Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration the SERVPRO Way

5/10/2024 (Permalink)

Use of a dry cleaning sponge during a fire damage restoration inspection.

Every fire damage is a little different, which requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below explain our process for a "typical" fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

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

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

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

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

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

This home in Gobles, MI needed our services after their garage experienced a furnace puffback. A puffback occurs when your oil burner backfires and shoots smoke and soot into your property. Soot covered this homeowners recently updated two stall garage with bead board ceiling, concrete walls and floors, and all their contents. During the inspection, our Restoration Manager used a dry cleaning sponge to see what areas were affected and to test how easily the different areas would clean up.

If your home or business encounters fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County for an inspection and assessment, 269-686-0664. We are trained in fire damage restoration and are always Here to help®

Storm Season in Barry County Approaching - Are You Ready?

4/22/2024 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration 24/7

Storm season in Barry County Michigan is upon us; which typically starts in late March, peaks in July, and runs through August into early September. This is due to the warmer weather bringing moisture and humidity to the air, which brings instability to the atmosphere, resulting in the potential for severe weather. Summers in West Michigan mean sun and fun but can also bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and occasional power outages. The following are some tips to make sure you and your family stay safe this spring and summer.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - a storm is possible and near the watch area. Monitor the situation and be prepared to act if a warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - a severe weather has been reported or indicated by radar; an imminent danger to your safety and property is present. Take cover in a solid building or vehicle with windows closed.

Having an Emergency Plan and Kit is a Must

Severe weather is at its worst when it catches us by surprise; that is why having an emergency plan in place is crucial. Make sure to consider all weather events that are most likely to happen in your area. Items to have in your emergency kit include: battery-operated flashlight with extra batteries, weather radio, candles with holders, matches, first-aid kit, a three to five-day supply of bottled water and non-perishable food, blankets, sleeping bags, and cash.

The Farmers Almanac is predicting May to be on the cooler side with an active storm track possibly leading to severe weather in Michigan. Now is the time to make your emergency plan and gather your items for your emergency kit.

If your home or business experiences damage from a storm, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County, 269-686-0664. We're Here to help® 24/7

Why Choose SERVPRO For Your Restoration and Remediation Needs?

2/16/2024 (Permalink)

Here to help® 24/7

When a disaster such as fire, water, or mold damage takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County help you take it back.  We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry, with training, experience, and equipment to quickly make those disasters Like it never even happened.®

Disasters usually do not happen during regular business hours, that is why we provide 24-hour emergency services.  Our highly trained restoration technicians work in sun, rain, and even blizzard conditions to take care of our customers.  With over 2,000 franchises, we are Faster to Any Sized Disaster™, and no job is too big or small for us.

If you walk into a flooded basement in the middle of the night or on Christmas morning, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County, 269-686-0664, we are always Here to help®

Fireworks Safety for Paw Paw, MI Residents

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

Stay safe this summer season.

Summer brings numerous holidays and special events to celebrate with fireworks in Paw Paw.  The safest way to enjoy and view fireworks is to attend a professional show.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires.  The following are a few ideas to get into the spirit without fireworks.

• Use glow sticks, they flow in the dark and are a safe alternative to sparklers, which get as hot as 1,200°F!
• Noise makers make a statement without fire.  They can be found at local party supply stores or you can even make your own.
• Have an outdoor movie night, setting up a screen and projector.
• Red, white, and blue stilly string - fun for all ages!
• Make a patriotic craft with the family, such as red, white, and blue tie dye shirts.

If your home or vehicle suffers fire or smoke damage this summer season from fireworks, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County for a quote, 269-639-0464

Tips For Your South Haven, MI Business When Dealing With Biohazards

5/12/2023 (Permalink)

Here to help® you and your business.

Biohazard contaminants should be considered extremely dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk to you, your staff, and your customers.  Sewer backups, flood water, COVID-19 exposure, and bodily fluids are some biohazard scenarios that can affect your business.  SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore these types of contamination.

After any biohazard contamination in your business, your primary focus should be safety.  Is it safe to stay in your business?  Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.

What to do after a contamination:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life threatening
• Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage

If your South Haven business has been affected by a biohazard contaminant, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County at the first sign, we are Here to help®, 269-686-0664

Why SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County? Advanced Technology and Techiques

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Infrared Thermal Camera at work

Over the past few decades we have seen major advancements in technology and techniques used in the restoration industry.  These advancements allow SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively. 

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor moisture levels.

• Infrared cameras can help detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor making for a more thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of water from your property.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units efficiently remove water.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors.  Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers prompt moisture to evaporate at a faster rate.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Fire and water damage often cause strong odors.  The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers remove airborne particles and contaminants.
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents control odors.

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

If you've experienced water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County today, 269-686-0664

Otsego, MI - Are You Winter Ready?

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

Help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Temperatures are dropping in Otsego and Allegan County.  In addition to regular home maintenance, in the winter months, protecting your pipes from freezing is just as important.  Even a small crack in a pipe can emit hundreds of gallons of water causing flooding, damage to your furnace, and serious structural damage.  It also presents an immediate potential for mold growth.

Three main causes of frozen pipes are quick drops in temperature, poor insulation, and thermostats set too low.  By taking the following preventative measures, you can help reduce the risk of frozen water pipes this winter.

• Insulate your pipes - exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing.
• Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside - look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes.  Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• Let water drip - let warm water drip from a faucet overnight.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.

If your pipes still freeze and burst, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County, 269-686-0664, or SERVPRO of Van Buren County, 269-6390464, as well as your local Insurance Agent, for immediate assistance

Content Restoration Cleaning After Fire Damage To Your Woodland, MI Home

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's mentality, "restore" versus "replace", can help keep those treasured keepsakes in the family.

Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings.  SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County certified technicians understand your family's furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the things that make your house a home.

Our "restore" versus "replace" mentality and our expertise can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that cannot be replaced.  We pretest your belongings to determine what items can be restored to pre-fire condition and use several different cleaning methods:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning technique for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that cannot withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed it wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

If you have questions or need help restoring your belongings, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County today, 269-686-0664

Commercial Services Available For Your Business In Allegan, MI

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Large or small, SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County is Here to help®

For your Allegan business, the most important thing is getting you back to business as soon as possible.  When a disaster strikes, not only do damages cost you, but also the time spent not servicing your customers and clients is detrimental to your business.  SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County are available 24/7 and can service any sized job.  We will be there to get you back on track.  We have the personnel and equipment to ensure that your cleanup and restoration process is completed quickly and accurately.  SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County also have the training and expertise to help make it, "Like it never even happened."

Large or small, SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County is Here to help®

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

If your business has experienced a disaster, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County today, 269-686-0664

Know Your Safe Place If A Storm Strikes Mattawan, MI

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Know your safe place before extreme weather hits.

When preparing for extreme weather in Mattawan, knowing your safe place is a simple but potentially life saving action.  If you are unsure where your safe place is, we share some tips below from The National Weather Service.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can be extremely dangerous.  If you receive a tornado warning, take shelter immediately.  Safe places are storm shelters and basements.  If those are not available, an interior room without windows on the lowest level, can also be protective.

Lightning

Lightning strikes the United States 25 millions times per year.  Sometimes those strikes result in permanent injury or death.  If you hear thunder or see lightning, take shelter immediately.  Indoors or inside a hard-topped and enclosed vehicle is the safest place.

Heat

The leading cause of weather-related deaths most years is heat.  During extreme heat, stay inside, keep cool, and stay hydrated.

Flooding

Water levels and flow speed can quickly change during a flood.  You are safest staying indoors, or seeking higher ground during a flood.  If you're stuck outside when a flash flood occurs, do not attempt to cross flood waters by vehicle or on foot.

Extreme Wind

During high winds, tree damage is expected.  Indoors, away from windows, in an interior room is the safest place during extreme winds.  You can also prevent damage to your property by trimming loose branches and parking away from trees.

If your property has suffered storm damage, call SERVPRO of Allegan / Barry County and SERVPRO of Van Buren County, we are Here to Help®, 269-686-0664.