from water damage, one of the main concerns is the loss of important documents. Water damaged paper can quickly deteriorate if not handled properly. SERVPRO’s team members are expertly trained and use the most advanced technology to recover your documents, and it just so happens that the library of congress uses the same techniques to recover damaged books!

One method that SERVPRO frequently uses in document restoration is the vacuum freeze-drying method. This process works by sublimation, which means turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping over the liquid stage to avoid causing more water damage. This procedure can restore even the most fragile documents, such as photos, x-ray’s and business files. Another document restoration technique we use is called gamma irradiation. This procedure is used for cleaning and disinfecting documents. It is also used for decontaminating documents or other important items. In an instance where sewage or flood water has contaminated the documents, the papers are not only falling apart, but they are also full of hazardous bacteria. In this situation, decontamination is highly important. The gamma irradiation safely kills these bacteria and ensures that it won’t spread to other areas.

            Our Goal at SERVPRO is to make this process as hassle free as possible for our customers. If your commercial business is in need of document restoration, call the experts at SERVPRO! Our friendly staff will be happy to give you more information about cleaning and restoring your paper documents!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Flood damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Flood damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Why the flames of your bonfire aren't always orange!

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids if you need assistance with fire damage restoration!

Have you ever been sitting around a campfire and noticed that not all the flames are the same color? At first glance, the flames probably look orange, but upon further inspection, shades of blue, white, yellow, or even green can be spotted in the crackling fire. There are two instances in which flames will change color. The first being the temperature, the second being substances in the fire that cause a chemical reaction, resulting in color change. For example, when a fire reaches 1112-1832 degrees Fahrenheit, the flames will appear red. If a fire is 1823-2192 degrees F, the flames will appear orange. If the temperature is 2192-2552 degrees F, the flames will be yellow. Lastly, temperatures of 2552+ F will result in blue or violet flames.

Another way flames can change color is when they come into contact with elemental substances. For instance, when sodium is found in fire, the flames result in orange. When Carbon and hydrogen are in the mix, the flames will turn blue. With copper, the flames will turn green, and with lithium, they will turn red.

As appealing as the colored flames are to look at, it’s important to be careful when dealing with any type of fire. Fire is unpredictable, and can cause severe damage to your home or property-no matter what color the flames are! While we hope you are never faced with fire damage, if you are ever in need, give SERVPRO a call! Our restoration experts will make the mess “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Fire damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Hot tub hints!

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Know what to do in case your hot tub overflows!

One of the best ways to keep warm during crisp fall evenings is to jump in a steaming hot tub! While hot tubs are an awesome way to relax and escape the cold, it’s important to know what to do if your hot tub ever floods.

Michigan faces a lot of storms during the fall season, and the rain can cause your hot tub to overflow. According to https://www.hottubworks.com, if your spa begins to flood, or has flooded – even if only a few inches deep, make sure to keep the spa power OFF at the main circuit breaker. Do not use a hot tub that has flooded, and do not turn the power back on until you perform several important steps.

 If the hot tub has already flooded, use a submersible pump and pump the water downhill and away from the hot tub area. If the water isn’t decreasing on its own, try using sand bags or trash bags filled with soil and placing them around the hot tub. This will allow you to pump and clean the area around it.

When the weather permits, inspect the damage. Look for evidence of how high the flood waters were inside the hot tub, and check to see if it rose over any electrical equipment. If the hot tub equipment was completely submerged (water depths of 12″ or more), remove the equipment and let it dry in a cool area within the home. If drying out the equipment doesn’t work, it may be time to call in a professional. You don’t want to risk causing any extra damage.

If your hot tub overflows, or if your home or business faces any other type of flood, give the restoration experts at SERVPRO a call. Our state-of-the-art technology and expertly trained crews are ready to make the damage disappear- “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Flood damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Flood damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Lakeshore Storms

10/27/2019 (Permalink)

Grand haven, Michigan light house and pier by Mike Dixon Photography.

Just a few days ago on October 19. 2019, Michigan was hit with a catastrophic storm that caused severe wreckage to the lakeshore. Lake Michigan’s waves were a towering 10 feet, and 50 mph wind gusts tore across the sandy beaches, knocking over tall trees along the lakeshore. Beaches and sand dunes were eroded, which made the lake water inch closer to the slew of beach houses plotted on the shoreline. In the areas hit the hardest, 10-20 feet of dune bluff was eroded with in a 12-hour period. So far, this storm has been the most destructive this fall, though other storms have attributed to the eroding lake shore as well. Because the lake’s water levels are expected to stay high, it’s likely that beach erosion will continue into 2020. According to MLIVE.com, “The strongest west winds come on a strong storm or two in November. Just based on the time of year, there could be even bigger waves producing storms in the next month”. That being said, if any of Michigan’s fall storms damage or flood your home or business, give the restoration experts at SERVPRO a call! Our crew members are highly trained and eager to make it “Like it never even happened”.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Storm and flood damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Flood or Storm damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

SERVPRO community values

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Join SERVPRO in helping Michigan's children stay warm this winter!

At SERVPRO, we truly care about people. We feel so grateful every time a customer trusts us to restore the damage done to their home or business. We also care about our community, and believe in finding opportunities to give back. Since SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, we are able to connect with our neighborhoods and get to know the needs of our community. With the cold temperatures coming in fast, our goal for this winter was to find a way to help Michigan residents stay warm.

With a little brain storming and a dash of creativity, we partnered up with a local school to organize a coat drive! We are so excited to be able to team up with other local businesses and make our community a better place. We are grateful for the chance to serve this school and hope our kid’s coat drive will brighten their spirits!  

If you ever need assistance in restoring damage from a storm, flood, fire, or mold, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO! Our team will be more than happy to help you find peace of mind in the midst of tragedy.

Michigan Storms throughout history

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Michigan Snow Storms are no joke. Make sure to call SERVPRO if you find yourself faced with storm damage!

Michigan residents are no strangers to frigid snow storms and polar vortexes. In fact, Michigan has an impressive history of destructive blizzards. They say history has a way of repeating itself, and when it comes to Michigan snow storms, it’s certainly true.

The infamous Blizzard of 1967 hit Michigan January 26-27, catching almost everybody off guard. In fact, just two days before the blizzard hit, Lansing Michigan’s temperature was 66 degrees! Two days later, Lansing was blasted with 24 inches of snow, and Kalamazoo got hit with 30 inches! The storm was so bad, that Michigan State Police were transported by the National Guard to come in and help. There were 22 deaths in total.

Ironically, 11 years later on the same exact dates, the blizzard of 1978 took place. This blizzard was even worse than the one 11 years prior. The blizzard of 1978 accumulated 3 feet of snow and had wind gusts of 60 miles per hour. This storm left 125,000 vehicles stranded on the roads, caused 20 deaths, and damaged 400,000 homes and businesses.

Needless to say, Michigan Storms are not to be taken lightly, as they can cause extreme wreckage. If you find yourself with a damaged home or business after a storm, don’t hesitate to call the restoration professionals at SERVPRO! Our expert crews are ready to help!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapidsspecializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Storm damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Storm damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Garden Hose Prep for winter

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Don't forget about prepping your garden hose before winter comes!

Protect your garden hose this winter!

Michigan winters, though beautiful, can cause a lot of problems for homeowners. Many people do their best to prepare for the cold weather by adding insulation, sealing exterior wood, and cleaning out their gutters. While these tasks are important, one task that many people forget is prepping out door garden hoses.  If ignored, garden hoses can crack and break in the frigid winter temps. Keep reading to learn how to prep your garden hose for the snowy season.

            The first step is to turn off the water spigot to stop the flow of water through the hose. After that, straighten out any visible kinks. Next, release the remaining water from the hose, making sure it’s completely empty by removing attachments and dumping every last drop. Once all the water is gone, disconnect the hose from the water spigot. Make sure no more water remains in the end in of the hole nearest to the spigot. It’s important to get the entire length of the hose, lifting up each section as you go to ensure that no water is left in the center. Wind up the garden hose in a circular shape to prevent any future kinks while it’s sitting in storage. Each loop should be around 3 feet in diameter. Store the hose in a warm location to prevent it from freezing and cracking. Lastly, keep the hose in a coiled shape to avoid kinks while sitting in storage.

            After taking care of the hose part, it’s critical to take care of the spigot! An easy way to do this is to install an outdoor faucet cover on each outdoor fixture. Doing this protects the spigot by covering it with insulation. According to spruce.com, even if your spigot is considered “frost-free, it should still be covered. Although they are resistant to freezing, they are not completely frost-proof in the coldest weather. There are rubber gaskets and washers inside the frost-free spigots that will benefit from the extra protection from the cold.  

By following these steps provided by https://www.apexhose.com/, your outdoor garden hose will be one less thing to worry about this winter. However, if the freezing temperatures cause any damage to your home, call SERVPRO! Our talented crews are happy to restore the damage and make it like it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after water damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after water damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

.

River Flooding Stages

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Beautiful Muskegon River!

One of the many great things about living in Michigan is that we are surrounded by multiple bodies of water! Rushing rivers and winding streams make their way through our cities and towns and eventually pour into the great lakes. However, because so many rivers and streams flow through our towns, it is important for us to be informed about their water levels and be on the lookout for signs of potential flooding. An easy way to keep up with the water levels in Michigan’s rivers is to pay attention to their stages. According to weather.gov, a river stage refers to the level of the water surface in a river or stream. That being said, there are three different stages to be aware of: The bankfull stage, the action stage, and the flood stage.  

The bankfull stage is when a rise in water surface level causes the stream/river to overflow. It doesn’t necessarily mean flooding, but it does indicate that the higher water levels will spill over into the banks of the river.

The action stage refers to when a stream or river is raised high enough that some sort of mitigation efforts must be taken.

The last stage is the Flood stage, which is when the rise in water levels becomes dangerous and the water negatively impacts people and property. At this stage, flood warnings should be released.

Knowing these river stages, as well as paying attention to the weather forecast is a good way to stay informed on potential flooding situations. However, if you find yourself dealing with flood damage, call our experts at SERVPRO! We can make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Flood damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Flood damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Prepare your home for Michigan Snow Storms!

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let snow storm damage get you down. Our experts at SERVPRO NE will make it " Like it never even happened."

Michigan Winters are undoubtedly beautiful, but can also be extremely brutal. From polar vortex’s, black ice, and multiple snow storms, the harsh winters can cause severe damage to our homes. Winter will be here sooner than we think, so it’s best to prepare your home now before the snow hits!

According to the Washington Post, it’s important to paint, caulk, and seal exterior wood before the winter season hits. Typically, the wood trim around doors and windows is only one inch thick and can be ruined pretty quick if not protected. Keeping it painted and calked will prevent it from rotting, but if you’re already past that point, it will require replacement.

Another way to prepare your home for winter is to check your drainage. In doing so, the Washington Post recommends investigating the soil around the foundation to make sure it hasn’t settled or created space for water to gather. If you do find a low spot, filling it with soil is a great wait to prevent water from pooling there. Make sure you inspect your rain gutter downspouts as well to ensure water is moving away from the home. If needed, add downspout extender! Wet soil around a foundation can cause big problems if it freezes and thaws throughout winter months, so don’t forget to check it!

Next on the winter home preparedness list is Cleaning your gutters! When the leaves fall from the trees and land in the gutters, it can cause backups. Backups cause overflows, and overflows cause water to rush down your home and saturated the soil around the house. This can speed up deterioration of the home exterior. Additionally, it can lead to water seeping in through the basement which causes a whole other set of issues.

Our final tip for preparing your home for winter is to insulate your pipes. When the weather gets cold, pipes can freeze and burst. Directenergy.com advises putting insulation on entire length of pipe from the point where your home’s main water line emerges from the ground to the point where it enters the heated space of your home. They also recommend insulating any pipes that are outside the heated portion of your home, like those in attics, unheated basements and outdoor hose bibbs.

For more tips on how to prepare your home for winter, check out our winter safety pinterest board!

https://www.pinterest.com/SERVPROnegrandrapids/winter-safety/

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Storm damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Storm damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Don't burn the leaves!

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

If the autumn season results in fire damage on your property or in your home, call the restoration experts at SERVPRO!

It is often said that autumn paints in colors that summer has never seen. The green leaves turning shades of red, orange, and yellow are many people’s favorite part of the fall season. However, when the leaves spill to the ground and are raked into piles, we often find ourselves wondering what to do with them. A common solution to getting rid of the piles of leaves Is to burn them. What many people don’t realize though, is that in some states and counties, burning leaves is illegal. Consider the following quote about Michigan’s leave burning laws from michigan.gov.

“Since 1995, solid waste regulations have prohibited the open burning of grass clippings and leaves in Michigan municipalities with a population of 7500 or more. Local governing bodies may enact an ordinance authorizing such open burning provided other regulations are not violated. They must submit a copy of the ordinance to EGLE's Materials Management Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing, MI 48909.”

Michigan.gov goes on to explain the open burning of leaves and other unwanted materials is banned in Michigan for health and safety purposes. According to their website, open burning pollutes the air and creates a higher risk for forest fires. It was also mentioned that the pollution from burning leaves can cause certain health issues such as irritated eyes, difficulty breathing / aggravated lungs, and distorted vision. It can also infect nearby soil, and leave strong, lingering odors.

While it is helpful to know that the burning of leaves is prohibited in Michigan, we are still left trying to figure out how to dispose of the leaves safely and legally. Thankfully, the American Lung Association of Iowa provided some insightful alternatives. The first alternative listed was mulching. Mulching provides an excellent source of nutrients to soil and protects it from wind and water erosion. Creating mulch is as simple as shredding leaves on your yard while mowing the lawn. Most lawn mowers now come equipped with a detachable mulching blade, but if not, you can buy one for your mower at minimal cost.

Another alternative to burning leaves is to compost them. Gardeningknowhow.com explains that composting leaves makes a dark, rich, earthy organic matter that can be used like soil. It adds nutrients to garden soil and the larger particle size helps enhance the tilth and loosen compacted earth.

Lastly, an easy alternative to burning your leaves is to bag them up for collection. Contact your local trash or recycling business to get information on scheduling bagged leaves for pickup.

If the fall season happens to result in fire damage on your property or in your home, trust that the professionals at SERVPRO will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after fire damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Fire Prevention Week!

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

If your home suffers from fire damage, call the experts at SERVPRO!

It’s National Fire Prevention Week!

Check out these 6 useful tips on fire prevention and fire safety for you and your family.

Tip #1-Two minute escape plan

Creating a fire escape plan for you and your family is of the upmost importance.  Many people assume that they will have plenty of time to escape a fire, but usually you only have 1 or 2 minutes to escape. Making and practicing a 2-minute fire escape plan prepares your family for what to do in case of a fire, and could ultimately make a difference between life or death.

Tip #2-Meeting Place

After creating and practicing a fire escape plan, it is important to set a meeting place! Pick a safe meeting place that will be easy to find whether it’s day or night. The best way to do this is by selecting a safe spot that is clearly marked by a non-moving item, such as a tree or telephone pole! 

Tip#3-Test Smoke Alarms Once a month

Check your smoke alarms monthly so you and your family don’t become one of these statistics!Three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms, and More than one-third (38 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present. The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms, so be sure to regularly check yours! Source: National Fire Protection Association

Tip #4-Avoid Space heaters

When possible, avoid using portable / fixed space heaters, as they are the second highest cause of deaths in home fires! Yikes!

Tip#5-Stay Low

If you find yourself caught inside with fire and smoke, stay low to the ground as you make your way to the exit. ... You'll breathe less smoke if you stay close to the ground. Smoke naturally rises, so if there is smoke while you're using your escape route, staying low means you can crawl under most of it.

(https://kidshealth.org › kids › fire-safety)

Tip #6- Put smoke alarms on every floor

Install and maintain smoke alarms on every floor of your home and within every bedroom. Roughly 50% of home fire deaths occur during the night while people are sleeping.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Fire damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Fire damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Vandalism Help

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let vandalizing ruin your commercial building. Call the experts at SERVPRO! We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

The last thing you want to see on your commercial building is a colorful display of graffiti. Unfortunately, graffiti can make a beautiful building look unprofessional and abandoned, which in turn could result in the loss of customers. If this happens to you, our professionals at SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened." In the meantime, here are a few tips to keep you educated on graffiti and how it can impact your commercial building.  

• If you notice graffiti on your commercial building, give SERVPRO a call ASAP! The longer the paint sits, the harder it is to take off.
• The outside temperature makes a difference in the graffiti removal process. The colder the weather, the more difficult it is to remove the paint as it bonds with the cold wall. Warmer weather makes it much easier to remove.
• The cleaning agent used to remove graffiti makes a huge difference. You can trust SERVPRO to use the appropriate cleaning agents to remove all signs of spray paint. Our talented experts will restore your building and make it like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after vandalism, storm, smoke, mold, or any other damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after Vandalism, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Can essential oils aid in mold prevention?

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

If your walls look like this, call the mold removal experts at SERVPRO!

As you have probably heard by now, many people are using essential oils in their homes as a natural defense against colds, headaches,and allergies. That being said, did you know that certain essential oils are great to use for mold prevention as well? Now we are officially in the fall season, it's important to be on the look out for indoor mold growth, which according to www.medicalnewstoday.com, is more likely to occur during the fall and winter months. Keep reading for a guide on what essential oils to diffuse for mold prevention in your home! ( Credit for this guide goes to: https://thebiggreenk.com/essential-oils-for-mold-prevention/ )

However, if you do find mold, don't hesitate to call the experts at SERVPRO! They can remove the mold in your home and make it "Like it never even happened."

1. Cinnamon oil- Not only does cinnamon oil smell great ( and perfect for fall) it is also a powerful defense against mold growth in your home. It can also prevent mold from growing on food!

2.) Thyme Oil is excellent for fighting off mold related bacteria! Its also an incredible purifying agent for your skin!

3.) If you only use one of these oils, Clove oil is the one to pick! Not only is it a vigorous defender against mold, it is also known to prevent black mold! On top of that, it's also full of antioxidants that can keep you healthy and boost your immune system!

4.) Last but not least, tea tree oil is an anti-fungal that can help you disinfect your home and prevent mold growth! Its also known to get rid of the musty smell of mold!

When Prevention isn't enough to keep mold away, Call SERVPRO. We are more than happy to help and make it “like it never even happened!”

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after Mold damage. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

If you need help with cleaning up after mold damage, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Helpful flood prevention tips for your commercial property

9/23/2019 (Permalink)

If a flood hits your commercial building, give us a call! We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Running and owning a business is stressful enough, and the last thing you want to think about is flooding. Thankfully, we’ve provided some tips and tricks to help your business stay clear from flood damage! Keep reading for prevention ideas that can save you time and money!

• Insulate exposed pipes---Michigan winters get COLD, which means there is a chance your pipes could freeze and burst! We don’t want this to happen, so insulate those pipes! The more insulation the better!

• Avoid drastic changes in temperature. Make sure the temp in your business / commercial building doesn’t get lower than 50 degrees. (even when nobody is there!) Low temps = a greater chance of frozen and bursting pipes.

• Survey gutters and drainage---Fallen leaves and other rubble that gets into your gutters can cause water damage to the interior and exterior walls of your building! Regularly check the gutters and drainage system to make sure things are working properly. Remove any build up. It’s also a good idea to get the gutters professionally cleaned. This ensures that water is properly draining away from your building.

• Keep the roof clear---Snow and ice build up on top of your building can cause the roof to weaken resulting in leaks. It can also create ice dams, which prevent water from being drained correctly. Be aware of your roof’s loading capacity, and routinely check to make sure snow and ice build up aren’t surpassing the loading capacity.

• Know where to find the shut off valve---if your pipes burst, you’ll need to move fast. Make sure you know where the main shut off valve is in case this happens! Turning off that valve temporarily stops the water flow to your building which gives you time to fix the problem or call for help.

• Close off any gaps or cracks---sealing all holes, gaps and cracks reduces the risk of cold air coming inside and freezing your pipes. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy efficient and reduce this risk.

• Keep details on valuable items--Know the prices of your important items in case of water damage. This is useful for insurance purposes and for helping you replace items after the event. If there is potential for flooding, move these items off the floor of your business.

• If these tips and tricks aren’t enough to keep your commercial building from flooding, give us a call! SERVPRO is happy to help and ready to make it like it never even happened.

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids:

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Did you know this about lightning?

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

When lightning strikes, call SERVPRO!

               Did you know this about lightning?

With summer transitioning to fall, its time say goodbye to the beach and hello to colorful leaves and stormy weather. To prepare yourself, take a look at these fun facts about thunder and lightning!

1.) Lightning creates heat hotter than the sun

2.) While you may have heard the saying “Lightning never strikes the same place twice”, turns out that isn’t really true! In reality, lightning actually can strike the same place twice, or even more than twice! It can also strike multiple places at once!

3.) According to author Alex Daniel at bestlifeonline.com, The state of Florida gets more lightning than any other state, and Venezuela experiences more lightning than anywhere else on earth!

4.) Thunder cannot exist without lightning!

5.) 90% of victims who are struck by lightning survive

6.) Lightning can cause severe home damage such as fires or leaky roofs. If this happens to you, call SERVPRO! Our restoration cleanup experts will make it "Like it never even happened." We are always willing and eager to help!

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire, storm, or mold damage event, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Grilling safety

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your Holiday is safe from fire damage!

It's almost Labor Day Weekend!

If you plan to grill this weekend, keep reading for tips and tricks to keep everyone safe!

•  Keep it clean! Fat and oil build up on the grill and the tray underneath are one of the main causes of grill fires. Cleaning up access oil and fat with a wire brush is the best way to get it off. It’s easiest to do this while the grill is still hot. It is recommended to deep clean your grill 2-3 times a year.
• For gas grills: Make SURE you check for propane leaks! Examine the gas tank thoroughly. Sometimes the holes are tiny, so keep a close eye on the tank while you examine it.
• Don’t leave the grill unattended. While this may sound obvious, many people don’t take it seriously. Remember, fire is unpredictable!

 Side Note: Grills stay hot up to an hour after use, so keep that in mind when you’re finished grilling for the day.

• Proper clothing. If your clothing has long sleeves or hanging tassels/ strings, consider changing into a tee shirt or ask someone else to grill. Clothing that has lose ends and hanging strings can easily catch fire.
• Stick to the outdoors. Make sure your grill is stationed outside, and at least 10 feet away from the house!  Sadly, 29% of grill fires start from the balcony or porch of a house. We don’t want that to be you, so the farther away, the better!

 These 5 tips will ensure you, your family, and friends have a fun AND safe holiday weekend!

 About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Fire Safety and Fireworks

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Celebrate Safety this Holiday

With the warmer months of the summer comes times to celebrate events with barbeques, family events and everyone’s favorite firework displays. These times where we use fireworks for celebrations do we take the necessary safety precautions to prevent injury or property damage needed? In all years studied, Independence Day has more incidents reported in NFIRS than any other day of the year. The number of incidents in the NFIRS database associated with July 4 and July 5 were 2.4 times the average daily number of incidents on other days of the year. Brush and outside fire incidents were nearly four times higher during this holiday than on the average day. Structure fires increase on July 4 and July 5th as well. As would be expected, fireworks were responsible for a considerable portion of the increase in fire incidence on Independence Day. In fact, 31 percent of the total annual number of fireworks−related fires occur on July 4 and 5. These fires individually were less severe than fires generally, with lower average dollar loss per fire, less than half of the injuries and one third the deaths per fire.

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

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

When Water Damage Causes Mold Growth

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Growth from Water Loss

When you are faced with water damage to your home or business it can be very overwhelming to say the least. Most of the time we can find the problem and where the water is coming from and fix the source before to much damage can happen. The issue with water damage is if you don’t clean and dry out the area with the correct methods it can lead to mold growth in the long haul. It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively re-mediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 616-647-4300

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids for mold remediation services.

March is American Red Cross Month

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Where can you make a Difference?

Founded in 1881, the American Red Cross is a charitable organization that relies on donations and volunteers to carry out their mission. Weather it is disaster relief, blood donations, military family support, or training and certifications the Red Cross is committed to helping those who need it the most. You probably hear about the impact the Red Cross has on TV when it comes to major disasters like hurricanes, wildfire and tornadoes. The American Red Cross shows hard work and dedication day in and day out that doesn’t become covered in the media. With over 70,000 disasters a year they respond to the public with support after many emergencies that they face. Every year, March is declared Red Cross Month by the President of the United States. The American Red Cross celebrates by honoring the “everyday heroes” who support and carry out the mission of the Red Cross network.

The Red Cross depends on generous contributions of time, blood, and money from the American public to support the lifesaving services and programs. To learn more about the American Red Cross, or about how you can get involved, visit redcross.org

We are here for any size disaster situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a emergency event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

The smell of mold and the Importance in taking action

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Can you smell that?

Mold most of the time can be invisible to the naked eye because we can’t see it doesn’t mean that it’s not there. The most common is when mold grows in basements, attics, crawl spaces and other areas with high humidity. What is mold you ask?

mold/

noun: mould; plural noun: moulds; noun: mold; plural noun: molds

1. a furry growth of minute fungal hyphae occurring typically in moist warm conditions, especially on food or other organic matter.

 Mold can grow where water or moisture is present and always isn’t so visible to spot out. When you start to smell a weird odor in a certain area that should be the first clue to start investigating to see if you spot mold in your home. Mold has a pungent, earthy, musty and unpleasant smell. The first reaction is to use air fresheners and disinfectant sprays in hopes of removing the odor. The only way to control mold odor is to remove the mold in the affected area. When you see mold grow on the outside of the wall in some cases it can be cleaned unless the mold has grown into your soft wall material especially drywall, then you have to remove the wall that is affected. When a wall is affected be sure to look behind furniture and baseboards that might be near the area that the mold made an appearance. In these cases, you need a professional to contain area and remove any affected areas to prevent any of the mold spores to spreading into the rest of your home. When dealing with a situation like this be sure to be cautious or call a professional.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO the first signs of Mold

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can grow on anything

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 616.647.4300

Leave the Board-up Services to the Professionals

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Our teams are ready to Help!

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups to the Professionals

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disaster, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through—especially if it is your property that has been damaged. Our teams specialize in keeping your property safe from any further damages that might come arise.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself. We are also concerned about keeping your belongings safe and not exposed to multiple elements or theft. Your SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in NE Grand Rapids area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions?

Call Us 24/7 – (616) 647-4300

Prevent an Ice Dam on your Roof this Season

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Ice build up on a house roof

Every year we deal with an excessive amount of snow and cold temperatures that take a toll on your property. When the snow falls the last thing that you think about are ice dams that form on your home and the damage that they can cause. With some steps of prevention and things to look for you can save a lot of headache and money this winter season.

Things to look for when you suspect you have an ice dam problem:

• You see icicles forming behind the gutter
• Ice or water starts to form on the siding or around windows
• Ice begins to build on top of the gutters or lower edge of roof
• You see icicles forming on the edge of your roof this can be with or without gutters
• Ice begins coming through the soffit vents or through the soffit itself.
• PREVENTING ICE DAMS
• You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake or a broom or plastic shovel. Keeping the access snow from building up on the edge of the roof.
• Heated cables are another prevention tip for ice dams. Attached with clips along the roof's edge in a zigzag pattern, heated cables combat ice dams that lift shingles and cause leaks

These simple tips and things to look for will make it easier to know what the next steps are when dealing with water leaks in your home. Prevention is the key focus but sometimes the damage is done to the home and you need help cleaning up the water that made its way in from your roof and that’s where SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids comes in and helps you make it "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after water damage is in your home call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Plants can do what for my home?

12/24/2018 (Permalink)

There are over 26 different kinds of plants that clean air

Sure, that potted fern is pretty, but can it really spruce up the air quality in your home? Studies by scientists at NASA, Pennsylvania State University, the University of Georgia and other respected institutions suggest that it can.

Plants are notoriously adept at absorbing gases through pores on the surface of their leaves. It's this skill that facilitates photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy and carbon dioxide into chemical energy to fuel growth.

But scientists studying the air-purification capacities of indoor plants have found that plants can absorb many other gases in addition to carbon dioxide, including a long list of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Benzene (found in some plastics, fabrics, pesticides and cigarette smoke) and formaldehyde (found in some cosmetics, dish detergent, fabric softener and carpet cleaner) are examples of common indoor VOCs that plants help eliminate.

These VOCs and other indoor air pollutants (such as ozone) have been linked to numerous acute conditions, including asthma and nausea, as well as chronic diseases such as cancer and respiratory illnesses.

Indoor Plants Help with Removing Harmful Compounds from the Air

An indoor plant's ability to remove these harmful compounds from the air is an example of phytoremediation, which is the use of any plant — indoors or out — to mitigate pollution in air, soil or water.

Indoor plants remove pollutants from the air by absorbing these gases through their leaves and roots. The microorganisms that live in the soil of potted plants also play an instrumental role in neutralizing VOCs and other pollutants.

While most leafy plants are adept at purifying indoor air, some of the plants that scientists have found most useful in removing VOCs include Japanese royal ferns, spider plants, Boston ferns, purple waffle plants, English ivy, areca palms, golden pothos, aloe vera, snake plants and peace lilies.

Source: https://www.livescience.com/38445-indoor-plants-clean-air.html

Clean Air is important when it comes to your home where you and your love ones spend most of your time. If these tips didn’t help you achieve the clean air you were hoping call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and schedule an appointment for us to clean your homes Air Ducts to make sure your air is running clean

Making it easy to create an Emergency Checklist

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Are your Prepared?

Making a plan to be ready ahead of any size disaster is key to surviving. With these few simple steps, it can help you evacuate your home safely before help arrives.

Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area.  Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Step 1: Put together a plan by discussing these 4 questions with your family, friends, or household to start your emergency plan.

1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
2. What is my shelterplan?
3. What is my evacuationroute?
4. What is my family/household communication plan?

Step 2:  Consider specific needs in your household.

As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets, or specific needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance.  Keep in mind some these factors when developing your plan:

• Different ages of members within your household
• Responsibilities for assisting others
• Locations frequented
• Dietary needs
• Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment
• Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
• Languages spoken
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Pets or service animals
• Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan

Create and fill out important information needed for the whole family to understand. Make sure to communicate key steps and meeting spots in case of an emergency. Using pictures or graphics can make it easier for the children in the home to understand main places to evacuate.

Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household

Source: ready.gov

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

When storms hit NE Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Using Your Portable Generator Safely

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let your generator cause damages to your home

GENERATOR SAFETY

 We all have been there when the power in your home or business decides to shut off caused by bad weather or a community outage. The first thing you think about is how to take action to find a power source to get you back up and running. Many businesses and residential properties have the convenience of a backup generator located nearby. With operation of a generator do you know the first things to keep in mind to staying safe while using one?

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in NE Grand Rapids area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (616) 647-4300

Duct Cleaning Tips for your Business

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your Employees Safe

HVAC system cleaning in your business and the importance of the health of your employees. There are many factors that will affect the air quality in your business and the main one is your air ducts and how they need to be cleaned. 1 out of 6 people suffer from allergies do so because of the direct relationship to fungi and bacteria in the air ducts systems. When the correct steps are taken it will improve productivity in your employees and the workplace.

Top Seven Reasons to Clean Ducts:

• Mildew and Mold growing from moisture
• Smoke from cigarettes or chemicals
• Water and fire restoration
• Allergy relief and asthma
• Reduce Dust and particles from spreading
• Improve energy efficiency
• Insects and rodents

In most cases your business and your home rarely open the windows or doors to help provide air circulation resulting in some of these reasons causing poor air quality. When your HVAC system is clean it doesn’t have to work so hard to maintain the temperature desired resulting in more money in your pocket. Have your ducts and system cleaned and inspected each year to make sure your business is running smoothly. If your business needs help cleaning up after a fire or water damage SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is here to help.

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Grand Rapids commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

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

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 616-647-4300

When storms or floods hit NE Grand Rapids, SERVPRO is ready!

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit NE Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Staying warm this winter season without disasters

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Stay warm without worry this year

The winter season is here and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. No matter where you live, winter brings a change in the weather. Many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves to help keep homes warm. Did you know, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually. Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fires in your home the winter season.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heater
• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

When a house fire strikes what do you do after

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

House Fires happen every day. Are you prepared?

Recovering from a fire can be a physically and mentally draining process.  When fire strikes, lives are suddenly turned around.  Often, the hardest part is knowing where to begin and who to contact.

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

• Contact your local disaster relief service, such as The Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies.  If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site.  DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items.  Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Try to locate valuable documents and records.  Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
• If you leave your home, contact the local police department to let them know the site will be unoccupied.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss.  The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.
• Check with an accountant or the Internal Revenue Service about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss.

For more information on what you should do after a home fire, including valuing your property, replacing documents, and salvage hints, visit the U.S. Fire Administration’s website.

Source: https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

Colder temperatures calls for pipes to freeze

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe breaks can be scary

With winter months upon us it brings concerns and worries about your home or business getting effected when the snow hits the ground. With temperatures reaching an all-time lower number you might want to be on the lookout for frozen pipes that can burst and make a nightmare in your home or business. When your property is subjected to water pipe freezes, the situation is not as simple as calling a plumber and shutting off the water. A crack in a pipe can distributes hundreds of gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, potential for mold.

Things to keep in mind when looking for a frozen pipe:

• There’s no running water or any water coming from facet
• You notice frost buildup on pipes
• Temperatures outside are dropping below 32 degrees
• Weird smells coming from your pipes

Prevention tips that might help you:

• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances.
• Don’t let your thermostat temperature get no lower than 55 degrees.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing “Heat Tape”
• Let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the inside temperature the same for day and night, don’t lower it when you go to sleep.

What to do when you have a pipe break:

• Find the main water shut off in your home or business and close the valve to make sure no more water enters.
• Begin to investigate where the break occurred and then call for a plumber to come out and fix it.
• Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids to come out and extract the water and dry the structure to prevent further damage to your property.

These are just a few helpful things to know when dealing with the cold winter months and keeping your home safe from disaster. The important thing is that Homeowners and business owners should check their insurance policies to make sure they are up to date and will cover damage that could be caused by frozen or otherwise broken pipes. The best time to check is before it becomes an issue.

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in NE Grand Rapids area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (616) 647-4300

Grand Rapids 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides 24 hour water and fire damage restoration service in Grand Rapids and the surrounding area

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (616) 647-4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

We have the right tools for the job.

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Just one of the many tools that we use

The right equipment makes all the difference when it comes to a water loss emergency, time is everything. Our team here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids has the urgency and state-of-art tools and equipment to make sure the job gets done correctly.  

Here are a few tools used by SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids professionals:

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing professionals to monitor drying process.
• Thermohydrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, professionals can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized. 
• Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggerswill atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles. 

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Mold Colonizers after Water Damage

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold colonizers growing in home

When water enters your home, there are many types of mold that can grow within the structure if the water isn’t taken care of quickly. That’s where SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is ready to help prevent colonizers from growing.

The types of mold caused by water damage depends on the amount of moisture available for mold growth. The “available water” is referred to as water activity and has a scale of 0 to 1. A scale of 1 means almost running water in the material. Based on the water activity mold can be divided into 3 categories.

1. Primary colonizers. Primary colonizers can grow at a water activity less than or equal to 0.80
2. Secondary colonizers. Secondary colonizers grow at a water activity level of 0.80-0.90
3. Tertiary colonizers. Tertiary colonizers require a water activity greater than 0.90. Since tertiary colonizers will only grow well in presence of excessive water, they are used as indicators of serious water damage.

If you have a water loss situation call the professionals here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids and we will be there to help! Call Us Today 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Prevention Steps to Save your Property from Mold

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Can you spot trouble in your home?

How do you keep mold out of buildings and homes?

As part of routine building maintenance, buildings should be inspected for evidence of water damage and visible mold. The conditions causing mold (such as water leaks, condensation, infiltration, or flooding) should be corrected to prevent mold from growing.

Specific Recommendations:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%--all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms.
• Use mold inhibitors which can be added to paints.
• Clean bathroom with mold-killing products.
• Do not carpet bathrooms.
• Remove and replace flooded carpets.

Are you questioning a mold problem in your home or office? Let the professionals here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids help!

We are here for any size situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Restoring Your NE Grand Rapids Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at NE of Grand Rapids commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

The Science Behind Drying out Water Damage

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Drying out water damage in customers home

When Water Damage happens in your house the first things we all think about is to grab towels and mop up the water and finish with placing our house fans to dry up the area. Did you know that there is a Science of Drying and restoring your property?

With all the factors that go into what can happen with water damage its time that matters the most to help prevent other problems to arise. When you call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids we have the state-of-art equipment to speed up Mother Nature. When a property is wet it can naturally dry itself but also takes too long and with this process other damage such as mold and a weaken structure can happen creating more damage than if it was taken care of faster.

Here at SERVPRO we have the knowledge of psychometrics which is essential to restoring water damage to its preloss condition. Our Team has been trained on all of the drying techniques that we use every day and are knowledgeable on how to dry your home the fasted way possible. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids has equipment to help dry your hard wood floors and carpets, hard to reach spaces in your walls and many more.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids has tools to monitor the drying process allowing us to take pictures and different readings to track the restoration progress. With the readings that we get we use our program SERVPRO DryBOOK to record information to ensure your restoration is done properly and efficiently every time.

We are here for any size Water Damage situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Holiday Cooking Comes with Caution

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Don't Spoil your Holiday this year

Holiday Cooking Safety

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from the stovetop.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Be safe during Severe Weather

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Are you Ready?

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,300 tornadoes
• 2 land falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business, and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless

Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms, and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a storm damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Water is Everywhere! Are you prepared in case of a flood?

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

There’s more to flooding then just a wet basement.

With any situation that involves water damage big or small it can be devastating to say the least. The good news is that with a flood plan and basic safety precautions you can keep yourself safe.

Make a Flood Plan

• Know your flood risk.
• Make a flood emergency plan.
• Build or restock youremergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
• Consider buying flood insurance.
• Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to get to higher ground, the highest level of a building, or to evacuate.
• Stay tuned to your phone alerts, TV, or radio for weather updates, emergency instructions, or evacuation orders.

Basic Safety Tips

• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of water can sweep your vehicle away.
• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the #1 cause of weather-related deaths in the US.
• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

After the Flood

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.
• Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded.
• Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.

These easy steps to take could save your life and other things that are important to you.

Source: ready.gov

When a water issue becomes too much for you to handle let our team help with your restoration services due to Water Damage Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids (616) 647-4300 services available 24/7

Safety tips to keep your Home from Tricks this Halloween

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your Home Safe this Halloween

With trick-or-treaters running the streets in search of the best house on the block for the best candy that makes you think about how close Halloween is upon us. When it comes to having the best costume or the best candy as a home owner there are some things you should keep in mind before the big night. Keeping your property safe is key to have a safe and fun holiday with friends and family. There are a handful of tips to make sure are covered.

Outdoor Lighting - Make sure paths to your house are well lit for your trick-or-treat visitors to ensure their safety entering your yard or your front porch. Using lights that are not hazards examples being glow sticks or maybe even string lights to guide people to your front door can help out.

Family Pets - Your family pet maybe be great around friends and family and super friendly but keep in mind the little kids showing up at the door dressed as a scary monster. Having the door bell ringing all night can maybe brother your dog and sent them into a barking match. It’s always a good tip to keep your pets locked up and away from all the noise and visitors to ensure fun for everyone.

Fire Safety - Another thing to keep in mind is the freshly craved pumpkins that sit outside your door you and your family spent quality time craving. What’s a craved pumpkin without something to light up your artwork for the neighborhood to see? Have some concerns in mind about fire safety and what alternatives to use other than candles to prevent a scarier problem from happening to your home. With fire safety on the top of list to prevent maybe double check for any other hazards that might be around your home. Using these quick and small steps can make the difference to getting a treat over a trick this year. If you come across damages to your home this holiday from fire or water damages just know SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is here to help.

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire or water damage event call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

Are you prepared with supplies for a Storm

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Storm clean-up? We can help

Steps You Should Take to Prepare for a Storm

To prepare for a storm, each family should have an emergency kit. Since you may have to evacuate on short notice, pack your emergency kit into backpacks and have them ready to go. Everyone in the family should know exactly where the emergency kits are located.

Your emergency kit should contain:

• Battery powered flashlight
• Portable battery powered radio
• Extra batteries
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Prescriptions and essential medicines
• First aid kit
• Nonperishable emergency food
• Bottled water (1 gallon per person, per day)
• Non-electric can opener
• Disposable camera
• Credit cards and cash
• Change of clothing
• Sturdy shoes or boots
• Important papers, identification and bank information

When a severe storm is approaching, tune into a local TV or radio broadcast covering the storm and follow evacuation orders, if they are issued. Check your emergency supplies and make sure you have enough water for everyone in your home, typically 1 gallon of water per person, per day for at least 3 days. Fill up your bathtubs with clean water. Turn your refrigerator and freezer up to the maximum setting so your food will stay cold for as long as possible in the event of a power outage. If you have storm shutters on your windows, make sure they are closed and secured. If not you can use pre-cut plywood to cover exposed glass. To prevent damage from flying objects, bring outdoor furniture, tools, pots and toys in from outside. Secure important documents, photographs and other valuables in a waterproof and fireproof case.

We are here for any size situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular

Leave it to the IICRC Professionals

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm

When it comes to your business, are you putting your property in professional’s hands? With any size disaster, there’s always a different approach depending what the damage is to your business. Our employees are IICRC Certified to make sure accurate structural renewal.

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry

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

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

We are here for any size situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fall projects that need attention before Winter months

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

What projects are on your list?

The leaves start to fall and the temperatures become brisk outside so have you thought about winterizing your home to brace for winter months ahead. When it comes to your property you try to do whatever you have to do to prepare for the worst things imaginable but have you added these projects to your to do list? Many projects that include fall preparation would be your homes outdoor water spigots and garden hoses. Leaving water in any exterior hoses or pipes can cause them to freeze and burst. Another important step this fall is to check the condition of your roof. When checking your roof make sure to look for red flags such as shingles missing or pulling away. Being aware of roof damages before the snow start to fly will save you time and money in the colder months. Another project being that it is the fall season you might notice the trees around your home shedding their leaves. Make it a priority when on the roof to inspect and clean out you gutters and downspouts. These helpful hints will help you prepare with ease to enjoy the colder days ahead.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

When storms hit NE Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Is your home clothes dryer hiding something

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Always make sure your dryer vent is clean

Facts about home clothes dryer fires

• 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.
• The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is failure to clean them (34 percent).
• More home clothes dryer fires occur in the fall and winter months, peaking in January.

Clothes dryer dos

Installation

• Have your clothes dryer installed by a professional.
• Make sure the correct electrical plug and outlet are used and that the dryer is connected properly.
• Read manufacturers' instructions and warnings in use and care manuals that come with new dryers.

Cleaning

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up. In addition, clean the lint filter with a nylon brush at least every six months or more often if it becomes clogged.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months.
• Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional, especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

Maintenance

• Inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it is not damaged or restricted.
• Put a covering on outside wall dampers to keep out rain, snow and dirt.
• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is on.
• Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with rigid, non-ribbed metal duct.
• Have gas-powered dryers inspected every year by a professional to ensure that the gas line and connection are together and free of leaks.
• Check regularly to make sure nests of small animals and insects are not blocking the outside vent.
• Keep the area around the clothes dryer free of items that can burn.
• If you will be away from home for an extended time, unplug or disconnect the dryer.

Source: www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning out your home or dryer vent call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

SERVPRO takes the Steps to prevent spreading of Mold in your Home

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Plastic sheet physical barriers for your home

Mold can be a nasty visitor to your home unannounced and unnoticed before you realized its even there. The many signs of mold most home owners choose to ignore thinking that the effects are not a big deal. When ignoring the signs of mold, you can not only damage your property but your health when it contaminates your clean air in your living space. When you have a feeling that your home might be affected you should let the professionals here at SERVPRO handle the job of getting rid of it all at once.

When it comes to Mold it’s very sensitive to deal with reasons being the growth can spread very fast if it’s not dealt with in the correct way. Mold spores can become airborne and attach to other things in your home. Cleaning mold spores can be disturbed through the cleanup process and should be contained so it can’t spread into your home. Here at SERVPRO our professionals are trained IICRC-certified through every aspect of the removed and treatment done.

The beginning stages of the removal process is the containment of the area. We create a physical barrier using plastic sheeting. When covering the area, we also focus on covering doors and air vents in the area so the effected air doesn’t travel in to other areas of your home. Then the next steps are to place air movement machines that use negative air to filter the containments out of the air. These machines have powerful HEPA filters that draw in the negative air and the vent it outside your property using a hose.

We are here for any size mold situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fire Safety Month

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Do you have a plan ready?

Fire Safety Month

During the month of October our attention is focused on National Fire Prevention. Promoting fire safety along with knowing the hazards we face every day. With a few quick safety checklists points you can have an idea of what things to prepare for.

Fire Safety Checklist:

• Avoid using space heaters close to bedding and sheets that will catch fire easily.
• When using lit candles make sure to keep a distance away from other objects and always keep an eye on the candle while it’s burning.
• Electrical objects should be checked for frayed cords to prevent electrical fire from forming.
• Teach others around you what to do when it comes to clothing catching fire. Always remember to Stop! Drop! And Roll!
• Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year and have one located in every room especially in bedrooms.
• Have an escape plan for you and your family and write it out and display it for everyone to see. Always practice and review the plan to make sure everyone knows where to go in case of a fire.

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

If you need help with cleaning up after a fire call the Professionals at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 24/7 616.647.4300

What Kind of Water are you dealing with?

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Always be informed on what you’re dealing with

When facing a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensure proper cleanup.  There are three types of water.

1. Clean Water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean.
2. Gray Water is used to classify slightly contaminated water.  Clean Water becomes Gray Water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous.
3. Black Water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more.  Black Water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster.  Black Water should always be handled by trained professionals.

Are you not sure what type of water damage you are dealing with? Let the professionals here at SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids help!

We are here for any size situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Download the App Today!

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Call Us today about setting up your READY profile for your business for FREE! 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property

Always trust your Instincts when dealing with mold

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

It can show up just about anywhere

Smelling a Mold Odor

When you have mold growing hidden away in your house, often a moldy smell might be the only clue that it's there. Don't ignore mold odors if you can't see any mold. You should thoroughly inspect your home before any mold problems get worse.

You can find out how to inspect your house for mold at Mold Inspection.

Seeing Signs of Mold Growth

Visible mold growth might seem like an obvious sign of mold. Many people don't notice small amounts of mold growth or they think it's just soot or dirt. Sometimes people simply ignore visible mold in their house.

If you can see mold growth, even if it's only small, you should take action immediately. Small mold patches can spread and the fact that there is any mold shows that the conditions in your home are right for mold to grow. You can find a guide to removing mold at Mold Removal.

If you don't take care of mold it will soon become a bigger problem. Visible mold growth could also be a sign that there is a much larger mold colony growing hidden away from view.

Sometimes you might not realize there is mold in your house, especially if it is unusual looking mold. Some mold growth looks white and thread-like. Other mold appears as clusters of small black spots. Mold can be black, gray-brown, gray-green or white in color. Mold growing behind wallpaper made of vinyl can even appear orange, pink or purple.

Source: moldpedia.com

If you have concern about mold in your home let our team help with your restoration services and removal call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 616-647-4300 services available 24/7

For Immediate Service in Grand Rapids, Call SERVPRO!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

We provide immediate service day or night!

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

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

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 616-647-4300

Residential Services

Whether your Grand Rapids home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services: SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

Commercial Services

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

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

What to Be Aware of When it comes to a Flood!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

The Need to Know About Floods

What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood Watch: Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

When storms hit Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Source: http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Don't let an Electrical Fire damage your property

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

What to look for to prevent fire in your home

SERVPRO Technicians are BOTH Certified and Properly Equipped to Remediate After a Fire in Your Home

Electrical fires are one of the top five causes of fires in manufacturing plants. Here a non-exhaustive list of specific electrical hazards:

• Wiring that is exposed or not up to code
• Overloaded outlets
• Extension cords
• Overloaded circuits
• Static discharge

The damage caused by these fires can quickly compound thanks to several of the other items on this list. Any of the above hazards can cause a spark, which can serve as an ignition source for combustible dust, as well as flammable liquids and gasses.

How to prevent electrical fire incidents

As with the previous risks, the key to preventing electrical fires is awareness and prevention. This involves training, maintenance, and following best practices. Here are a few to put into practice right now:

• Don’t overload electrical equipment or circuits.
• Don’t leave temporary equipment plugged in when it’s not in use.
• Avoid using extension cords, and never consider them permanent solutions.
• Use antistatic equipment where required by NFPA or OSHA.
• Follow a regular housekeeping plan to remove combustible dust and other hazardous materials from areas that contain equipment and machinery.
• Implement a reporting system so that anyone who observes an electrical fire risk can report it without consequences.

For more information on electrical safety, consult NFPA 70: National Electrical Code and OSHA’s “Electrical Safety in the Workplace.”

Source: http://news.nilfiskcfm.com

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is always available 24 hours a day when a loss becomes overwhelming from a fire in the workplace or in your home. These simple ideas will help you with prevention where its most important so seconds dont turn into disaster.

Faster to your Grand Rapids Water Damage Event

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Grand Rapids

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 616.647.4300

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

September is National Preparedness Month

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

Are your Prepared?

With the main focus of September being Emergency Preparation Month, making a plan to be ready ahead of any size disaster is key to surviving. With these few simple steps, it can help you evacuate your home safely before help arrives.

Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area.  Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Step 1: Put together a plan by discussing these 4 questions with your family, friends, or household to start your emergency plan.

1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
2. What is my shelter plan?
3. What is my evacuation route?
4. What is my family/household communication plan?

Step 2:  Consider specific needs in your household.

As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets, or specific needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance.  Keep in mind some these factors when developing your plan:

• Different ages of members within your household
• Responsibilities for assisting others
• Locations frequented
• Dietary needs
• Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment
• Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
• Languages spoken
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Pets or service animals
• Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan

Create and fill out important information needed for the whole family to understand. Make sure to communicate key steps and meeting spots in case of an emergency. Using pictures or graphics can make it easier for the children in the home to understand main places to evacuate.

Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household

Source: ready.gov

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

When storms hit NE Grand Rapids, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 616.647.4300

Prepared for Tornadoes and the Damage that Follows

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Being Prepared Ahead of the Storm

Before a Tornado

Identify safe rooms built to FEMA criteria or ICC500 storm shelters or other potential protective locations in sturdy buildings near your home, work, and other locations you frequent so you have a plan for where you will go quickly for safety when there is a Warning or an approaching tornado.

For schools, malls, and other buildings with long-span roofs or open space plans, or many occupants, ask the building manager to identify the best available refuge. 

Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.

Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.

Look for the following danger signs:

Dark, often greenish sky

Large hail

A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)

Loud roar, similar to a freight train.

If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

After a Tornado

If you are trapped, do not move about or kick up dust. Tap on a pipe or wall or use a whistle, if you have one, so that rescuers can locate you.

Listen to local officials for updates and instructions.

Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.

Watch out for debris and downed power lines.

Stay out of damaged buildings and homes until local authorities indicate it is safe.

Use extreme caution during post-disaster clean-up of buildings and around debris. Do not attempt to remove heavy debris by yourself. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves, and sturdy, thick-soled shoes during clean-up.

Photograph the damage to your property in order to assist in filing an insurance claim.

Do what you can to prevent further damage to your property, (e.g., putting a tarp on a damaged roof), as insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm.

If your home is without power, use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns rather than candles to prevent accidental fires.

Source: www.ready.gov

We are here for any size Storm Damage situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Things to Know About Sewage Backups in your Home!

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Sewage Backup in Customer Basement

When it comes to water damage there is important things to remember about the different hazards that can contaminate the water that is in your home. Sewage is one of the most dangerous substances to enter homes or buildings. It contains fungi, bacteria and viruses, many of which are disease-causing. Unfortunately, many people fail to understand the hazards that sewage presents.

Here are the key principles homeowners should know about sewage back-ups and how to handle the situation with caution:

• Sewage contains a variety of pathogenic – disease causing – fungi, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Anyone who works on sewage losses must have updated vaccinations, including one for Hepatitis B.
• Sewage exposure is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including anyone under two or over 60, those who are pregnant, ill, recovering from surgery, on prescription drugs or chemotherapy, or are AIDS victims.
• It is not safe to stay in a building that’s flooded with sewage unless the contaminated area can be completely sealed off and placed under controlled air flow so that there will be no cross contamination of unaffected areas.
• Highly absorbent sewage-saturated materials, such as carpet, pad, upholstery, bedding, wicker, paper or even fabrics that can’t be washed in hot water (130°F/54°C) for at least 10 minutes, must be contained and disposed of properly.  This goes for sewage-saturated drywall, insulation and several other structural materials too.  There’s simply too great a health risk involved if any of these materials are dried in place and cleaned only.
• Only the most highly trained professionals should attempt sewage remediation work. Then, a “third party” indoor environmental professional can provide post-remediation verification or “clearance testing” to ensure that the home or building is safe to re-occupy.

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids is always available 24 hours a day when a loss becomes overwhelming from a Water Loss or Sewage Backup in the workplace or in your home. These simple tips will help you with prevention and awareness where its most important so seconds don’t turn into disaster.

Don't let Bad Weather Ruin your Summer

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

Be Prepared before Disaster Strikes

Severe Weather can affect your property in multiple ways. With Summer in Michigan is full effect there’s always things to prepare for Thunderstorms to keep yourself safe. These tips listed below will help you know what to do to save your property and love ones from damage.

How to Prepare for Thunderstorms

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aidand learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit
• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

Source: http://www.redcross.org/

We are here for any size Storm Damage situation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! Call Today- 616.647.4300

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Looking for the right signs of Lead Paint

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

You can never be to sure. Test your home today

Where to Look

While virtually any painted surface in an older home could have been treated with lead paint, there are a few particular places where it might be more likely to appear. These include any exterior surface, surfaces that are regularly exposed to weather (like windows and doors), interior trim, stairs, and railings. Also consider that older furniture and toys could contain lead paint as well.

What to Look For

Lead paint typically cracks and chips in a distinct “scaly” or geometric pattern. This is probably the best indication of the presence of lead paint, although bear in mind that oil and latex paints can crack, flake, and chip as well. A secondary indicator that you might be dealing with lead paint is that it rubs off with a chalky residue.

If You Suspect It’s Lead Paint

If you think you might have lead paint in your home, it is best to confirm it with a lead paint test. You can purchase a test kit for around $10 at your local paint store or big-box hardware store. There are a couple of different types of test kits available at this price, so be sure to read the label before you purchase it. The first, and my chosen method, is the disposable swab kit. One kit typically comes with two swabs, each of which contains non-toxic chemicals that turn a specific color when they come in contact with lead. This test yields results within one minute. If you feel uncomfortable interpreting the results of a swab test, your other option is to purchase a kit that allows you to collect a sample of the paint in question and send it to a laboratory for analysis. Typically these results will be mailed to you within a week of the lab’s receipt of your sample.

If Your Paint Tests Positive for Lead

First, don’t panic. Some experts agree that if your paint is not cracking, chipping, chalking, or flaking off and is not in a high-traffic or child-accessible area it is best to leave it alone and simply monitor it for future signs of damage. However, lead paint in heavy-use areas like windows, doors, stairs and railings should be addressed even if it is not clearly chipping off. The friction resulting from the regular use or operation of these surfaces can create airborne lead dust. In addition, any cracking, flaking, chipping, or otherwise compromised lead paint should be addressed immediately.

Source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/identifying-lead-paint

About SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids

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

Things to prevent a fire from Fireworks this Holiday

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

One Sparkler can start a Huge Disaster

Firework Injury Statistics

• Every year almost 10,000 people are treated in emergency rooms with fireworks-related injuries. The estimated cost of the injuries exceeds $100 million dollars annually.
• Over 2/3 of all fireworks injuries occur between June 16 and July 16
• 72% of all fireworks injuries are to males.
• Most fireworks injuries occur to the face (12%), eyes (17%), and hands (34%).
• Fires caused by fireworks injure 50 and kill 15 people on average annually.

Tips for Having a Safe Fireworks Display

The safest and most effective way to prevent firework-related injuries and deaths is to leave all fireworks displays to trained professionals. If these professionals are unavailable for your firework displays the following safety tips will help keep you and your audience safe.

Only adults should use fireworks.

The vast majority of firework-related injuries happen to children under the age of 15.  Understanding the risks fireworks pose to children and the importance of having adults present to handle fireworks can greatly decrease injuries and deaths.

Follow federal and state firework laws.

Every state has unique rules and regulations concerning the use, possession, and distribution of all types of fireworks. Knowing the laws in your state can keep you safe, prevent fines, and protect you from purchasing unsafe or illegal fireworks. The following link contains updated laws for every state concerning fireworks.

Use fireworks in clear, open areas

Make sure the area being used is clear of any obstructions. Also, make sure the area where fireworks are used is clear of dry, potentially flammable grass, wood, or debris. It is also a good idea to monitor your state’s wildfire warnings and make sure there isn’t a fire weather watch in effect. These warnings occur during extended periods of dry weather and higher-than-average wind speeds. During these conditions, lighting fireworks could lead to potentially lethal wildfires. For more information regarding wildfire warnings visit the USDA Forest Service Page.

Light fireworks on flat surfaces.

Using a flat surface is extremely important when using fireworks. If the area where you are using fireworks is too uneven, there is the potential they could tip over and go off horizontally and severely injure someone. Flat surfaces are also important when using fireworks that take off vertically, like bottle rockets. If the area is too uneven they could have an angled trajectory which could result in an injury to a person, property damage, or fires.

Have fire extinguishers ready.

Have water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. When using fireworks, there should be at least one person assigned the duty of operating the fire extinguisher in case something should go wrong.

Store and dispose of fireworks safely.

Do not store fireworks for extended periods of time and use as soon after purchase as possible. When storing fireworks, keep them in a cool dry place out of the reach of children.

Once a firework is used it should be allowed to rest for 15 to 20 minutes.  Once this period of time is over it should be placed in a bucket of water to soak thoroughly. After the rest period and soak period they can be safely disposed of in a regular trash receptacle. Both of these steps are important because if fireworks are not soaked properly there is a potential for heat to be trapped inside of them and they can reignite and cause trash fires. Also, use caution when cleaning up debris from used fireworks since certain parts may still be extremely hot, combustible, or sharp.

Know how to handle firework duds.

If a firework malfunctions, do not attempt to relight it. Allow it to rest for 15 to 20 minutes and then safely douse it with water and let sit for another 15 to 20 minutes. After this period of time submerge the firework in water and allow it to soak. Once the firework is completely soaked it is safe to dispose.

Source: http://cultureofsafety.thesilverlining.com/safety-tips/fireworks

Be safe out this holiday season! Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids if Disaster hinders your Celebrations 24/7 where we can clean up any situation.

Water is Everywhere! Are you prepared incase of a Flood?

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Theres more to flooding then just a wet basement.

With any situation that involves water damage big or small it can be devastating to say the least. The good news is that with a flood plan and basic safety precautions you can keep yourself safe.

Make a Flood Plan

• Know your flood risk.

• Make a flood emergency plan.
• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
• Consider buying flood insurance.
• Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to get to higher ground, the highest level of a building, or to evacuate.
• Stay tuned to your phone alerts, TV, or radio for weather updates, emergency instructions, or evacuation orders.

Basic Safety Tips

• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.

• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of water can sweep your vehicle away.
• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the #1 cause of weather-related deaths in the US.
• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

After the Flood

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.
• Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded.
• Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.

These easy steps to take could save your life and other things that are important to you.

Source: ready.gov

When a water issue becomes too much for you to handle let our team help with your restoration services due to Water Damage Call SERVPRO of NE Grand Rapids 616-647-4300 services available 24/7