Bonfire Safety Tips

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Have a Smoke or Fire Damage at Your House or Business? Called SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY! (256) 233-4033

Cold weather is ideal for bonfires, and it is an activity that many people enjoy during the colder months. You may be planning a barbecue or a bonfire party, and we know you and your guests will have an awesome time, but we also know that accidents can happen if good safety practices are not observed at these types of events. With that in mind, we are going to share some bonfire safety tips with you today so that you can be sure that your event is memorable for all the right reasons. 

Never Leave Bonfire Unattended

Most bonfire accidents happen quickly, so don’t step away from the fire for even a few minutes. Keep a bucket of dirt or a hose nearby to deal with any incidents immediately. Being vigilant will let you address any problems before severe fire damage happens. We recommend that you wear hard-soled shoes around the fire, too, for protection from flying sparks.

Build In A Safe Location

Choose a location well removed from any flammable materials. Prepare a patch of bare dirt, dig a small depression, and surround the perimeter of your fire with stones; these steps will prevent your bonfire from spreading unexpectedly. Make sure there are no dry grasses, trees, shrubs, fences, sheds, cables, or wires around or above the bonfire. 

Choose Proper Materials

An ideal bonfire should be built only from wood, charcoal, paper, sticks, and other organic materials, and you should never use accelerants like lighter fluid or gasoline on the fire. These can cause the bonfire too quickly spread and even to explode. Once the fire is going, avoid throwing batteries, fireworks, and other combustible materials into the fire, and don’t burn items such as tires, furniture, or other things that are man-made, since the materials used in their construction can be toxic when burned. 

Extinguish Fire Properly

Even when a bonfire burns down, it still contains a lot of heat. Many fire damage incidents happen because a smoldering bonfire reignites long after everyone is gone. To put a fire out properly, spread the ashes out with a rake or shovel to let them cool, and gently pour water over the ashes until no burning or hot areas are left. If the fire is properly put out, you will not feel any heat if you extend your hand over the area above it. 

If you experience damage from fire, water, or a weather event, keep in mind that the team here at SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur is ready to help at a moment’s notice. We are disaster restoration experts, and we have all the skills and tools necessary for mold prevention and remediation, too.

Deep Cleaning Your House to Prevent Disaster

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what the state of your house looks like, when you set out to clean up, you know you’re in for more work than you bargained for. Exceptional presentation standards are great if you’re having people over, transitioning from winter to spring, or staging your house for a sale, but your home being free of what lies beneath — mold, mildew, foundation, or wall damage, etc. is something else.

After all, people have expectations of walking into a clean house. One of the most effective things you can do is to remove clutter. Not only will this let you evaluate what needs to stay and what can go, but it helps you see into neglected spaces that cover damaged areas.

With the clutter out of the way, you can then inspect and clean spaces that need to be well organized. Deep cleaning can be more complex than the routine you are used to, and it is important to get your home in the best shape possible.

A deep clean creates the most appealing living space possible. There might be some things you can live with, such as smudges on the appliances or a tiny stain on the rug, but you should inspect further. What’s under the appliances? Are the gas lines secure? Are the floors stained beneath the carpet?

In the worst-case scenarios, a deep cleaning session will identify areas in need of professional help. There might be mold or another serious issue behind the walls, and a remediation team can assess the problem before guests come knocking.

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur offers emergency fire, water, and storm damage restoration for residential and commercial clients. Call us at (256) 233-4033

How to Prevent Freezing Pipes While You're Away

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY for any Water Damage needs! (256) 233-4033

Did you know water pipe damage is one of the most common home damage claims?

Water pipes are more susceptible to freeze easily, especially when you have not been around to keep them going. Nobody really knows when they will be expecting a pipe damage therefore it is best to be prepared. If you are leaving home for a couple of days, there are a few things you can do to prevent pipe freezing.

These are a couple good tips to keep in mind before you head out:  

• Keep cabinets open where there are pipes exposed because warmer air flows through.
• Leave the faucet running with just a drip so that it keeps pipes clear of still water.
• Leave thermostat at a set temperature(50° minimum,) if not gone for too long.
• If you are leaving for more than a week, you can add insulation to where the pipes are located and/or you can add heating tape around the pipes.
• Make sure any hoses are disconnected from outside to prevent bursting. 
• Make sure your garage door is closed so that is stays warm. 
• Make sure small cracks and holes are covered so that cold air doesn’t flow through. 

Lastly, it is important that you and any other household members know where the main shut off valve is located, and learn how to turn it off in case of an emergency. 

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur is available 24/7/365 for any water damage needs, residential or commercial!

Your Contents Affected by Water!

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur today for any Water Damage needs! (256) 233-4033

When a water damage happens, it can be devastating. The flooring, walls, and sometimes contents can get wet and damaged. Unfortunately, if a water damage should happen, any contents in contact with the floor typically get affected as well. I’m going to give you tips on how to protect your home’s contents until help arrives.

If there is furniture sitting on wet carpet, place aluminum foil, tupperware lids, or unfinished wood blocks underneath the feet. This will help get the furniture out of direct contact with the carpet, and will help prevent further damage to furniture legs, and protect the carpet from furniture stains.

If there are affected contents that are nonporous (items that can not soak up water, such as plastics, glass, etc.) use a towel to wipe the items off. With fabric materials, get as much water out of them first. Then, if they are machine washable, run them through the washer and dryer. If there are contents that are porous (items that can soak up water, such as wood, paper, area rugs, etc.) it is best to get them laid out in an unaffected area so they can start air drying. Porous materials that contain organic materials need attention right away so the damage does not get worse. If allowed to stay wet, these materials have a high risk of developing mold growth.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur for any water damage needs TODAY! (256) 233-4033

Tips for Extinguishing a Grease Fire

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY for any Fire Damage needs, Residential or Commercial! (256) 233-4033

Cooking is the number one cause in home fires and injuries. Annually, there are 160,000 cooking fires caused by ignition of food or cooking materials.

Knowing how to smother a grease fire can help keep you, your family, or friends from getting hurt or having a severe house fire.

If A Grease Fire Starts:

1. Cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.
2. Turn off the heat source.
3. If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the fire.
4. As a last resort, spray the fire with a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.
5. Do not try to extinguish the fire with water.
6. Do not attempt to move the pot or pan outside.

DO NOT use flour, baking powder, or other cooking powders that resemble baking soda or salt. They act differently, and could make the fire worse.

If You Are Unable To Extinguish The Grease Fire:

1. GET OUT!! You need to leave as soon as possible to prevent injury or loss of life
2. When you leave, close the door behind you. This will help contain the fire inside.
3. When you get to a safe distance from the fire, call 911 right away.
4. Don’t re-enter your home until it has the “all clear” from the fire department.

Tips To Prevent Grease Fires:

1. Stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking. One of the leading causes of kitchen fires is unattended cooking.
2. Don’t cook if you’re exhausted or inebriated.
3. Keep anything that can catch on fire away from your stovetop.
4. Remove as much moisture from the food, and don’t add frozen foods to hot oil.
5. Keep an eye on the temperature of your oil. If you see smoke or smell oil, that means your oil is too hot. Turn off the burner and let it cool down.
6. Heat the oil slowly.
7. Add food gently, so there is no splashing.
8. Keep a lid in arms reach in case of a fire.
9. Always keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur for your Fire Damage needs TODAY! (256) 233-4033

Lightning Safety

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY for help with any Storm Damages to your home or commercial property! (256) 233-4033

During the lightning season, you should always be prepared for changing conditions. Everyone is at risk if you have thunder and lightning where you live. You should know what to do if you get caught in a lightning storm.

Lightning and what you need to know:

• NO PLACE outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area.
• If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
• When you hear thunder, move to a safe shelter. Inside a building is best. If a building is not available, a metal topped vehicle with the windows rolled up is a good alternative.
• Stay in the shelter for at least 30 minutes after you hear the last roll of thunder.

 Indoor Lightning Safety:

• Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.
• Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, and faucets.
• Stay away from doors and windows.
• Stay off of porches and balconies.
• Don’t lie on concrete floors, and don’t lean against concrete walls.

Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips:

If you are in a situation where there is no shelter nearby, following these actions will help reduce your risk.

• Immediately get off of a hill, mountain ridges, peaks, or anything that is elevated.
• Never lie flat on the ground.
• Never shelter under a tree.
• Never use a cliff or overhang for shelter.
• Immediately get out of any bodies of water, including ponds, lakes, or ocean.
• Stay away from objects that conduct electricity such as barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.

 Lightning is very beautiful, but also very dangerous. A typical lightning strike yields about 300 million Volts and about 30,000 Amps.  A household current is 120 Volts and 15 Amps. There is enough energy in a typical flash to light up a 100-wall incandescent light bulb for about three months. Taking the appropriate safety precautions against lightning can help keep you and your family safe.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY for help with any Storm Damages to your home or commercial property! (256) 233-4033

Do You Need Professional Mold Remediation in Your Office?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties for a Mold Inspection of Your Business Today!

SERVPRO Offers Reliable and Safe Mold Remediation in Any Business!

Having mold damage does not necessarily mean visible mold growth. Other indicators such as a moldy odor or an unmitigated water issue might also indicate mold. Professional mold remediation by SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties can prevent mold from spreading throughout the structure and affecting the air quality. 

SERVPRO restorers use a variety of methods during mold remediation of your office. The procedures used depend on the size of the contaminated area and the type of affected material. SERVPRO professionals can schedule mold inspections, remediations, and removal activities during off-hours when the occupants are less likely to be affected.  

Remediation Methods That SERVPRO Mold Specialists Use in Commercial Spaces

The three most common methods of mold removal that SERVPRO techs use are-

• Wet-vacuuming- Used if a moldy area contains standing water or if the materials in the area, such as carpets, are still wet. SERVPRO techs pull up wet carpets to speed up the drying process. 
• Damp wiping- Mold growth on hard, non-porous surfaces is removed by wet wiping with a detergent. Mold growing on porous surfaces might be difficult, if not impossible, to remove. If the damage is severe, SERVPRO mold experts might have to discard the material altogether. 
• High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuuming- It is used as a final cleanup method of the contaminated area once the materials are fully dry. SERVPRO techs use this method to clean the dust that has settled outside the containment. 

Materials that are heavily contaminated and can’t be salvaged are double-bagged in 6-mil plastic bags and discarded according to EPA regulations.  

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 to talk to our mold specialists and schedule an inspection for your business today!

Can Mold Be Contained and Cleaned Up Inside a Production Facility?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties For a Mold Inspection of Your Production Facility Today!

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Has the Ability to Restore Your Production Facility with Proven Methods and Techniques

You count on day to day operations at your Limestone or Lawrence County production facility to go off without a hitch. Once you or one of your employees suspect a mold infestation, you must address it as soon as possible. As the symptom of some water or moisture issue, merely handling it with cleaning products or bleach only treats the surface problem. SERVPRO has skilled technicians on staff trained to handle mold mitigation and removal so that you can have peace of mind. 

What Could Have Caused Mold to Grow Inside Our Facility? 

Several issues call for the professional assistance and guidance of SERVPRO. Some of the more common reasons for mold development include: 

• HVAC system drainage problems
• Leaking plumbing fixtures or water piping
• Excessive, consistent humidity
• Leaking windows or roofing
• Persistent condensation
• Improperly cleaned up flood damage 

When our crew gets called out for mold remediation, we treat the root cause of the problem and the mold to ensure your commercial space interior is safe for all employees. We will: 

• Moisture Source: Our team will carefully inspect the moisture source that brought on the mold growth.
• Mold Removal: We take the time to dispose of any contaminated materials, including carpeting, wood, and drywall.
• Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Deodorization: Using EPA-registered cleaning agents and antimicrobials, SERVPRO technicians clean, deodorize, and sanitize the affected area to help prevent future mold growth.
• Repair, Rebuild and Restore: We will take care of all of the rebuilding required to bring your business's impacted area to its original condition. 

Due to the potential health effects that may arise, it is best to have mold removal companies handle the cleanup. If you suspect there is mold growing within your commercial space, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties can be reached at (256) 233-4033

Why Choose SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties For Your Water Lose?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Today for Any and All Water Cleanup Needs!

Our SERVPRO professionals have several efficient and effective practices to restore your home after water damage

As tempting as DIY cleaning and restoration might be after a water damage incident, these situations often fall short of what a property needs. Our professional SERVPRO team can help in many ways.

What Are Practices You Can Expect from SERVPRO? 

As the leading Water Mitigation Company in Limestone & Lawrence Counties, our SERVPRO roster offers various recovery and cleaning solutions for water-damaged residences. Some of these include:

• Content Recovery – Protecting your personal belongings through relocation and on-site cleaning can ensure that irreparable harm does not befall the things that matter most.

• Water Removal Services – Eliminating surface water can be a considerable obstacle, but with many of our rapid-removal solutions like truck-mount extractors and submersible pumps, we can overcome standing water fast.

• Surface Cleaning – Using several potent and health-conscious cleaning products designed to protect material substrates without chemical residues, we can prevent unnecessary structural tear-out and build-back.

When you consider choosing a professional water restoration company, remember that our SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties team has multiple ways to help after water disasters. Give our experienced team a call today at (256) 233-4033

Have SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Check Your HVAC System!

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Today for you HVAC inspection!

Companies have many reasons to have their air ducts and HVAC systems cleaned on a regular basis. Just some of the benefits business owners would have from scheduling the cleaning is:

• Creates a cleaner living environment
• Reduces allergens
• Help people breathe easier
• Removes unpleasant smells
• Improves airflow efficiency, which can lower energy bills

We've never met a small business owner who does not want to lower their energy bills. Have you? Some businesses even require specific air quality levels, so the only way to keep this within their regulations is to schedule cleaning on a regular basis. 

When is the last time you had your air ducts or HVAC system checked? Give us a call at (256) 233-4033 and we will let you know where you stand. 

Lightning Strikes can Lead to Residential Fires

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties to help with any Fire or Soot Damage in your home!

It does happen and we want you to be prepared and be safe. 

Know when a fire extinguisher is needed from the tips below:

Generally, if you’ve used one fire extinguisher, you’ll use them all, as they typically follow the same usage procedure known as PASS:

• Pull the pin to break the tamper seal
• Aim the nozzle at the bottom of the fire
• Squeeze the handle and release extinguisher chemicals
• Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it’s extinguished

By now, fire extinguishers have become staples in most disaster-ready homes and businesses and provide billions worldwide with a quick, straightforward way to respond to sudden blazes.

Knowing the steps below, can save you a ton of hassle with instances like the average kitchen fire but to really mitigate as much fire damage as possible, there are a few other things you need to take into account.

1. Choosing Your Extinguisher

The first thing you should always be aware of is that not every fire extinguisher is good for every job. For example, when dealing with a grease fire, you’ll need a class B extinguisher to really get the job done safely. It’s a good idea to research different extinguisher uses before deciding where to allocate these appliances around your home.

2. Emergency Services

Just because you have an extinguisher on your side doesn’t mean you won’t need emergency services. Ideally, you should have someone calling 911 as you attempt to extinguish the flames. This ensures you’re able to get the assistance you need in the event that your attempts are unsuccessful.

3. Be Smart

Lastly, know when to leave the house. If the blaze becomes too large or your extinguisher runs out of juice, it’s time to get outdoors. You can pass over the firefighting responsibilities to emergency responders and work with a fire cleanup crew, such as SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties afterward to get your home back to normal again!

Personal Contents Cleaning After a Storm

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties for your Storm Damage clean up!

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other water damage events. Our expertise and our “restore” versus “replace” mentality, can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that CAN'T be replaced. We'll pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

Storm and water damage affects not only the structure of your house, but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties understands that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home.

Mold After a Storm

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today for a mold inspection!

Mold can become a huge problem for homeowners after it goes unnoticed for some time, sometimes in as little as 48 to 72 hours.

If you start noticing a musty odor that was not there before, it may be an indication that mold could be hiding behind drywall and insulation or floors.

The SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties technicians have the necessary equipment and training to handle any mold problem, no matter how big or small.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties for mold remediation services.

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Planning for a Potential Storm Loss

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties to assist in any Hurricane or Tropical Storm Damage!

Hurricane peak season runs for the months of July, August and September. Now is a great time to start thinking about your preparedness efforts, in the event of a hurricane or strong storm.

After experiencing last year’s more active than normal hurricane season, Property Managers in Limestone & Lawrence Counties should prepare in case we are threatened by inclement weather.

Here are some tips

• Plan ahead
• Come up with a “Playbook.” The playbook or manual should include employees’ phone numbers, emergency contacts, who is responsible for what, etc.
• Talk with your employees and determine who will be considered essential personnel
• Have a meeting with the building owners and then meet with tenants to inform them of the action plan in case of inclement weather
• Prepare an evacuation route and post it throughout the building
• Think about implementing an automated email, text, or voicemail message to keep your tenants/employees informed
• Have all the insurance information up to date and keep it in a safe place
• If evacuation is mandatory, nobody should remain in the building

If you don’t know where to start, give us a call today (256) 233-4033 so we can tell you about our Emergency Ready Plan.

Preparing for Strong Thunderstorms

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties if you experience any storm related damage in your home or business!

Thunderstorms occur year-round but they are more common during the spring and summer months, and on average they typically last 30 minutes.

According to the National Weather Service Storm Data, there are an average of 43 lightning fatalities per year

Do you know the difference between a storm watch and a storm warning?

• A watch means conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and around the watch area. It only means that it is possible for a thunderstorm to occur.
• A warning means severe thunderstorms are occurring or imminent in the warning area.

BE PREPARED

• Check the forecast often to see if you are in the storm path
• Sign up for phone notifications
• Build an emergency kit
• Make a family communication plan
• Postpone outdoor activities
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors
• Unplug electronic equipment before the storm hits

If your home or business has sustained damages, call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033

Who Should You Call After a Storm?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today for any damages caused by a storm!

Who Do You Call?

When a storm comes down quick and fast, it often finds the cracks in the roofs, or the storm floods a part of your home and remediation is often needed. Most homeowners do not think about who their remediation company might be if needed. Most people may have never experienced something like this, so it is understandable that there could be some confusion on who to call.

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties is apart of the SERVPRO Family, which is the largest and most influential remediation company in the Nation. We have experts standing by 24 hours a day 7 days a week to handle any and all storm related damages to YOUR home or business!

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today at (256) 233-4033 for all of your storm damage needs. We are always here to help!

Keep Your Business Clean and Sanitized

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call for a professional cleaning of YOUR business today!

Safe and healthy work environment

Keeping a clean workspace can help with the spread of germs and harmful bacteria. SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties can can clean and disinfect the areas that are often overlooked.

Growing your business

If you or your employees are having to clean the workspace, that is less time they have to do their jobs. SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties can come in either during, or after business hours, so you can focus on the growth of your business.

Professional Image

Whether you have customers, guests, or just your own employees in your workspace, having a cluttered and or dirty building can affect the way others perceive you. A professional cleaning company can improve your professional image and clean atmosphere.

Call to schedule a professional cleaning of YOUR business today! SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033

Tips for Fire Safety

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to regularly test your smoke alarm to ensure it is working properly

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Here are some more tips to keep your loved ones safe in the event of a fire:

Top Tips for Fire Safety

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, be sure to change the batteries.
• Talk with your family about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.
• If a fire occurs in your home, remember GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.

Our 1-4-8 Rule

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO has service response guidelines for water damage? We follow the guidelines 1-4-8. Our SERVPRO team realizes how important it is to be “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Our team also emphasizes the importance of communication.

• Within ONE hour from notice of a loss, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties will contact you to arrange for services.
• Within FOUR hours of a loss notification, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
• Within EIGHT hours, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to you by our SERVPRO staff.

Do you have water damage in your home or business? Contact the SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today— (256) 233-4033

**Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation**

Improving Air Quality

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that! Inspecting the ductwork in your home or business should be a high priority. In most cases the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your home or business. Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the lifespan of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur will inspect the ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your ductwork.

Have questions about air duct cleaning? Contact the SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today!

SERVPRO Handles Fire Damage Restoration with Care and precision Using the Best Technology in Limestone & Lawrence Counties

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is devastating and SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties understands. Call us today, we are ready to assist you and your home!

The success of any water and fire damage restorations rests on the skills of the technician and the equipment they have access to. Anyone navigating the loss after a fire will find that calling SERVPRO to the job ensures rapid, efficient results. We bring all the right equipment to the job and carefully adjust our processes to better achieve our restoration goals. The main objective is always to clean everything to help restore it to the way it was before the fire, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has our Green Fleet of vehicles filled to the rafters with the latest products and equipment ready to handle your fire damage needs. Some of the equipment you will most likely see us using to control a fire restoration project includes:

• Dehumidifiers – Our industrial dehumidifiers help remove moisture from the air, helping to address any water used to extinguish the flames.
• Air Scrubbers – HEPA filtration pulls odorous particulates and contaminants from the air to deodorize and clean it with air scrubbers.
• Air Movers – Our commercial air movers promote as-needed evaporation, drying, and ventilation depending on the project.
• Ozone Generators – Ozone features three bonded oxygen atoms and acts as a powerful oxidizing and sterilizing agent when used in fire restoration projects to battle foul smoke odors.
• Hydroxyl Generators – These units work to put hydrogen peroxide molecules into the air, creating an interaction with odor-causing elements at a molecular level.

We have skilled fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) who have been thoroughly trained in best practices for safely using these and other tools that we bring to each job. Everything gets restored and cleaned so that there is no trace left of the fire and soot residue.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties when you need a team onsite for rapid fire damage restoration. You can reach us by dialing (256) 233-4033.

Why Worry About Mold When SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties Can Remediate it For You?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

You never want to risk it when it comes to MOLD! Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties today!

Noticing mold colonization anywhere in your Limestone or Lawrence County property can feel like a nightmare. You never want to take a chance of disturbing the spores and making matters worse, so contacting skilled professionals for mold inspection and remediation is best. The good news for all area residents and business owners is that SERVPRO features mold specialists that can address the cleaning and sanitizing of your interior to make everything Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Why call on SERVPRO for mold damage remediation in Limestone & Lawrence Counties? Once you call us, we mobilize a team for mold inspections, remediations, and cleaning. Our Green Fleet comes packed with all the right products and equipment to address your mold infestation issue. Some of the steps included with our black mold remediation projects are:

• Inspection and containment, with the impact zone getting quarantined with containment barriers of plastic sheeting
• We ensure your HVAC system is off to halt airflow that could otherwise carry mold spores into unaffected areas
• A negative air chamber might get put into play, allowing the crew to contain spores within the work zone
• We implement cleaning measures with air scrubbers, HEPA filtration vacuums, and various equipment to trap spores and filter them from the air
• Treatments using anti-fungals and antimicrobials to inhibit re-infestation
• Controlled demolition for any areas that materials get deemed unsalvageable 

Whether you had a small colonization area or noticed a significant development, everything gets cleaned and thoroughly sanitized to ensure safety and enjoyment for your family and pets. SERVPRO always makes it “Like it never even happened.”

Why wait to address a black mold issue when you can call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties? Call our team at (256) 233-4033 when you need a prompt response for mold damage remediation.

Why Should I Consider Using SERVPRO's Water Restoration Services in Limestone & Lawrence Counties?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can impact any area of your home. SERVPRO will locate any moisture sources and restore your home to preloss conditions!

SERVPRO Is Uniquely Suited for Performing Water Restoration Work

At any moment, a water leak could impact your Limestone or Lawrence County residence. Such a leak could come in many forms, occur at varying speeds, and be of differing levels of severity. Regardless of how they result, SERVPRO is uniquely capable of remediating their effects.

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties is experienced in handling a wide variety of water leaks and cleaning up the issues they cause. Our skilled technicians have successfully performed water damage remediation work from ceiling leaks, burst pipes, basement flooding caused by leaky water containers and malfunctioning appliances, storms, and much much more.

Some reasons why we are so effective at cleaning up and restoring water-damaged homes:

• We are strategically located in Limestone & Lawrence Counties, so our technicians, equipment, and facilities are often close enough to your home to offer you the fastest emergency water damage services
• Our experts are trained by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification in applied structural drying, applied microbial remediation, water damage restoration, carpet cleaning, color repair, and odor control
• The SERVPRO arsenal contains all the latest industry tools, like powerful wet vacs and extractors, advanced air movers and dehumidifiers, cutting edge Injectidry systems, and state-of-the-art foggers that disinfect and deodorize even the most inaccessible areas

As you can see, SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties is well-prepared to help you with all of your water restoration needs. Whenever you need us, call (256) 233-4033 for assistance!

Commercial Fire Damage May Require a Pack Out of Your Limestone or Lawrence County Business

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is devastating for Commercial Businesses! SERVPRO can minimize the downtime and get your enterprise up and running in no time!

Limestone & Lawrence County Commercial Spaces Impacted by Fire Damage may Require Pack-Out/Move-Out Services From SERVPRO

As a business owner, you know you must watch your budget and overall business operations. If you have a fire, be it big or small, you may need to think about having items packed up and moved out to get stored or cleaned off-site. SERVPRO offers a no-fuss pack-out service for Limestone & Lawrence County business owners so that your fire damage restoration project goes off without a hitch.

Fire damage at your Limestone or Lawrence County commercial business must include clean-up of charred debris, as well as detailed smoke remediation. When needed, SERVPRO can help with affordable move-out service:

• Pack-out/move-out allows items like equipment, office furniture, documents, and more to get packed up and moved to a secure destination during fire restoration.
• While not always necessary, a move-out is a great way to open up space so that our skilled fire and smoke damage technicians can get to work.
• SERVPRO always carefully logs and monitors inventory before and during moving to ensure everything is in place. 
• Once cleaning is complete, we return all items to your Limestone or Lawrence County business. 

Minimizing additional damage during fire restoration is imperative with our team in Limestone & Lawrence Counties. Call us at (256) 233-4033 when you need emergency service. We have crews standing by 24/7 – We Are Faster to Any Size Disaster!

What Do Professionals do to Stop Mold Growth?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth begins when there is a moisture problem and it is not treated QUICKLY!

If you’ve recently found a patch of black mold in your Limestone or Lawrence County home, you’re likely beside yourself with worry. Mold cleanup does not have to be stressful. In fact, the easiest and most reliable method of mold remediation relies on the knowledge and equipment of professionals. These experts can help get your home back to normal by taking the following five steps.

Steps professionals follow to stop mold growth

• Find the moisture source. Because mold needs moisture to grow, it’s important to find the source of moisture. A roof leak or condensation buildup may be the culprit of your mold problem. However, if this source isn’t found, the fungus will continue to come back. Finding and fixing the issue helps contain your mold growth.
• Wear personal protective equipment. While mold can cause structural damage to your home, it can also be a hazard. For this reason, professionals often put on masks, gloves and goggles before working with the mold in your home.
• Remove the porous materials. Porous materials must be discarded when affected by moisture and mold damage. For this reason, any affected dry wall will have to be cut out of the home and discarded. Carpets, mattresses and other objects may also have to be discarded.
• Clean and disinfect non-porous objects. Professionals may use a detergent-based disinfectant to clean the hard surfaces affected by mold. This cleaning should remove all spores.
• Dry out the area. After the cleaning, the entire area of your home affected by mold should be properly dried out. The remediation team may bring in air movers and dehumidifiers to help remove moisture from your home.

The growth of mold can be stopped by the proper cleaning steps. The only true way to stop this growth is to remove the source of the moisture and git rid of as many of the spores as possible. It may be tempting to do the remediation yourself, but remediation experts in Limestone & Lawrence Counties have the knowledge and equipment necessary to handle this delicate task.

Are Candles the Right Choice for your Home?

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

A photo of a candle being burned in the dark.

A candle can make your home in Limestone or Lawrence County, AL, feel extra home sweet home. There is something about the flame and fragrance; nostalgia, maybe? Despite its beauty, a candle flame is a fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a candle fire accounted for 2 percent of reported residential fires (averaged over five years). Placement of candles also makes a difference; just over a third of candle fires began in bedrooms. Rather than worrying if you extinguished your candle, your family can rest easy by looking into candle alternatives.

Candles Alternatives

Thanks to innovative thinkers, candle lovers have many safe options that look and even smell like real candles, without the candle fire hazard. It is also important to ensure your family has flameless options available for power outages.

For Beauty and Scent

• There is a variety of flameless candles, such as LED Flameless wax pillar candles. There are myriad scents, shapes and sizes available. Some even have timers.
• Try using electric warmers for candles, oil or wax.
• Himalayan salt lamps do not produce any scent, but they can give any room a beautiful ambiance. Then you can use air fresheners or plug-ins for smell.
• Treat yourself to a little aromatherapy by using an essential oil diffuser.

When the Lights Go Out

• There is nothing wrong with using good old-fashioned flashlights or buy some with LED bulbs that last longer than regular ones.
• Camping lanterns are battery operated, and many can hang and use LED bulbs.
• Book lights are small, but many can clip too objects and are flexible.

If you use candles, ensure your family has smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher and an escape plan. A candle fire (or any fire) can cause significant smoke damage. Also, know that due to the nature of soot, it can sometimes be impossible to remove from surfaces. If your family has the unfortunate experience of a fire, call a professional who knows how to handle the smoke cleanup. If you decide to use the flameless route, then happy hunting for the best safe options for your family.

Four Tips for Preparing Pets for a Fire Emergency

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a dog wearing a fireman's outfit

You should have a fire emergency plan set up for your family. This plan should contain many components, including pet preparation. Things will get hectic if a fire ever breaks out, and you do not want your furry friend to be left behind. Pet safety is critical during emergencies, and here are some points to keep in mind.

1. Have Pet Supplies in Your Disaster Kit

Your disaster kit should contain supplies to help you and your family while you wait for your house to be habitable once again. It should contain food, medications and water. It also needs to contain supplies for your pet. Have enough pet food to last for five days, medications if your pet is on anything and records of ownership and vaccinations.

2. Get Your Pet Microchipped

During a fire emergency, your pet may panic and flee. This can be extremely disheartening. In addition to dealing with fire remediation, you now have to locate your animal, too. However, if you get your pet microchipped well in advance, then finding it will become much easier.

3. Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

While your house is being repaired, you may need to stay at a hotel in Limestone or Lawrence County, AL. Look at hotels in your counties to see which ones allow pets. It will save you a lot of hassle if the time ever comes. You can also ask friends or neighbors if you can stay with them during this time and if they would be all right with having a dog or cat around for a week.

4. Keep a Pet-Alert Sign in Your Window

You want firefighters to be able to locate your pet in the event of a fire emergency. If you need to evacuate, then you may not be readily accessible to tell the firefighters this information. Keep a sign in your window to inform firefighters there is a pet in this house.

The Importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Stock Photo of SERVPRO Carpet Cleaning

The dirtiness and discoloration in your carpet may sometimes looks obvious; however, at other times, a clean looking carpet can conceal unseen dirt, grime, soil, dust and pet dander. Regular traffic buries this dust and dirt deeply into the carpet fibers, where it can become indiscernible, release unpleasant odors, and harm your air quality. While regular vacuuming might remove some of the dust and dirt, most standard vacuums lack the power to extract deeply embedded dirt. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for you and your family. SERVPRO will ensure that your carpet remains free from all of the unnoticeable dirt and grime. For a free quote, contact us at (256) 233-4033

Document Drying and Restoration

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Image of Wet Books

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents—documents, photographs, and books—could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it is too late.

Our Document Restoration Facility:

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization

Need your valuable documents restored? Call Today – (256) 233-4033

Our Technology

The SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).

Types of content:

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

Document Cleaning and Disinfecting

In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Digitizing Services

In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. And perhaps most important of all, you’ll have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.

What is a Restoration Company?

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Stock SERVPRO Photo of a Dehu and Air Mover

When it comes to water, fire, and other disasters in the home, you can rely on the services of a restoration company to help you get back on your feet. 

Restoration companies are businesses that specialize in the removal and cleanup of water or fire damage from residential or commercial properties. These services can include things such as:

• Emergency response to a home fire, natural disaster, severe storm, flood, or any other property damage event
• Extraction of water, mud, and other contaminants from your home
• Treatment for mold growth to prevent re-contamination of the structure
• Restoration of your home with replacement furniture, appliances, cleaning products, clothing, and more.

Restoration companies will typically provide 24/7 emergency services. This is especially important if you have water damage, as time is of the essence to prevent further damage.

If your home has experienced damage, don't waste a moment. Contact the water damage experts at SERVPRO to discover how a restoration company can help you recover from even the most unexpected Catastrophes.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Carpets and Upholstery Cleaning

Even the highest-quality items can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery at your business.

Today's carpet and upholstery materials vary dramatically. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming

• Spot removal

• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting

• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns

• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Professional Cleaning

Professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Professionals will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 256-233-4033

Know who to call

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Many homeowners think that they can clean-up smoke damage to their home after it has been burned in a fire. Unfortunately, that is never a good idea. Cleaning up smoke and soot damage requires professionals to do the job.

Bring in the Fire Damage Pros

First off, a house that has been burned in a fire is typically not safe to enter or spend time in. The integrity of walls and floors may have been damaged, along with other hazards. It’s important not to enter the home until professionals tell you it is safe to do so.

While you should not undertake trying to clean up smoke and soot damage from a house fire yourself, you should get the professionals into your home as soon as possible. Ash and smoke, if left untreated, will cause corrosion, discoloration and a lingering powerful and offensive odor. Ash, specifically, will start causing damage and discoloration almost immediately and the damage may be permanent and irreversible. Anything that was made of plastic will begin discoloring within minutes. Metals will easily tarnish and corrode and fiberglass will begin to yellow.

If you get fire damage restoration professionals in quickly after a house fire, they can mitigate or eliminate the smoke and ash damage from the fire and prevent further damage to your property. Unfortunately, if you don’t get the pros in early, the damage becomes worse and worse and the costs to repair will begin to skyrocket within just a few weeks!

Know Who to Hire

Many companies claim to be fire damage restoration specialists, but they may not actually have the proper training and certification to do the job. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the primary oversight agency for the industry. Companies recognized, registered and certified by the IICRC will have taken extensive coursework to earn their certification.

What a Trained and Certified Fire Damage Restoration Professional Does

A trained and certified fire damage restoration professional will first identify all affected materials and the source of odors, if possible. They will be extremely thorough. They will identify what can be salvaged and cleaned and what cannot be and must be completely replaced. They will then begin the clean-up process by removing built-up ash residue. Once the ash is cleaned, they can better identify the sources of odors, which they will treat with special detergents made to neutralize the odors. Once fire damaged materials are treated, they will be sealed to prevent future odors from emitting into your home.

Give us a call today at (256) 233-4033

Classifications of Water Damage

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

To get started in the restoration of a home or business that has been affected by water damage, it is important to know the extent of damage that you are getting into. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), there are four classes of destruction that explain the severity levels of water damage. Knowing the class of destruction first will help in making a restoration plan to fix the water damage.            

Classes of Destruction

Class 1 –

Class 1 is the easiest water damage to deal with due to the slow evaporation rate. Only part of the room or area is affected for this class and there is little to no wet carpet that has been affected.

Class 2 –

Due to the fast evaporation rate of Class 2, the whole room becomes affected. From the carpeting to the walls and structure, moisture covers the room.

Class 3 –

This class involves the fastest evaporation rate where ceilings have now become involved. Most instances from this class have had liquid come from the ceiling. The moisture in these incidents will most likely affect the ceiling, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors.

Class 4 –

When an area has reached class 4, this means that the liquid has had enough time to completely saturate materials such as hardwood, brick or even stone. These incidents require specialty-drying situations.

It is important to mitigate as soon as possible. Call us today if you experience water damage in your home or business (256) 233-4033. 

All Natural Disinfectant

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Benefits of Benefect Natural Disinfectant

Have you ever worried about the chemicals you are cleaning your home or workplace with?  Sure they might do the job as far as cleaning goes but what is it actually doing to your system?  How toxic are they?  What are they doing to our environment?

What exactly is Benefect?  Benefect is a patented technology based on Thyme Oil.  In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection.  Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts particularly from the herb Thyme, and it achieves remarkable efficacy & safety profiles without using any traditional synthetic chemicals like ammonia or chlorine.  Benefect has been proven to kill over 99.99% of mold, mildew and bacteria.

Who can use Benefect - the 100% Natural Disinfectant?  Anyone from a Homeowner to a Healthcare Facility can use Benefect due to the fact that it is 100% Botanical and Non Toxic.  It is highly recommended for those with allergies, asthma, respiratory problems and the chemically sensitive.  If you or someone you love has the above you know what the leading cleaning chemicals can do to them, why not give them a safe and effective alternative.  Our 100% natural disinfectant is so safe that you could spray it in your mouth!  

What can I use Benefect on?  Our 100% natural disinfectant is safe to use on just about anything.  You can simply spray and walk away.  Benefect will dissipate and won't leave a film on anything. Benefect is completely food surface safe.  Benefect the 100% natural disinfectant is ideal for the following; kid's toys and high chairs, diaper pails and change tables, countertops, sinks and food preparation, toilet seats, sickrooms, pet areas, garbage cans and sports equipment.  Benefect is also ideal for odor control on carpet and carpet pads and will kill pet urine and vomit, even from concrete.  Some commercial applications would be in food preparation areas, day cares and nurseries, hotels and restaurants, schools and fitness gyms and kennels and barns.

Why use Benefect? I think the better question here is, why wouldn't you use Benefect the 100% natural disinfectant. It's a healthy choice for ourselves and our environment. It's just sensible.

Having a fire can be devastating.

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.

Take these action steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire.

1. Contact your local SERVPRO 

2. Contact your Insurance Agent 

3. Take photographs of the damage or let us do it for you. 

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. We will also document anything that we were not able to restore. 

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So, remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire.

Tips for water damage in your home

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO arrives.

• Shut off the source of the water.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if the access panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

Sewage Cleanup

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to talk about a sewage problem, let alone clean it up.  

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment are necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.  We are trained in just that. 

Sewage backups can affect your home, basement, or crawlspace and need to be taken care of as soon as possible to prevent further contamination. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can clean and sanitize the affected materials in order to make sure that more damage does not occur. Sewage not only affects your flooring but it can also affect any contents that it comes in contact with. 

Call us today and let us help you with your sewage backup (256) 233-4033.

IICRC Standards

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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.

Your Kitchen can be a dangerous place

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

The kitchen is one of the more dangerous rooms in the house. From open flames, sharp knives, hot pots, to scalding liquid. 

Here are some suggestions to consider in relation to preventing burns and/or a fire:

• Keep the gas cooktop away from open windows where wind could extinguish the cooking flames.
  
  
• Keep the handles of pots and frying pans turned inward on the kitchen range so that they cannot be knocked over by accident.
  
  
• To prevent grease fires, keep the stove clear of anything flammable, including pot holders, napkins, and towels.
  
  
• Keep baking soda on hand or have a fire extinguisher for extinguishing kitchen fires.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties today at (256) 233-4033. We can help you and we will work directly with your insurance company. 

SERVPRO Storm Response

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Response Teams coordinate large scale responses, such as the recent deep freeze in Texas.  This is a scalable organization similar to first responder’s modular Incident Command System.  For the current disaster in Texas and other states, there are two storm response teams coordinating 1,000+ SERVPRO teams. 

This requires specialized training for leaders in large scale incident management, logistics, planning, and communications.  Responding teams need to understand how they will be asked to integrate into the larger organization and what protocols will be required.

Franchises who participate in Storm Response Teams are proactively trained in many areas including travel requirements and equipment needs, operating in storm damaged areas safely, FEMA expectations, budgeting, and regulatory considerations between states.

Participation in these teams is voluntary and represents a high level of commitment to technical expertise and constant preparedness.  It is not only the commitment of the organization but the personal commitment of each team member who volunteers.  They answer the call knowing this means leaving home for several weeks in a row to help someone in need.  We are thankful to all of our team members who have answered the call!

What to do if you experience water damage

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded home is a devastating event for any homeowner. It has the ability to ruin many of your possessions in addition to your property itself. Due to the fact that water damage can quickly become permanent if not addressed as soon as possible, if you do suffer flood damage to your home, it’s important that you call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to help restore the home. Here are some things you can do immediately after a flood to start the restoration process.  

Call Your Insurance Agent

Regardless of how bad a flood has hit your home, it has likely done some significant damage to some of your possessions and to the structure of your home. Soon after you recognize the damage, you should call your insurance agent.

Check Before Entering Home

Before you re-enter your home after flood damage, check for any structural damage that may have occurred. Severe flooding or water damage has the ability to compromise the integrity of the structure. If you enter the home without closely inspecting what you’re walking into, the building could potentially collapse, trapping you inside. Once you’ve entered the home, you should be very careful about where you’re walking, especially if you’re moving from carpeting onto a hard surface.  

Document Evidence

Once you have entered the home, document the evidence of that damage that has been done by taking photos of it. If there are any questions, particularly by your insurance company about the validity of your claim, you’ll have evidence to show them. While you document the damage, save any items that you can. Some items, such as porous materials, may have been damaged beyond repair. When the SERVPRO crew arrives to restore the home, they’ll save as many items as possible. But if there are items that have not been damaged, you can take them out to avoid any further potential damage.  

Take Inventory

While you’re examining the damage that has occurred in your home, make a list of the damage or lost items in the home. Make sure to include the date they were purchased and their value with any receipts you may have. Store that list with any inventory of your possessions that you may have taken before the flood. If any of your possessions must be disposed of, which some may, make sure you have photographs of the items.  

Turn Off Power

After the flood damage occurs, turn off all power, especially to the affected rooms. Also refrain from using any electrical appliances as you could electrocute yourself if you’re standing in water. Keep the power to the home off until an electrician can come and thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it’s safe to turn back on again.  

Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present which makes flooded parts of a house ideal for mold growth. The existence of mold in a home can be hazardous so it’s important to prevent the mold from growing if at all possible. Removing any wet contents from the home as soon as possible will help to prevent such mold growth around the home.  

Proper Protection

Regardless of how well you think you can clean up after a flood, you should call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to ensure that as much of your property is salvaged as possible. But if you do decide to start the cleanup process before they arrive, it’s important that you are properly attired. Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots when dealing with flood water to ensure your safety. 

Give us a call at (256) 233-4033

Water damages in your home are time sensitive

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 – (256)233-4033

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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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.

Did you know that we offer crawlspace encapsulation?

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Limestone and Lawrence County homes are usually storm resistant. People here are used to the wind and rain and act accordingly to protect their roofs, walls, and floors. It is more challenging to protect basements and crawlspaces from the same water, however. 
 
To dry out a wet crawlspace, we first have to remove the water. That is not usually a problem, but since this is a storm, the ground is going to be very wet and possibly damaged. SERVPRO technicians understand that means multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to siphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, SERVPRO technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
Next, our technicians check the walls for cracks or seeps caused by the storm. Technicians can fill weaknesses with hydraulic cement and then cover the walls with masonry cement. These two compounds form an excellent seal against further water intrusion. Now that the walls are secure, we seal the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Finally, to protect against further storms, we recommend applying a thick coat of liquid rubber to the outside of the foundation. Once it sets, the only way storm water can get through is for a storm to crack the foundation or shift it underneath the home. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from future storms. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 today. We are here to help.

Does your business have an emergency plan?

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

It is a good idea for businesses large and small to have a plan in place in the event that a disaster strikes. Normally, it is a physical document that helps to keep employees organized during an emergency. 

1. Establish Reporting Procedures

There are the standard procedures, which include but are not limited to, dialing 911 or pulling a fire alarm. However, a company may wish to establish a system that is unique, and therefore better suited to its individual needs. One example of that would be a bank. They may have a button that is pushed during a robbery to silently notify the authorities. Your company may not need a silent alarm but rather something that could specifically relate to your line of work 

2. Decide Exit Routes

An evacuation plan is made so that employees, should an emergency arise, know when, where, and how to evacuate. The plan should detail who can order an evacuation and explains the conditions in which they would. It should also feature exit maps or diagrams so that employees can follow escape routes easily. 

3. Explain Emergency Procedures

In critical emergencies where equipment or tools must be used before moving forward with the contingency plan, all hazards must be explained. These hazards may include breaking glass or the how to properly use fire extinguishers. 

4. Ensure Employee Safety

A procedure to ensure that employees evacuate safely is necessary. Someone may need to be assigned the duty of checking offices and restrooms to make sure no one gets left behind in an emergency. This step could also be accomplished by implementing a simple roll call. 

5. Maintain Contact Information for Employees

Keeping a record of employee names and phone numbers is useful during an emergency. Having this ahead of time will make it easier to locate them either during or immediately after, an emergency. 

6. Know Who To Call for Cleanup

It's also a good idea to have the contact information for commercial building restoration services on hand. Enlisting the help of professionals can help get your business back on its feet in a quick and stress-free manner. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here to help with all your emergency restoration needs. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (256) 233-4033.

Water damage and your commercial property

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Unchecked water can be devastating to any structure. Water entering your commercial property risks far more potential extensive damages to stored merchandise, equipment, and shipping materials. Fast action by water remediation specialists like SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can mitigate damages to commercial structures caused by water or flooding.

Why water damage is so destructive to commercial properties

Keep in mind that water damage to your commercial property is potentially worse than damage found in any other kind of structure. It’s extremely important to understand how to prepare your structure to resist water, or what to do if water damage or flooding occurs. Depending on the type of business it is, flooding at a commercial property can be expensive if numerous computers or other electronics are on site, or the property stores products or goods. Larger properties tend to have more contents; thus, the risk of a higher damage is very possible. As a commercial property owner, you must remain vigilant when it comes to protecting your property against water damage. SERVPRO can help you learn what to look out for and how to react to damages that can cause a slow in productivity or a loss of revenue for your company. Request a consultation with a field rep concerning the ERP Plan to better prepare you for unexpected mishaps or emergencies.

How damage goes beyond water

Hidden water, high humidity, and condensation often lead to mold contamination on your property. Cracks in your walls, ceilings, flooring, foundation, and roof allow temperature changes that drastically affect stored goods. Left unchecked, this damage can spread and cause significant loss. As with most disasters, being prepared can help prevent losses, or mitigate how extensive those losses are. Mold and lingering odors are unanticipated consequences of unchecked water damage to commercial property and need to be addressed if water damage occurs.

How SERVPRO helps commercial property owners  

SERVPRO's IICRC-industry certified technicians can perform a full inspection of your commercial property following water damage or flooding, providing you with the location of possible problems, services to correct these issues, and the preventative steps necessary to prevent reoccurring damages in the future. They will discuss any remediation solutions with you before starting any work so that you’re well aware of what to expect when water remediation services are complete, and what if any reconstruction or restoration services might be necessary. SERVPRO technicians can help steer you in the right direction on how to mitigate future problems and provide you with the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to recover should extensive water damage exist on your property.
 
If your commercial property experiences water damage of any kind, contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 24/7 at (256) 233-4033. We can help you take the stress out of your current situation and keep you informed throughout the restoration process to make things easier.

We can handle any type of storm damage

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage, wind damage, and hail damage are all possibilities here in our area. If storm damage hits your home or office, here are a few tips to help:

Flood Damage & Recovery
If your home or office space is near water, or in a low-lying area, flood water damage is a risk. Heavy rains and flooding may cause water damage. If the land around your home or business cannot redirect the additional water, flooding can happen. Even homes and businesses at higher elevations can sustain flood damage if frozen pipes break. As soon as you see flooding in your home, contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counites to start the water mitigation process.

Wind Damage Restoration
Tornadoes often cause severe wind damage. Roof damage from strong winds may lift roof shingles, causing cracks, or even removing parts of an entire roof. Repairing roof damage may prove difficult for homeowners and business owners after a disaster due to damages that is not easily seen. If you have wind damage, make sure to ask for a professional to check your roof for moisture and signs of roof leaks.

Hail Damage & Recovery
Hail damage may be the most overlooked cause of major storm damage. Hail can damage not just your roof but also your siding, exterior walls, and windows. You may think your home or office has survived a hailstorm without damage, but hail damage can be difficult to identify. It would be a good idea to hire a roofing professional to inspect your roof and exterior walls for damage.

Impact Damage & Recovery
During a major storm it is not just wind, hail, and rain that can cause major damage to your home or business. Trees can cause horrendous damage just like weather can. Big trees are a huge bonus in a yard because they can produce shade but during a storm, they can cause damage. You will want to make sure that your trees are at least alive and there aren’t any branches that extend over your home or are breaking off. If you happen to have a tree fall on your home, not only could it damage the roof of your home or business , but the force from high winds and size of the tree could cause it to enter the home and damage the walls, flooring and contents inside.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is just a phone call away. We are here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter the size of your storm damage we will work to make it “Like it never even happened.”

*SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties are Highly Trained Restoration Specialists*
Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. The SERVPRO training program includes the follow:
• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Give us a call today (256) 233-4033

Spring Storms

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Taking proactive steps to protect your family and property from severe storms before they hit can save lives and minimize damage to your home or business. 

Severe storms including hail storms, tornadoes, and floods can cause billions of dollars in damage in the United States every year. When big storms hit, many families find themselves disorganized and unprepared. When preparing for a storm, it is important to have a storm plan and make sure everyone in your home knows the plan, in case of emergency.

Having a plan increases your chances of keeping you and your family safe. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider buying flood insurance, as flooding is typically not covered under most homeowners insurance policies. In order to stay safe, it is important to understand your risks and have a plan of action in place before the storm hits.

Creating Your Storm Safety Plan

The first step is to create a written disaster plan and review it with everyone in your family, or as we call it at an ERP, Emergency Response Plan. Make sure everyone knows where to go and what to do in case of an emergency. Identify an emergency meeting place, such as a park, building, or other landmark near your home. If you get separated during the storm, have everyone meet at the designated location.

It is smart to assign an out-of-state friend or relative to be your family's emergency contact person. Teach all of the adults and responsible children how to shut off utilities in your home. Shutting off gas and water mains can decrease your risk of additional damage.

When a severe storm is approaching your community, 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.

For more information on the services that we provide regarding water and storm damage cleanup for your commercial or residential structure, please visit or call:

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033.

How to determine how far away lightning is

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

According to an article written on LiveScience, all you have to do to determine how far away lightning is from where you are is to "just count the number of seconds that pass between a flash of lightning and the crack of thunder that follows it, then divide that number by five." They go on to say that "the resulting number will tell you how many miles away you are from where lightning just struck." 

Why is this important to know? Because it's important to know how you would handle storm damage on the inside and outside of your house if it were to happen. Are you in an area that frequently has storms? And what would you do if your house did get damaged by storms? SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties has the right tools, technology and people to do the job. Call us today at (256)233-4033

What to do if you have damage to your roof

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damage may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of tornado damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious. How can a roof leak and roof damage escape easy detection in this situation? Wind damage may loosen flashing, eventually causing another roof leak weeks after the storm. Even a subtle roof leak of this nature can produce damp, moldy conditions inside the home. Obtaining fast roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage home restoration expert may assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts an area. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively.

 If you experience storm damage, call us at (256) 233-4033 and let us help you get your home back in order.

Storm or flood damage?

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 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.

SERVPRO's Storm response team is "faster to any size disaster" and can get your home and life back to normal.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Today 256-233-4033

Has your business suffered a water loss?

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at  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.

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.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 SERVPROS corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

It is storm season. Are you prepared?

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage to your home? Call us today (256) 233-4033.

With the spring storm season upon us, now is a good time to ensure that you are prepared to handle an emergency situation at your home. Monitoring the weather closely will help you to be aware of severe weather before it happens. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is ready to help you should your home suffer damage due to storms in your area. We pride ourselves on being experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to helping to mitigate damage due to a water intrusion or perhaps a fire. Most people think about water damage and roof damage when they think of severe weather but fire damage is also a likely possibility. This is especially the case when storms produce a lot of lightning. We want you to know that whatever damage your incur, we are ready to help you. 

Our technicians are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week/ 365 days a year. If you have storm damage to your home, give us a call today. 

Commercial Flooding

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded building can wreak havoc on your business operations. Flood water is a real concern in Limestone and Lawrence Counties. It is important to do what you can now so that your business property is better protected later. Here's how you can protect your property from water damage.

Preparing Your Building

Before a flood even occurs, you can take steps to seal your building from water. Start by applying a waterproof coating to the exterior walls. Several other steps are also important.

" Install waterproof shields over windows and doors where possible.
" Strengthen walls to stand against the pressure of flood water or flood debris.
" Seal all areas where utilities enter the building.
" Anchor the building if necessary.

Protecting the Lower Levels

Inspect your basement and first floor to ensure there are no areas where flood water can easily enter the premises. Regrade any land that slopes into your property, extend or redirect gutter spouts and repair any cracks in the walls. Move any valuable equipment or furniture to higher ground and create digital backups of any important paper documentation.

Taking Other Safety Measures

Water damage is not the only thing to worry about during flooding. It is also important to properly anchor any fuel tanks to prevent the water from sweeping them away, which can cause the lines to break and fires or explosions to happen. Sewer backflow valves are also important.

Preparing for Restoration

No matter how well you prepare your building for a flood, at least some damage is still likely to occur. Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties today!

256-233-4033

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is  a well-respected restoration company to help you remove moisture, dry materials and get your property ready to do business again.

Being 100 percent prepared for a natural disaster is practically impossible, but preparing now for a later storm means getting back into the swing of things as quickly as possible after any damage happens. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counites is open 24 hours a day 7 Days a week 256-233-4033.

Faster to any Size Disaster

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today (256) 233-4033

From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex, fire and water losses are never planned, but they do occur. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties knows there's no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of tenants and the revenue of the property owner. Have you developed a thorough contingency plan? Is the emphasis on the first 24-48 hours to help you get back in your building as quickly as possible?

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can provide you assistance in developing an Emergency Ready Profile. As part of a well thought-out contingency plan, your ERP will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs.

SERVPRO professionals can manage the damage with

-Over 45 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry

-More than 1700 franchises

-Detailed communication throughout the cleaning and restoration process to help keep you informed and in control

-Experience and training in mitigating damages ranging from single family homes to skyscrapers

We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will work hard to restore the property and its contents to preloss condition.

Commercial Mold

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

If your business has an issue with mold, give us a call today (256) 233-4033

The very idea of mold can make any home or business owner cringe. Yes, mold can be beneficial, used in making brie or penicillin, but it can also be a really big problem when it is growing undetected somewhere on your property or belongings.

It can grow just about anywhere: on clothing, food, paper, carpet and the backside of drywall, just to name a few spots. It can produce allergens and irritants and, in some cases, toxins that can cause health effects.

• Do an audit of your property. Are there any areas that are full of moisture much of the time? Seepage into storage areas or accumulation from leaky pipes should be dried within 48 hours to avoid mold damage. Encourage workers to keep wet items picked up, hanging wet coats up and keeping rain boots and wet shoes in an area that won’t soak up moisture. Take steps to keep floors and windows dry at all times, but especially during wet weather.

If your business has an issue with mold, give us a call today for your assessment (256) 233-4033.

Flooding in your area?

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in your basement? Give us a call today (256) 233-4033

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (256) 233-4033

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Decatur and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (256) 233-4033

Why Duct Cleaning is important

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

If your ductwork looks like this, give us a call today at (256) 233-4033.

Have you had your air duct system inspected recently? The Indoor Air Quality Industry recommends having your HVAC system cleaned once every five years. Cleaning your duct system will prolong the life of your HVAC unit as well as make your indoor air quality much better. If you or your children suffer from allergies in the spring make sure to give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at (256) 233-4033 to schedule your cleaning appointment today. 

We will clean the unit, all registers and the ductwork. After the cleaning is finished, we will treat with an EPA registered disinfectant. 

If you have a lot of dust in your home, are suffering with allergies, or know that you have not had your ductwork cleaned in more than five years, give us a call today!

Is mold a problem in your home or business?

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

If you have had water damage and think that you may have a mold problem, give us a call today.

Mold can seem almost benign due to its slow rate of visible damage and sluggish spreading but make no mistake; it can pose a health hazard to you once it has taken hold. SERVPRO technicians take entire courses on mold safety. There are many species of fungi that can create widely varied situations and problems depending on a high number of factors. If you have uncovered mold in your home, protecting your health and safety becomes a concern, and should top your list of priorities. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you live and work in your home during the remediation service. SERVPRO stance is that mold does cause health effects, we do not diagnose, but we do remediate.

SERVPRO technicians have access to industrial-grade protective masks and even suits when needed, and you should, at the very least, try to protect your mouth and sinuses with a mask when working near mold damage. For those with asthma or respiratory issues, the urgency of this precaution is even higher. We firmly recommend that you do not grapple with this problem. Our main advice is to call us to tackle your mold problem.
 
Hands Off
Some types of mold can produce toxic or infectious byproducts, making the act of touching mold with your bare hands potentially dangerous. In general, you should never touch visible mold growth, as doing so can not only hurt you but also spread the mold to other surfaces. If you touch mold by accident, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching other surfaces.
 
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
Many mold damage cases come with additional problems, whether you are aware of them or not. That patch of mold could be the result of a five-year-old water pipe leak, and in addition to allowing mold growth, it may have already long weakened the surrounding structure. Being aware of structural issues and other types of damage could save you money while protecting your home investment.
 

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties if you suspect you have a mold issue.

256-233-4033

IICRC Certified Firm

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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.

Fire damage in your home? We can help.

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

This photo was taken in a home that had a fire in the craft room. The fire was caused by a sewing machine.

After fire ravages your home, fear and uncertainty along with stress and doubt about the future of your home start to set in. Cleanup after a fire can be very stressful. Let us take the stress of cleanup from you. Our technicians are highly trained in fire mitigation. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here to help restore your home. With our industry approved training, rapid response, professionalism, and open communication, we strive not only to restore your home but also give you peace of mind.

Call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (256) 233-4033. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the tools and experience to make your home "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO came in and packed the home so that salvageable items  and the rest of the structure could be cleaned.

Have you had a fire in your home?

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

This photo was taken at an actual fire damage. You can see the soot stains on the walls, carpet, and floor.

Unfortunately, housefires are very common. Not only can housefires cause physical items to be damaged, but they also cause heartbreak because of the important items that get damaged due to the fire. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the tools to restore important items that are burned in a fire back to normal. With our cleaning equipment, we are able to make items burned in a fire appear as if they had never been burned. 

Most of the damage that comes from fires doesn’t come from the actual flames but from the smoke and soot that the fire produces. This smoke and soot has the ability to penetrate the paint, carpet, upholstery, and clothes throughout the house. While some material in the affected home will need to be removed and disposed of, other materials are able to be cleaned. When the cleaning process takes place, there are some key aspects regardless of where the fire occurs.

We use specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot from the home as well as the smoke odor. We have the capability to clean the structure and the contents that were inside the home during the fire. If it is able to be cleaned and restored, we can do it!

Give us a call today at (256) 233-4033.

What to do if you experience flooding in your home.

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage happens to your home, it’s always an inconvenience to get it cleaned up and back to normal again. Many homeowners ask if it’s really necessary to bring in the professionals if one room floods, wondering if they can simply open up a few windows until the carpet and pad dry out. Do you really need to call in the pros for a flooded room?

When you should call a professional for water damage

There are times that you may not need our services if you experience a small amount of water damage in your home, but it’s always a good idea to find out if the damage you see is really all the damage there is. The question is: when is a good time to call in a professional water remediation service? A lot of times a homeowner or business owner may not realize how much they really need SERVPRO’s services. Unfortunately, the water damage you see is only the tip of the iceberg. A damp carpet and bad may also include water behind walls which can quickly breed mold if not checked.

Should you really dry to handle water damage yourself?

A lot of times before walking on a carpet or touching a wall, it may look dry. Oftentimes, that’s not the case. If you have a particularly damp carpet or pad, you need to ensure it gets completely dry to avoid damage, mold growth and odors. You may think that a small fan can do the job. Unfortunately, a small fan or dehumidifier may not be enough to dry everything out before the damage begins. 

If you’re in doubt, call SERVPRO

If you ever have a situation that you are not sure if you need us, we always are just a call away, and it’s better to call in the pros just to be safe and prevent further damage from occurring. Our experts know how to spot damage beyond what a homeowner may see. We have the equipment to measure the amount of moisture in carpets, pads and behind walls. Call us and we will come and provide you a free estimate to help dry out your home. We are always here to help!

If your home experiences water damage of any kind, it’s best to call in the pros to ensure the area is completely dry, and no more damage is done. Contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at 256-233-4033 and let our water remediation specialists handle your water issue!

Why use SERVPRO for your mold remediation?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Above is a moldy hvac duct

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the 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 mold has formed in your home, the experienced team at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is ready 24/7 to come get the remediation started.

What training do our technicians have?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes the following:

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

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

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

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

SERVPRO Fire Damage Professionals

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Even a relatively small fire can present a challenging and complicated situation. Often emotionally devastating for the homeowner or business owner, it's also technically challenging even for experienced fire and smoke damage restoration professionals. Usually, a large team is needed simply due to the extent of fire damage repairs and the need for speed in mitigating against further water and smoke damage. No two blazes are precisely alike, and different combinations of surfaces, materials, and types of smoke require unique cleaning and restoration solutions.

After a blaze, there is so much to do, and time is critical. We will work fast to cover any openings to protect against the elements and unauthorized entry. We will also perform extensive debris removal and repairs. Smoke causes its own widespread destruction. Much of that is preventable, but only if we take the right actions in the first few hours. You're also likely to need water extraction and related services to limit mold and other water damage. 

If you need our services we are open 24/7 and always here to help.

Why Use SERVPRO for your fire damage?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster 

We’re dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with fire or water damage. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

We specialize in fire and water restoration. We’ve received advance training in restoration techniques, and we have the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Our Restore vs. Replace Mentality

We clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Our “restore first” mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We are locally owned and operated so we are locals ourselves, as well as being part of a national network of over 1700 other franchises. 

Why you should use SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties for your next water damage cleanup!

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Call us for more info today!

When your home or commercial property has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. Our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup enable us to properly dry and restore your property. Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. Getting the leak stopped,  and the water cleaned up is most important.

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Frozen Pipe Tips and Tricks

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

picture of a busted pipe

Our long, cold, and dreary winter months lead to many emergency water losses caused by frozen pipes that burst. Generally, for your home's water pipes to freeze, the outside temperature needs to be below 20 degrees, for a total of at least six consecutive hours. The following are some helpful tips to help combat the cold this winter:

• Insulate your pipes – Buy some pipe sleeves, UL-listed heat tape or a heat cable, and insulate the pipes in the unheated areas in your home (attic, basement, crawl space, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets).
• Keep faucets dripping (just barely) – This tip is only for the coldest of nights! Dripping faucets keep the water in your pipes moving, which prevent your pipes from bursting if they do become frozen.
• Provide an extra power supply – If your power goes out on a cold night, the chances of your pipes freezing rises significantly. Buy a reliable backup power source, like a generator, to ensure continuous power to your home.
• Keep your garage door closed – This will keep more of your home’s heat inside and help prevent any exposed pipes from freezing.
• leaving cabinet doors open at night to allow the heat to reach the pipes inside the home you can but you don't need it. 

Step 1) Turn on your water faucets. When you start thawing your pipes, your faucets will leak water, letting you know that you have found the frozen pipes and are melting the ice. Also, moving water speeds up thawing process.

Step 2) Find the frozen pipes. They are usually in an outside wall, under a sink or in an unheated crawl space.

Step 3) Safely apply heat to the frozen pipes. A few ways to safely heat frozen pipes include using:

• Electric heat pads
• Electric hair dryers
• Portable space heater
• Towels soaked in hot water

Whatever you do, DO NOT use a blowtorch or anything that projects an open flame to thaw the pipes.

The certified water restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties are here to help you with all your emergency water damage needs. Call 256-233-4033 and speak with a trained professional who can help!

Commercial Covid Disinfecting

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of COVID-19, 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 performs 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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties & SERVPRO of Decatur!

Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Victory

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Below is one of our local victories with our new cleaning program. SERVPRO takes a whole new level of professionalism when it comes to the term clean. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way foward by providng your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawerance today at 256-233-4033 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

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

Fire Safety

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fires in kitchens are often from unattended food.

Here are a few things that we can do to help each other prevent fires. 

Make it easy for firefighters to get to your home

It is also important for the safety of our firefighters, should they respond to a wildland fire in your area, that your address is clearly posted and readily visible from the street, and that street signs are posted and unobstructed. Clear vegetation along both sides of your driveway and, if your driveway is longer than 150 feet, a turnaround suitable and large enough for fire equipment is required. 

Work together with your neighbors

As more and more of us move into what was formerly open space, it becomes increasingly important that we work together, as neighbors, to keep our homes, our subdivisions, and our communities safe. Ideally, we should all have appropriate defensible space around our homes. If you and your neighbors would like help organizing or making a plan, please do not hesitate to contact the Division of Fire Prevention at 775-334-2300.

Smoke and Soot Facts

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Soot and fire damage

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 Limestone and Lawrence 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?
Call Us Today – 256-233-4033

How to spot water damage

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

How to spot out water damage in your home

Water damage to a home is a much more serious problem than many people realize. Aside from the obvious property damage, water damage can lead to a myriad of health issues including allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory issues.

Fortunately, there are ways you can spot water damage in your home. It goes without saying that not all damage is going to be visible. Water can leak in hidden places like the inside of the walls which you’ll likely not notice unless and until some severe damage has been done. This is why you need to do some up close inspection to detect damage. Spotting the problem areas early on will certainly help you ward off future issues that can prove costly.

With that in mind, here are some of the most common indications of damage that may enable you to determine if water is leaking in your home.

1) Water Stains

An obvious, telltale sign of water damage! Stains or slight color discolorations that appear on the wall, floor or ceiling without any apparent reason are most likely an undetected water leak in your roof or walls. While inspecting the surface of your walls/ceilings may be an obvious step, be sure to take a close look at the corners where the walls meet the ceiling, floors and each other for discoloration as well.

2) Humidity and Dampness

Unexplained humidity or dampness in your home can be a sign of an undetected water leak. Check for wet surfaces (such as counters and walls) where water shouldn’t be accumulating. Oftentimes, a leak nearby is the culprit.

3) Mold

Mold can be found anywhere moisture and oxygen are present. Unless it’s simply a case of finding a small amount on your shower curtain liner, mold in your home is a serious problem. A mold problem is usually indicative of one or both of two things: humidity issues or a water leak. In cases of mold, unless the source of the excess water is apparent, a professional is necessary.

4) Strange Noises/Dripping

While the sound of water dripping is obvious, leaking water can sometimes take on deceptive sounds in a home. Listen closely when the house is at its quietest moments (night time when the traffic outside is at a minimum and most people are sleeping). Water leaks can sometimes be identified by a scratching or rushing noise not necessarily associated in our minds with water.

5) Soft Spots or Paint Damage

Paint and wood are often the first to show signs of water damage in a home. Warped floorboards or peeling paint is often a reliable sign of water damage.

Summertime moisture and mildew

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water Problem Professionals

Do you have problems with moisture in your crawlspace? Has a leaking pipe caused mold, mildew or wood rot? Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties and we can handle that for you. Our trained and certified mold remediation technicians can diagnose your crawlspace moisture problem and get your crawlspace dried out in no time. Our technicians will remove any wet insulation in your crawlspace, treat the mold and mildew with an anti microbial sanitary solution, dry the wet floor joists or subflooring and remove and reset the vapor barrier so that you have no more problems of moisture damaging your home environment. If you think you might have a moisture problem, give us a call so we can come out and take a look!

Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033

Wet ceiling in Limestone County

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Wet ceiling?

As water damage specialists, we have the experience, expertise, and advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

Properly restoring your home after a water damage event requires specialized equipment and products. This advanced equipment help us to remove the water, even hidden moisture, quickly and efficiently. We then dry the structure with powerful dehumidifiers. Finally, our technicians will clean the affected area with professional grade cleaning and sanitizing agents for your comfort.

Since every flood and water damage scenario is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. However, the overall water restoration process remains the same.

What to do when a water damage happens.

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a busted pipe or any water or fire damage, call SERVPRO of LImestone and Lawrence Counties!

The restoration process begins when you call us. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Even a delay of a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage. 

Water damage can be chaotic and traumatic. When you call us, we understand you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence 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.

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.

• 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)?

Flooded basement in Limestone County

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033

Do you have problems with moisture in your crawlspace? Has a leaking pipe caused mold, mildew or wood rot? Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties and we can handle that for you. Our trained and certified mold remediation technicians can diagnose your crawlspace moisture problem and get your crawlspace dried out in no time. Our technicians will remove any wet insulation in your crawlspace, treat the mold and mildew with an anti microbial sanitary solution, dry the wet floor joists or subflooring and remove and reset the vapor barrier so that you have no more problems of moisture damaging your home environment. If you think you might have a moisture problem, give us a call so we can come out a take a look!

Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033

Water Damage?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence for your water damage needs!

Here at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties we understand how stressful a water loss can be. Just a small roof leak can cause major damage to a building. Even if your roof is in excellent condition, the likelihood of a roof leak is likely in the areas where severe wind, freezing temperatures and hail are frequent. 

If left unchecked, minor plumbing malfunctions can cause extensive water damage if you dont properly maintain your plumbing, your insurance company may not cover the cost associated with normal wear and tear.

There are three different types of water: white water, gray water, black water. The clean up process needed to maintain safety depends on the color of the water. For that reason, its best to let SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence to come and have it handled professionally.     

Fire Damage?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for your water and fire damage needs!

Most house fires start in the kitchen, Cooking is the leading cause of home fire injuries. Cooking fires often start from unattended cooking and overheated grease. Kitchen fires can be extremely dangerous and should always be attended. 

When a house fire happens more people are injured by the smoke inhalation rather the fire itself, and in less then 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a catastrophic event. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties specializes and is certified in the area. We have ten years of fire damage restoration and are available 24/7. 

No job is too big as we have a fleet of disaster relief vehicles ready to be deployed. If you have a fire or water damage call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties today!      

Water damage in Athens

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

With all the heavy rain coming this week your home may fall victim to a roof leak or possible flooding. There are many signs of water damage including but not limited to, rotting wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, and delaminating of plywood. Water damage is often overlooked and is something that should be handled professionally.   

Water damage doesn't only affect the top layer of flooring. The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor, or it can be catastrophic and fast. Whichever the case water damage is a major contributor to the loss of property. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties would love to come and ease the stress of a water damage off you. Call us today at (256) 233 4033 

Fire Damage

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise, training, and experience to handle your fire damaged home or office!

Our teams of experts has over 50 years of fire restoration experience and we are here to help when you need us the most! 

Our company is able to handle every aspect of your fire damage claim in Athens, AL from communicating with your insurance company, moving out your contents for cleaning, painting, demolition, and reconstruction to even your laundry. 

Our state of the art eSporta Laundry Wash System has been specifically designed to get your clothing looking their best even after being tarnished with smoke and soot from a fire.

It doesn't matter if the smoke came from a kitchen fire, electrical fire, grease fire, or a lightning strike. Our team of experts can handle the claim from start to finish. No need to wait on getting on any other contractor's schedule and waiting to get your life back to normal. We can make your fire loss "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at SERVPRO (256) 233-4033!

Water Damage In Older Homes

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Call us for your water damage needs!

When water damage happens, action is the next move. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties respond  ANYTIME and immediately. SERVPRO uses advance drying equipment and techniques to remove and remidate the damage. We monitor progress and inform you every step of the way. 

We will work directly through your insurance company and assist you get your home back to preloss state. We offer packouts, storage, move ins, and anything you might need. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence County will leave a smile and assure that you are satisfied. 

Storm Damage in your home

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call us for all you needs today (256) 203 4033

When your home is damaged by a storm, the quicker the response time the less chance for secondary damage. You'll want SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence county on site immediately to begin work. 

We will be on site ASAP to be able to assess the damage and help you begin the process of getting your home to preloss condition, with our network of certified professionals being 1700 strong and our experience in the field no job is too big or too small. 

We will work directly with your insurance company and explain the process in detail every step of the way. We know the stresses of damage to your home and we will do everything we can to get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

Commercial Cleaning Services

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Does your commercial building need some help? Give us a call today (256) 233-4033.

The coronavirus crisis of 2020 has made Americans acutely aware that an important aspect of staying healthy includes cleaning and disinfecting our homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties offers specialized coronavirus cleaning services that can help ensure that your home or business is as safe as it can be. You can trust SERVPRO because we offer:

• highly skilled and trained staff
• hospital-grade cleaning and disinfecting products
• top-line personal protective equipment, including N95 masks and hazmat suits
• established and proven procedures

Coronavirus cleaning by SERVPRO gives your customers and employees the assurance that you’ve done all you can to keep them healthy. But SERVPRO can also keep your workplace clean and safe on a year-round basis, not just in an emergency.

Your Business Will Shine with our Year-Round Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties commercial cleaning services bring our well-earned reputation for reliability and attention to detail to the job of keeping your office, restaurant, retail store or manufacturing facility clean, safe and always looking its best.

Among the workplaces, large and small, that we clean are:

• office buildings
• high- and low-rise residential buildings
• retail stores, including big box stores
• medical buildings, including hospitals and rehabilitation facilities
• restaurants
• hotels and motels
• manufacturing and industrial facilities
• government and military workplaces

Contracting with SERVPRO for commercial cleaning services guarantees:

• a safer environment for your workers and customers
• a consistently high level of cleanliness
• quality work by skilled personnel using industry-best equipment, products and procedures

SERVPRO also provides specialized commercial cleaning services, such as biohazard/ sewage, air duct/HVAC and odor removal. And of course, we are always available—24 hours a day—to respond to a sudden business emergency that requires expert cleanup and restoration.

The team at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties have specialized training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building and property. Call us today (256) 233-4033.

Facts about fire extinguishers

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Do you need help with fire damage? Call us today (256) 233-4033.

Many homeowners wisely own one or more fire extinguishers, small metal canisters that propel a directed spray of flame-retardant chemicals. With an extinguisher at the ready, you can douse a small fire before it gets out of control, or contain a larger blaze long enough for firefighters to arrive. But the extinguisher needs to be the right type and must be maintained in order to do its job in an emergency.

Note: Don’t use your fire extinguisher if you aren’t sure you have the proper type of extinguisher, if you don’t know how to use it or if you are in imminent danger from the fire.

What Type of Extinguisher Do You Have?

No fire extinguisher can be safely and effectively used for every type of fire. Generally, fire extinguishers are categorized based on the type of chemical agents they contain and the types of fires they combat. This information appears on the extinguisher’s label, along with instructions for use.

The types of fires are:

• A class: ordinary combustibles, such as wood and paper.
• B class: combustible liquids, such as kerosene, gasoline, oil, and grease.
• C class: electrical fires that involve circuit breakers, wires, outlets and other electrical devices and equipment.
• D class: combustible metals, such as sodium, potassium, titanium and magnesium.
• K class: vegetable oils and animal fats; these fires generally happen in kitchens.

These are few of the most common extinguisher types:

• Dry chemical: suited for A-B-C or B-C class fires, these common types of extinguishers are found in schools, homes, hospitals, offices, garages, kitchens and laboratories.
• Carbon dioxide: suited for B-C class fires, these extinguishers are often used in laboratories, computer rooms and other areas with sensitive equipment.
• Water: most suited for A class fires; cannot be used in B-C-D class fires. These extinguishers are inexpensive and environmentally friendly.
• Wet chemical: suited for A-K class fires, these devices are often employed in commercial kitchens and restaurants.    

Check Your Extinguisher

At least once a year:

• Make sure your extinguisher is in a conspicuous and readily accessible place.
• Make sure the pressure dial reads in the green or “charged” area.
• Check that the pull pin is securely fastened within the handle and held in place by the tamper seal.
• Make sure the nozzle is unblocked.
• Check for visible dents or cracks in the extinguisher body.
• Review how to use the extinguisher with everyone in your house.

How Long Will a Fire Extinguisher Last?

Fire extinguishers eventually expire for a few different reasons.

• Over time, the seal on the neck weakens and allows compressed gas to escape. Extinguishers that have lost much of their pressure will not operate. You can check the extinguisher’s pressure with a pressure gauge.
• A-B-C class extinguishers can fail when the chemical in the canister base solidifies. You can delay this process by periodically shaking the extinguisher.

Unfortunately, you can’t trust an extinguisher’s expiration date and there is no surefire way to know if your extinguisher will still work. Because fires can be extremely destructive and fire extinguishers are relatively low-cost, go ahead and replace or recharge any extinguishers you aren’t sure of.

We're Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has specialized training and experience in fire restoration and cleanup, as well as natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage and mold remediation, water and mold damage, and chemical and bio-hazard cleanup. Call us today (256) 233-4033. 

We are Cleaning Experts

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

If you need assistance with Covid-19 cleaning, give us a call today (256) 233-4033.

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 in Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033. 

We are here to help our clients and customers remain as as safe and healthy as possible. 

Fire Damage Cleanup at your home or business

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today and let us help you with your fire damage (256) 233-4033

Fires are devastating, but fire damage cleanup does not have to be. Not only do the flames themselves tear through a home, business or school, but the chaos created in the act of putting them out piles on.

Although each fire and the aftermath it brings may require individualized solutions to repair, the overall process of fire damage repair can be broken down into 6 basic steps:

Making the Call

The fire damage repair process starts when you make the call. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is staffed around the clock, so you’ll be able to reach a trained professional as soon as the need arises. Each representative knows what questions to ask to dispatch our team to your home or business to get to work.

Inspection and Assessment

The first thing the we will do is thoroughly inspect each area of the home to determine the range of the fire, smoke, soot and other damage. They will take the time to check every area for the exact damage received, making complete notes as they go. These notes will be the building blocks to create your individual plan of action for your fire damage repair.

Securing the Property Against More Damage

Fires often compromise the walls, roof, and windows of a home, leaving the home, school or business exposed to outside elements. To help maintain security and to protect against additional damage. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will board-up any holes in the exterior walls and windows.

Water Removal as Required

Since fires are typically fought with a large amount of water, in most cases we begin with water remediation. From extraction to dehumidifiers and air movers, our team will remove excess water and help prevent any potential secondary damage.

Preliminary Clean-up for Fire Damage Repair

Smoke and soot removal process requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure a thorough elimination of the residue from every surface of the home including walls, ceilings, doors and more.

Final Clean-up and Sanitizing

After the smoke and soot are eliminated, we will continue the fire damage repair process by cleaning all restorable items and structures of the house. A variety of cleaning techniques are used to help restore your contents to a preloss state.

These techniques include the use of air scrubbers and fogging machines to eliminate airborne odors and other contaminants.

Trust SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counites to handle your fire damage cleanup. Give us a call today (256) 233-4033. 

We can help with Covid-19 Cleaning

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Give us a call today and let us come take care of your business with a disinfecting cleaning (256) 233-4033.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to the novel Coronavirus outbreak. SERVPRO franchise professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. The CDC encourages cleaning of counters, tabletops, doorknobs, and other high-touch surfaces with a hospital-grade disinfectant.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here to help you during this time. We are offering proactive cleaning as well as cleaning for suspected or confirmed cases. 

Are you preparing to open your business back up? Give is a call and let us come and give you a quote for disinfecting your building before you open. We can be reached at (256) 233-4033. Our team of professionals will get the job done and help you be better prepared for business. 

The recovery after a storm

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

We are here when you need us. Call us today (256) 233-4033.

Tornadoes are a terrifying, often devastating, weather event. They can turn lives upside down. Living through a tornado can be traumatizing, and sometimes the aftermath is just as bad. Parts of your home may be destroyed, and the idea of fixing it can be overwhelming. Recovering from a tornado could be a huge task, depending on how bad the damage was. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here for you. 

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

The first step is to stay in your safe place until the storm has completely passed. If you are able, try and wait until you get the all clear from local officials. After the storm, check yourself and those with you for any injuries. If someone is hurt, the next step is seeking out first aid. After everyone has been checked and is okay, you should see how bad the damage to your house is. Make sure to watch out for anything that is unstable and likely to fall. If you go outside, look out for any downed power lines. They can be life threatening, so do not attempt to move them.

Clean Up and Repair

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has highly trained storm damage specialists. We also have an incredibly fast response time. We will work closely with your insurance company every step of the way. If you home or business has been damaged due to a storm, give us a call today (256) 233-4033

Protect your home and family

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience flooding in your home or business, give us a call today (256) 233-4033

Did you know that experiencing flood and water damage is one of the quickest ways to devalue your home? Not only that, but storms can devastate your home and life in a matter of a few hours. Luckily, there are a few precautions you can take to reduce, or prevent damages caused by storms.

• Replace missing or damaged shingles. Damaged shingles are more likely to break free than secure shingles, and missing shingles are essentially a gap for wind to enter to cause more damage.
• Ensure that your home's siding is secure and undamaged. The siding, along with the roof, is a home’s first defense against the elements.
• Keep the gutters clear and free flowing. Making sure that your gutters are clear is the first step in ensuring that water is able to flow away from your home. Draining water away from your home will prevent a number of problems, such as foundation erosion and basement flooding.
• Check that your sump pump is in working order. The sump pump is usually located at the lowest spot in the basement where water is most likely to flow. It is responsible for keeping those areas dry, and also for protecting your home from extensive water and moisture damage.
• If there are any trees on your property, hire a professional tree pruning service. Having your trees regularly pruned will strengthen them and make it less likely for branches to break off during a storm. This is very important, as fallen branches can not only damage and harm your property, but the property of those around you.

Lastly, your home and belongings are replaceable, but you and your family are not. Make sure to stay away from windows, and if possible, during particularly bad storms, relocate your family to a basement or shelter.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the experience, equipment, and tools necessary to handle any type of water and flood damage caused by storms.

Do you know if you are in a flood zone?

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

f your home or business has recently suffered from storm or flood damage, then contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033.

Each year homeowners face the possibility of flooding, whether it’s from a heavy rain storm or a burst piping. It’s important to stay prepared & to protect your property if you live in or work near a flood zone. Although you can’t completely stop a flood, you can minimize the impact that water has on your property. Below are a few steps you can do to help keep water from invading or destroying your property.

Have a Plan

The best thing you can do if you think you live in a flood zone is to have a plan of action in advance. Here is a list of things to consider:

• Store all important documents in a watertight secure container.
• Have a separate lockbox for jewelry & any other valuables.
• Invest in Sandbags & Flood Barriers

Let’s face it, some homes are more susceptible to water damage. Lower flood water, however, can be contained by simply laying out sandbags & setting up flood barriers around your doors. Even if some water manages to get in, sandbags & flood barriers can reduce the water damage & can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

If your home suffers flood damage, we are here to help you. Give us a call at (256) 233-4033. 

High winds can be very dangerous to your property

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help after the storm. Call us today (256) 233-4033.

During storm season, home and business owners are most likely to be concerned with rain that might cause roof leaks and flooding. Winds can also cause damage to your structure. Wind damage is commonly debris or large items that are blown against a structure, on a rooftop or through windows during a storm.

Here are some tips for preventing problems that are caused by high winds.

Prune Your Trees

The trees on your property should be regularly trimmed to avoid damage. These problems can arise when trees are not pruned properly:

• Decay or disease 
• Leaning
• Hanging branches over a structure
• Sharp angles in tree forks
• Crowded or crossed branches

 Proper maintenance keeps trees healthy so that they are less likely to break and cause problems during a storm.

Limit Debris

• Gravel from the driveway can break windows 
• Decorations
• trash cans
• signs 
• potted plants
• Loose shingles can become missing shingles can be broken or hurled through windows. 

Overall, preparing for high winds that accompany storms is a matter of limiting the objects the wind can pick up and fling at your building. 

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties if you have damage to your home or business after a storm (256) 233-4033.

Severe weather can cause flooding

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding from storms can happen at any time. Call SERVPRO so that your home can be restored as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

Did you know that the thought of losing your home or possessions to flooding is a common fear among homeowners? These forces of nature are often unexpected and can be caused by just about anything. Heavy rainfall, backed up drains, storms or natural disaster can all be a trigger for excess water entering the home and causing harm. We offer a single solution that can be sought anytime via our 24-hour emergency call-line.

The first thing homeowners can do when calling us about flood damage is to give us as much information as you have available. Providing us with all the facts can help us to ascertain what type of equipment we need and which technicians to send. At SERVPRO, we are well aware of the stress that flooding can cause to our community and promise to deliver a focused customer approach in any work we do.

It is important not to panic, but at the same time to act quickly. Standing water can cause permanent damage if left too long. However, never put your safety in jeopardy in an attempt to save possessions. SERVPRO technicians can remove furniture and other items to a clean location either on-site or in a local facility. We are also trained to spot potential hazards like electrical wires or structural damage and deal with them safely.

Your SERVPRO technician can carry out an initial visual inspection to decide the type of equipment that is most effective to your specific needs. Generally, we remove standing water below two inches with powerful heated extractors. Water levels above 2 inches may require submersible gas pumps to be brought in to drain the affected area quickly.

It is only natural to assume the worse in an emergency. However, we work toward a restore over replace mentality. That means doing our utmost to save your possessions. In some cases, we may perform a pack-out service which involves labeling all goods and sending them to a specialized facility where they can be deep cleaned, dried and restored.

We have extensive experience in dealing with situations just like yours. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counites is ready to receive your call at 256-233-4033 anytime day or night.

Tornado Facts

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Know who to call when you suffer storm damage.

What is a Tornado?

Tornadoes are the most violent of all atmospheric storms. A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground.

Where to Tornadoes occur?

Tornadoes can occur anywhere, at anytime if the right atmospheric conditions are present. So, anytime you are near a thunderstorm, you need to be prepared and ready for a possible tornado.

What is the difference between a Tornado WATCH and a Tornado WARNING?

A Tornado WATCH means conditions are favorable for tornado activity.

A Tornado WARNING means a tornado has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar and there is a serious threat to life and property to those in the path of the tornado. ACT now to find safe shelter immediately.

Cleanup after a Tornado?

Call the experts in Storm and Tornado cleanup: SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is ready and able to help you and your home and/or business board-up and cleanup after a Tornado.

24/7/365:  256-233-4033 

Call the Professionals

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help your business during this crisis.

SERVPRO Industries, LLC has been dealing with biological hazards such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi for over 50 years.  However, not with this much urgency! Nonetheless, we are ready and our awareness is heightened. Here at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties, we have highly trained technicians that are equipped to help your business during this time.     

Cleaning - Sanitizing - Disinfecting

It is important for all parties to understand the different levels of cleaning that may or may not be possible for each surface. All surfaces can be cleaned, many surfaces can be sanitized, and some surfaces can be disinfected.

1. General Surface Cleaning – physically removes visible dirt, organic matter, viruses, fungi, and bacteria. General surface cleaning is accomplished with water, detergent, and physical scrubbing of the surface. The guiding principal is to remove microbes if possible, rather than kill them (with a sanitizer or disinfectant). In addition, thoroughly cleaning a surface can reduce the need to disinfect because without the nutrients and moisture needed to survive and multiply, most microbes cannot live on a clean and dry surface for very long.
2. Sanitizing – reduces but does not necessarily eliminates all the bacteria on a treated surface. Sanitizers do not have claims for viruses or fungi. To be a registered sanitizer, the test results for a product must show a reduction of at least a. 99.9% in the number of each type of bacteria tested on non-food-contact surfaces. Examples of non-food-contact sanitizers include carpet sanitizers, air sanitizers, laundry additives, and in-tank toilet bowl sanitizers.
3. Disinfecting – works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. Disinfecting destroys or irreversibly inactivates infectious or other undesirable microbes, but not necessarily the spores of bacteria and fungi. The number of microbes killed during a disinfecting process will vary, depending on the specific chemical and how it is used.

Definitions of cleaning involving the COVID-19 virus:

1. General Cleaning- Proactive cleaning to minimize the transmission of Emerging Viral Pathogens (NO potential or actual exposure has occurred). 

2. High-Touch or Enhanced Cleanup- Request for Cleaning and Disinfection to Limit the Survival of Emerging Viral Pathogens (Confirmed or suspected exposure).

If your business has a confirmed case, someone has potentially been exposed, or you would like a proactive cleaning to limit exposure, give us a call today (256) 233-4033

Commercial Duct Cleaning

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today for a duct cleaning quote.

Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

If not properly installed, maintained and operated, these components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen or other debris. If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth (e.g., mold) is increased and spores from such growth may be released into the air of your commercial business. Some of these contaminants may cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in people if they are exposed to them.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• It helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• It helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on air duct cleaning, call us today (256) 233-4033. 

How to handle an Automatic Fire Sprinkler Discharge

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

A fire sprinkler can protect your business from fire but how do you handle the cleanup from it? Give us a call and let us take the worry out of it.

Automatic fire sprinkler systems are widely considered the single most effective tool for protecting your structure, property, and lives from a fire.  Having an automatic fire sprinkler system in place is basically the same as having firefighter protection 24/7.  Fire sprinkler heads respond individually to a number of things including: Heat from a fire, Corrosion, Mechanical Damage, and Sabotage/Vandalism.  If you do have a fire in your building you are going to be very grateful for the fire sprinkler system, if it is an accidental discharge it will become somewhat of a burden. To Make things easier in the case of an accidental discharge follow these tips below.

1. Shut Off Water Immediately

Shut off the water supply to the fire sprinkler system as soon as you can.  The faster you can turn the water off the less potential for major water damage you have.  Be aware that it will take a couple moments to stop, the water has to clear the lines first.

2. Mitigate Future Damage

You will want to clear as much as possible from the affected area so mitigate further damage.  Move furniture, valuables, and equipment to a safe dry area to limit exposure and further damage.

3. Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

Call a restoration company that specializes in water damage like SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to help mitigate and restore the area.  SERVPRO is a much better choice than DIY because we are trained in disaster cleanup and ready to help when you need us. 

4. Call Your Insurance Company

You will want to call your insurance agent as soon as you can to find out what steps to take next and the claims process.  Also, so they can send someone to assess the situation and damage.  Their assessment will determine who is responsible for the damage.

We will work very closely with your insurance company to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Call us today at (256) 233-4033. 

We are the professional packout and content restoration company for your home or business

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Let us come and pack out your home or business. Our team of professionals will take care of your belongings as if they were our own.

You’ve had a minor fire or water damage at your place of residence or establishment. One of the many things that crosses your mind is all your sentimental valuables. Everything is affected: your autographed balls, cards, and photos from your favorite sports team, your family heirloom, your framed picture frame that contains all your degrees, and the list goes on. Just ruined. Or so you think. 

When you’re faced with something as overwhelming and stressful as that, you need someone to come in to turn that into a stress-free situation. That’s where our heroes here at SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties come in. Our heroes save the day by making it "Like it never even happened."® 

When you have fire damage or water damage at your home or business, our team can properly pack out your belongings and perform content restoration. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home or business and belongings with care.  

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can conduct an organized, efficient move-out/pack-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Content Restoration 

If your belongings are affected by fire damage, we can restore them with content restoration. SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise and the “restore” versus “replace” mentality which can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

If you ever wonder why SERVPRO®, it’s because we have specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment. We can quickly restore your home or office to preloss condition. Allow us to take on your next fire or water damage job. Call us today at (256) 233-4033.

Does your commercial building need some TLC?

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Does your commercial building have carpet that looks like this? Let us come help!

Our professionals here at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties are highly trained in all areas and can get your commercial building looking like new again. We specialize in commercial carpet cleaning, mold remediation, fire mitigation, water mitigation, and general cleaning/disinfecting. With all the uncertainties we are facing right now, let us come in and give you peace of mind that your facility is cleaned and disinfected. 

This photo was taken at a commercial training facility. The carpet was in bad shape and in desperate need of cleaning and disinfecting. Our team went in and spot cleaned stubborn spots and deep cleaned the entire room. The carpet looked almost new by the time we were finished. We can handle any size building or room!! If you are in need of some cleaning at your commercial space, give us a call today and let us come in and assess your situation. We can be reached at (256) 233-4033. 

We are Cleaning Experts

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

We can disinfect your office space in the midst of the Coronavirus scare.

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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033

Free ERP for your business

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Let us come and provide you a free assessment of your business.

As a business owner, you always strive to do everything in your power to protect your business and your investment. SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties  helps keep your business safe with our easy and effective Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). We make it our business to help protect your business. Why SERVPRO®? Because we are your exclusive ERP partner. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile? An ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information regarding your business. This includes information such as emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. Learn how to keep your business safe with a SERVPRO® ERP.  

An ERP is a tool for property managers and owners -- both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation. This can help minimize how water damage and fire damage can affect your home or business.

3 benefits of an Emergency Ready Profile: 

1. Helps ensure you’re “Ready for whatever happens.” 
2. Helps minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. 
3. Helps save time and money. 

Our heroes here at SERVPRO® Limestone and Lawrence Counties encourage you to always be prepared, always be “Ready for whatever happens,” and you can achieve that with our ERP. When we implement an Emergency Ready Profile at your commercial property, we analyze your blueprints and conduct a walk-thru to ensure that we have captured all of the information needed.  Throughout the ERP process, we capture photos and document all pertinent information about your business and personally deliver it to you. 

Our mobile-friendly FREE app allows you to see all critical information in one central location. And you can access it with just the touch of a button. Take that very important step and go to your App Store to get our app now. It’s completely FREE. By doing so, you’re already taking those necessary steps to protecting your investment.

When it comes to protecting your business, count on the company that has experience in doing so. Count on the company that’s your exclusive ERP partner -- SERVPRO® of Limestone and Lawrence Counties. Our marketing heroes will be happy to implement your ERP -- for FREE. Contact us today at (256) 233-4033.

We are here to help

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is a photo of the cells of the coronavirus enlarged to see the detail. We are here to help if you have come in contact with the virus.

With all of the uncertainty in our country today, please remember we are still here to help you should you need us. If you or someone you know has come into contact with the Coronavirus, here are some tips that you can refer to. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light fixtures, bathroom fixtures, etc. The CDC also recommends using a hospital grade disinfectant. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is available to provide proactive cleaning as well as cleaning for an outbreak of the virus in your home or commercial building. SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO's proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. 

If you are in need of services, please give us a call today at (256) 233-4033.

Your kitchen can be a very dangerous place to be

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

This is a photo of a stove that caught fire in a kitchen. If you experience fire or smoke and soot in your home, we can help.

The kitchen is one of the more dangerous rooms in the house. From open flames, sharp knives, hot pots, to scalding liquid. 

Here are some suggestions to consider in relation to preventing burns and/or a fire:

• Keep the gas cooktop away from open windows where wind could extinguish the cooking flames.
  
  
• Keep the handles of pots and frying pans turned inward on the kitchen range so that they cannot be knocked over by accident.
  
  
• To prevent grease fires, keep the stove clear of anything flammable, including pot holders, napkins, and towels.
  
  
• Keep baking soda on hand or have a fire extinguisher for extinguishing kitchen fires.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Today at (256) 233-4033. We can help and we will work directly with your insurance company. 

Fire Damage in Courtland, AL

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is of a home that had a fire due to cooking. The homeowner was using the oven and it caught fire. The glass on the door exploded out.

A fire in your home is very difficult to comprehend and understand. Homeowners ask so many questions like "How did this happen?" or "Why us?" We at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties understand the difficulties that homeowners face when they suffer a loss like this. Our team of professionals will not only take care of your home and your belongings but we will also treat you and your family with care and compassion. 

No matter the cause of the fire or the severity, we can take care of it. Our team is highly trained and will do everything they can to restore your home and belongings so that replacement is as minimal as possible. If you or someone you know has suffered a fire loss in their home, give us a call today. We will come in and assess the damage and come up with a plan of action for mitigation. We can be reached at (256) 233-4033.

We are a 24/7/365 Business

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is of our IICRC Certified Firm certificate. This is a distinguished honor that we are very proud of.

Did you know that here at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties, we never close? That's right. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That includes holidays!!

We understand that disasters are not planned and you cannot choose when one will strike. We want you to know that you can rest easy knowing that we are here for you no matter when you need us. 

We have highly trained technicians, have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau https://www.bbb.org/us/al/athens/profile/fire-water-damage-restoration/SERVPRO-of-limestone-and-lawrence-counties-0513-900124747 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. Being an IICRC  Certified firm is a distinguished honor that we are very proud of. 

We want to be your first call no matter what time of the day or day of the week. We will work tirelessly to ensure that every customer is satisfied with our service. We pride ourselves on being the #1 Restoration Company in the World and we want to show you that we are the best. Give us a call today (256) 233-4033. 

Commercial Fire/Water Job

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo of the front of the building where the truck went through and caught fire.

We were called to this job early in the morning and responded right away. A truck went through the front of the building and caught on fire. Luckily, no one was hurt. Our crews acted quickly to get all of the water out of the building and start securing the facility. After the building was dried out, we had to perform fire mitigation services and clean every surface to include the contents that were affected by the fire. It was very important for us to act quickly and take care of our customer. It has taken a while but they are slowly getting the building back in order after this horrible accident. Remember, NO job is too big or too small. If your business sustains damage of any kind, we can take care of it. Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties today (256) 233-4033. We have resources located all over the country to ensure that your business is up and running as fast as possible. 

Flood Water

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

Sump pump failure caused this flooded basement

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding, because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. 

There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

We're here to help! We will work with your insurance company to make the process easier for you.  See our blog post about water damage prevention to help save your home before water damage occurs!

If you experience water damage or flooding in your home, give us a call today at 256-340-1541

Fire Damage

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

This was a fire that happened in the oven at this home. The entire home was affected with soot.

When you experience a fire in your home. it can be a very traumatic event. We understand what it takes to get your home back in order after a fire. We will come in and restore what wasn't damaged by the fire, clean your contents, and do what we can to make it easier for you to cope. 

We also offer pack out and move out services should you need it. We have storage set up at our location to clean and store your contents until you are ready for them to me moved back to your home. We will come in and inventory, box, wrap, and move all of your contents to our secure location until you are ready. 

Once your home is back to preloss condition, we will bring all of your belongings back to you. We make the process as painless as possible for you so that you can quickly get your life back. 

If you experience a fire in your home, give us a call at (256) 233-4033 and let us help you through the process. 

Residential Fire Damage

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a home

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence 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?
Call Us Today – 256-233-4033

What to do when you experience water damage

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage to a kitchen

A flooded home is a devastating event for any homeowner. It has the ability to ruin many of your possessions in addition to your property itself. Due to the fact that water damage can quickly become permanent if not addressed as soon as possible, if you do suffer flood damage to your home, it’s important that you call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to help restore the home. Here are some things you can do immediately after a flood to start the restoration process.  

Call Your Insurance Agent

Regardless of how bad a flood has hit your home, it has likely done some significant damage to some of your possessions and to the structure of your home. Soon after you recognize the damage, you should call your insurance agent.

Check Before Entering Home

Before you re-enter your home after flood damage, check for any structural damage that may have occurred. Severe flooding or water damage has the ability to compromise the integrity of the structure. If you enter the home without closely inspecting what you’re walking into, the building could potentially collapse, trapping you inside. Once you’ve entered the home, you should be very careful about where you’re walking, especially if you’re moving from carpeting onto a hard surface.  

Document Evidence

Once you have entered the home, document the evidence of that damage that has been done by taking photos of it. If there are any questions, particularly by your insurance company about the validity of your claim, you’ll have evidence to show them. While you document the damage, save any items that you can. Some items, such as porous materials, may have been damaged beyond repair. When the SERVPRO crew arrives to restore the home, they’ll save as many items as possible. But if there are items that have not been damaged, you can take them out to avoid any further potential damage.  

Take Inventory

While you’re examining the damage that has occurred in your home, make a list of the damage or lost items in the home. Make sure to include the date they were purchased and their value with any receipts you may have. Store that list with any inventory of your possessions that you may have taken before the flood. If any of your possessions must be disposed of, which some may, make sure you have photographs of the items.  

Turn Off Power

After the flood damage occurs, turn off all power, especially to the affected rooms. Also refrain from using any electrical appliances as you could electrocute yourself if you’re standing in water. Keep the power to the home off until an electrician can come and thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it’s safe to turn back on again.  

Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present which makes flooded parts of a house ideal for mold growth. The existence of mold in a home can be hazardous so it’s important to prevent the mold from growing if at all possible. Removing any wet contents from the home as soon as possible will help to prevent such mold growth around the home.  

Proper Protection

Regardless of how well you think you can clean up after a flood, you should call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to ensure that as much of your property is salvaged as possible. But if you do decide to start the cleanup process before they arrive, it’s important that you are properly attired. Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots when dealing with flood water to ensure your safety. 

Give us a call at (256) 233-4033

Water damage

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Residential water damage

Where would we be without water? It’s a crucial resource that we can’t live without. But sometimes, this valuable resource can turn against us if weather or faulty plumbing occurs. From leaky roofs and broken pipes to heavy rains and cresting rivers, water damage can strike for many different reasons. Depending on what caused the issue, water damage can range from being a little problem located in one room to a large flood-damage disaster throughout your entire house.

Whatever the problem happens to be, you can trust that SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to give you the service that you deserve. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties offers emergency response services that can mitigate the flood damage to your home 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties helps people put their lives back together after an experience with flooding, a leak or other sources of water damage. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is there to help you get your life back in order after devastating damage occurs in your home.

Call us today and let us earn your trust!!

(256) 233-4033

Flooding

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (256) 233-4033

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (256) 233-4033

Esporta Washing Machine

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Esporta Wash System

The Esporta wash system uses patented technology to restore moldy, biohazard, smoke damaged soft content items such as shoes, handbags, clothing, draperies, and hats to pre loss condition.

With the Esporta iS4000, we are capable of cleaning 2X more than ordinary dry cleaners!

The Esporta iS4000 cleans 90% of all damaged soft contents. These soft contents include the homeowners clothing, bedding, outerwear, pillows and stuffed animals. It includes leather items such as shoes, boots, belts, purses and jackets. Plus the full range of sports equipment, helmets, rollerblades & ski boots. Even ceramic collector dolls can be held stationary for cleaning.

The Esporta Wash System is capable of cleaning soot, sewage, water damage and bio-contamination.

If your home business has experienced a fire or water damage, give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at 256-233-4033! We can make it "Like it never even happened."

Residential Water Damage

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Burst pipe in a ceiling

When it comes to fire & water damage, or specialty cleanup needs, it’s the SERVPRO brand that comes to mind. Our TEAMS work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy, and have one objective in the aftermath of disaster, to make their loss Like it never even happened.

No matter the job or the size, our SERVPRO teams are ready to handle any size loss. With 1,700+ franchises nationwide, we have access to numerous highly trained personnel and thousands of pieces of equipment. Our SERVPRO Disaster Recovery teams are strategically placed throughout the country to respond when needed. Our Teams have a proven track record for success, assisting with cleanup of floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and damage caused from frigid temperatures.

Whether it’s a major storm event, or faulty appliance, we will be there with one call. (256) 233-4033

Water damage in older homes

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage

It is no secret that old homes are plagued by problems. The main issue, whether the house is ancient or modern, is the threat of water damage. It does not take long for it to wreak havoc on a home. One broken pipe could be enough to result in damage which requires several hours of labor and thousands of dollars for repair. 
 
Sometimes the water damage your home sustains is very evident and can be spotted easily by the untrained eye. However, it can be a subtle problem as well, creeping up on you and making significant destruction before you realize it is there. No matter the type of water damage, you want to have a professional water damage remediation company come in to help you dry your home out and prevent future problems. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is always ready to assist you with this. 
 
Some signs that you could have water damage are good to keep an eye out for, especially in your older home. Water stains are telltale signs on your wall or ceiling and are usually evident. If you see one suddenly appear, it is a good time to call up SERVPRO and get a technician to check your home to see where the water is coming from. 
 
Buckling walls and floors are another very clear sign, and is often the mark of a severe problem. Wood or drywall absorbs water, making it swell. The result is buckling which you can feel or see when you are walking over the area. It can occur over time like with a small leak in your shower or can happen suddenly like when an appliance floods your home. 
 
Areas which are crumbling, such as the wood around your windows, molding, or baseboards, is also a sign of water damage. Any crumbling may indicate the wood is disintegrating from water infiltration. 
 
Trust your nose as well. The damage might be hidden from your sight, but many times you can detect it with your nose. If you smell a musty or mildew scent, there may be moisture damage behind your walls. SERVPRO can use special moisture meters to detect such moisture and fix the problem for you. A lot of old houses have a musty, old smell, but in rooms, with water damage, the smell is much stronger. 
 
If you cannot see a leak anywhere, you can sometimes sense it, so listen closely. If you believe there is a hidden leak coming from your roof, you should try using your ears to listen. During a rainstorm, turn everything in the house off including the central air or heat. The goal here is to make the house as quiet as possible; then you can stand in different places where you suspect there is a leak and listen. Water dripping through your roof is a very different sound then water landing on your roof. 
 
If you suspect that you may have damage, give us a call today (256) 233-4033

Fire Damage

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of an extensively damaged house fire

It's devastating to experience the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean up too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority.

The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage that occurred. These can lead to corrosion, discoloration and unpleasant odor. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.

Take these action steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire.

1. Contact your local SERVPRO 

2. Contact your Insurance Agent 

3. Take photographs of the damage or let us do it for you. 

4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company.

5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. We will also document anything that we were not able to restore. 

6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property.

While a house fire is a trying experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So, remember these steps for the next time you or a loved one is handling the aftermath of a house fire.

Emergency Ready Plan

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Call us today for your free Emergency Ready Plan

An estimated 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

Between 2004-2008 16,360 fires happened in retail stores and other mercantile properties such as grocery stores beauty and barbershops.

Those fires caused $648 million in property damage. Fire damage is worse after normal business hours. Fires that started between 9PM-5AM caused $75,000 dollars in damage. First that started between 5AM-9AM caused $24,000 dollars in fire damage.

More than 60% of U.S. small businesses do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off site.

No Plan Means You're Less Likely to Recover

80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business. 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.

43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.

51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.

80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business. 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Please contact one our Business Development Representative to setup your free Emergency Ready Profile.256-233-4033

Flooding

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding in a yard from storms

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property and personal items. 

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 restoration cost. 

When storms hit Limestone and Lawrence County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

If you experience flooding in your home, give us a call and let us help (256) 233-4033.

Commercial carpet and upholstery cleaning

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning of the carpet and pews in a local church

Carpets and Upholstery Cleaning

Even the highest-quality items can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.

Today's carpet and upholstery materials vary dramatically. The SERVPRO System offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals also offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.

• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.

• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.

• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.

• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming

• Spot removal

• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting

• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns

• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Professional Cleaning

Professional cleaning can address moderate and heavy soil conditions in your carpets. How often you’ll need professional cleaning depends on soil build-up, traffic, type and color of carpeting. A good rule of thumb would be to professionally clean your carpet every 12 months. The best advice is to clean carpets before they become totally saturated with soil. If you wait until carpets look really dirty, the carpets may never be restored to their former appearance. Dirt builds up in layers, and when a carpet looks dirty you are only seeing the dirt at the tips of the fibers. More dirt is hiding below the surface down near the base of the pile, causing damage to the carpet. When a carpet is saturated with dirt, the soil has penetrated crevices and has become firmly lodged.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Professionals will get the job done right. For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 256-233-4033

IICRC Certified Firm

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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.

Crawlspace Mold

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of mold growing on the floor joists in a crawlspace

Does your home or business suffer from mold in your crawlspace or or on your floor joists or subflooring?

Due to the high levels of humidity we experience here in North Alabama, it is very common for homes with crawlspaces to have some form of mildew or mold growing. Typically most people do not know this until they are getting ready to sell their home and get a home inspection. Although the main cause of mold in a crawlspace is high humidity levels, other causes could be leaking pipes in the crawlspace, or an inadequate vapor barrier.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has professionally trained technicians that can help you with that. Depending on the amount of mold that is present and the severity, our technicians can go in and  disinfect or kill the mold with an EPA registered anti-microbial disinfectant. After the mold has been killed, we then come in and remove the mold spores by wiping or HEPA-vacuuming the floor joists or decking to remove any residual dust or mold. Once that process has been completed, we come in and seal the wood with an anti-microbial sealant so that you have the peace of mind not to have to worry about the mold regrowing in the future. The final step is to remove the old vapor barrier where the mold spores have fallen onto, and replace it with a new one that will cover the entire floor of the crawlspace and prevent residual moisture from seeping up from the ground into the crawlspace and creating future problems. 

Call SERVPRO Today for an estimate! (256) 233-4033

Know how far Lightning is from you

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

We are Faster to any Size Disaster

According to an article written on LiveScience, all you have to do to determine how far away lightning is from where you are is to "just count the number of seconds that pass between a flash of lightning and the crack of thunder that follows it, then divide that number by five." They go on to say that "the resulting number will tell you how many miles away you are from where lightning just struck." 

Why is this important to know? Because it's important to know how you would handle storm damage on the inside and outside of your house if it were to happen. Are you in an area that frequently has storms? And what would you do if your house did get damaged by storms? SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the right tools, technology and people to do the job. Call us today at (256)233-4033

Storms and Flooding

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded basement

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property and personal items. 

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 restoration cost. 

When storms hit Limestone and Lawrence County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

If you have experience storm damage call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties at (256) 233- 4033 today!

Storm Damage

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Please remember to have a safety plan in the event of severe weather. 

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds.

Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can quickly respond swiftly to your needs to an already difficult situation. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will deliver the help that you need when you need it. Call us today (256) 233-4033. We are here for you 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Let us come help get your home back to preloss condition. 

Mold found in a closet

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of mold growth in a closet

Here is a picture of mold that was found in a closet in a home. The homeowner was cleaning out the closet and found this behind some boxes.

Humidity levels in your home that are too high can promote mold growth. Mold grows quickly in damp conditions. Allergens and irritants are released as it spreads, and in some cases it can become toxic.

To prevent this, you can install dehumidifiers in areas of your home that remain moist and humid. Optimal humidity levels are between 30-50%, with 45% being the best level possible. Dehumidifiers help maintain your indoor humidity at a comfortable level.

Making sure that your HVAC system is running efficiently will also help to keep your humidity level down in your home. Inspect and replace your filters on a regular basis and keep vents cleaned.

Crawlspace Encapsulation

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

Encapsulation if a crawlspace

Limestone and Lawrence County homes are usually storm resistant. People here are used to the wind and rain and act accordingly to protect their roofs, walls, and floors. It is more challenging to protect basements and crawlspaces from the same water, however. 
 
To dry out a wet crawlspace, we first have to remove the water. That is not usually a problem, but since this is a storm, the ground is going to be very wet and possibly damaged. SERVPRO technicians understand that means multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to siphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, SERVPRO technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
Next, our technicians check the walls for cracks or seeps caused by the storm. Technicians can fill weaknesses with hydraulic cement and then cover the walls with masonry cement. These two compounds form an excellent seal against further water intrusion. Now that the walls are secure, we seal the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Finally, to protect against further storms, we recommend applying a thick coat of liquid rubber to the outside of the foundation. Once it sets, the only way storm water can get through is for a storm to crack the foundation or shift it underneath the home. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from future storms. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 today. We are here to help.

Mold Remediation

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation job

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 re-mediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 256-233-4033

Commercial Water Loss

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo of a laundry room at an apartment complex. They had roof damage and the tarp did not hold so water flooded the room.

The longer water spreads through your building, the more damage it causes-especially as it becomes more contaminated over time. Prolonged periods of moisture in your business can also lead to mold problems. We are committed to the phrase, "Faster to any sized disaster".

With our 24/7 service, we are able to contain and treat water damage quickly, which allows us to save and restore as much of you building and property as possible.

At SERVPRO, we prefer to restore before we replace. Restoring saves money and gets the business back up and running faster.

Our technicians are highly trained and are available to help at any time. If you have water damage in your business, do not wait, call us today at (256) 233-4033. Let us make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm Damage

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Please remember to have a safety plan in the event of severe weather. With the severe weather threatening our area once again this evening, please stay safe and remember we are here for you 24/7.

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds.

Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can quickly respond swiftly to your needs to an already difficult situation. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will deliver the help that you need when you need it. Call us today (256) 233-4033

Tornado Tips

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Be aware of what a tornado looks like

If your area is expecting a tornado or other major storm, there are several steps you can take to stay safe. After the tornado passes, SERVPRO can help you clean up any damage and restore your home.

Look for Storm Warning Signs

Tornadoes typically occur when there is a severe thunderstorm in the area. Rain, hailstorms and lightning strikes are some of the signs of a possible tornado. Some other warning signs of an oncoming tornado include:

* Orange or Green Skies
* Rumbling or Roaring Sounds in the Air
* Very Calm Conditions after a Storm
* Damaged Power Lines or Debris
* Rotation of the Clouds

Staying Informed during a Storm

Local television and radio stations are your best source for updates on how the storm is developing. However, if you hear a tornado siren, you should immediately head to the nearest shelter.

What is the Difference between a Tornado Watch, Warning and Emergency?

* A Tornado Watch means that a storm could be coming in your area soon because of the current weather conditions.
* A Tornado Warning is a sign that one or more tornadoes are in the immediate area. Look for shelter as soon as you see this signal.
• A Tornado Emergency is the final step in the warning process. A tornado has been spotted near a populated location. Move to the safest possible place if you cannot get to a real shelter in time.

How to Find Safe Shelter

Head for a sturdy building before the storm approaches. Look for a home or office with a basement whenever possible. If a basement is not available, move to the center of the building. Stay away from windows and debris. Try to place as many solid walls as you can between the coming storm and your family. Avoid mobile homes and trailers during strong winds or heavy rains.

Cars also do not provide much shelter. If the storm is too severe for driving, secure your seat belt, get as low in the seat as possible and place a blanket over yourself.

Stay close to the ground if you are caught in an open field. Cover your head and keep an eye out for debris flying through the air. Avoid hiding under overpasses or bridges.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

Commercial Cleaning

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial post Construction Cleaning

Along with our restoration services, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties provides a variety of cleaning services. One of the services we provide is Post-Construction Cleaning.

After restoring and rebuilding your property, there is still work to be done. It is important to get your property properly cleaned and ready to re-open. Let SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties help. There is no job to big or too small.

Both interior and exterior cleaning is needed after a remodel or new construction. When considering cleaning services please keep in mind that all walls, ceilings, floors, and fixtures will most likely need to be cleaned. Construction causes dust that gets on every surface. It is also very important to make sure you do not have duct in your heating and cooling unit.

If you are needing a quote for a post-construction clean, give us a call at (256) 233-4033.

Commercial Soot Cleaning Job

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up a commercial building after soot affected the entire building from construction.

This was another big commercial post construction cleaning. A fireplace was removed from one of the rooms downstairs which caused soot to cover all of the surfaces in this business.

Cleaning of both the interior and exterior is typically needed after a remodel or new construction.

Interior cleaning includes:

• Walls(removing dust, dirt, and scuff marks)
• Ceilings and light fixtures/fans
• All trim including baseboards and crown
• Door faces, hardware, and frames
• Windows and window frames
• Ducts, vents, and heaters
• Floors
• Cabinetry inside and out, appliances, fixtures, and counter tops
• All trash and plastic containment removed.

If you have just experienced a remodel, rebuild, or new construction and you would like a quote for post-construction clean, give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at (256) 233-4033

Commercial Fire Job

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fire in 1 hotel room that affected not only that room but others.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can help if you have had a fire at your business. This is a photo of a fire that happened in a hotel room. Not only was there fire damage but the entire room was affected by the smoke. Smoke damage can be very detrimental if not properly cleaned.

Fires can be very a stressful time for you and your business. Let SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties help. With our industry approved training, rapid response, professionalism, cutting-edge technology, and open communication, we strive to restore not only your business but your peace of mind.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will make it "Like it never even happened." If you have had a disaster at your business call us at (256) 233-4033.

Commercial Fire Loss

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of a commercial fire loss at a hotel.

Even small fires can leave significant property damage. Smoke can enter your ventilation system and spread soot and debris throughout your building. We can accurately assess fire and smoke damage to ensure that you can get your business back to normal as quickly as possible.

At SERVPRO of Limestone and Limestone Counties, we can create an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. When a disaster strikes, you don't want to spend time trying to figure out who to contact for what. Our ERP's include a detailed assessment of your facility along with a profile document and guide to getting you back to business faster after an incident. We even offer a mobile app for convenience.

Call us today to schedule your free Emergency Ready Profile appointment for your business (256) 233-4033.

Team SERVPRO in the Clay Shoot

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Team SERVPRO

We love to support our community at events. We had a team entered into the Sporting Clay tournament. The money raised in the tournament goes back to the community through the chamber of commerce. Unfortunately, they did not win but fun was had by all. We will be participating again next year for sure. If you need more information on this event, give us a call and we can fill you in. 

The SERVPRO team members were Jordan Hendon (Owner), Damien Reynolds (Production Manager), Ray Glaze (Marketing Representative), and Penny Stevens (Marketing Representative). 

Participating in events helps us to stay involved and give back to the community. If you have an event that your business or organization is putting together, please let us know. Please send an email to jlowery@SERVPRO9943.com. We may want to join in on the fun!!

Faulty Wiring Fire

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo of the inside of the cabinet that held the faulty wiring.

This fire was started from faulty wiring in the home. The cabinet was the only place that there was structural damage but the home was filled with smoke and soot. We went out to the property the day after it happened and got started immediately. We placed air scrubbers and packed out the entire upstairs due to a family member having severe allergies. All of the items that were packed out were brought to our warehouse to be cleaned and ozoned. We cleaned the entire home from top to bottom and returned the items promptly to the home so that they could get back to normal before the holidays. 

The family was very grateful to us for making the process easier for them. The insurance company was also very pleased with our service. 

If you have had a fire in your home, please call us and let us help you. You can call us at (256) 233-4033. 

Fire Damage

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo of the front of the home.

This home was almost completely destroyed by this fire. We were called to go out to the property and perform a board up until the packing and cleaning could begin. When our crew went out to board up the windows and doors, the fire started up again. This happened 3 times while they were there trying to board up. Once the fire department was finally able to get the fire completely out, we secured the property. 

We then performed a complete pack out of the home. All of the contents were brought back to our warehouse to be cleaned and ozoned. Since the pack out, the homeowner has been to the warehouse several times to check on the progress. They have been very pleased with what we were able to save from the fire. We have cleaned what we could and made a list of items that were were not able to save to submit to the insurance company. 

If tragedy strikes at your home, let us help. You may be surprised what can be cleaned instead of disposing of it. Call us today (256) 233-4033

Commercial Water Damage

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Lawrence County, AL

The Lawrence County courthouse in Moulton, AL has a small electrical fire in the middle of the night which set off the sprinkler system. Because this happened after business hours, the water ran for a while before someone was able to turn it off. By the time, it was turned off, it had affected 2 floors of the courthouse and over 30,000 square feet. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties responded immediately to help mitigate the damages. The team worked day and night in order to ensure that the courthouse could open back up for business in a timely manner. 

Even though there is a lot of reconstruction that still needs to happen, the courthouse was able to open back up for business. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties worked very hard to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Storm Flooding

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding

A flooded home is a devastating event for any homeowner. It has the ability to ruin many of your possessions in addition to your property itself. Due to the fact that water damage can quickly become permanent if not addressed as soon as possible, if you do suffer flood damage to your home, it’s important that you call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to help restore the home. Here are some things you can do immediately after a flood to start the restoration process.  

Call Your Insurance Agent

Regardless of how bad a flood has hit your home, it has likely done some significant damage to some of your possessions and to the structure of your home. Soon after you recognize the damage, you should call your insurance agent.

Check Before Entering Home

Before you re-enter your home after flood damage, check for any structural damage that may have occurred. Severe flooding or water damage has the ability to compromise the integrity of the structure. If you enter the home without closely inspecting what you’re walking into, the building could potentially collapse, trapping you inside. Once you’ve entered the home, you should be very careful about where you’re walking, especially if you’re moving from carpeting onto a hard surface.  

Document Evidence

Once you have entered the home, document the evidence of that damage that has been done by taking photos of it. If there are any questions, particularly by your insurance company about the validity of your claim, you’ll have evidence to show them. While you document the damage, save any items that you can. Some items, such as porous materials, may have been damaged beyond repair. When the SERVPRO crew arrives to restore the home, they’ll save as many items as possible. But if there are items that have not been damaged, you can take them out to avoid any further potential damage.  

Take Inventory

While you’re examining the damage that has occurred in your home, make a list of the damage or lost items in the home. Make sure to include the date they were purchased and their value with any receipts you may have. Store that list with any inventory of your possessions that you may have taken before the flood. If any of your possessions must be disposed of, which some may, make sure you have photographs of the items.  

Turn Off Power

After the flood damage occurs, turn off all power, especially to the affected rooms. Also refrain from using any electrical appliances as you could electrocute yourself if you’re standing in water. Keep the power to the home off until an electrician can come and thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it’s safe to turn back on again.  

Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present which makes flooded parts of a house ideal for mold growth. The existence of mold in a home can be hazardous so it’s important to prevent the mold from growing if at all possible. Removing any wet contents from the home as soon as possible will help to prevent such mold growth around the home.  

Proper Protection

Regardless of how well you think you can clean up after a flood, you should call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties to ensure that as much of your property is salvaged as possible. But if you do decide to start the cleanup process before they arrive, it’s important that you are properly attired. Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots when dealing with flood water to ensure your safety. 

Give us a call at (256) 233-4033

Sump Pump

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Basement sump pump

If you have a basement, your sump pump is often your last line of defense against flooding.  It works by safely diverting water away from your house and is especially important during times of heavy rain when it puts your home at risk of water damage.  If your sump pump fails, you could find your basement under water.  When this happens, it is important to act fast! Water damage can be a progressive issue and if not dealt with in a timely manner, this could lead to structural damage, mold and much more.

Is My Sump Pump Working? Tips to Avoid Water Damage

1. It is important to make sure your sump pump is in working order.  Otherwise you risk the chance that It could fail when you need it most.
2. After heavy rains, check the sump pump inlet screen for any blockages, one of the leading causes of sump pump failure.
3.  Occasionally, test your sump pump to ensure it is working properly. You can do this by filling the pit with water and watch to see if it is pumped away.  If not, you may have a problem.
4.  Check the float control to make sure it is free and not restricted or hung up.
5.  Replace the battery backup every 2-3 years.  The last thing you need is to find out your batter backup is dead in the middle of a power outage during a big storm. 

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency.

Storm Damage 4/3/2018

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

A very large storm moved through our area on Tuesday and left a path of destruction behind it. Over 70 homes were damaged in addition to businesses.

Storms and other natural disasters can cause considerable damage to your home or business. Windstorms like this one for example, can result in anything from a littered parking lot to missing shingles to a tree falling on your building.

We understand that every hour you spend working on recovery is an hour lost of productivity. Let us help you get your home or business back in order quickly.

No matter whether a flood hits your building or rain leaks in through a broken window, water does not take long to damage your property. Our highly trained technicians can help mitigate the damage done by water and help to restore your building.

With our 24/7 service, we are able to contain and treat water damage quickly, which allows us to save and restore as much of your home or building as possible.

(256) 233-4033

Mold Remediation

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

This is a photo of mold that grew on a sub floor of a home. When removing the flooring from a water damage, this was discovered.

Mold is a serious problem. For some homeowners, it can cause problems for the foundation of their home and ever cause health problems. Many of our customers want to know how to prevent mold from invading their home and also prevent it from coming back once it is taken care of. These are some very simple steps that you can take to help with the prevention of a mold problem in your home.

• Keep moisture and humidity in the home to a minimum.
• Make sure there is good ventilation in the home. Clean, fresh air can help get rid of mold. Ventilation systems helps to remove water vapor and improve air circulation in your home.
• Cleaning your home to include periodically wiping areas that are not cleaned routinely.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us and schedule and inspection (256) 233-4033

Storm Damage

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Hail picture

The storms that moved through our area left us with a lot of damage. This is a picture of the hail that fell. Some areas reported that the hail was the size of a softball.

Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals respond to your water, wind, and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is very important to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues.

Choosing SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties puts in motion a vast support system in which you will receive personalized service with regard to your situation. We strive to make it "Like it never even happened". Call us today (256) 233-4033.

Commercial Water Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

This was a flooded break room at a commercial building. The pipe burst in the ceiling and flooded most of the first floor.

It doesn't matter if it is a flood, a leak, or a broken pipe in the ceiling like this picture, water does not take very long to damage your property. The janitorial staff at your business most likely will not have the tools, equipment, or training necessary to get your business back up and running after a water damage.

Our trained professionals will get you back in business as quickly and safely as we can. Our highly trained technicians can help locate the source of the problem, remove the water, and treat the affected area. The longer water spreads through your building, the more damage it causes-especially as it becomes more contaminated over time. Prolonged periods of moisture in your business could also lead to secondary issues down the road.

If your business suffers a water damage, give us a call today (256) 233-4033.

Storm Damage in Limestone County

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

Roof damage may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of tornado damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious. How can a roof leak and roof damage escape easy detection in this situation? Wind damage may loosen flashing, eventually causing another roof leak weeks after the storm. Even a subtle roof leak of this nature can produce damp, moldy conditions inside the home. Obtaining fast roof repair may prevent long term interior damage. A wind damage home restoration expert may assist clients in receiving comprehensive roof assessments and roof repair services when hurricane damage afflicts an area. Their expertise helps property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively.

 If you experience storm damage, call us at (256) 233-4033 and let us help you get your home back in order.

Residential Water Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

This picture is from a home that had a sewage back up when no one was home. We did the tear out, cleaned it up, and dried it out.

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits-these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure that the property is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is trained to safely remove unsafe materials from a sewage backup and dispose of them properly.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes.

If you experience a sewage backup in your home, do not wait. Call our trained professionals in to help. We are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. (256) 233-4033.

Residential Fire Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Residential Fire Damage that started on the stove in the kitchen. The smoke quickly spread throughout the entire home.

A fire in your home or business is always hard to handle emotionally and physically.  There are often so many "what if's" that run through your mind, but how do you figure out where to start once the fire is put out and the smoke clears. What is on your list of things to do?  How quickly can you get you home restored to its original state? Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here to help. 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. With the many years of experience, and our certified crews on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all you need to know is SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will help make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

Residential Mold Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

This is what can happen when your toilet has a slow leak around the base. The sub floor in this home was covered with mold.

The very idea of mold can make any home or business owner cringe. Yes, mold can be beneficial, used in making brie or penicillin, but it can also be a really big problem when it is growing undetected somewhere on your property or belongings.

It can grow just about anywhere: on clothing, food, paper, carpet and the backside of drywall, just to name a few spots. It can produce allergens and irritants and, in some cases, toxins that are dangerous to your health.

• Do an audit of your property. Are there any areas that are full of moisture much of the time? Seepage into storage areas or accumulation from leaky pipes should be dried within 48 hours to avoid mold damage. Encourage workers to keep wet items picked up, hanging wet coats up and keeping rain boots and wet shoes in an area that won’t soak up moisture. Take steps to keep floors and windows dry at all times, but especially during wet weather.

Residential Mold Damage

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold caused by a slowly leaking pipe. It was able to be cleaned, treated and sealed.

We aim to get your building back at full productivity as quickly and safely as we can. We offer comprehensive services to make your business “Like it never even happened.” Our services include, but are not limited to the following:

• Water Removal and Drying
• Mold Remediation
• Odor Removal
• Carpet Treatment and Installation
• Commercial Cleaning

Our highly trained technicians can help locate and fix the source of the problem, remove the water, and treat the affected area. 

The longer water spreads through your building, the more damage it causes—especially as it becomes more contaminated over time. Prolonged periods of moisture in your business can also lead to mold problems. That’s why we’re committed to being faster to any sized disaster.

With our 24/7 service, we’re able to contain and treat water damage quickly, which allows us to save and restore as much of your building and property as possible.

At SERVPRO Limestone and Lawrence Counties, we commit to a “restore first” mentality that prioritizes restoration above replacement to save you money and get you back into your building faster.

Residential Mold

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

This is what mold in a crawlspace looks like. This was caused by excessive moisture and humidity.

Proper ventilation is a good way to keep mold at bay. Keeping bathroom and kitchen doors open can help, increasing air circulation and aiding in the drying process. Using dehumidifiers keeps areas dry and pleasant, and always keep an eye on them to make sure they are in good repair and not contributing any moisture themselves; the manufacturer’s information provided will give directions on cleaning and care of your unit.

Clean, fresh air can help get rid of mold. New mold remediation efforts may focus on bringing cleaner air into the home. It's a good idea to think about air circulation. If the air is stagnant, the problem can recur. Ventilation systems help remove water vapor and improve air circulation in your home.

Residential Fire Damage

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

This fire was caused by a faulty sewing machine. The sewing room is the room in the picture.

After fire ravages your home, fear and uncertainty along with stress and doubt about the future of your home start to set in. Cleanup after a fire can be very stressful. Let us take the stress of cleanup from you. Our technicians are highly trained in fire mitigation. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is here to help restore your home. With our industry approved training, rapid response, professionalism, and open communication, we strive not only to restore your home but also give you peace of mind.

Call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at (256) 233-4033. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the tools and experience to make your home "Like it never even happened".

SERVPRO came in and packed the home so that salvageable items  and the rest of the structure could be cleaned.

Soot covered bathroom

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Soot covered bathroom

This is what happens when soot travels throughout an entire home. The fire was on the opposite end of the house and yet this bathroom was covered in soot. We were able to clean it and make it look "Like it never even happened."

Tips for your home:

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a fire in half.
• If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If a pan of food catches fire, slide a lid over it and turn off the burner.
• Stir and test food cooked in the microwave before serving. Open lids away from your face, to prevent burns from hot steam.

Attic Fire

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Attic Fire

Faulty wiring in a home caused the wires in the attic to catch on fire. The ceiling and insulation had to be completely torn out and replaced. SERVPRO was able to demo the ceiling and insulation to get this home ready to be re-built.

After a fire, significant restoration may be necessary to make your home safe again. Fortunately, we have the training, experience, and equipment necessary to restore your home

Fire and smoke damage can have lasting, dangerous effects if not properly resolved. Smoke and soot can seep into fabric, carpeting, and more. Additionally, your HVAC system can spread smoke and soot into areas not otherwise affected by the fire.

Our technicians are trained in the following services and more:

• Fire and Smoke Restoration
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning
• Odor Control
• HVAC Services

Residential kitchen fire

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

This fire started on the stove in the kitchen. SERVPRO was able to clean the soot from the home and get rid of the odor from the smoke.

In most cases, it does not matter where a fire originates in a home, the entire home could end up being affected. Soot is very difficult to clean and should not be done without taking the proper steps. Here are some tips:

DO:

• Limit movement in the home. This helps prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets throughout your home.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place towels on carpet traffic areas. Use dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas to limit damage.
• Empty freezer and refrigerator. If electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open to help prevent odors.
• Wipe soot from chrome. Clean soot from chrome kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then apply a light coating of petroleum jelly to protect surfaces.
• Wash houseplants. Wipe down both sides of leaves on your houseplants.
• Change HVAC filters. Change your filters, but leave the system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Cover HVAC intakes. Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of your HVAC system.

DON'T:

• Wash any walls or painted surfaces. First contact SERVPRO of North Everett/ Lake Stevens/ Monroe.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture. Before cleaning carpets by yourself, call us at 360-243-8313.
• Clean any electrical appliances. TV sets, computers and other electronics that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water need to be looked at by an authorized repair service.
• Consume food and beverages. Food and beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water, may be contaminated.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures. If the ceiling is wet, wiring may be wet or damaged and can cause electrical shock.
• Dry clean clothing. Improper cleaning may set smoke odors. Make sure you use a service that knows how to remove soot and smoke from clothing.

Drying a carpet from underneath

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

This is a drying method that we frequently use in order to save the carpet in homes.

When it comes to fire & water damage, or specialty cleanup needs, it’s the SERVPRO brand that comes to mind. Our TEAMS work endlessly to make sure our customers are happy, and have one objective in the aftermath of disaster, to make their loss Like it never even happened.

No matter the job or the size, our SERVPRO teams are ready to handle any size loss. With 1,700+ franchises nationwide, we have access to numerous highly trained personnel and thousands of pieces of equipment.

We always try to restore the materials in your home instead of replacing. In this home, we were able to lift the carpet, remove the wet carpet pad, and treat the carpet as well as the sub floor with our EPA registered disinfectant. The carpet was able to be saved and re-used.

Whether it’s a major storm event, or faulty appliance, we will be there with one call. (256) 233-4033.

Drying after flooring removal

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Drying after flooring removal

This is a picture of a hallway that we dried after the flooring was removed in a water damaged home. The subfloor was able to be dried much quicker after the flooring was out.

Water damage in a living room

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Standing water

This was what this living room looked like when we arrived. We extracted the water and dried the room.

Swelled particle board

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Vanity swelling after water damage

This picture is of the side of a vanity in a bathroom that had some water damage. The side was made of particle board so you can see what happens when it gets wet. The particle board began to swell by the time we arrived. This vanity was not able to be saved due to the amount of swelling that occurred to this wood.

Water damage to kitchen

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen after demo

This photo is of a kitchen that sustained significant water damage. We removed some of the cabinets as well as the flooring in order to dry it properly.

Do you have storm damage?

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Storm near Athens yesterday

With the storms that moved through our area last evening, we are hoping that everyone is safe and did not suffer any damage. If you did happen to have damage to your home due to the weather, please remember that we are here to help.

Roof damage may range from a missing roof, to harsh winds and rains shearing away asphalt tiles. Roof repair of obvious defects usually ensues in the wake of tornado or straight line wind damage and storm remediation. Correcting roof damage may challenge homeowners after a disaster, since a roof leak may not appear obvious.

When it comes to storm damage, its the SERVPRO name that comes to mind.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is equipped to handle jobs of any size.

Residential Dryer Fire

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Laundry room dryer fire

It is very important that you make sure to clean the lint trap in your dryer frequently. Lint build up can cause the dryer in your home to catch fire. This fire could have been a lot worse if the homeowner was not home at the time of the fire.

When a fire quickly rips through your business or home, there are many factors to consider. The numerous steps are overwhelming on a practical, mental, and emotional level. Once you’ve made sure that everyone is safe, that 911 has been called, and that the fire has been put out, it’s time to let SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties take some of the burden off your shoulders. By calling us as soon as possible is what can help save your belongings from the devastating effects of fire damage.

Some of your belongings can certainly be saved from the after–effects of a fire and it’s important to responsibly start the process right away. Once you’ve been given the “go ahead” from your local fire department, you should begin an inventory in your property. Soot and smoke from the fire can immediately begin to rust, discolor, and stain your walls, floors, textiles, porous surfaces, and metal objects. The oils and acid in the soot will begin to erode materials quickly and the oils will make it stick to surfaces. 

Green Means Clean

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Remember on this St. Patrick's Day weekend that Green means Clean. We are here to help 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

2018 Limestone County Home and Garden Show

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO booth at the 2018 Limestone County Home and Garden show.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties participated in the Limestone County Home and Garden show last month. The rain did not keep people from coming out and enjoying this great event.

2018 Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

Marketing Representative Penny Stevens (right) and Marketing Manager Julie Lowery (left).

We had such a great time participating in the Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge again this year. It was great to help raise money for such a great cause. We went with a very "basic" Chili this year and it was a huge hit!!!

Burn Marks and Stains In Your Home

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Burn Marks and Stains

Even if burns are not very deep, fire can leave obvious visual blemishes across a home. Stains and burn marks can happen to any material, from wallpaper to wood to glass to laminate, and each of these materials and types of burns can require a different approach to clean up properly. This complicated burning result is why many companies fail to adequately solve the problem: they simply lack the training or equipment necessary to handle a broad array of situations. SERVPRO technicians are trained extensively and have access to a franchise supply of tools to ensure that every job gets done right the first time. We are also part of a national network for disaster mitigation.

Superficial Burn Marks
Many burns from fire damage  are, aside from their visual appearance, virtually harmless for the building in question. Aside from discoloration and perhaps a layer of smoke residue, these burns have done very little to degrade the material they coat. Typically, these are easy for our technicians to deal with, requiring only a thorough cleaning with professional grade detergents, hand tools, sponges, and repainting. Another issue, for a future article, explores the problems associated with smoke odors and how to eliminate their pervasiveness.
 
Smoke Staining
Some types of smoke may leave stains on various materials, especially when mixed with water. Here is where SERVPRO’s flexibility comes into play: smoke can be tough to remove without damaging many materials. To name a few materials, upholstery, wood, carpet, fabric, and tile grout all require careful attention to adequately and safely clean away the smoke. Smoke and soot can dig deep into a material, sometimes requiring thorough washing or dry cleaning to remove effectively. The nature of the smoke, whether it is wet or dry, is a key factor in utilizing correct IICRC best practices for restoration. We realize the acidic nature of this combusted residue and how pitting can harm many surfaces.

Deeper Burns
When a fire has burned around an object or surface, it usually causes both visual and structural damage. Materials are often heavily degraded or deformed, and discoloration is typically pervasive. Again, different materials can require different approaches, with flammables such as wood, fabric, and upholstery requiring especially extensive restorations or perhaps replacement.
 
SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is a local fire damage restoration company with national backing and resources. Call us as soon as possible after a fire at 256 233 4033.

Electrical Fires

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical Fire Damage

They can begin small, but electrical fires can spread fast, especially if it is inside a socket and able to travel through the wall before you realize there is a fire. Since the way in which these fires start is unique, they also require special measures when dealing with them. Prevention is, of course, the first step, however, in case you have one in your home, you should be prepared how to react. As with any fire, if it is growing too quickly or is unsafe, evacuate you and your family and pets right away.
 
You should shut down the power source from the electrical panel to help deter more fire damage to your home. The simplest way to do this is to access the main. Be sure you know where your circuit box is and never obscure your path to it. Once the power is cut, spray the fire with a Class C chemical extinguisher. You can also use baking soda. Do not ever use water since it is a conductor and can electrocute you. Do not restore power until a licensed electrician checks your wiring.
 
SERVPRO, a licensed fire damage remediation company, can then come in to repair any damages and clean up soot and smoke left behind.
 
Basic steps can deter electrical shorts and sparks from leading to full blown blazes. Begin by not overloading circuits, maintaining electronics and appliances with care, and regularly inspecting your wiring. Exposed or frayed wires should be replaced to stop the risk of shorts. Plus, cut the power to your home so you can open and inspect outlets, looking for singles or frayed wiring which suggests an electrical problem.
 
Never leave any space heaters, stoves, or electric blankets on while you are not home, and keep a good eye on portable heating units, placing them three feet or more away from curtains and furniture. Also, put these devices on sturdy, hard surfaces to eliminate the risk of tipping over. Check your fire detectors twice a year and cut power from any appliance that begins to smell strange, smoke, or run erratically.
 
Our staff at SERVPRO are specially trained to handle damage after an electrical fire. We repair any damages, plus clean up soot and smoke, deodorize the affected area and dry up any water from firefighting efforts if necessary.
 
SERVPRO arrives at your home quickly after receiving your call for help. You can reach us anytime by dialing (256) 233 4033 so do not hesitate to call.

Prevent Grill Fires this Summer

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Grill Fire

Summer bring the peak outdoor cooking season to North America, with U.S. grill masters "reaching for their spatulas, eager to usher in the long-awaited cooking season," notes the National Fire Protection Association, which is already asking grillers to follow smart cooking safety precautions. NFPA's most recent "Home Grill Fires" report indicated three out of five households own a gas grill, and from 2009 to 2013, an annual average of 8,900 home fires involved grills, hibachis, or barbecues and almost half of all grilling injuries involved thermal burns.

Grilling fires peak in July in the United States, followed by May, June, and August as the months with the highest numbers.

All types of grills pose a risk for fires and burn injuries, NFPA reports, adding that 27 percent of home grill fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch; another 27 percent started in a courtyard, terrace, or patio; and 8 percent began in the kitchen. "As friends and families get ready for the grilling season, make sure the grill is working properly and review safety tips," said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy for NFPA. "The leading causes of home grilling fires are failing to properly clean the grill or having a flammable object too close to the grill. It's also important to check the grill for damage before using it for the first time each year and then to check it regularly."

NFPA offers these tips for grilling safely:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed away from the home or deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Children and pets should be at least 3 feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup from the grates and trays below.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

For more information and resources, visit www.nfpa.org/grilling.

Humidity and Mold

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Humidity can cause mold

Usually, something fairly obvious like a leak or a flood is the cause of a mold outbreak. You trust this to be the rule to explain mold growth, so microbial activity in non-water damaged areas of your home take you completely by surprise. SERVPRO knows microbial outbreaks do not always play by the rules, but we have confidence in our mold remediation methods.

Why would mold damage be a problem in your  home if the roof is sound and all plumbing up to date? Many homes have central air conditioning or window units to minimize the discomfort of extreme heat and excessive moisture in the air. If your air conditioning system malfunctions or underperforms the air quality in your home suffers, feeling moist and sticky.

Humidity in your home of more than 60 percent supports mold growth even without any water seeping out of leaky pipes, a hole in the roof, or other water flooding situations. If you try to save on energy use by running your air conditioner infrequently or not at all when the humidity is high, do not be surprised that mold damage is an unintended consequence. When SERVPRO hears a story of mold growth absent an obvious leak we pay close attention to the level of moisture in the air of your home. We use precise measuring tools to monitor the humidity levels as we take all the steps necessary to abate the fungal damage.

Once we contain and remove the mold and disinfect the area, we turn to reducing the moisture content of the air to prevent future mold outbreaks. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers both remove dampness, and we advise continuous operation until the humidity drops. The ideal range is between 30 and 50 percent ambient moisture. Our technicians evaluate the operation of your air conditioners, checking for clogged drainage hoses or other easily repaired issues to improve their air drying capacity. We have portable dehumidifiers to decrease humidity if necessary. As a final step, we help you set up your own AC and dehumidifiers to maintain the levels we achieve with our professional equipment.

Contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties whenever a musty smell or mold growth invades your home. Call 256 233 4033 for an inspection and depend on us to craft a plan to remove the mold and limit moisture to prevent more growth.

How Severe is Your Water Damage?

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage

To get started in the restoration of a home or business that has been affected by water damage, it is important to know the extent of damage that you are getting into. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), there are four classes of destruction that explain the severity levels of water damage. Knowing the class of destruction first will help in making a restoration plan to fix the water damage.            

Classes of Destruction

Class 1 –

            Class 1 is the easiest water damage to deal with due to the slow evaporation rate. Only part of the room or area is affected for this class and there is little to no wet carpet that has been affected.

Class 2 –

            Due to the fast evaporation rate of Class 2, the whole room becomes affected. From the carpeting to the walls and structure, moisture covers the room.

Class 3 –

            This class involves the fastest evaporation rate where ceilings have now become involved. Most instances from this class have had liquid come from the ceiling. The moisture in these incidents will most likely affect the ceiling, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors.

Class 4 –

            When an area has reached class 4, this means that the liquid has had enough time to completely saturate materials such as hardwood, brick or even stone. These incidents require specialty-drying situations.

Source - http://www.IICRC.org/the-basics-water-damage-restoration-training-a-23.html

How To Prevent a Pipe Burst

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

After a pipe burst in this home happened, we at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties fixed this bathroom to be like new!

 Hope Plumbing blog site gives some great tips to prevent a pipe burst. These tips can't promise for your pipes not to burst, but they can decrease the chance of this happening in your home. 

1. keep one or two faucets running slowly

2. direct warm air to any colder areas of your home

3. leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air into the cabinets

4. disconnect your hose from the outside faucet

5. Install heat tape in the winter to warm the pipes in the winter

6. Seal leaks that allow cold air into your home where pipes are located

7. Prevent temperatures from dropping below 32 degrees

8. If you still have concerns about your system, call a licensed plumber and ask them to come to your home and advise you about how to prevent pipes from freezing

Worst case scenario, if your pipes do burst, or if you suspect that there is damage around your pipes, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties and let us come and repair your pipes. Our number is (256) 233-4033

Site reference: http://www.hopeplumbing.com/blog/2015/december/8-tips-on-preventing-pipe-bursting/

Commercial Fire Damage

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Stove top after fire damage

Unfortunately, fire damage can happen to anyone. Some of the most common reasons for fire damage include:

-forgetting to turn off heating products in the house (iron, straighteners, curling irons, microwaves, ovens, stoves, etc). 

-smoking in bedrooms

-candles

-children playing with matches/fire

-inadequate wiring 

The picture included shows a stovetop that we were asked to clean up after a fire had started in the kitchen. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties was called to save the day and restore the kitchen back to normal. The owner was thrilled at how fast our team was able to come out and restore the kitchen back to the way it had originally looked.  

If you have had a fire occur in your Athens, AL business, give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at (256) 233-4033.

Who To Call To Restore Items Damaged In A Fire

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

This is a team photo right before we were headed out to a home in Athens to restore clothes that had been burned in a fire.

Unfortunately, housefires are very common. Not only can housefires cause physical items to be damaged, but they also cause heartbreak because of the important items that get damaged due to the fire. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties has the tools to restore important items that are burned in a fire back to normal. With our cleaning equipment, we are able to make items burned in a fire appear as if they had never been burned. 

We use specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot from all over the house. We also take the time to remove odors caused from the fire and use air scrubbers to make it smell new again. We have a variety of other tools and equipment that restore all types of goods. Here are just a few items that we can restore in a home:

-clothes

-toys

-paintings and artwork

-kitchen items

-furniture

-electronics

-wooden items

-metal items

Next Steps After a Fire

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties help you with the next steps to take after a fire.

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties can help you take the right steps after you have experienced fire in your home or business. Here are the steps we take to restore your home:

1. Inspection and fire damage assessment (by inspecting the amount of fire,smoke, and soot damage we can determine the best plan of action)

2. Immediate board-up and roof-tarp service (by boarding up damaged or missing walls, windows, and roofs, safety is more ensured for people and items in the building

3. Water removal and drying 

4. Removal and smoke and soot from all surfaces 

5. cleaning and sanitizing (yes, we are able to restore personal belongings damaged in a fire back to their original look and feel)

6. restoration

Call us today! (256) 233-4033

What You Need To Know About Mold

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

This is a floor that was affected by mold and water damage. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties was able to come and restore it.

Our SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties website gives some neat facts about mold that you may have not known:

• 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 you have mold in your home, it is nothing to be embarrassed about, however it does need to be addressed and looked at if you question your well-being and your home being negatively affected by it. Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties today and we will glad to assess any mold damage that you may suspect. (256) 233-4033

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties Knows Mold!

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

This kitchen in Athens, AL was affected by mold and water damage after a sink had been left running.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties has a team of production technicians that get to be a part of education classes to learn how to handle, treat, and remove mold safely: 

• IICRC Training


• Employee Certification Training


• Initial Franchise Training


• e-Learnings


• Continuing Education Classes

It is important to know how to do mold remediation and how to do it as safely as possible. Being educated to know how to remove mold and in a safe way is vital to your home or business and to the health of others. Some of the trainings that SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties provides to it's workers are courses that are several days long because of the amount of quality information our team needs to know about to be able to perform the job as effectively and efficiently as possible. 

How To Know How Far Away Lightning is From You

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

According to an article written on LiveScience, all you have to do to determine how far away lightning is from where you are is to "just count the number of seconds that pass between a flash of lightning and the crack of thunder that follows it, then divide that number by five." They go on to say that "the resulting number will tell you how many miles away you are from where lightning just struck." 

Why is this important to know? Because it's important to know how you would handle storm damage on the inside and outside of your house if it were to happen. Are you in an area that frequently has storms? And what would you do if your house did get damaged by storms? SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties has the right tools, technology and people to do the job. Call us today at (256)233-4033

http://www.livescience.com/37734-how-far-away-is-lightning-distance.html

Black Mold: What You Need To Know

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

This room was affected by mold. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties was called and we were able to do mold remediation is a timely manner.

Black mold is also called stachybotrys chartarum. Mold can cause health effects in humans. In any case, if you suspect or see mold in your home or business, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can fix this problem with mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties uses specialized equipment, educated team members, and a variety of tools to remove different types of mold safely. Some of the benefits of using SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties to help with mold remediation is that we are open 24/7 to help in cases of emergencies, we have a team of highly educated production technicians to do the remediation process effectively and efficiently, and we can work with insurance companies to make the process as easy as possible.

http://blackmold.awardspace.com/stachybotrys.html

When Storms or Floods Hit

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property and personal items. 

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 restoration cost. 

When storms hit Limestone and Lawrence County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

If you have experience storm damage call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties at (256) 233- 4033 today!

What To Do After You Notice Water Damage

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

This room in Athens, AL had water damage and we were able to remove the water damage and install new flooring.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?


• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.


• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.


• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties can help you with any water damage needs you have that arise in your home or business! We use specialized equipment to clean and restore items and your home or business back to pre-water damage conditions. Some of the specialized tools we use include :

-dehumidification equipment

-monitoring equipment (to track progress)

-high-speed air movers

We have trained our hard-working staff to know how to properly use this equipment so that you can have the peace of mind that your house or business is being restored effectively and efficiently. No job is to big for SERVPRO in Athens, AL. Call us today about what steps you need to take after having water damage. 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties (256) 233- 4033

When storms or floods hit

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

Call the restoration pros from SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties 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. 

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 restoration cost. 

When storms hit Limestone and Lawrence County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

If you have experience storm damage call  SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties (256) 233-4033

Content Restoration After a Fire

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Content Restoration

From furniture to antiques to artwork and appliances, we'll treat your treasures with the care they deserve. While some items can be cleaned on-site, in many cases we'll need to inventory, pack out and transport the contents of your property to our state-of-the-art facility to ensure the best care possible.

Key Issues

• Contents may need to be cleaned off-site


• Contents inventory


• Determine replacement and restoration


• Pack


• Ozone treatment


• Cleaning


• Odor removal


• Secure


• Return

Contents Inventory

• We arrive on-site and inventory all of your personal belongings.


• We carefully pack all salvable items to transport to our secure warehouse and cleaning facility.


• Unsalvageable contents are inventoried and discarded.

Contents Valuation

We have trained professionals to help you establish replacement values versus restoration costs. We are also available for pricing of non-salvable inventory items.

Restoration

• Thorough cleaning


• Proper handling of all electronics


• Photographs and artwork


• Fabrics


• Clothes


• Memorabilia


• Antiques


• Soft goods


• Dry Cleaning


• Appliances


• Surfaces


• Odor Removal

If you've experienced a fire and need help restoring your contents, call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties. 256-233-4033

What do I do if I have a water damage?

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage

If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO arrives.

• Shut off the source of the water.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if the access panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

Faster to any size disaster

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster

From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex, fire and water losses are never planned, but they do occur. SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties knows there's no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of tenants and the revenue of the property owner. Have you developed a thorough contingency plan? Is the emphasis on the first 24-48 hours to help you get back in your building as quickly as possible?

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can provide you assistance in developing an Emergency Ready Profile. As part of a well thought-out contingency plan, your ERP will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs.

SERVPRO professionals can manage the damage with

-Over 45 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry

-More than 1700 franchises

-Detailed communication throughout the cleaning and restoration process to help keep you informed and in control

-Experience and training in mitigating damages ranging from single family homes to skyscrapers

We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties will work hard to restore the property and its contents to preloss condition.

Storm Travel

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster

The Tennessee valley area has been very fortunate to not have had a wide spread weather-related emergency in a few years. I hope that we never go through another weather related disaster. 

We have had some of our teams travel to assist other SERVPRO franchises when their areas were struck by major storms and they needed extra hands to care for folks in the midst of crises.

In the same way, we at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties  are ready for any size disaster. SERVPRO franchises work together, locally and nationally to help families and businesses during times of unexpected crises. If the need happens to require more hands than we have, our fellow SERVPRO local franchises know how to work together with us to take care of our community. 

You can always count on SERVPRO. We are always ready to help!

Mold can be hazardous to your health

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can be hazardous to your health

Mold can seem almost benign due to its slow rate of visible damage and sluggish spreading but make no mistake; it can pose a health hazard to you once it has taken hold. SERVPRO technicians take entire courses on mold safety. There are many species of fungi that can create widely varied situations and problems depending on a high number of factors. If you have uncovered mold in your home, protecting your health and safety becomes a concern, and should top your list of priorities. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you live and work in your home during the remediation service. SERVPRO stance is that mold does cause health effects, we do not diagnose, but we do remediate.

SERVPRO technicians have access to industrial-grade protective masks and even suits when needed, and you should, at the very least, try to protect your mouth and sinuses with a mask when working near mold damage. For those with asthma or respiratory issues, the urgency of this precaution is even higher. We firmly recommend that you do not grapple with this problem. Our main advice is to call us to tackle your mold problem.
 
Hands Off
Some types of mold can produce toxic or infectious byproducts, making the act of touching mold with your bare hands potentially dangerous. In general, you should never touch visible mold growth, as doing so can not only hurt you but also spread the mold to other surfaces. If you touch mold by accident, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching other surfaces.
 
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
Many mold damage cases come with additional problems, whether you are aware of them or not. That patch of mold could be the result of a five-year-old water pipe leak, and in addition to allowing mold growth, it may have already long weakened the surrounding structure. Being aware of structural issues and other types of damage could save you money while protecting your home investment.
 

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties if you suspect you have a mold issue.

256-233-4033

Are you Prepared for a power outage?

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Emergency Readiness Kit!

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather When winter weather strikes the Winston Salem area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties arrives will make a difference.  Call us directly at 256-233-4033!

Commercial Water Damage

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage 01/08/2017 A sprinkler system pipe froze and burst above an office at a local plant causing water damage.

Flooding and water damage events at  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.

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.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 SERVPROS corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Winter Weather

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Winter Weather

Although it hasn't felt like it lately, winter is here. It is the season that we see water damages due to frozen pipes. Not responding to your damage quickly can lead to costly mistakes. If you experience a water damage in your home, be sure to follow these steps.

1. Stop the water flow. 

Turn off the water main as soon as you notice something is wrong.Make sure to drain the lines throughout the home.

2. Inspect

Inspect the damage to determine if it is something that you can handle on your own or if you need additional help.

3. Call Professional Help

Call professional help if needed.  A plumber may be necessary to repair any damages to your pipes. Once that repair is made, SERVPRO can begin the restoration process. 

Hospice Chili Challenge 2017

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Chili Challenge for Hospice

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties participated in the 30th annual Hospice Chili Challenge on 2/18/17. This year we made Creole Chili and decorated with a Mardi Gras theme. We had a great time and were happy to help raise funds for such a worthy cause.

Creole Chili Recipe

 1 lb ground beef

12 oz andouille sausage

1 green pepper

1 onion

1 can crushed tomatoes

1 can Rotel

1 can black beans

1 envelope creole spice mix

Brown ground beef, sausage, pepper and onion.

Mix all ingredients in crock pot and simmer for 8 hours on low.

If you are in need of fire or water damage mitigation in your Athens, AL home or business, give SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties a call at (256)233-4033

GOT MOLD?

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in Athens Bathroom caused by moisture. 01/20/2017

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 – SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 256-233-4033

SERVPRO Sewage Cleanup & Restoration

2/24/2017 (Permalink)

Sewage cleanup, Toilet overflow, sewage backup SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties

Proper cleanup and remediation of sewer backups are critical aspects of keeping you and your family safe whenever the unexpected occurs. These backups should be considered an emergency because the water that is exposed may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that possess the ability to cause serious illnesses. With that being said, water damage can be classified by three types of contaminated water. 

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into either a category 2 or 3, depending on the length of time. Also taken into consideration is the temperature and contact with surrounding contaminants. An example includes the water from a clean source like a broken water line.

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and can cause serious discomfort and illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow. 

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and can cause severe illnesses or even death if ingested. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams; water from beyond the toilet trap; water from the toilet bowl with feces; or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. 

Any of these categories, if left untreated, has the potential to harm you and your family. Don't take the risk. When a water backup of any kind occurs, please contact SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033 or visit our website.

Facebook

Are you Prepared for a power outage?

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Emergency Readiness Kit!

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather When winter weather strikes the Winston Salem area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties arrives will make a difference.  Call us directly at 256-233-4033!

The Best 3 Vacuums for Getting Rid of Pet Hair!

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Pet Hair

Many families consider the family pet a member of the family. Unfortunately, these family members can leave behind fur and dander that is not only unpleasant to look at but can also aggravate allergies. The first line of defense in combating the pet hair that may be taking over your house is a great vacuum designed to pick it up.

 Most vacuum manufacturers carry a line that is specifically designed to work on pet hair and dander. There are many different kinds to choose from, but the best vacuum will pick up the pet hair, dander, and dirt effortlessly. These three models get consistently high ratings and are big hits with the cat and dog crowd.

1) The Dyson DC25 Animal is a light-weight and bagless vacuum. All of the vacuums in the Dyson Animal series have a great reputation for picking up dirt and hair that other vacuums leave behind. They have a HEPA filters and work well for those suffering from allergies. They can be a little costly, but happy owners believe that they are worth every penny.

2) Bissell's Pet Hair Eraser® Vacuum includes a Pet TurboEraser Tool, a Pet Hair Lifter, and a Pet Contour Tool. These features are all formulated specifically to pick up pet hair. Bissell also sells a attachment that works as a groomer directly on your pet.

3) The Kenmore Progressive Canister has great reviews and pet owners are amazed at its cleaning capabilities. It is fairly reasonably priced, but one major complaint is the cost of repairs. The canister allows it to move around easily and it works well on all surfaces.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties recommend that you should brush your pet every single day to reduce pet hair. In lieu of that, get a great vacuum and allow Fido on the furniture.

If you need more help getting rid of that pesky pet hair, call the Pet Hair Removal Pro's at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties (256) 233-4033

Water Damage-What Happens When Left Untreated

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage in Athens, AL

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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 – (256) 233-4033

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 Limestone and Lawrence Counties

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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.

For Immediate Service in Athens, AL Call SERVPRO

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Athens, AL Residents: We provide immediate service day or night! 

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Athens, AL. 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 – 256-233-4033

Residential Services

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

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

Commercial Services

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

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Does Your Limestone County Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

In Limestone County, mold can spread through a home 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 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 – 256-233-4033

When Storms or Floods hit Limestone and Lawrence Counties SERVPRO is ready!

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Limestone and Lawrence Counties.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties 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 Athens, AL 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.

SERVPRO's Storm response team is "faster to any size disaster" and can get your home and life back to normal.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Today 256-233-4033

Athens, AL Limestone County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

11/8/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Athens, AL Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence 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?
Call Us Today – 256-233-4033

What is it that we do at SERVPRO?

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Fire, Water, Mold.... Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033

When your home or business has been damaged by fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris.

After protecting and securing the structure, professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can begin the restoration process. Your home or business may need reconstruction work to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

 Call Now! (256) 233-4033

Fire Damage in Athens, AL

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

A grease fire in the kitchen was the source of this fire cleanup job in Athens, AL. We completely cleaned this home until there was no soot left.

SERVPRO Of Limestone and Lawrence Counties has the expertise, training, and experience to handle your fire damaged home or office!

Our teams of experts has over 50 years of fire restoration experience and we are here to help when you need us the most! 

Our company is able to handle every aspect of your fire damage claim in Athens, AL from communicating with your insurance company, moving out your contents for cleaning, painting, demolition, and reconstruction to even your laundry. 

Our state of the art eSporta Laundry Wash System has been specifically designed to get your clothing looking their best even after being tarnished with smoke and soot from a fire.

It doesn't matter if the smoke came from a kitchen fire, electrical fire, grease fire, or a lightning strike. Our team of experts can handle the claim from start to finish. No need to wait on getting on any other contractor's schedule and waiting to get your life back to normal. We can make your fire loss "like it never even happened".

Give us a call at SERVPRO (256) 233-4033!

Mold in Crawlspace Athens, AL.

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

Mold in your crawlspace in Athens, AL? SERVPRO can make it like it "Never even happened".

SERVPRO Of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is your source for crawlspace mold problems in Athens, AL.  Our IICRC certified and trained technicians can diagnose your crawlspace mold problems and eliminate your black mold problem.

The first step in our crawlspace cleaning process is to spray the mold with an antimicrobial treatment to keep the mold from growing and spreading.  We then hand wipe and/or HEPA Vac the floor joists and subflooring to remove the mold spores. The next step is to seal any wood that is showing any signs of water staining. Our technicians will test the moisture content of the wood to make sure that the moisture content level of the flooring is less than 20% so that you will not have further moisture issues. 

We can also remove and replace your crawlspace vapor barrier. A lot of the homes that we visit do not have adequate coverage of their crawlspace floor which allows moisture to enter the crawlspace and create mold problems on the wood. Mold spores in your crawlspace can also negatively affect your indoor air quality as the the air flows up into the home.

Give us a call at (256) 233-4033 to schedule a free estimate.

Garage Remodel in Athens, AL

6/13/2016 (Permalink)

Garage Organization, Garage Remodel, Garage Rebuild

SERVPRO just finished another garage remodel in Athens, AL. 

The same team that can rebuild your home when it is damaged from a fire or flood is the best team to help you with your remodeling or construction project. Our construction team can can handle any size job from installing carpets to a full kitchen remodel. We are licensed,bonded, insured and have years of experience in the construction industry. Let the green team turn your dream home into a reality!

(256) 233-4033

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is your smoke and fire damage restoration providers. We have the knowledge, equipment and experience to facilitate the entire clean up process, from start to finish. Contact us today at (256) 233-4033 to find out more about our fire damage repair services. We are locally owned and operated. We service Athens, Decatur, Madison, East Limestone, East Lawrence, Clements, Moulton, Courtland, and Town Creek, AL.

Athens, AL Pressure Washing

6/13/2016 (Permalink)

Pressure washing concrete in Athens, AL

SERVPRO can pressure wash your driveway, sidewalks, and vinyl siding to make it look new again!

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties for your pressure washing needs. Our trained technicians are capable of tackling any residential or commercial pressure washing job. Our pressure washing services include soft wash of homes, roofs,buildings,wood, vinyl, decks, fences, driveways, sidewalks, patios and gutters. It is important to have your property cleaned on a regular basis because pollutants take such a toll on our environment. Regular cleaning can extend the life of your property while adding value. You can rest assured that we will use the best possible cleaning method for your needs. No job is too big or too small for the SERVPRO team!

Give us a call today to get a quote! 
(256) 233-4033

Crawlspace Moisture Problems

6/7/2016 (Permalink)

Wet Crawlspace, Mold In crawlspace, Sewage in Crawlspace, Broken Pipe in crawlspace, crawlspace drying, crawlspace moisture problems.

Do you have problems with moisture in your crawlspace? Has a leaking pipe caused mold, mildew or wood rot? Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence counties and we can handle that for you. Our trained and certified mold remediation technicians can diagnose your crawlspace moisture problem and get your crawlspace dried out in no time. Our technicians will remove any wet insulation in your crawlspace, treat the mold and mildew with an anti microbial sanitary solution, dry the wet floor joists or subflooring and remove and reset the vapor barrier so that you have no more problems of moisture damaging your home environment. If you think you might have a moisture problem, give us a call so we can come out a take a look!

Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033

Skunks in crawlspace

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Cleaning Technicians with their Personal Protective Equipment on including Tyvek suits and respirators. They are ready for whatever happens.

We have received several calls recently for skunks invading crawlspaces and stinking up people's homes. Our SERVPRO technicians can help get the odor out of your home once the animal has been removed by an extermination company. With one of our many products for deodorization we are confident we can help you get your home back to normal in no time.Dont wait to call us while the smell gets worse. We also can process the laundry and soft contents as well to remove the skunk odors with our new state of the art laundry system that was recently received. Our ultimate goal is to make it  "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence at (256) 233-4033 to remove your skunk odors today!!!

Sandblasting Damaged Brick

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Clean area of smoke damaged brick home as a result of a fire.

Athens residents. If you have a fire at your home and have smoke damage to your bricks, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties can help! We recently sandblasted this customer's home to remove the soot from the brick. The customer was very happy with the results and we were able to save the insurance company a lot of money by restoring instead of replacing!

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties is also able to dry ice blast or soda blast your smoke damaged brick if sandblasting is too abrasive for your particular situation. Dry ice blasting is a great solution to your media blasting needs, and the cleanup is quick and easy!

If you have smoke damage at your home:

Call SERVPRO 256-233-4033 We are always here to help!

Our trained technicians are have lots of experience restoring homes to "Like it never even happened."

Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge 2016

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Athens Limestone Chili Challenge

We were proud to support our community by participating in the 2016 Hospice Chili Challenge held at Athens High School. We decided to go with a Hawaiian themed chili and it was a huge success! We had many people compliment and vote for our chili. We look forward to next years challenge!  

Aloha Chili Recipe

2 pounds ground beef

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 20 oz can pineapple chunks

1 16 oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 15 3/4 ounce can pork and beans

1 cup ketchup

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup white vinegar

In a Dutch oven, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Drain.

Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until heated through. Yield: 8 servings.

2016 Athens Home and Garden Show

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Our Home and Garden Show booth

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties was glad to be apart of the 2016 Home and Garden show held in Athens at the Limestone County Event Center. The event was on March 11 & 12 and we had a great time.

Duct Cleaning in Athens, AL

2/9/2016 (Permalink)

This is what we pulled out of a recent customer's duct system.

Have you had your air duct system inspected recently? The Indoor Air Quality Industry recommends having your HVAC system cleaned once every five years. SERVPRO can come and do that for you. Cleaning your duct system will prolong the life of your HVAC unit as well as make your indoor air quality much better. If you or your children suffer from allergies in the spring make sure to give us a call at (256) 233-4033 to come clean your air ducts and make your indoor air super clean again!

We will clean the unit, all registers and the ductwork. After the cleaning is finished, we will treat with an EPA registered disinfectant. 

The pollen count is very high this year so if you are suffering, let us come and give you a quote. 

Benefect, All Natural Disinfectant For Your Home or Business

12/2/2015 (Permalink)

Benefect 100% Natural Disinfectant

Benefits of Benefect Natural Disinfectant

Have you ever worried about the chemicals you are cleaning your home or workplace with?  Sure they might do the job as far as cleaning goes but what is it actually doing to your system?  How toxic are they?  What are they doing to our environment?

What exactly is Benefect?  Benefect is a patented technology based on Thyme Oil.  In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection.  Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts particularly from the herb Thyme, and it achieves remarkable efficacy & safety profiles without using any traditional synthetic chemicals like ammonia or chlorine.  Benefect has been proven to kill over 99.99% of mold, mildew and bacteria.

Who can use Benefect - the 100% Natural Disinfectant?  Anyone from a Homeowner to a Healthcare Facility can use Benefect due to the fact that it is 100% Botanical and Non Toxic.  It is highly recommended for those with allergies, asthma, respiratory problems and the chemically sensitive.  If you or someone you love has the above you know what the leading cleaning chemicals can do to them, why not give them a safe and effective alternative.  Our 100% natural disinfectant is so safe that you could spray it in your mouth!  

What can I use Benefect on?  Our 100% natural disinfectant is safe to use on just about anything.  You can simply spray and walk away.  Benefect will dissipate and won't leave a film on anything. Benefect is completely food surface safe.  Benefect the 100% natural disinfectant is ideal for the following; kid's toys and high chairs, diaper pails and change tables, countertops, sinks and food preparation, toilet seats, sickrooms, pet areas, garbage cans and sports equipment.  Benefect is also ideal for odor control on carpet and carpet pads and will kill pet urine and vomit, even from concrete.  Some commercial applications would be in food preparation areas, day cares and nurseries, hotels and restaurants, schools and fitness gyms and kennels and barns.

Why use Benefect? I think the better question here is, why wouldn't you use Benefect the 100% natural disinfectant. It's a healthy choice for ourselves and our environment. It's just sensible.

SERVPRO wins top company at the Apple Annie Charity 5k!

11/2/2015 (Permalink)

Our team after the race!

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence had a blast this weekend at the 2nd Annual Apple Annie 5k.  Our company was voted the Top Company and we had the most participants. Our tent was setup for the kids to enjoy face painting, balloon animals, SERVPRO balloons, cornhole boards as well as two bounce houses. We even had a hot air balloon! Jordan and John won first and second place in their respective age divisions also! Amanda's son, Garrett Hamlin won 3rd place in the 1 mile fun run!

Protect your property

10/28/2015 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes in Athens, AL cause major structural damage.

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

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions before winter weather hits.

•  Check your property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 

• Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, causing roof damage and interior water problems.

• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 

• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.

• Ask SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties Professionals about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

Call SERVPRO - (256) 233-4033 - Ready for Whatever Happens

Be Ready For Whatever Happens

10/28/2015 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to get your Emergency Ready Plan Today! (256) 233-4033

Our Emergency READY Program and the American Red Cross Ready Rating program are perfect partners. Call us today to schedule an assessment of your facilities.

SERVPRO (256) 233-4033

Apple Annie 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run

10/28/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence is a proud sponsor of the Apple Annie Charity 5K which will be held October 31, 2015.

The Apple Annie 5K is a charity race benefiting the Joy House and the Children's Advocacy Center of Athens/Limestone County.  The race will be held at the Athens Swan Creek Park (directly beside Athens High School).  After the 5K we will have a 1 Mile Fun Run for kids of all ages!  We will have a Family Fun Zone with games, face painting, food, music, and a hot air balloon!  Awards will be given for the race and for the most spirited Apple Annie runner!  Please come out and join us to run, walk, or play! 

Here is the link to register: Apple Annie 5k

Burning Leaves

10/23/2015 (Permalink)

Burning leaves

With fall upon us, the question of the safety of burning leaves comes up.  Leaves pile up and bagging them for the city to take away can be a hassle.  Despite the inconvenience, SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence recommends that you should not burn leaves.  Burning leaves can cause problems to an individuals’ heath as well as damage to the environment.

When leaves are burned, they can release several gasses and particulates that are hazardous to human health.  There is moisture in leaves, which cause them to burn slowly and release soot, dust and other solid materials into the air.  These items, if breathed in, can cause respiratory problems.  Gasses that are released can also cause problems in the bloodstream if inhaled.

The particulates released into the air by burning can cause a serious drop in air quality.  Multiple leaf fires in an area greatly increase this risk.

An easy solution to burning that is actually beneficial to the environment is composting.  By composting leaves, a great soil conditioning agent is created!

For more information please visit the EPA’s website

For help with a fire loss at your home or business,

Call SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties at (256) 233-4033