Humidity: Primary and Secondary Damages Explained by Restoration Experts

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova restoration experts to mitigate primary and secondary damage due to storm, flooding + water.

Different Types of Water Damage

Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a building, the problems it causes can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary damage.

Primary Damage

When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it comes in contact with contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's de-lamination, is considered primary damage. 

Secondary Damage

Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues since water transfers from the air into dry materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor causes structural problems, it is called secondary damage.

Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both primary and secondary water damage. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation, we monitor both relative and specific humidity.

What Controls Humidity?

Controlling humidity levels in a structure helps speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept low using air movers and dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues. 

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) is a measure of how much water is in the air at any given temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage, so if the relative humidity is 100%, then the air is holding as much moisture as it can at that temperature. At this point, if not sooner, condensation can occur inside the building. "Raining" inside your home can only exacerbate the already water damaging effects. Air can hold more water at higher temperatures, so increasing the house's temperature will lower the relative humidity. That is one of the features of our HEPA filters. Not only does the filter suck the moisture from the air, but it also heats the air to dry the space quicker.

Specific Humidity 

The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity, but it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our restoration professionals measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound (GPP) number. 

If you ever need help with issues related to water or humidity, such as flood damage, storm damage, or microbial growth, call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900, available 24 hours a day.

Do You Have a Back-to-School Family Emergency Plan?

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

No one ever likes to think that an emergency could happen to them, but the reality is that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere, including while your child is at school.

Even if you never end up needing your family emergency plan, it's best to be prepared just in case. Having a solid plan in place will give you everyday peace of mind and, in the event of an emergency, could save lives.

Emergency Contacts

Make a list of 1-3 trusted emergency contacts who can pick up your child from school in the event that you are unable. Be sure to notify these people and get their permission. Review the list with your child to ensure they're comfortable with these people, know how to contact them by phone, and know what their vehicle looks like. Including an emergency card in your child’s backpack could prove useful for ensuring your child has the correct, pertinent information.

Communicate with the School

Ensure your child's school is kept up to date about who is allowed to pick them up. They'll need correct contact information and sometimes require a form of identification for their records. Many schools have materials they distribute to indicate designated pick up areas and other important information.

Drop Off Location

It’s scary, but it could happen. If none of the emergency contacts can be reached by phone or they're unable to pick your child up in a timely manner, alternative transportation may have to be arranged. Be sure to have a designated alternative drop-off spot. This could be a friend or relative's house, or another trusted location. Be sure your child knows the location, their current address, and phone number so that they can accurately tell authorities how to get there safely.

Reevaluate Each Year

As your child ages, changes schools, or your family moves, it's smart to update your plan. 

Although we hope your family never experiences an unexpected disaster, if you do, SERVPRO is available 24/7/365 for emergency service. Learn more here.

SERVPRO Helps Prevent Fire in Your Home with Dryer Vent Cleaning

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

House fires affect millions of people every year at the cost of over $500 Million. Smoke detectors have proved their value, saving lives and homes from total loss. Most house fires start in the kitchen, but a significant number still occur in a place most forget about once the item is installed, the dryer vent. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 2,900 dryer fires are reported each year. These fires lead to a staggering national average of 35 million dollars in property damage, 100 injuries, and five fatalities annually. 

PSA: Vent cleaning service may reduce your clothes dryer's workload while lowering energy usage!

A dryer inside the house or apartment uses a metal exhaust pipe (galvanized iron or steel usually) to vent hot air outside the home. The zinc-coated material is designed to handle the highest dryer settings and more but not open flames from burning built-up lint. Since this is an exhaust pipe and smoke seeks the most comfortable access, a vent fire goes undetected by the smoke detectors much longer than a fire anywhere else in the house. 

If your dryer is in the garage or under a carport, the chance for a significant fire is reduced. The flexible vent tube may not run under the house, but it is still at risk. The build-up of lint can still ignite, destroying your dryer and the washer next to it. As the flexible plastic pipe melts, the burning material quickly ignites drywall and other building materials. 

Our technicians can eliminate this threat with an inspection. We can attach an air mover that introduces high-velocity airflow into your vent for just a few minutes. If the build-up has caked against the sides of the pipe, we'll then use a brush with a telescoping handle to scrape the sides and then blore-attach the air mover to the lint outside your home. We detach it from the dryer for a flexible conduit and clean it outside using either an air mover or garden hose to wash it out. 

The cost for vent cleaning is minor compared to the possible cost(s) to restore your home fire-damaged home. Aren’t convinced? There are still some things you, as a property owner, can do to keep your home as safe as possible.

What You Can Do

Clean the lint filter.

A clogged lint filter is the leading contributing factor in residential dryer fires. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that failing to clean out the lint trap causes 34 percent of reported dryer fires every year.

Each time you unload the dryer, clean out the lint trap. Before putting the next load of clothes in, double-check that the lint trap is completely clean to lower your risk of fire. A clean lint filter allows the dryer to run more efficiently, too, thus drying your clothes faster while also preventing your machine from overheating.

Inspect the ducts regularly.

Blocked ducts frequently cause dryer fires. To ensure your dryer is running correctly, check your ducts about once a month to ensure there are no blockages. Some telltale signs that your ducts are clogged include the following indicators:

• Your laundry is taking longer to dry
• Exhaust air is failing to exit the vent
• You suspect that your machine is overheating

Sometimes, a blockage occurs because the venting system itself is damaged. Other times, blockages may be occurring because of an accumulation of lint, animals building nests in the vents, or snow building up over the outside vents.

If you notice any blockages, clean them out before using your dryer again. To clean your ducts, disconnect them, remove the blockages and reconnect them. If you notice any damage to the venting system, call in a professional to repair the issue.

Replace outdated ducts.

Older ducts made of plastic or foil are prone to sagging. These accordion-style ducts can easily trap lint in hard-to-reach spaces, increasing your risk of fire. To keep your home safe, replace your older models with new ducts designed with heavy-duty metal.

DON'T overload the dryer.

Stuffing too many wet clothes or bedding into a dryer can cause an excess of lint to accumulate. Since lint build up reduces a dryer's ability to ventilate, the machine may quickly overheat and cause a fire to break out. Read your owner's manual to determine your machine's maximum hold to ensure you aren't overstuffing it.

DON'T leave the dryer running unattended.

Never go to sleep or leave the house while your dryer is running. If a fire breaks out, your ability to extinguish it or call emergency services right away can make all the difference between damage to your laundry room and complete loss of your home.

DON'T dry clothes without the lint filter.

A dryer without its lint trap is an accident waiting to happen. The filter protects the dryer's inner workings from collecting lint. Without this defensive shield, a buildup of lint in the ducts can easily lead to a dryer vent fire.

To lower your risk, always use your dryer with the lint trap in place. If your existing lint trap is worn or develops any holes, replace it immediately at your nearest home supplies store.

When it comes to disasters, one could argue that none are worse than a residential fire. Not only do the flames cause inherent danger as they destroy your family's home and or business, but there is also the after effect concerning the removal of debris, soot, the smell of smoke, compromised structure, and additional damages that have been inflicted on your property. For most homeowners, fire is an incredible event. However, they DO happen and for a variety of reasons.

Top 10 Other Causes of Fires

1. Home heat fires: Your furnace needs regular inspection(s) and ensures combustibles are not near any portable heaters.
   
   
2. Cooking fires: Unattended kitchens, splattering grease, and combustibles near the source of heat are very common fire starters.
   
   
3. Smoking: Always ensure that you properly and completely extinguish the cigarette if you smoke in your home.
   
   
4. Electrical fires: Look out for frayed cords, overloaded plug outlets, and the overuse of extension cords.
   
   
5. Children: Keep lighters and matches away from children to stifle any curiosity they could have about what happens when various items catch fire.
   
   
6. Candles: Candles may smell nice, but if left unattended, they could cause a significant issue.
   
   
7. Flammable items: Do not keep adhesives, paint, or cleaning agents close to sources of heat.
   
   
8. Faulty wiring: A significant safety hazard is inadequate wiring (MOSTLY prevalent in older apartments and homes).
   
   
9. Grills: Never cook on the grill under an awning or a covered porch. Give yourself ample space away from your home and automobiles.
   
   
10. Holiday décor: Be mindful of how close your Christmas tree is to your fireplace and always safely hang another décor.

Despite our best efforts as homeowners, accidents still happen. If your home has been damaged by fire and smoke, call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova. Our team of highly trained technicians can help get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. With the proper training, innovative equipment, and helpful guidance, our expert technicians will be with you every step of the way to get you back on your feet.

We will arrive at your home quickly to mitigate the damages, secure your property and start the emergency cleaning process to items that are of priority. While we are on the site, your property will be inspected, assessments of damage(s) will be documented, and preliminary estimates made to give you a comprehensive restoration plan of action. 

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Immediate Service: Day or Night!

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova provides 24-hour emergency service and dedicates being faster to any-sized disaster! We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

Whether your 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 no convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond with trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

3 Reasons You Need to Replace Your Pipes

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Reasons to Upgrade Your Plumbing System to Something New

While the plumbing system in your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, building is made to last, whether made from steel or polybutylene, it certainly won't last forever. It may cost some time and money, but it is a good idea to have these replaced occasionally. Here are a few reasons to upgrade to something new.

1. They're Old

One apparent reason to have your pipes replaced is, they have gotten old. Even the most sturdy system will deteriorate over time. How long your system will last before you need to install new plumbing will depend on the materials used, so it is a good idea to keep this information in mind. Whatever the material, if it has been several decades since your pipes were installed, it's probably time to have them replaced.

2. They're Damaged

Broken pipes can cause massive water damage, so you should have them replaced as quickly as possible. Pipes can break as the result of deterioration, freezing during cold weather, or even the growth of tree roots nearby. If your pipes are relatively new, you will likely not need to replace the whole system and focus only on the affected area.

3. They're Made from Polybutylene

If your plumbing system was installed between the 1970s and 1990s, they were possibly made with Polybutylene (PB) pipes. PB pipes were often used because they were easy to install and were relatively inexpensive. However, over time, it became apparent that they broke too quickly and could leach chemicals into the water. If you have PB pipes, replace them as soon as possible.

While you should try to replace your pipes before they cause any damage, accidents can happen. If you have suffered from water damage to your business, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova can help. They can perform cleanup and repairs to restore your building quickly.

Reduce Business Disruption After a Commercial Disaster

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or other form of disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

How To Minimize Risks and Loss of Revenue?

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage on your business.

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages Provide You With:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Professionals at SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova, established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for an emergency response.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.
• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

We are here to be your total solutions provider during an emergency commercial disaster so you can do what’s important: taking care of your clients, employees, and other business needs. 

Humidity: Primary and Secondary Damages Explained by Restoration Experts

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova restoration experts to mitigate primary and secondary damage due to storm, flooding, and water.

Different Types of Water Damage

Whenever excessive moisture gets inside a building, the problems it causes can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary damage.

Primary Damage

When water leaks from a pipe or an appliance, it comes in contact with contents and building materials. Anything that happens due to direct contact with liquid water, such as the carpet's de-lamination, is considered primary damage. 

Secondary Damage

Once water gets inside a structure, it naturally raises humidity levels indoors when moisture from wet materials evaporates into the air. Elevated humidity levels can also cause building materials issues since water transfers from the air into dry materials to reach equilibrium. When water vapor causes structural problems, it is called secondary damage.

Extraction procedures help reduce primary issues, and structural drying helps mitigate both primary and secondary water damage. When our SERVPRO technicians deal with any water damage situation, we monitor both relative and specific humidity.

What Controls Humidity?

Controlling humidity levels in a structure helps speed up structural drying times. Wet materials dry out faster if the humidity inside a building is kept low using air movers and dehumidifiers. Monitoring and strategic placement of these devices optimize drying times. When we keep humidity levels low, we also reduce water vapor in the air, causing fewer secondary issues. 

Relative Humidity

Relative Humidity (RH) is a measure of how much water is in the air at any given temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage, so if the relative humidity is 100%, then the air is holding as much moisture as it can at that temperature. At this point, if not sooner, condensation can occur inside the building. "Raining" inside your home can only exacerbate the already water damaging effects. Air can hold more water at higher temperatures, so increasing the house's temperature will lower the relative humidity. That is one of the features of our HEPA filters. Not only does the filter suck the moisture from the air, but it also heats the air to dry the space quicker.

Specific Humidity 

The temperature has such a significant effect on relative humidity, but it's not always a good gauge of how much water exists in the air. Specific humidity is the actual amount of moisture in the air. When our restoration professionals measure specific humidity, they count the actual grains of moisture in each pound of air. To find specific humidity, we measure relative humidity levels and the room's temperature. We then put these numbers in a psychrometric chart that gives us the grains per pound (GPP) number. 

If you ever need help with issues related to water or humidity, such as flood damage, storm damage, or microbial growth, call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900, available 24 hours a day.

We Have The State-of-the-Art Equipment Necessary in Memphis

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Saving Facilities After Silicone Roof Water Damage in Memphis, TN

As many Florida business owners know, water damage is the second most common type of claim that they can make. A staggering 20% of all insurance claims filed are related to water damage of some kind, whether this is from a pipe malfunction, storm damage, or other water-related issues. Without thorough mitigation and drying, this damage can pose challenges to the structural integrity of your business as well as the safety of employees and customers.

If your office needs commercial water damage mitigation, you can count on a certified SERVPRO team to handle the damages quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to business. No matter how large or small the disaster, professionals are dedicated to restoring your business and ensuring that cleanup is done to code.

Silicone Roofing Risks

While silicone roof coatings can help business owners with flat roofing save on electricity and other costs, there are some risks to consider when implementing this in your space after water damage strikes. These include:

• Abrasion and tear resistance. Compared to other coatings like modified bitumen, silicone roofing is not the most durable. It can get very slippery when wet, which can make it more prone to tears. Foot traffic dropped tools, and other activities can potentially damage the coating. 
  
  
• Attracting dirt. Silicone roofing, which is often white, can get a visible coat of airborne dust and dirt over time, darkening roofing. Clean regularly to maximize the energy-reflective nature of the roof coating and save on HVAC costs.
  
  
• Recoating. While recoating may not be needed as often as it is for other roofing solutions, it is imperative to choose silicone compatible with your current coating. 

How SERVPRO Saves Your Facilities

Suppose you have a roof leak in your facilities. In that case, SERVPRO can use centrifugal air movers and low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers in tandem to pull moisture off of surfaces and eliminate it, replacing the moist air with air that is warm and dry. To dry a wet ceiling, technicians may open a few ceiling panels on either end of the affected area and position equipment so that air circulates straight up and through the space between your ceiling and roofing. This placement also helps warm, dry air circulate through the affected space for better results.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is here to ensure that your business looks "Like it never even happened." Call (901) 382-3200 today for rapid disaster mitigation.

Third Party Certified: Upholding IICRC Standards and Maintaining Excellence is the SERVPRO Way

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Upholding Standards And Maintaining Excellence

When homes in Tennessee, need remediation, you want to ensure that the company handling the problem adheres to the highest industry standards. The restoration industry standards are set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is a third-party certification organization that approves instructors and schools to teach the skills needed to meet its values of expertise, integrity, and excellence.

Expertise

Training programs such as the ones offered by SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova are IICRC-certified. Classes are offered in any of the following categories:

• Applied Structural Drying Certification
• Carpet Cleaning Certification
• Fire Restoration Certification
• Upholstery Cleaning Certification
• Water Restoration Certification

Receiving a mitigation certificate after completing these courses means that the individual can do the job right. When clients hire someone to fix a problem in their homes, they want to verify that the technicians know what they are doing and that they are certified mitigation experts.

Integrity

It is not enough that technicians know how to do their job well—they also need to be honest and trustworthy. When the IICRC certifies a company or individual, you know you have found someone you can trust. They adhere to a strict standard of ethics and can be expected to be upfront about their clients' homes' assessment and treatment. The IICRC’s stamp of approval is a big deal, as they, “Stand at the forefront of the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industry,” regarding training professionals.

Excellence

When a certified school or instructor trains specialists, they learn how to exhibit high standards of service. Continuing education courses improve knowledge, turning technicians into industry leaders. These classes also serve to educate insurance and real estate professionals regarding various mitigation processes. Shared knowledge strengthens these partnerships so that together, they can offer more excellent service to the customers they share.

A third-party certification organization sets industry standards that all mitigation professionals must meet. The values of the IICRC are reflected in each training program and instructor it approves. To ensure quality, professional service, recommend certified mitigation professionals to your clients. If you have residential or commercial Smoke, Fire, Water, damage, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova, an IICRC company, for a free restoration estimate.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire?

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Preparedness Means More Than Simply Owning a Fire Extinguisher

A fire is every business owner’s nightmare. Your insurance policy will ensure you can rebuild in the event of a fire. But what about protecting your most important assets: your life and the lives of your employees? To avoid the unspeakable tragedy of losing employees in a fire, it’s necessary to build a fire escape plan.

Tips for Your Business’ Emergency Fire Plan

1. Ensure your business has the proper number of smoke alarms. In newer homes, the National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) requires hard-wired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every building level, outside each work area, and inside each office. If your building is older and smoke alarms are not already in place, install them on every level and outside each work area at a minimum. Test your alarms once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
   
   
2. Teach employees what smoke alarms look and sound like. If your smoke alarm has a test feature, set aside time for a training in which you or a professional teach your employees the fire escape plan and include a smoke alarm test. If it does not have a test feature, there are videos online which provide demonstrations of what smoke alarms sound and look like. Teaching employees to recognize an alarm and know the plan of action ahead of time will give employees more confidence to remain calm during the emergency.
   
   
3. Ensure everyone in the building knows two ways to escape from every room. It may not be an ideal route, but knowing a second exit from a room is advisable. It is also essential to establish a meeting spot outside the building to ensure everyone's arrival to safety. Depending on the size of the building, this may require a customized escape diagram.
   
   
4. Establish an emergency communications plan. As part of your building’s fire escape plan, make sure everyone knows who and how to contact in the event of an emergency.
   
   
5. Practice escaping from your building at least twice a year. This may seem excessive, but fire drills can save lives in the event of a real fire. Employees come and go, so frequently performing this drill makes sure all employees know what to do.

Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova if your business suffers commercial fire damage at (901) 645-1285. 

SERVPRO Secures and Restores Memphis Property Contents After a Flooding while Mitigating the Structural Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Packs Out Your Business’s Items After Storm Waters Flood Your Property

The chaos and stress of post-storm flooding at your business’s property is paralyzing. With water, debris, and quite possibly severe damage to your roof, windows, doors, and siding—you need fast, reliable help. Our team of disaster remediation experts has proven strategies to help you and your family through this difficult time. 

What is a Pack-Out?

We often recommend a pack-out after flood damage. A SERVPRO pack-out is when furnishings, household or office goods, documents, and personal possessions are moved to a dry and safe space on your property or transported to our production facility to be restored. Removing the items permits our crews to clean flooded areas in your home, unimpeded; extracting water, doing demolition if and where needed. This helps technicians dry out the structure faster without the need to work around belongings.

SERVPRO uses a detailed and secure Content Claims Inventory System (CCIS) to document and track the items we move out. Lists, digital pictures, and barcoding ensure we have a complete record of the articles. We collaborate with your insurance company to make sure the efforts we make to clean, dry, and restore the pack-out inventory are covered to the extent of your contract. It is typically less expensive to restore items than to discard and replace them. We help you save time, money, and memories.

Innovative Restoration

Our production facility technicians are skilled with innovative techniques such as freeze-drying for document and picture restoration. Floodwaters can be contaminated, so we work to ensure the packed-out items receive effective disinfectant treatment. SERVPRO provides temperature and humidity-controlled smaller chambers to dry out furnishings and electronics. Be advised that modern electronics often need precise cleaning from specialty companies. We have piston-driven Esporta washing equipment to clean soft items and immersion tubs and ultrasonic equipment to loosen flood debris soiling from blinds and intricately detailed decor and other items.

SERVPRO crews secure the exterior damage with boards and tarp, moving on to extracting, containing, and disposing of the floodwaters according to local regulations. We can spray and treat soiled areas with EPA-registered disinfectants before using commercial-quality air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to ready your home for the return of the packed-out items, "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova awaits your call at (901) 382-0900. Contact us to evaluate your flood damage and rapid remediation of your home and a professional pack-out of floodwater-damaged items.

SERVPRO® of Bartlett / Cordova Promotes Two Longtime Employees

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Bartlett / Cordova Promotes Patrick Belcher and Chuck Tucker

Patrick Belcher was promoted from operations manager to general manager after long and faithful growth at SERVPRO Team Nicholson. 

Humble Beginnings

Patrick has been on our team since 2013. When he first started at SERVPRO Team Nicholson, he was looking to make some extra money on the weekends. A friend of his worked at SERVPRO of Montgomery County and let him know they needed extra people to help demo and clean up jobs occasionally. For the next year Patrick worked part time out of the Montgomery County Office.

Path to General Manager

In 2015, Patrick started his career. He began as a full-time production technician, then became a Crew Chief, then a Production Manager.

After 5 years, Patrick transferred to Memphis. There he was promoted twice: once to Operations Manager, then to General Manager. As the general manager, Patrick oversees daily operations. He coordinates with division managers to create an annual business plan with goals and oversees the management of the Sales, Production, Construction Services, and Office Divisions. 

When asked what he enjoys about this current role as GM, he replied, “I particularly like seeing all aspects of the business from mitigation to construction to future planning, all while being involved with each member of the team.”

When Patrick isn’t working, he is spending time traveling with his daughter to different cities and state parks, golfing and fishing—or anything that includes a body of water. He also enjoys volunteering with his Church at any of their opportunities to give back to the community.

Patrick Belcher has worked at the following SERVPRO Team Nicholson Locations:

SERVPRO of Montgomery County

SERVPRO of Central St. Petersburg / Pinellas Park

SERVPRO of Gulf Beaches South / West St. Petersburg

SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova

SERVPRO of Germantown/Collierville

SERVPRO of East Memphis

SERVPRO of Southeast Memphis

What an outstanding accomplishment!

Production Manager to Operations Manager

Chuck Tucker, a SERVPRO employee for over 20 years, stepped into Patrick’s former role of operations manager. Previously, Chuck had been a production manager. Now, as operations manager, Tucker is responsible for setting departmental budgets, managing daily operations, and identifying areas of improvement, all while ensuring a high quality of service in any dealings with customers, clients, subcontractors, resource providers, and company employees involved in SERVPRO services.

Chuck’s experience and loyalty is almost unmatched in Team Nicholson history. Almost—because it could be matched by his wife, Debra. After 4 years of working together at SERVPRO and 2 years of dating, Chuck married his coworker, Debra. The two continue to work together to this day and have a beautiful family together. As expected, Chuck has seen the industry change many times in the past 20 years. 

Congratulations on these achievements and continued growth! Thank you for your commitment to bettering SERVPRO Team Nicholson.

Our Employees

We pride ourselves on hiring people with a good work ethic, high integrity, and the ability to work in and adapt to tough conditions. We are continuously seeking individuals who are self-motivated, proactive, responsible, and service-oriented team players. If you are highly dependable and excited about exceeding expectations, consider joining us in our mission to help our customers in their greatest moments of need. See our available positions.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1960 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Memphis, TN
• Bartlett, TN
• Cordova, TN
• Germantown, TN
• Collierville, TN
• Poplar Estates, TN
• Almadale Farms, TN
• Arlington, TN
• Lakeland, TN
• Millington, TN
• Countrywood, TN
• Eads, TN
• University of Memphis, TN
• Galloway Gardens, TN

Does My Carpet Need to Be Replaced? Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Professional Water Extraction and Cleaning

If a pipe breaks, a tub overflows, or dishwasher leaks water can spread quickly throughout your home. Moisture from one of these instances can soak into the carpet, damaging the porous fibers.

What does water do to a carpet?

If the water saturates the carpet, padding will disintegrate and glues will weaken, causing the backing to peel away from the fibers. The moisture also causes microbes to develop on the surface of the subfloor. Water will ruin the whole carpet if left too long, so how long is too long? How would a person know if a carpet is salvageable or not?

The answer depends on a few factors. A professional restoration company will examine the cause of water damage and determine if the water is Category 1, 2, or 3. These categories describe the levels of toxicity of the water. Flood water and sewage water are seen as unsafe and are categorized differently than tap water overflowing from a sink or bathtub.

A professional will also lift the different layers for cleaning and drying. The carpet padding will likely be thrown out, no matter how long it’s been sitting, because it is relatively inexpensive to replace. This saves a lot of time, effort, and money cleaning a potential breeding ground for microbial growth. 

In general, many carpets can be restored by professional technicians without needing replacement—even when water seeps deep into the fibers. 

Water Extraction

After technicians inspect the danger and its source, lift layers, and remove pieces, they will extract water from the carpet fibers using specialized equipment. This equipment pulls the water up through a vacuum and sends it to a tank. Heavy-duty weighted extraction tools will be used for highly saturated carpets. Weighted extraction tools use the operator's weight to compress the carpet, allowing more moisture to be extracted.

Drying

After water extraction, a professional will set up drying equipment. Air movers—SERVPRO’s name for industrial, high-powered, blower fans—push air in a circular motion speeding up the evaporation process. Dehumidifiers are simultaneously set up to pull moisture out of the environment and lower the property’s relative humidity.

Finally, a professional will disinfect the carpet. For additional information, call our office today at (901) 754-9061!

Yes, Your Open-Concept House Design is More Flammable

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Eliminates Soot and Smoke Residues After a House Fire

Your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, home was not intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. Most of the materials used for constructing your home are flammable and actually fuel the spread throughout the structure. Further, the “open-concept” design that has become popularized thanks to HGTV personalities is a fire-spreading hazard. Flames and smoke can quickly move throughout the home because there is less fuel to burn, i.e. less walls, doors, etc. Building designs that have individual rooms with doors are more likely to have a slower spread since the fire can be temporarily isolated by the closing of doors. In any case, if your property catches on fire, it can incur extensive damage—and fast! 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task. Most often, the substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO fire restoration professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can be found around the fire's originating point, where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches.

Soot Damages

Soot is most concentrated where it burned longest, but matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark or black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials, too. Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the bulk of the film. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums. 

Smoke Damages

Smoke damage often presents itself in the form of a harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernible scent behind. 

The Right Solution

Unfortunately, this causes a bigger mess than most people are equipped to handle. Fire damage proves to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. We always suggest hiring a professional fire cleanup and restoration expert. We may be biased, but SERVPRO is just that. We have the experience, tools, and techniques to help you through widespread fire, smoke, and soot damages. 

When you face the effects after a house fire, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova. responds quickly to get your home back to preloss conditions, as soon as possible. Give us a call at (901) 382-0900.

Fire Prevention: Save Your Home and Family

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Fire prevention can save your home and your life.

You protect your family by locking doors at night, monitoring who they spend time with and where they go. But do you consider fire prevention and preparedness tips?

As a homeowner, the thought of a fire breaking out in your house is a nightmare scenario. It puts your family’s safety at risk, and you could lose many possessions including your home itself. Avoid this frightful scenario and potentially save lives by reducing the risk of fire.

Maintain Smoke Alarms

All homes should have smoke alarms to alert you to fire danger. One or two alarm devices are not enough if you have multiple levels or a larger property. Your home should have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and an additional alarm per floor. Maintain your smoke alarms to ensure they are effective in the unfortunate incident of a fire.

• Test your smoke alarm once per month by pressing their tester button.
• Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once per year.
• Never disconnect your smoke alarm.

Practice an Evacuation Plan

It is a wise idea to explain rules for safely exiting the home. Putting together a simple to understand plan for all family members is an easy way to make sure you and your family are on the same page in the event of a fire emergency.

Something as simple as identifying a meeting location outside, explaining how to open tricky windows, or showing how to remove cut window screens is a great start for teaching young children safe fire evacuation. Teaching administration of tools like the fire extinguisher and its location can prevent small kitchen fires from forming catastrophes.

Keep an Eye on the Dryer

Of major appliances, the dryer is perhaps the most significant potential culprit for starting a fire apart from countertop ovens and griddles. Check the filter and remove lint buildup after every load. Doing this also helps dry time, so it’s a win-win! We also recommend inspecting the outside vent and the hose leading from the dryer to the vent for proper ventilation. There are many YouTube tutorials that explain the ins and outs of dryers and their filters—those videos may be useful for extra, seasonal, deep cleanings.

Inspect Outlets

Being aware of electrical problems is an important fire precaution. Never overload your outlets. Also, be mindful when you use power strips, especially with computers and TVs. If an outlet looks dingy, it could be blown which indicates hidden problems. Outlet inspection is especially necessary for rental apartments or townhomes. Take precaution and call a professional electrician or property maintenance for help. We do not recommend fixing electrical problems. This is not a DIY project. 

Be Careful When You Cook

Because there are many silent heat sources in a kitchen, fire prevention is most likely and therefore most important here. Make sure your oven is clean and functioning correctly. If the oven emits an unusual amount of heat when closed and cooking, there may be problems with the seal or heating mechanism. It does not hurt to have a professional look at the appliance to ensure the temperature regulation mechanisms are working properly.

If all is functioning, it is wise to use the self-clean setting when your oven looks particularly grimy. This will heat the inside of the oven to a high temperature, burning stuck-on residue. When the self-cleaning is done, the food particles inside will be ash and can be easily wiped out. This is a simple and effective way to clean an oven. However, do not leave your oven unattended while this process is happening.

In fact, never leave any kitchen appliance unattended, especially food on the stove. A good rule of thumb is to store items off and away from the stove—you may not know when a child messes with the dials or an adult forgetfully leaves a burner on. In this age, stoves have smart locks that prevent accidental dial clicks. Regardless, putting items away ASAP as opposed to leaving them on the stove is a good, safe practice.

You can have peace of mind when you follow these fire prevention guidelines. We, at SERVPRO, want you to help prepare you. Still, accidents happen. In the event of an unfortunate situation, we offer fire damage services like Fire & Smoke Restoration, soot and odor removal and contents cleaning. If you have fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900.

Benefits of Large Loss For Your Commercial Business

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

Large Loss Restoration of Your Commercial Property

When a property is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss occurs. Whether the large, commercial property sustains water, fire, or storm damage, there will be many different moving parts involved to restore the business to its preloss condition. Employing a restoration company that offers significant loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners alike. A professional like SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova will be able to make the process run smoothly since we work with the insurance directly and handle all parts of most large loss jobs in-house.

Our services include water extraction, board-up services, HEPA filtration, mold remediation, fire cleanup, contents cleaning, odor removal, biohazard cleanup, construction, and much more.

1. Experts Are Equipped With the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes a large geographic area, it's common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests and phone calls. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters or at a large scale, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools.

A restoration company with a broad reach and the resources of 18 other locations, can bring in experts with the necessary tools to assist in the cleanup and restoration process of even the biggest and most complex jobs.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs due to flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it's essential for business owners and insurance agents alike to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to a disaster, everyone's combined experience makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage. 

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, other local restoration companies may not assess quickly enough to be a real help. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth and structural damage. With our 24 hour emergency response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and take next steps. After a thorough assessment, experts can begin restoration. So, the faster the professional gets to the job site, the faster your commercial property can be restored to its preloss condition.

There is a reason SERVPRO has ranked number one in the industry for over 20 years. We stand with our work because we really are “here to help.”

SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile Helps Prepare Your Company for Emergencies

We want to help your business to be ready for the damaging effects of fire, water, and storm. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan.

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. 

The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a tablet and phone application that allows you to take photographs of important safety and emergency features in your business. Each photograph will have a written explanation of how to turn off the different utility systems. One of our SERVPRO employees will walk you through your business’s safety features and help you establish a plan in preparation for an emergency. Remember Murphy’s law—If anything can go wrong, it will. So, we want to make sure you are not caught unawares. 

For additional information regarding SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, contact SERVPRO of East Memphis at (901) 382-0900.

What Is The IIRC? What Does It Mean For Me?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

What Is An IICRC Certification? Why Does It Matter?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industries. 

When considering who to call for water damage, do you go with the company your insurance company recommends? How about your neighbor’s recommendation? In the internet age of information-overload and bias, how can you know what’s right? Who really does the best job? Who does the most work for the money? Who handles a water loss job from start to finish? SERVPRO is proud to be your one-stop-shop for disaster relief after a fire, flood, or storm—but don’t take our word for it—let us show you.

Your local SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is proudly an IICRC accredited firm.

What is an IICRC Certification?

IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the IICRC logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

All 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.  

When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books. As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Standards Developing Organization (SDO), the IICRC has paved the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.  

Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including:

1. allied trades persons
2. manufacturers
3. international, national and regional trade associations
4. individual or franchise professionals
5. cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations
6. insurance industry
7. training schools
8. contractors and public health professionals

These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.

We don’t take this stamp of approval lightly—we uphold it. If your home or business suffered water, storm, or fire damage, call us for 24 hours emergency service or for a free estimate.

What Is Cat 3 Water Loss? What About Cat 1 and Cat 2?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

Have commercial water damage? Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova.

If you experienced a natural flood or sewage break at your home, you might have been told your property sustained Cat 3 (Category 3) water damage. So what is Cat 3 water damage? And what are the other 2?

Water Damage Categories

They are classified as follows:

• Category 1 damage, also known as “white water” (clean water)
• Category 2 damage, also known as “gray water” (clean water that sat for a while)
• Category 3 damage, which is known as “black water” (usually from flood water)

Category 3 water is not only contaminated, but it can also cause damage to your home. Professionally trained technicians can, fortunately, help you clean and decontaminate the building and items after a Cat 3 water incident.

Cleaning Procedures

When facing water damage caused by a contaminated liquid, your safest plan usually involves contacting a local restoration company. Professionals are trained to arrive quickly, assess damage accurately, and work safely and efficiently to clean, restore and construct your property.

After the assessment, the following cleaning steps typically occur:

1. Removal of water
2. Humidity reduction and drying of wet surfaces
3. Sanitation and cleaning of damaged areas
4. Remediation of damaged property through deep cleaning and reconstruction

The professional you choose may also offer digitization services for wet financial documents or photographs that need to be preserved. Additionally, trained technicians on the scene may have suggestions for a preservation method or a long-term storage situation for items that are priceless and irreplaceable, yet not entirely salvageable.

Being Prepared

Help us help you persevere in the face of such a nightmare. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is a local professional in the cleaning, restoration, and construction industry. Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. For a free estimate, call us today.

What is Wet and Dry Smoke?

4/24/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know different types of smoke damages emerge based on the type of material burning? These smoke types determine the measures professional fire restoration technicians take when cleaning up after a fire. We break down the types.

Wet and Dry 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, a professional like SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova tests the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pre-testing. 

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, extremely pungent odor. 

It's important to survey all areas of a property because every part has the potential for damages. Smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure, and smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action to restore your property to its preloss condition. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova Introduces Employee Volunteer Time Off

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova rolled out a Volunteer Time Off.

Introducing Volunteer Time Off

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is uniquely positioned to help people during and after disasters with our immediate response to fire, water, storm, and smoke damage. Our company culture of helping others is not just confined to the workplace, but extended into our daily lives.

Healthy Work-Life Balance

In support of our core values and a healthy work-life balance, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova rolled out a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy that allows all full-time employees to take up to 16 hours of paid leave to complete volunteer work of their choosing each year.

Employees are already enthusiastically using this time in a way that supports their personal values. This policy gives employees a greater capacity to donate time and energy to causes near to their hearts and have a direct impact on their communities.

The goal is to aid local organizations in a tangible way while fostering stronger, more meaningful community connections in all six SERVPRO Team Nicholson locations. This includes Clarksville and Memphis in Tennessee; St. Pete, Orlando, and Tampa in Florida; and Fort Worth in Texas.

With about 160 full-time employees in six locations across three states, Tennessee, Texas, and Florida, if each eligible worker uses their 16 hours of VTO each year, SERVPRO Team Nicholson will contribute around 2,500 work hours to local charities.

Protect Your Business from Flood Damage

4/10/2022 (Permalink)

Have a storm plan in case of an emergency!

Protect Your Business from Water Damage

Any building has the potential for flood damage. Even properties nowhere near water can incur damage from toilets overflowing, pipes bursting, roof leaks or intense rains. To avoid having to put your business on hold for massive flood cleanup, follow these tips to protect your building from significant damage.

Inspect Building Before Bad Weather

While sticking to a seasonal inspection schedule is recommended, if the forecast indicates that a strong storm is approaching, it makes sense to inspect it again. Look for cracks and leaks in exterior walls, foundation, and roof. If you find any, contact storm damage experts for repairs that can be done before the storm hits. 

Clean Drainage

Giving excess water a place to go is vital to keeping it out of the cracks and crevices of your roof and walls. Clean gutters and downspouts of debris, particularly during storm season. Directing the downpour away from the roof and foundation of your building can help prevent seeping flood damage. 

Test Sump Pump

If your building has low-lying ground that holds water after rain, a sump pump is beneficial to pump out the extra water—but only if it is working properly. These pumps are designed to get rid of water as soon as sensors are triggered. Regular testing, particularly before a major storm hits, is advisable.

Have an Emergency Plan

An emergency plan can help everyone understand clearly what they are supposed to do in any case of damage. Make sure it is up to date and that all employees have access to the latest version. Assign tasks that designate what each person needs to do in the event of a flood emergency. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova creates emergency plans for businesses, call us today at (901) 382-0900 to find out how you can protect your business and make it as flood-resistant as possible.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1950 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Memphis, TN
• Bartlett, TN
• Cordova, TN
• Germantown, TN
• Collierville, TN
• Poplar Estates, TN
• Almadale Farms, TN
• Arlington, TN
• Lakeland, TN
• Millington, TN
• Countrywood, TN
• Eads, TN
• University of Memphis, TN
• Galloway Gardens, TN

How to Reduce Pet Stress During a Storm: Evacuation Plan

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress.

Plan For Your Pets

Inclement weather or fires can happen with or without notice. Creating an emergency plan can help prevent damage to your home and belongings and protect you and your loved ones - including pets! When putting a plan together, it’s important to plan for their needs as well. 

Make an Evacuation Plan

Remember, if you must evacuate due to an emergency, the area is likely not suitable for your pets either. Your evacuation plan should consider where your pets will be taken, if not kept with you, and how best to transport them. Make a list ahead of time of pet friendly hotels or friends’ houses along your evacuation route and near your final destination. Know that some hotels and shelters do not accept animals. 

You also might want to build an emergency travel kit for your animals. This will save time and worry when you must evacuate. 

Items to include in your pet's emergency kit:

• A completed Emergency Pet Passport containing important information like your pets’ veterinarian contact info, medical needs, license/chip info, photos, etc.
• Leash, harness, and carrier with blanket to transport animals
• A few portions of a suitable non-perishable food, water bowl, bottled water, and can opener
• Cat litter and pan or bags for excrement
• Medications
• Toys

Don’t Have to Evacuate? 

If evacuation is not necessary, there are still some things you can do to reduce your pet’s stress in an uncomfortable situation like a thunderstorm.

Pet Stress Symptoms

Pets may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety that can be alleviated by simple measures. Some of these symptoms include whimpering, hiding, pacing, or shivering. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors including pets’ greater sensitivity to sounds and air pressure.

As stress increases, symptoms may become more severe. Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress:

• Remain calm as an owner
• Create a comforting space for them in a smaller room like a closet or under a blanket
• Close blinds and curtains
• Keep them in their normal routine, if possible

Read more storm and pet related articles here.

Protect Your Home Against Wind Damage

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster.

Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms

While thunderstorms are the most common source of wind and storm damage, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more severe and may be more costly. Still, thunderstorms are responsible for a lot of damage, such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding. Either way, billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. While understanding the nature of wind damage can’t stop them from happening, it can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.

What You Need to Know

Flying Debris is a Damage Risk

Flying debris can cause more damage than strong winds themselves. Damage can result from plants or other unsecured structures and objects. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans are either secured or brought inside. Bonus tip: For severe weather, secure your doors and windows, too.

A Well-Designed Roofing System Does Wonders

Apply roof deck, shingles, or membrane over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the structure in a strong wind. Roofing material should latch to the deck.

The construction phase of building a structure is the most influential piece in reducing damage caused by storms. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck, so fasten that siding down. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a stronger storm-resistant structure.

Monitor and Maintain Your Trees.

Falling trees and tree limbs are another significant type of damage to structures in a windstorm. Maintain your trees by removing dead limbs. In addition, remove the entire tree if it is dead. Healthy trees should have strong enough roots to withstand fairly strong winds, but dead trees will not.

Mitigating Damage After a Storm

What happens after the storm? 

First, close any openings as soon as possible. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common source of water damage in these situations. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nail it over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up, if needed, so contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.

If the damage is too much to handle on your own, contact a restoration professional as soon as you can to help limit and repair damage and respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Faster Response

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quickly to your area with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Resources to Scale Up for Large Disasters

When storms hit anywhere in the United States, our SERVPRO team can scale our resources to handle even the largest storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1900 franchises across the country as well as our elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Do You Have an Emergency Kit for Severe Weather?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Severe weather is unpredictable and safety is important, no matter the season! Be prepared, following these readiness tips to guide you, no matter what type of severe weather you may encounter.

Have a Weather Radio

Weather radios are the most reliable way to receive notifications of severe weather in your area in an emergency. Although cell phones, weather apps, social media, and wireless emergency alerts (WEA’s) are what the majority of us depend on for information, they can be interrupted during severe weather. Be sure to properly program your weather radio so you only receive the alerts you want for your county.

Keep an Emergency Supply Kit

An emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Most emergency management agencies recommend supplies for up to three days. The following is a list you can use as a guideline for mitigating disaster effects:

Personal Items:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day
• Non-perishable food
• A simple, manual can opener
• Battery or crank operated radio—preferably a weather radio
• Battery or crank operated flashlight
• Extra batteries and matches or lighter in a waterproof case
• First Aid kit with whistle to signal help
• Clothing, blankets, hygiene items & dust masks
• Important documents. (Copy of insurance policy, bank account info, identification, etc.)
• Cash

Repair Items:

• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape for leaks
• Wrench or other tools to shut off utilities
• Fire extinguisher

Make a family plan

Make sure all members in the household are aware of where they are to go in the event of severe weather. If for some reason the family is separated in the event of a severe storm, have a meeting place established to aid in finding each other amidst the devastation.

Highly Trained with Resources to Handle Storms

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova specializes in severe weather restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. We can also scale our resources to handle a larger storm or flooding disaster. 

Locally Owned & Operated = Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources. This is extremely important because a fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost. Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today! We are here to help.

How to Remove Odors from Your Memphis Home

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova Removes Odors from Your Home

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova Removes Odors from Your Home

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, and mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn't permanently remove offensive odors left by smoke, mold, and other sources. However, with technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova provides specialized services that can eliminate those foul smells. 

Our professionals don't cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. We seek out the odor's source.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO's proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will be cleaned and deodorized professionally. These items can include:

• furniture
• draperies and upholstery
• electronics
• art
• flooring, walls, ceilings
• HVAC air ducts & more

Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova uses various techniques and equipment that are capable of penetrating surfaces to thoroughly neutralize an unpleasant odor. 

Tools We Use:

1. Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. While the room is being treated, a person should not occupy the space. However, the generator works quickly.
2. Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main advantage is that the treated room can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work more slowly. It's used to treat fire, smoke, biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 
3. Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through a HEPA filtration mechanism to remove airborne particles, helping clean the air and remove odors.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is here for you 24/7, 7 days a week at (901) 382-0900.

Microbial Growth Removal in Crawl Space

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova uses industry-proven techniques to protect your property from further damage. Call (901) 382-0900.

Microbial Growth Removal in Crawl Space

Microbial damage is likely to develop in a crawl space when the area becomes wet. When a professional technician performs an inspection in a crawl space, we check for visible water leaks and invisible moisture particles in the air. We do this because it is unproductive to disinfect molds without addressing its primary cause—the mold is sure to come back if the source of moisture is still hanging around. 

Why Might a Home’s Crawl Space Have Mold?

If your home's crawl space has grading and drainage issues, mold can develop where the water collects under the house. Our SERVPRO technicians use pumps to extract water if it pools. If moisture is evaporating into the crawl space from the surrounding walls and the ground, we isolate the area. To isolate the area, we use a space liner to encapsulate the area. This enclosure acts as a vapor barrier and works well to prevent microbial growth when paired with a permanent dehumidifier in the crawl space. 

Basic science demonstrates that differences in temperature between surfaces and water particles cause condensation. The same is true for your crawl space. If the surrounding areas and the crawl space have differing temperatures, the water vapor condenses. We usually resolve condensation issues by using or installing a dehumidifier. The device assists in monitoring and controlling humidity to discourage conditions favorable to microbial growth. 

What If the Microbial Growth is Deep in the Insulation?

A professional in the microbial remediation industry will be able to examine the crawl space for signs of deeper mold infestation. However, it is not always easy to see. Sometimes, portions of enclosed spaces must be cut to see if microbial growth has infested your home’s insulation. When a professional certifies there is growth, then further microbial removal services can begin. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova has the tools and knowledge to remove and dispose of damaged insulation safely.

Not everything can be restored, but, as surprising as it sounds, it is possible to restore fiberglass insulation! It's also possible to remove surface mold, called mildew, from below supporting joists and beams and other hard surfaces. We also remove surface mold from porous items such as drywall—as long as the fungus has not penetrated too deeply with anchoring hyphae. 

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova uses industry-proven techniques to protect your property from further damage. You can access our 24-hour emergency services by calling (901) 382-0900.

Why Memphis Fabrication Plant Calls SERVPRO to Extract Water

3/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are proud to help businesses in this community with commercial water removal methods continue serving the public.

Flood water and storm damage events at commercial properties often involve numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we are dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova quickly assesses each unique situation and isolates the damaged area for cleanup. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

Unique Challenges of Restoring Commercial Property

Our professionals at SERVPRO 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. 

Why Memphis Fabrication Plant Calls SERVPRO to Extract Water

Once a factory or other assembly plant sustains water loss, drying the area to protect employee health and safety, machinery, and productivity is a priority. Drains are a simple solution to water removal or rerouting, but they can only do so much when massive amounts of water are present in multiple areas. For instance, overhead water sources can ruin machines and other equipment by forming pools of water in the depressions of equipment.

Water Extraction

Removing the water from where it would otherwise remain trapped prevents corrosion of metal and keeps microbial infestations from developing. When your equipment retains water, we suction it out with specialty tools like water and other material extractors, helping ensure that employees can continue their jobs with little interruption from us. Then, if the machinery's maintenance instructions call for it, we will even wipe machines with oil to prevent rust and protect equipment from possible problems. 

SERVPRO Equipment Enhances Air Quality

Air movers help us keep moisture from condensing on surfaces and direct water vapor toward desiccation machines. These machines draw moisture from the air and release dry, filtered air back into the area we are treating. This cycle cleans and dries the air.

Using our various machines and tools, we protect your equipment and building from harm. At SERVPRO, we are proud to help businesses in this community with commercial water removal methods continue serving the public. We want to ensure businesses stay afloat, operating, and contributing to the local economy; part of the way we do that is by getting involved to mitigate a storm or water disaster as soon as we can. Call us today to schedule a free estimate, (901) 382-0900. We are also available 24 hours for emergency service.

When was the Last Time Your Air Ducts Were Cleaned?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

We clean air ducts! Call for a free inspection (901) 382-0900.

Air Ducts and Indoor Air Quality 

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

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

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

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used in homes for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten your system's life. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Why HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning?

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, several other factors can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

• Pets
• Occupants with allergies or asthma
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• Home renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers and young children, and the elderly, tend to be more susceptible to the types of low indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova professionals routinely inspects the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment, save money on repairs, and give you cleaner air to breathe. For additional information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, (901) 382-0900. 

Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

2/27/2022 (Permalink)

Perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary. SERVPRO of Bartlett Cordova cleans microbial contamination. For a free estimate: 901-382-0900

The perils covered by homeowners insurance policies vary depending on the insurer.

Mold damage can be costly and happen anywhere, so several insurance companies have restricted or eliminated coverage for this risk under standard policies. If you are concerned about fungus growth at a residence in Memphis, TN, try to identify the problem's source first, then check your policy for mold coverage.

The Cause of Mold Damage Matters

Restoration experts commonly refer to mold as secondary damage, as fungal growth typically results from direct water damage.

Insurers are more likely to cover mold damage that results from one of the following covered incidents:

• Appliance leaks
• Broken or burst pipes
• Pipe leaks

Even if a policy does not cover the cost of fixing the problem, the resulting damage may be covered. Check your policy and contact an insurance agent or adjuster.

3 Ways Insurers Limit Mold Coverage

Many homeowners insurance providers have removed or limited the amount of coverage for fungus growth because it is a higher risk peril. Since mold can grow practically anywhere, anytime in the right conditions—it’s not exclusive to one geographical location. Because of this an insurer may restrict coverage in these ways:

• Exclude mold damage completely
• Only cover microbial testing or cleanup
• Refuse coverage on properties with a history of mold

Read your policy carefully to determine whether there are any conditions under which mold is covered. If mold is not covered, you may want to add an endorsement.

What Is an Endorsement?

It may be possible for policy holders to pay for limited mold coverage. Ask your insurer whether any endorsements are available. This option may be costly, especially if your residence has a history of mold.Homeowners should determine the limitations of their coverage and decide whether to obtain additional mold insurance.

Paying for remediation out of pocket can be very expensive. The best way to prevent mold growth is to mitigate water damage and potential damage. Don’t be caught without the right mold insurance.

SERVPRO Removes Pet Odors

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t Live a Life Full of Unpleasant Smells.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition, or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold, or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the odor's sources.

Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Our proprietary line of cleaning products, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova, uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors.

These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Some of Our Tools to Neutralize Odors

Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke, and more without chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. 

Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process, though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke and biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors. 

Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors.

Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority.

Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is here to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” 

Space Heater Safety and Fire Prevention Tips

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Stay safe when using a space heater and remember, all heaters need space.

Cold temperatures inevitably make us want to cozy up under a blanket and crank up the heat, but before you bring the space heater up from the basement to get extra toasty, consider these safety and fire prevention tips. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is the leading cause of all house fires. 

Space Heater Safety First! 

SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova has compiled some space heater safety and fire prevention tips to help you stay warm, but most of all, to keep you and your home or office safe from fire damage. 

• Keep 3 feet of distance between your space heater and anything that can burn, including people!
• Never plug your space heater into a power strip; always plug it directly into the wall. 
• Turn off and unplug the heater whenever you leave the room, especially when leaving for the day or going to bed. 
• Always place your heater on a flat surface, away from foot traffic. 
• Educate your family and coworkers about the dangers of space heaters.
• Keep the heater away from wet areas. This includes bathrooms, basements, and even wet hands and materials. 

Buy the Right Heater 

• Check to see if your heater has a seal marking that it’s been tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. 
• Purchase a space heater that is suitable for the size of the room you would like to heat. Use small heaters for small spaces, and large heaters only for big, open spaces. Using a small heater in a large space will cause the heater to overwork and reduce its lifespan.
• Know your heater’s wattage. Higher wattage = higher energy output. Low wattage = less energy. 
• Choose a heater with an automatic shut-off that engages if the heater is knocked over or overheats. 
• Know about the different types of space heaters: oil or water-filled radiator heaters, fan-forced heaters, ceramic heaters, and infrared heaters. 

Using these space heater safety and fire prevention tips will help prevent fire damage in the home and workplace. If you have any questions about fire prevention or if your property experiences smoke or fire damage to your home, call your local professionals at SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova for assistance. We’re available 24/7 at (901) 382-0900. 

A Pipe Broke in Your Commercial Business?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, water damage professionals can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in several ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from several things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

How to Fix Air Quality in My Memphis Home

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you or your business needs more in-depth cleaning for air ducts, mold, upholstery, call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900.

Air Quality Is Important in Every Memphis Home

If you live in Tennessee you understand that poor air quality is an unfortunate element dealt with on an everyday basis.

Not only is it humid and sticky, but one minute the sun is shining, then the next minute the rain is pouring down—seemingly out of nowhere! Improving the quality of air in the home or the business is important to keep that so-called "bad" air outside!

Some like to compare the air quality of Tennessee to Vegas, although Vegas is hot, it tends to much dryer than Tennessee—which seems to create fewer problems, as far as humidity goes.

Understandably, some consequences are unavoidable, but some can be mitigated. A person should take every precaution to keep their home as sealed up as possible.

There are a few simple tricks a person can do to help improve the air quality in a home.

If the quality is improved it will keep allergies, a smoke smell, or any bad odor away!

Keep The Dirt Out

Place a doormat right on the outside of the door, and right at the entrance of the home. That way when people come to visit, they can scrape off their feet and leave whatever dirt and particles they have on their shoes behind. Just make sure to wash the doormats regularly otherwise those particles will linger.

Clean Air Ducts

One tip that can not be stressed enough is to have furnaces, heating, and cooling equipment cleaned periodically, such as air duct cleaning. If they are not cleaned periodically, then when the air conditioner or heater is turned on, all the dirt that is caught in the filter is being blown out along with the air. It is also important for air duct cleaning to be done by a professional to ensure it is done properly.

Turn On The A/C

If a person lives in the Bartlett or the Cordova area they are very familiar with the wonderful invention that is air conditioning. It is important to use a dehumidifier along with an air conditioner to keep indoor humidity in the 30-50% range. Keeping the humidity at this range creates a more comfortable environment and helps keep allergies and dust mites away.

Clean Clean Clean

On hardwood or tile surfaces, try moping after vacuuming. It may seem like extra work, but it will help clean up contaminants left behind. Also, do not forget the walls! Often, people forget walls when it comes to their cleaning routine, and it can be important because dirt and particles stick to walls just like any other piece of furniture or flooring.

Out With The Smoke

One of the biggest tips that can be given is to not let people smoke in a home. It can be nearly impossible to get a smoke smell or a bad odor out of a home.

Air quality is vital to a happy, healthy home. Try some of the above tips and tricks. If you or your business needs more in-depth cleaning for air ducts, mold, upholstery, call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900.

Where Does Mold Grow in Commercial Business

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Crew discovered this mold growing on the lower half of the wall. Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900 if you have similar mold.

From the musty smell and discoloration it causes to the water damage that often accompanies its presence, mold growth has no place in your business. Mold can pop up in some of the most unlikely places, but if you have a good understanding of where to begin your search, you stand a much better chance of getting it under control.

Here are its three favorite hiding spots.

1. Bathrooms

Wherever there is high humidity, you will likely find mold. This becomes even more likely if the bathroom has hot water, since warm temperatures are another key ingredient for mold growth. Mold likes to find nice, shadowy corners of dark cavities behind wet walls to do its dirty work.

2. Water Heaters

Since warmth and water are likely to encourage mold, it comes as no surprise that water heaters are a favorite hangout spot for mold. As water heaters age, they often begin to rust. This can then lead to rupturing and leaks. If these leaks go ignored, not only can the mold problem worsen, but water damage is now a concern.

3. Air Conditioners

Yes, believe it or not, your beloved A/C units invite mold. Like water heaters, they can leak or create condensation on their unit, allowing just enough moisture for mold to grow. This can lead to mold in the HVAC system's drain pans, the enclosed space the unit sits, it terminal units or ductwork, or beneath the carpet of a floor often dampened by the dripping of a wall unit overhead. Like water heaters, this constant dripping from AC units can also lead to water damage over time.

Mold growth in commercial buildings of Bartlett/Cordova can prove extremely problematic, but knowing the most likely places mold pops up is an excellent proactive start to finding a solution. Still, for those times when the damage is already done, it’s good to know there are restoration companies to get things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900.

New Year Cleaning and Decluttering For a Fresh Start

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth.

Regularly scheduled home-maintenance and cleaning can curb hazardous, pricey problems in the future like fires and mold growth. Since we are entering the new year, decluttering is a great way to improve the usability of your space—so you can freely undertake your big plans for the year.

More than a tidy environment

One of the easiest ways to declutter your mind is to declutter your home. If untidy environments are stressing you out, we suggest starting small. Pick up the general items around your most used spaces. Wash the dishes, fold the laundry, and make the beds. After the basics are cleaned, tackle the details. 

Deep clean the kitchen:

• Check for expiration and toss old food and condiments
• Wipe out refrigerator drawers, cabinets, the microwave, and oven
• Get rid of cupboard items you don’t use
• Empty the junk drawer

Main area cleaning:

• Dust ceiling fan blades
• Wash baseboards and walls—especially if you have children!
• Vacuum underneath furniture

Bedrooms/Closets:

• Wash curtains and linens
• Rotate and flip mattress
• Turn all hangers backwards, then when you wear an item, replace the hanger normally—this indicates which items you wear. Toss or donate backwards hanging items after 1 year.

Bathrooms:

• Scrub the bathtub walls and don’t forget the shower head
• Use a drain snake tool or drain liquid to break up stuck hair and scum in sinks and shower

Holiday Purge:

• For every gift received, get rid of one item
• Sell or donate decor you didn’t use this season

More technical:

• Replace air filters every 3 months
• Check and replace smoke alarm batteries

If you need more in-depth mold, fire, or water damage cleaning, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is Here To Help®. We understand not every clean up is quick, easy, or preventable. To inquire about our services, call us today at (901) 382-0900.

What is SERVPRO’s Cleaning Process for a Commercial Large Loss?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova crews are ready to clean after a commercial large loss. We can handle large restoration jobs in Memphis, TN.

SERVPRO Cleaning Process After Catastrophic Commercial Emergencies

From 1980 to 2020, on average, the U.S. endured 7 severe climate events per year. Throughout the past year, that number has more than doubled, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. Although statistics help describe the destruction brought on by natural disasters, no measurement can quantify the loss and trauma to individuals, families, and communities. The struggle of those involved as they work to rebuild a sense of normalcy is often not seen.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is proud to assist by offering Commercial Large Loss and Disaster Recovery services after any catastrophic emergency in the United States. With the resources of 17 SERVPRO franchise licenses in 6 locations throughout 3 southern states, we are well-positioned to respond to any disaster.

Our flexible, efficient team can tackle damage at private businesses, hospitals, schools, government facilities, and more. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova professionals are highly trained in fire, storm, and water damage mitigation. When mitigating damage on a large scale, our team uses the following framework:

Control the Environment

Commercial-sized desiccant dehumidifiers remove water from the air and dense materials while increasing the air temperature, further drying the structure, and helping to better control the environment.

Remove Contaminated Material 

To ensure a safe and efficient clean-up, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova crews will remove contaminated material and items that are beyond repair and remove restorable items for off-site cleaning. 

Dry the Structure

Various sized air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed throughout the structure to accelerate the drying process. 

Our crews can be ready at a moment’s notice, deploying cutting-edge drying equipment and service vehicles that feature truck-mounted water extractors that operate even without electricity. Response time is critical for communities to get up and running again. When disaster strikes, we are ready to answer the call and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Remedy Sprinkler Water Damage from Commercial Business Fire

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in a commercial business is devastating. Not only is the structural integrity of your building potentially compromised, but employees are out of work and your customers are not being served. And when you add additional damages from the sprinkler systems kicking on, the fire and water commercial damages compound quickly. A lot of companies cannot afford to close for a day, and SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova understands this. That is why we offer 24/7 commercial damage services to get commercial businesses back on their feet in as little time as possible.

For Example:

If a fire burns through a building and activates the sprinkler system, there is now both fire and water damage. This is often the case with fires since flames are smothered with water—and that water can be just as damaging or more damaging than the fire. 

We are a one-stop-shop.

Since SERVPRO has the knowledge, equipment, and staff to treat fire and water damages simultaneously, our commercial services reduce the cost that businesses pay because they don't need to look for multiple companies to take care of the different types of damages. SERVPRO even acts as a liaison between insurance companies and clients which makes working with us that much easier.

Unfortunately, disasters are not preventable, but companies like SERVPRO are there to make fire and water disasters “Like it never even happened,” with residential and commercial services. For questions regarding SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova commercial services, contact us at (901) 382-0900.

How to Restore Your Home After a Pipe Bursts

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

One thing that runs through your mind when you have a pipe break in your home or business—panic immediately. This water could destroy your property in a short amount of time. How do you stop the water? How are you going to remove all the water? What about damage to your home and the possessions that occupy it? The first step is to turn off the water supply. Next, it’s essential to act immediately to incur as little damage as possible.

1. Circulate the Air and Air Out the House

Opening windows and doors to the outside will circulate the air and air out the house. Ideally, the air outside will be warmer than the humid air inside the house. Turn on all fans so that the humid air can be blown outside.

2. Remove Standing Water

A pipe break means that you’ll have standing water in your home. A wet/dry vacuum is a safe and very effective method of removing standing water quickly. If you don’t have one, use a mop and some towels to soak up the water.

3. Dehumidify

Air conditioners are designed to remove moisture from the air, so your HVAC system can assist in the drying process. Dehumidifiers work best in an enclosed area, so at this point, you’ll want to close all windows and doors that lead to the outside. Also, close doors to the rooms that have a running dehumidifier. Regularly check and empty the water tanks.

4. Remove/Discard Affected Items

Mold can start growing within 24-hours of water exposure, so it’s important to start removing water-damaged items immediately. Water-logged carpet can be a huge problem, as water can easily soak through to the padding and even to the subfloor. This can cause mold growth and structural damage if not correctly handled.

After a pipe breaks in your home in Bartlett, TN, or Cordova, TN, you may feel inept performing the complete restoration process. Then, it’s time to hire water damage, cleanup professionals, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova. We respond immediately and are available 24/7, 7 days a week at (901) 382-0900.

5 Steps to the Fire Restoration Process

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova in Memphis

When you think of fire restoration, you probably think of the cleanup process—when everything with fire damage is rebuilt. However, before the rebuild, fire damage restoration experts in Bartlett, TN; Cordova, TN; and surrounding areas have to clean up and repair damage. There are several mitigation steps that technicians have to work through to get to the final stage of restoration.

1. Assessment

Before technicians do anything, they have to assess how bad the damage is. Therefore, the first thing they will do when they arrive is to assess your home's damage. They know they will likely need to contend with fire, water, soot, and smoke damage.

2. Water Damage Repair

Firefighters have to use a lot of water to extinguish the flames. Unfortunately, this means your home may have water damage. Excess water must be extracted, and the affected area needs to be dried.

3. Smoke and Soot Damage Repair

Smoke and soot get everywhere during a fire. Before fire restoration can occur, all of it has to be removed out of every crack and crevice.

4. General Cleaning

After tackling the significant issues, there's probably still some minor damage cleaning that needs to occur before rebuilding. Any materials that are damaged or have sustained secondary damage must be repaired or removed. All surfaces must be disinfected to rid of bacteria or other microbes.

5. Restoration

Finally, after everything is cleaned, restoration specialists can begin to rebuild your home. They'll replace the parts of the structure that were not salvageable and make sure the rebuild matches the remaining structure so that the outcome looks "Like it never even happened."

Technicians have to do a lot of work to restore your home after a fire. Fire restoration is merely the final step of the process of making your home livable again. Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today at (901) 382-0900.

Married Couple Celebrates 20 Years at SERVPRO

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova employees, Debra and Chuck, celebrate 20 years with SERVPRO

Congrats to the Tuckers!

SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova employees celebrate their 20th work anniversary

November is a very special month for our SERVPRO of Bartlett/Cordova family this year because we are celebrating the 20th work anniversaries of our very own dynamic duo, Debra and Chuck Tucker!

Debra was just 19 when she joined the SERVPRO family, not knowing that her second job ever would change her life so dramatically. After 4 years of working together and 2 years of dating, she and Chuck married. She says, “What I found in those early years was stability and a family that I had so desperately longed for. It didn’t matter that the job wasn’t the easiest or cleanest—man, I don’t miss those early years in production!—because I was waking up every day ready to see my workplace family.”

Chuck and Debra have seen the industry and company change many times in the past 20 years. They've seen technological advances, new ownership, staff changes, and still, amidst the changes, Debra sees consistency and compassion. "What I...see is a group of people who clock in every day, ready to give 100% to this family they love, and that is exactly what SERVPRO of Memphis is!"

Both Chuck and Debra agree that working alongside a spouse is not for the faint of heart, but say their relationship has been strengthened by it - the two are inseparable. The Tuckers have 2 incredible boys, Grayson and Landon, who are their world and who keep life entertaining.

As a company, we are so grateful for the Tuckers, their hard work, dedication, and loyalty to SERVPRO and our customers. Debra currently serves as our Lead Job File Coordinator and Administrative Assistant, while Chuck serves as Production Manager. Congrats to them both for this major accomplishment!

How to Dry Out A Flooded Crawl Space?

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova take care of your flooded crawl space after a Memphis storm.

A massive storm can damage your home in Bartlett, TN; Cordova, TN; or the surrounding area. Still, flooding doesn't always happen in the most obvious places. If you find standing water in your crawl space after a rainstorm, you may need to call water restoration specialists. These certified technicians have proper equipment and experience to remove the water and ensure no residual damage lingers. Here are the steps SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova takes:

1. Extraction

You may have a well-maintained sump pump in your crawl space, but an industrial pump on a truck will get the water out faster. Once technicians arrive and assess the situation, they will want to remove the excess water as soon as possible. The sooner it's extracted, the less damage it will do to your house.

2. Debris Removal

When your crawl space flooded, debris likely washed in with the stormwater. Other items already in the space may have been submerged. Experts can use a trash pump to remove everything from the area.

3. Cleanup

The cleanup process's extent depends mostly on how much water flooded the crawl space and how long it was sitting there. Technicians will have to use special equipment to remove water-damaged materials. The contaminated area must be thoroughly disinfected to get rid of any bacteria that came in with the stormwater.

4. Drying

After the space is clean, technicians must make sure no excess moisture remains. The drying process can help keep secondary damage, such as mold growth from occurring. Only after the space is completely dry can any necessary rebuilding take place.

It may seem simple to remove water from your crawl space on your own. However, if you want to ensure that your space is thoroughly dried to avoid further damage, it's best to entrust SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova to handle it! Check out our reviews to see why other Memphis residents are glad they entrusted their home and crawl space to SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova.

How to Handle Storm-Damaged Items

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO warehouse content cleaning items

When a building is outwardly damaged by a storm, items inside may be affected as well. If this is the case, it can be challenging to determine how to proceed. If you are unsure which belongings to have professionally cleaned and which ones are more easily treatable, the following content cleaning insight may help.

1. Curtains and Other Fabrics

Curtains and other fabrics are porous; they can absorb a lot of water. This can be especially troublesome when black water is involved. It carries a high level of contaminants such as waste, mud and bacteria that can be difficult to remove. While you may save most porous items with a thorough cleaning by your friends at SERVPRO®, others may be beyond repair.

2. Hard Surfaces and Non-Porous Items

Content cleaning for objects with hard, non-porous surfaces is generally much easier. Because the contaminated water is not absorbed, you don't need to worry about bacteria lingering beneath the surface. With these items, scrubbing them with an anti-bacterial cleaner will likely be enough to sanitize them.

3. Artwork and Paper Items

It can be upsetting when irreplaceable artwork and essential paper items are damaged in flood waters. However, there is good news; you may be able to repair the items. A professional service like SERVPRO® will likely have access to high-quality equipment that will dry these items and remove the bacteria and other contaminants.

4. Electronics and Equipment

Like porous materials, electronics can be difficult to save if they have been damaged by contaminated water. For the best results, you should have them taken to a professional right away for inspection. Don't attempt to use these items before you know it is safe, as you may cause additional damage.

If you have damaged items by contaminated water, the best thing to do is have professionals clean your belongings. A cleanup and restoration service can salvage many of your belongings and perform any necessary repairs on your building. Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today.

Charcoal Grill Fire Safety Tips

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips To Avoid a Barbecue Fire

The arrival of nice weather in Cordova, TN, calls for grilling out with friends and family. Unfortunately, a grill fire is a real safety hazard in the right combination of circumstances. A fun get-together can turn into a disaster in a hurry. You can avoid a barbecue fire by following these tips:

1. Keep the Grill in a Safe Location 

Keep the grill outside on a level surface at least 10 feet from buildings and other flammable objects. Never grill under an overhang or in an enclosed area. Be sure to monitor it closely until it cools.

2. Keep Children and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets should stay at least three feet away from the grill. Ensure that pets on tie-downs cannot reach the grill; they can wrap their line around the grill and pull it over. It will keep them at a safe distance if a grill fire occurs. 

3. Be Mindful of Loose Clothing

Make sure that you wear appropriate attire when you grill. You can tie back everything with an apron. For added safety, use long tongs and spatulas and wear heat resistant grill gloves.

4. Use a Chimney Starter

A chimney starter is a much safer option than lighter fluid. It will also light the coals more evenly. 

5. Practice the Two-Zone Method

This simple, versatile method creates a much safer grilling experience. Put the hot charcoal on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty. If a flare-up occurs, move the food to the other side until the flame subsides, then move it back to continue cooking. The two-zone method can improve your food quality because it creates a searing side and another side for flame-free slow cooking.

Keep a fire extinguisher near. Do NOT use water; it can make a grease fire flare-up. Instead, close the grill lid until the outbreak subsides. If your house sustains fire damage or smoke damage from a grill fire, SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova can return it to its original state.

How Does FEMA Assist in Disaster Relief?

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

A natural disaster can be so overwhelming that victims are often left not knowing where to begin cleanup efforts.

In the wake of a flood, tornado, or hurricane, people who have lost virtually everything need help meeting their basic daily needs. Fortunately, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides several disaster relief services and financial assistance. Generally, it acts as a liaison between the federal government and the affected area.

Some Assistance Specifics 

The disaster relief agency provides direct services and financial assistance for damages and other disaster-related expenses not covered by the victims’ insurance. Specifics that the federal agency provides include:

• Coordinates with law enforcement on procedures for evacuation
• Coordinates food distribution
• Coordinates medical assistance
• Provides temporary fixes for houses such as roof tarps
• Seeks and provides temporary shelter for victims
• Provides financial assistance (e.g., unemployment, replacement, repair, lodging)
• Provides crisis counseling

FEMA not only provides help after a disaster but also before a storm hits and when it’s underway. For example, they will help prepare as much as possible for a major flood, assist with evacuations before and during the flooding, and provide financial assistance for damage afterward.

Prepare Ahead of Time

It is helpful to take before and after photos of your property (residence, vehicles, and other personal property) if you begin the repair process before an adjuster comes out to assess the damage. You could be reimbursed for some of these expenses. Know what your property insurance covers and does not cover. After the storm, you will need to apply for disaster assistance and make an insurance claim. Some forms of financial assistance are income-dependent. 

Suppose your residence in Memphis, TN sustains damage such as flooding from a major storm. In that case, you will require storm damage mitigation professionals to quickly and thoroughly restore your property to its original state. FEMA should provide help with some of the costs incurred.

Stay Safe During the Dog Days of Summer

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Stay Safe During the Dog Days of Summer

Summertime can be a dangerous season because of predictable hazardous conditions that promote dangerous weather, especially in the South (strong winds, tornadoes, hail, and flooding, among other treacherous situations).

Practice these summer safety tips, even as the season starts to wind down:

1. Have an Emergency Weather Kit

Put together a kit with bottled water, canned food, flashlight, first-aid kit, manual can opener, cell phone and charger, and other essentials in case your family experiences an unexpected natural disaster. Learn how to build a complete emergency kit HERE.

2. Fire Safety

Whether it's night time campfires or celebratory fireworks, being extra cautious with fire during the hot, sometimes dry, summertime months is crucial. Always be sure to fully extinguish campfires and never leave them unattended. Fireworks should be used safely and legally by adults 18+ and always in a clear area.  

3. Limit Heat and Sun Exposure

The later summer months can bring some of the South's hottest days. Be sure to limit your sun exposure, stay hydrated, be careful about exercising outdoors, and remain indoors as much as possible during heat advisories.

4. Have an Emergency Plan for Your Family and/or Business

Regardless of the season, it's smart to have an emergency plan in place for your home or business, but it can be critical during the summer months which bring a higher likelihood or natural disasters. Your plan should include making sure kids know their emergency contacts, setting up a central meeting place, and having important documents backed up to the cloud.

Many SERVPRO teams hit the road, traveling through risky danger zones to save or repair victims' property. They are compassionate and understanding because their jobs are not only to clean-up and repair, but also give home and business owners peace of mind after experiencing  tremendous loss of property and many times even loss of lives.

Summer is a fun time, but it can also be a tragic time. Be careful and watchful out there. For additional information regarding our business, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900. Happy summer!

Career Opportunities at SERVPRO

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!

With 17 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team! 

Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.” 

Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day." 

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com, stop by our office at 6755 Whitten Pl, Memphis, TN. from 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday-Friday or click here to check out our current job openings.

What to Know About Mitigation and Restoration

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Many companies in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, experience the risk of flooding after a massive storm. Fortunately, a flood cleanup company can help with restoration in the aftermath. However, you can do some mitigation steps before flooding happens that may help you protect the company property. Here are three things you may need to know regarding mitigation and restoration.

1. Mitigation Helps Prevent Damage

Mitigation is used when referring to preparation steps before a storm that may help reduce damage. These steps may include building dams around areas prone to pooling water, inspecting drainage clogs that can lead to water back up, and placing tarps or boards over spaces where wind damage can occur. More permanent forms include installing storm shutters or a sump pump.

2. Restoration Occurs After Damage

Restoration is used for any repairs after a storm, often performed by a flood cleanup company. These are done to get the property back in working order. It's recommended that restoration occurs as swiftly as possible, as doing so can help prevent further damage. You will often see your restoration team take additional protective steps to avoid damaged areas from being further exposed.

3. Both Are Important Steps

Taking mitigation steps before the storm, and contacting a restoration company to repair any damages afterward quickly are important steps to keeping your business property in top condition. Reducing the damage possibility beforehand, and making quick repairs may help you avoid long-term problems regarding property upkeep and maintenance.

You can take some mitigation steps to help protect company property before the storm arrives. If your business does experience flooding, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova. We can arrive quickly to start the repair process before additional damage can occur. These options used together may help you prevent the necessity of costly repairs down the road.

How to Create a Fire Evacuation Plan for Your Business

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Few people expect to see their commercial property engulfed in flames. No one expects to see a grease fire in the break room, either. No matter what size fire occurs at your place of business, having a contingency plan can help save lives, valuable records and equipment, and money. Here's how to make one.

1. Assign Roles

Delegating tasks and responsibilities now, when things are calm, can reduce the confusion and chaos accompanying an event such as an office fire. Consider assigning roles such as the following:

• Fire extinguishers that'll use the actual fire extinguishers to snuff out small blazes.
  
  
• Get-out guides that'll keep exit routes clear and make sure everyone is out of the building before they leave.
  
  
• Attendance takers that'll perform a roll call outside to ensure that everyone is accounted for.

Having a job to perform and having others point you in the right direction may reduce the urge to panic.

2. Plan, Post, and Practice Your Evacuation Route

It's important to have multiple ways to exit your building if a fire occurs. Plan these escape routes ahead of time so that your contingency plan can be posted and regularly practiced by all employees. That way, if the unthinkable happens, you and your staff will know exactly where to go, thanks to your well-rehearsed evacuation plan.

3. Set Up a Clear Chain of Communication

In a fire, knowledge is power. To keep misinformation from spreading, it's often wise to devise a clear communication plan. A straightforward method is to create a chain of command, unlike an old school phone tree, where individuals are tasked with relaying information to those underneath them on the tree. It's smart to have a single spokesperson who communicates with the public or news outlets.

A fire doesn't have to spell catastrophe for your commercial property in Bartlett, Tennesse, or Cordova, Tennesee. By creating a plan in advance, you can better protect your employees' safety. After everyone is safe, you can leave the fire cleanup to the professionals. Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900.

Understanding the Risks Of Storm Damage & Insurance Coverage

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

A homeowner's policy typically covers standard weather patterns and the risks involved. With warmer weather comes the increased risk of volatile storms and damage from high winds and heavy rains. The savvy homeowner may invest in a hurricane and flood insurance policy, knowing the potential disasters related to severe weather.

• Flooding
• Sewage backup
• Mold growth
• Roof damage
• Other property and structural issues

However, not every flood claim is equal, and not all damage caused by strong winds is covered under storm insurance. Therefore, make sure your policy protects you against typical storm damages in your area.

Increasing Water Levels

A typical homeowner's insurance plan will probably not cover flooding related to storms. You will need a specific policy for flood damage and loss. However, these plans are not necessary for every area or region. To verify whether such a policy is needed, you can check the flood zones in your city.

Structural Issues

High winds and storm surges can lead to significant structural issues. The winds can lead to damaged rooflines, and the swelling waters can weaken foundations. In either case, your property may become vulnerable to mold growth due to increased moisture and humidity.

Loss of Personal Property

While you may do everything right to prepare for an incoming storm, like install storm shutters and set up sandbags, you can still be vulnerable to property loss. For instance, the winds tear away at portions of your roof, and the rain destroys family photos, clothing, and other items stored in the attic. Thankfully, in this situation, a standard homeowner's policy should have you covered.

Whether a flood or other severe weather hits you, you will need assistance cleaning up the damage. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova can help by mitigating further loss by putting up shutters and tarps around the property. They can act as a middleman between you and your insurer, making sure you get what you're owed.

While a homeowner's policy typically covers standard weather patterns and the risks involved, certain areas are more prone to flooding and severe weather, requiring specific policy upgrades. Make sure you have coverage for the structure, water, wind, and property loss.

How to Get Rid of Mold

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Many business owners have experienced mold growth in their place of business. It seems to congregate in one area. You clean it, think you got rid of it for good, and a few days later, it starts to reappear. Left unattended, it will slowly take up more and more space or show up in another location. This is a common scenario for many people, and it can happen anywhere there is humidity. If you suspect that your business in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, has a recurring mold problem, you may need to perform mold remediation procedures.

Why Mold Keeps Coming Back

Mold has some unique characteristics that make it a hardy organism that thrives in moist environments. It's these unique qualities that make a mold so difficult to eliminate:

• Microscopic mold spores naturally exist in both indoor and outdoor air.
  
  
• Spores can enter through windows, on clothing, or on shoes.
  
  
• Spores begin to grow into colonies when given a moisture-rich environment.
  
  
• Mold growth thrives if the moisture persists.
  Colonies release new mold spores.

Ways to Eradicate Mold

There're many species of mold. Some are easier to spot and simpler to get rid of than others. All thrive in high humidity. If your mold problem is not severe, you can try to get rid of it yourself by keeping inside humidity below 45%, removing moldy items, and using antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to kill the spores.

When More is Needed

Any time you experience water damage, you should be suspicious of mold. Sometimes it lurks where it cannot be seen, such as behind drywall or underneath carpet. Mold remediation specialists use equipment that finds mold in dark areas. They can prevent the spread to other areas by using negative air chambers, running specialized HEPA vacuums, and replacing damaged materials. In the end, your property will be restored to its original condition.

If you find mold, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900. We have the tools to solve the problem and keep mold growth from spreading.

Fire Preparation Steps

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

As a homeowner, the thought of a fire breaking out in your house is a nightmare scenario. This emergency could have devastating effects. Your family safety is at risk, but you could lose precious possessions and your home itself. There're fire preparation steps you should follow to reduce the risk of this terrible event from occurring.

Sure up Those Smoke Alarms

All Bartlett, Tenessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, homes should have smoke alarms to alert you of fire danger. One or two devices are not enough. Your home should have one in every bedroom and an additional alarm per floor. There're also other essential elements of smoke alarms you should look for to prevent a home fire from spreading and getting out of hand.

• Test your smoke alarm once a month.
  
  
• Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once a year.
  
  
• Never disconnect your smoke alarm.

Keep an Eye on the Dryer

Of all your appliances, your dryer is perhaps the most significant potential culprit for starting a fire. You must check the filter after every loan and remove any lint buildup. Make sure you inspect the outside vent and the hose leading from the dryer to the vent.

Watch the Outlets

Being aware of electrical problems is an important fire safety tip. Check each outlet in your home, and never overload them with cords. Also, be mindful when you use power strips, especially with electronic equipment such as computers.

Be Careful When You Cook

Fire prevention often starts in the kitchen, where there are a few different heat sources. Make sure your oven is clean and functioning correctly. Also, never leave food on the stove unattended.

You can have peace of mind when you follow these fire prevention guidelines. If you need further direction, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900.

What is Covered by Your Commercial Property Insurance?

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Reasons to Have Commercial Insurance After Fire Damage

If a fire occurs in your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, building, it can be beneficial to have commercial insurance. While the details will vary between companies and individual policies, it can cover a wide range of property. Here are some of the items you can expect to be included.

1. The Structure of the Building

In many cases, fire damage will include the building itself. If it was severe enough, you might be required to rebuild part of the structure. Your insurance will usually cover this. If you are missing portions of your walls, floors, or ceiling, your policy should include the costs of repairing and restoring these areas. It will often involve repainting and placing new flooring as well.

2. Property Inside the Building

Whether the fire was large or small, there's a good chance that the building items were damaged. This can include equipment, furniture, and decorations, such as curtains or artwork. If these were affected by smoke or fire damage, they would be included in your policy as well, so you won't have to worry about the costs associated with repairing or replacing them.

3. Property Outside the Building

Fires are not always contained in the building where they began; your commercial insurance can cover the area outside of your business as well. This can include outdoor furniture and equipment. In some cases, it may cover neighboring properties if the fire and the damage it caused spread outside of your property.

You may like to think that a fire cannot occur on your property, but some accidents cannot be prevented even if you are careful. Fires are common, so it is a good idea to have commercial insurance that covers them. It will help pay for the repairs that you will need to have done by a fire restoration company and the costs of replacing destroyed items. Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900.

What You Should Know About Drain Cleaners

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

No doubt, you have felt the frustration of dealing with a clogged sink or tub. Soap residue, food scraps, and hair can all contribute to a clogged drain, which can cause surface residue, bacteria, and odors, and painfully slow or not draining.

The best defense is to avoid putting problem items down your drains, including eggshells, potatoes, peaches, other food peelings, and hair or beard trimmings. If you decide to use a drain cleaner, you should know a few things about them.

Drain Cleaners

While they have their place, certain types of cleaners work better on certain kinds of clogs. There're four types:

Acid – Muriatic acid or sulfuric acid

Oxidizing – Nitrate-based, peroxides, bleaches

Caustic – Caustic potash or lye

Enzymatic – Eco-friendly, non-toxic enzymes and bacteria

Applications

If fat or grease-based blockage causes a clogged drain, skip the chemicals and call a local plumber in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, in the beginning. Treated with cleaners, these clogs usually move deeper into the drain and require professional and expensive servicing.

Acid cleaners may do wonders for a clog, but they can eat through drain pipes, the fumes can burn the eyes and throat, and the acid can burn through skin and leave open sores. Acid cleaners should be used only as a last resort, preferably by a professional.

Oxidizing and caustic cleaners work by creating heat, which over time, breaks down the blockage until it can be flushed. Enzymatic uses bacteria and enzymes actually to eat through the blockage. They may take a bit longer but work well on food or organic clogs and tend to do an excellent job on toilet clogs.

With a bit of luck and care, your clogged drain may be resolved, but nobody wants to mess with goopy clogs or sewage if it fails or a pipe breaks, but if things go south, contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova to help set things right with your sewage cleanup.

Electrical Equipment and Smoke Damage

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

During a fire in a commercial building, located in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, there's often the significant damage of smoke and soot easily visible. However, other damage will be almost invisible and hard to detect.

Electrical Equipment Damaged by Smoke

Every electrical item, especially the big ones, has fans to draw in air to cool it and keep it from overheating. During a fire, these fans run overtime to keep the machine cool and draw in acrid smoke. The smoke will then leave soot within the electrical item that eventually will eat at the copper and plastics slowly. When your office or commercial building has a fire, give SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova a call. We can assess the damage, do the cleanup, and rebuild any damaged areas from a devastating fire.

Description:Benefits of a Large Loss Response

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

When an area in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, is affected by a disaster, catastrophic loss often occurs. However, employing a restoration company that can offer a massive loss response can be useful for insurance agents and business owners.

1. Experts Are Equipped with the Right Tools

When a major disaster strikes, the aftermath can be devastating, and it’s common for restoration experts to be overwhelmed with requests. Some local restoration companies may not be equipped to handle all types of disasters, and these companies may not have access to specialized tools. A restoration company with a wide reach can bring in experts with the necessary tools to assist the cleanup and restoration process.

2. Experience to Handle Catastrophes

Whether a catastrophic loss occurs as the result of flooding, storm damage, or a fire, it’s important for business owners and insurance agents to know that the professionals restoring commercial properties are experienced. One person alone may not have the experience to respond to a major disaster. However, when numerous people assist in responding to an emergency, the combined expertise of everyone involved makes the loss response team equipped to manage many aspects of commercial property damage.

3. Timely Reactions

When widespread damage occurs to an area, a local restoration company may not be able to assess it shortly after the disaster. Unfortunately, a slow response can cause a property to acquire more issues, such as mold growth, structural damage, and more. With a significant loss response, however, professionals can quickly assess a property, and after a thorough assessment, experts can assist in preventing additional damage and can begin restoration.

A significant loss response can make managing the effects of a catastrophic loss easier. A large loss response will allow various professionals from different areas to assess the damage. Experts will have the combined experience to handle various significant problems, and the response will likely occur quickly.

3 Ways To Prevent Mold Damage in Your Home

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, home from fungi growth can be challenging, especially if you live in an area that experiences heavy annual rainfall or high humidity. Water damage is typically the leading cause of mold development, such as hidden leaks or condensation. However, there're a few strategies you can use to prevent these conditions and make your home an unwelcome environment for most strains of fungi.

1. Check Your Home's Pipes Annually

Pipe leaks and weak joints can lead to a plumbing failure, causing a significant flood in your kitchen or bathroom. To prevent this, have your home's pipes checked at least once a year to ensure they are in good working condition. Pipes hidden behind cabinetry can prone to mold growth if they develop leaks. Ask your plumber to check these spaces to ensure mold is not growing on the wood or in dark corners.

2. Reduce Your Home's Humidity

If your home experiences high humidity throughout much of the year, it can lead to mold growth in crawl spaces and attics. You can reduce humidity by using ceiling fans in vulnerable rooms and installing a dehumidifier in smaller areas. On days when humidity is particularly high, avoid taking hot showers and running exhaust fans in your kitchen.

3. Call in a Mold Expert for an Inspection

If you suspect that certain areas of your home may be fostering fungi growth, consider calling water damage and mold remediation service to inspect them. Experienced technicians can check your water lines, exterior pipes, and air conditioning vents to ensure mold has not gained a foothold due to leaks or moisture buildup. It's wise to have a list of questions prepared for the technicians, especially if you have never worked with a mold prevention company before.

Water damage and other problems in your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, home can cause serious mold issues. Knowing how to prevent them can help you protect your home and keep mold from moving in. Contact SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at (901) 382-0900.

How to Keep Your Pets Safe During a Fire

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for a Potential Fire Emergency

A fire can quickly engulf any home in Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee. In addition to potentially causing extensive damage, an inferno can also threaten everyone's well-being, including pets. While you can communicate evacuation instructions to human family members, ensuring pet safety can be challenging. Employing these four strategies can help everyone in your family prepare for a potential fire emergency.

1. Keep Leashes Accessible

A leash is an essential pet care accessory that can safely extract your dog or cat from the premises and keep track of them in the ensuing chaos. To expedite its retrieval, you should store this device near a frequently-used exit. You should also train your pet to come to you when called promptly.

2. Practice Evacuating With Pets

If you have children, consider routinely performing fire drills to ensure everyone understands crucial evacuation procedures. Including your pets in these exercises may be extremely beneficial.

3. Post a Pet Alert Sign

A pet alert sign is another useful fire emergency planning tool that you can attach to windows near your front and back doors. These placards are designed to help first responders quickly identify the number of animals living inside the residence. Posting this information may be especially vital if a fire erupts when no one is home.

4. Help Others Identify Your Pet

A frightened animal may run away during a crisis. Purchasing an identification tag and microchipping each pet can enable others to determine the correct owner quickly. To eliminate communication problems, be sure to update both items if your contact information changes.

Enduring a fire emergency can be a daunting experience. If you have animals inside your home, pet preparation should be a component of your family evacuation plan. In addition to providing peace of mind, knowing both your human and furry family members are safe may reduce the stress of the fire cleanup and restoration process.

What Happens When I Have Water Damage?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Nobody likes the unexpected. It can be scary and overwhelming, in worst cases, time and cost-consuming. SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova will try and ease the unexpected blow. We're a team of highly trained individuals with specialized equipment, tools, and skills needed to make sure that your water damage is taken care of swiftly and adequately.

What Can You Expect When You Call Us?

One of our employees will first take your call; we'll take your name, number, and address down and then ask detailed questions to know exactly what your situation looks like. As we hang up the phone with you, we'll dispatch a team out to your home and business so they can be on-site as quickly as possible. Additionally, you'll be assigned an admin within the office to take care of your job – they will give you updates and work with your insurance provider.

Once we get to your home, we will extract any standing water that needs to be removed using either a handheld extractor or an extractor that we can ride on. We will then place fans and dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.

In the next few days, we will continue to monitor the drying process, and we will drill holes and pull baseboards if necessary. If you find yourself with an unexpected water loss, give SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova a call at (901) 382-0900!

SERVPRO Can Help With Biohazard Concerns

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Need biohazard cleaning? Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today!

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova does more than fire and water restoration. Our professionals can help you with biohazard, vandalism, and crime scene cleanup.

Bloodborne pathogens can be scary. Bodily fluids, tissues, and other potentially risky substances can be removed and disposed of properly by our technicians trained in proper biohazard removal.

Crime scene residue can be overwhelming. Once law enforcement is finished with the area, let our professional technicians deal with fingerprint powder, evidence-gathering chemicals, and tear gas or pepper spray residues.

Arson and vandalism can leave home or business owners feeling vulnerable, violated, and unsafe. Let SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova take care of the aftermath. Our team can remove spray paint, clean up broken glass, and clean up after a fire.

We are “Here to Help” in any situation you might encounter. We pride ourselves on being a bright spot in a bad situation. Should you ever need our services, contact us at (901) 382-0900.

Overcoming Soot Damage

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Have soot damage? Call SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova today.

Team SERVPRO Has the Experience to Eliminate Many Different Types of Soot Residues Remaining in Your Home

Your Bartlett, Tennessee, or Cordova, Tennessee, home was not intended to stop fires before they spread to other areas of the house. Most of the materials used for constructing your home can catch fire and help it spread throughout the structure. Unfortunately, this can spread the effects throughout your property and cause extensive work for the professional restoration team you choose to clean up this mess. 

Working to clean up the mess after the incident is over is no easy task, either. Most often, the substantial effects that stand out are smoke and soot damages. These are common versions of fire damage in homes, and they can often prove to be challenging to remove without the right equipment. 

Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the tools and expertise to help you through often widespread soot damages throughout your household. While the most concentrated of this effect can be found around the fire's originating point where it burned the longest, this is not always the case. This matted debris and film from the combustion leave a dark, often black residue on surfaces, furniture, flooring, and other materials. 

Removing this residue requires multiple approaches. For wall surfaces, scrubbing with wet and dry sponges can often remove the present film's bulk. Confined spaces like ductwork require high powered vacuums to get used instead. 

Smoke damage often presents itself in harsh odor lingering in fabrics, carpeting, and open spaces throughout affected areas of your house. Removal of this odor typically requires thermal fogging, a process that releases an unscented chemical compound into the environment and contents of the room to break apart odor molecules and leave no discernable scent behind. 

There's little that most homeowners can do alone to bring their homes back from the harmful effects. When you face these kinds of damages, seek out SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova. We can respond quickly and get your home back to normal as soon as possible. Give us a call at (901) 382-0900

CE Class Success

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees at CE Class Success.

We want to take this time to thank everyone who made our CE Class such a success. It's always exciting to see so many people in our industry taking the time to get together and understand the issues our clients suffer during a disaster; and how important it is that we all work together to get them through it. Nick, Jeff, and Chris are always available to assist you and your clients through any water, fire, or trauma emergency.

We will personally make sure our clients have the best possible experience they can have under the circumstances. We will represent any brand professionally and make sure the communication lines stay open to serve our customers best, and any issues are resolved before they become problems.

Please don't hesitate to call or email SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova at anytime. We are available 24/7 at (931) 382-0900.

Millington, TN, Chamber of Commerce Gala

8/28/2020 (Permalink)

State Farm agent Jack Leonard received the Hall of Honor award for his many accomplishments.

The Millington Chamber of Commerce held its annual gala dinner on December 2 at the Hampton Inn and Suites. Among those honored was State Farm agent Jack Leonard who received the Hall of Honor award for his many accomplishments. Senator Mark Green, MD, the physician that treated Saddam Hussein when captured, spent six hours in conversation, obtaining information for his informative book A Night with Saddam.

René Swain, our Account Manager, has 13 years of experience in the Fire & Water Restoration industry. René attended the event; she was impressed by everyone's closeness in the Chamber of Commerce. They were honored to be part of the organization. Rene' was recognized as a new member of the Board of Directors to start in January. She said, "I am looking forward to being part of a wonderful, growing community and learning from so many awesome people."

We at SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova are pleased to work with this fine organization.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova Toy Drive for Forrest Spence Fund

8/28/2020 (Permalink)

Chris Fava and Nick Schifani are load boxes of toys to deliver to the local church that serves as a wrapping location for the toy drive.

We're excited about spreading a little joy by collecting toys for the Forrest Spence Fund. This organization provides items for families with children of Le Bonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. During the holidays, they will distribute toys to children who are hospitalized and their siblings that often spend many hours at the hospital themselves. 

It's no surprise that the employees of SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova stepped up and collected toys for this special group of kids. The organization's founders were overwhelmed with the number of toys collected since we are not a huge company. Our team is blessed with giving hearts, especially where children are involved. Hopefully, these gifts will provide a little happiness to these families during the holidays while going through a difficult time.

Forrest Spence Fund Donations

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees with the donated bags for The Forrest Spence Fund.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova coordinates donations to Forrest Spence Fund

Rene Swain, account manager at SERVPRO Bartlett / Cordova, asked insurance agencies if they would consider being involved in a way to "pay it forward." The Forrest Spence Fund is an organization that donates bags of requested items to families with children who're patients at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Bag contents help families get through a day, night, and sometimes a month with items to keep them occupied while waiting for their children to heal. SERVPRO Bartlett / Cordova encourages others to visit the Forrest Spence website to help this benevolent organization in the future.

State Farm agencies (Hodges, Shelton, Carpenter, Rosser-White, Nowlin, Blakely, and Ryan Jeans) and Nationwide agencies (Crum, Crutcher, Barker, Milan, and Fields) all participated. When the bags were filled, Rene and Nick Schifani transported them to Donna Nash, Forrest Spence Fund coordinator, was happy and appreciative of SERVPRO agents who were instrumental in helping the families in need.

Thank you to all Nationwide and State Farm agencies that contributed to this worthy cause.

November CE Class

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Production Manager Chuck Tucker demonstrates effective fire/smoke cleaning methods.

SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova Hosts C.E. Class for Local Insurance Professionals

The team at SERVPRO of Bartlett / Cordova would like to thank all of our insurance agents and adjusters who helped make our November’s continuing education class a success. In partnership with the Memphis Better Business Bureau, we presented classes in “Property Fire Damage Restoration” and “Ethics.” Over 20 of our local agents and adjusters from Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi now have a greater understanding of what it takes to help their insured after a fire or water damage to get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible. Each course is designed to teach and explain the special procedures and materials used by restoration specialists after one of these disasters and how to best serve the customer from both a mitigation and insurance standpoint. Our agents and adjusters now have a better understanding of how we can drastically reduce both cost and downtime for their insured by acting quickly and doing things the proper way.

We would also all like to thank Mrs. Mary Busey, our corporate C.E. Instructor, for taking the time to come from Nashville to make sure this event was a success. Mary has 20 years in the insurance business, and we are proud to have her on the SERVPRO team. She can keep her classes relevant to the insurance industry and explain it in a way that keeps her students engaged. Our fire production manager Chuck Tucker and our “go-to” lady Maria Shumpert were also able to take time out of their busy schedules to do some hands-on demonstrations and answer some questions. These guys have years of experience and are IICRC certified in many of the disciplines necessary to be true industry professionals. All and all, I’d say that this November’s class was both fun and informative, and all of the attendees had fun while learning something new and getting those all-important C.E. credits.

Finally, we would like to thank Swanky for setting up that fantastic taco bar for lunch. That was a hit for everyone, and as always, it was hot and delicious. Thank you again to all who helped make this a fun day of learning and keep your eyes open for our future continuing education classes. Not only will you get your credits, but you’ll have fun doing it and gain a better understanding of the restoration industry and how to serve your insured better when it counts the most.