Sewage at your Commercial Business

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage is a dangerous substance that just no one should ever handle.

• Safe removal of biohazards and water with specialty equipment.
• Removal of damaged items
• Discard items that cannot be salvaged.
• Disinfection of salvageable items off-site.
• Drying and dehumidification affected areas.
• Ventilating dangerous fumes and airborne particles.
• Disinfect flooring and surfaces within a contaminated area.

Protecting Your Homes Gutters

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Lately, we have seen so much rain in the region which means the gutters on your home could potentially cause water damage! Heavy downpours fall straight into your home’s gutter system, making functional gutters essential to preventing costly water damage. When a home’s gutters are blocked, rainwater is unable to drain. As a result, the excess water travels down the siding and often finds its way inside. As moisture infiltrates the interior, what begins as a steady trickle eventually leads to substantial damage. Over time, water stains on the walls and ceiling are visible. As temperatures warm, the threat of toxic black mold growth is inevitable. The proven method to prevent water damage from gutters is to clean them at least twice annually, in Spring and Autumn. A Spring gutter cleaning removes the accumulated debris from winter and eliminates the threat of blockage. This ensures your gutters are functioning properly and will increase their overall longevity. Here are 5 Tips you can check out to make sure your home gutters are keeping you from having water damage: Regularly Clean Out Your Gutters

• Homeowners should regularly clean their gutters every few months to ensure rainwater can flow freely. Effectively cleaning your gutters means getting on a ladder and using a gutter trowel to scoop the leaves and debris out of the gutters. Once all the debris is out, use a hose to flush the gutters and test the water flow. If you do not feel comfortable getting on a ladder to clean your gutters, there are many companies that offer gutter cleaning services.

• In addition to cleaning your gutters, you should inspect your downspouts for clogs. When your downspouts are clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, the water has no place to go, which results in water backing up and spilling over the sides during rainstorms. If you can’t see into your downspouts, you can use a garden hose with a pressure nozzle to test the flow and clear out any clogs.

• Regularly walk around your home and visually inspect your gutters. Do you see any signs of rust or corrosion? Are your gutters dropping? Do you see any cracks? If you see small cracks, holes, or gaps, you may be able to seal the leaks with a gutter seal. If the damage appears to be extensive, or if your gutters are falling away from your home, you may have to call a gutter repair company to add gutter brackets and replace severely damaged sections.

• Gutters guards can help minimize the need to clean your gutters. These devices fit over or inside your gutters and are designed to prevent leaves, twigs, and other items from falling into your gutters. With gutter guards installed, all you have to do is brush the leaves and debris off the guards. There is no need to scoop and rinse the inside of the gutter.

• Many downspouts only contain splash blocks, which catch and funnel the water a couple of feet from your home. These devices can be displaced by heavy flows of water, which means if you do not regularly check your splash blocks and reposition them, water could pool around your foundation and/or enter your crawlspace. Instead of using the standard splash block, consider installing downspout extensions. These are flexible tubes that can be attached to your existing downspouts and placed so that the water flows away from your home and its foundation.

Contaminated Water Categories

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can have a devastating impact on your commercial property or residence 

Different Types of Contaminated Water Categories

How to Keep Rain Water out of your Birmingham, AL Home

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Here are 10 things you should do to keep rainwater out of your Birmingham, AL home. 

1. Increase Grade: The ground around your home should be sloped away from your property to divert water. It's a very simple process, borrow dirt from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the structure creating a slope.
2. Clean Rain Gutters: You should clean your gutters annually. A clogged gutter can send rainwater running down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls. 
3. Divert Down Spouts: At the local hardware store, you can purchase a black plastic corrugated hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This hose carries water away from the structure, preventing water from seeping into the foundation.
4. Roof Maintenance: You should have your roof inspected every 5 years. Your roof is the first line of defense, with one tear in a rubber membrane or cracks in a tin roof, or a compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can be disastrous for the interior of your structure.
5. Window Repairs: Proper window installation and maintenance is very important. Modern windows are fitted with well drains to help guide water outside of the house. Improper caulking can be disastrous by sending water into the structure instead of draining it away.
6. Sweep Away Debris: During spring and fall especially, you should sweep outdoor surfaces weekly. Sweep patios and door well to prevent debris from clogging exterior drains. 
7. Expand Exterior Drains: By expanding the surface area of exterior drains decreases the likelihood of clogging the drain.
8. Construct a Swale Ditch: Constructing a ditch and filling it with landscaping rock can help divert water away from the structure, especially for yards that are extremely flat.
9. Exterior French Drain: For structures on a slope, an exterior French drain, including a subterranean ditch with a black perforated corrugated hose, can be used to divert surface water away from the structure.
10. Install a Sump Pump: When all else fails, installing a sump pump may be the solution. You will need to dig a well through the basement or slab of structure. The well may be up to 7 or 10 feet deep. As the water table increases, a sump pump activates and transports water away from the structure.  

What Happens After A Fire?!

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

The unexpected has just happened and you've experienced a fire in your home! Few things are as devastating to any homeowner as a house fire. We understand there is so much emotion and stress that goes into a situation like this that sometimes you might forget to ask, "What is next?". That is where the team at SERVPRO of Birmingham comes in to provide help! If your home catches fire, our team at SERVPRO of Birmingham works to aid you in the process of rebuilding. However, a few things you must do after a fire has occurred apply to homeowners anywhere in the Birmingham area, or anywhere else.

Give Your Insurance Adjuster a Call

You must call your insurance company promptly after. Your agent will help you figure out what happens after the fire has been put out, and they will walk you through finding the proper contractors. Your adjuster should assist you in finding a place to stay while your home is no longer livable, and they can help you figure out the financial situation you are now in.

Calling in the Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO is a restoration company that helps people with their homes following a fire throughout the US. What makes a restoration company imperative is that you cannot just head back into your home after there has been a fire. There are numerous hazards that must be cleaned, and boarded, and a variety of other issues that must be handled first. For example, the water used to put out the fire can cause water damage, a whole other problem to add to the list following a fire.

Sort Your Property

Once a restoration specialist handles the details inside your home and you’re cleared to enter, it’s time to sort your property out from what can be saved and what you must part with. There may be undamaged items in your home that you can salvage. There are many more that are unsalvageable, and those items will need to be sorted and disposed of. Being the victim of a house fire is heartbreaking. It’s also a scary process to deal with, but you are not required to go through this alone. The people you hire at SERVPRO of Birmingham are Here to Help you with your new needs, we are here to make sure you know what to expect and how to handle it!

Tornadoes in Alabama

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know 1,200 tornadoes hit the US each year?

It is essential to be prepared for natural disasters. Do you know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning? Here are a few tips that our team has put together for you to know what you might be looking at! Tornado WatchThis means conditions are favorable for development. A watch can be issued up to 8 hours in advance of severe weather. It also usually covers a large area. Take necessary precautions in case bad weather strikes. Keep up to date with changing weather status. Have a plan to take shelter in case a WARNING status is issued.  Tornado Warning Means severe weather is occurring or imminent. It covers a small area. When a warning is issued, take action immediately to protect your life! Seek shelter immediately. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not attempt to outrun a tornado.

During a Tornado

Stay updated on weather alerts. Continue to listen to local news sources or weather services for tornado watches and warnings. At Home: Go to the lowest level interior room. Stay away from windows and doors.  At workplace or school: Proceed to your tornado shelter. Do not gather in big open areas, and stay away from windows and doors. Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately. If no safe shelter is available, lay flat in a ditch or ravine. Cover your head. If disaster strikes, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham to make your storm damage, "Like it never even happened." 

Impacts of Water

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Houses flood, pipes burst, and roofs leak.

What might not seem like a big deal initially may become much worse if left unchecked? Water damage in a home can have a substantial negative impact on those living in the house. Water damage and freezing as a category is the second-most common type of home insurance claim.

Did you know?

• Nationwide, household leaks waste an estimated one (1) trillion gallons, or enough to supply 11 million homes with water for a year.
• 10% of homes with leaks waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• A leaky faucet can waste 3,000 gallons per year.
• A leak in an irrigation system can waste 6,300 gallons in a year.
• An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.
• Annual water wastage from a typical household leak is equivalent to the water used for 270 loads of laundry. 600 showers. 1,200 loads of dishes in a dishwasher. 6,250 flushes of a standard toilet. 80,000 servings of water.

Flooding and water damage are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Birmingham arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Birmingham provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

Trust Team Wilson

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

When you experience commercial or residential damage, do you know who to call next?

Why SERVPRO of Birmingham?

• Services on Time: We provide emergency services and are at your service as soon as you reach out to us for help.
• Expert Personnel and Technology: We provide highly trained technicians who are familiar with advanced technology designed for property damage restoration. With IICRC industry certifications, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
• Low Restoration Costs on High-Quality Process: Our “restore first” mentality helps to lower costs and get you back in your home or business sooner. This focus relies upon our specialized training and equipment to restore your property back to pre-event condition.
• Insurance Claim Handling: We are also experts in handling insurance matters. If you have no experience in filling insurance claims, then we can provide a stress-free claims process where we manage the insurance paperwork and process.

Water Heaters Tips for the Home

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that in a home, the water heater accounts for about 18% of the energy used?

• To determine if your anode rod needs to be replaced, inspect it every two years or if the warranty has ended every year.
• Attach a garden hose to the valve at the base of the water heater tank every six months to remove sediment. Please turn off the electricity and run the hot water until it cools down for safety.
• A plumbing specialist should perform a yearly check of the shut-off valve and all piping. Broken valves, loose or moist joints, and rust are signs that more severe harm is on the way.
• Turn the temperature down to one. There is no reason to keep your water heater above it. At that temperature, you can do everything you need. But, of course, keeping your water heater hotter can cause it to break down much faster.

Fire Tips for your Birmingham, AL Home

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Our team knows what it feels like to lose a home.

• Install smoke alarms that combine flashing lights on every level of your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries every six months.
• Keep grills, cookers, and fryers at least 3 feet away from your house and shrubs or bushes.
• Always turn off heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Service your chimneys, fireplaces, wood stoves, and central furnace once a year.
• Store a fire extinguisher on every level of your home.
• If an electric appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again.
• Never smoke in bed
• Always stay near cooking to monitor it closely. Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles, and wear clothes with short, rolled-up, or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.
• Use only child-resistant lighters and store all matches and lighters up high, where kids can't see or reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave burning candles unattended
• Look for frayed wires and damaged cords. If you see any exposed wires, unplug the electronics, and replace them immediately.

Should You Restore or Replace During a Loss?

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Part of recovering the belongings in your home or business includes identifying which items can be preserved

When your commercial or residential property has been damaged by fire or water, SERVPRO of Birmingham's mission always has been to provide the best customer service possible, to support your business or home during the mitigation process, and to make it "Like it never even happened". Our team works to provide this service as quickly as possible and at the lowest possible cost to you. We understand that time is money and our team makes it their job to help you get life back to normal. Part of recovering the belongings in your home or business includes identifying which items and structures can be preserved. Our team strives to restore the items in your life that may have more meaning. Sometimes it is actually more of cost savings to restore something than it is to completely replace it. This also allows our team to maintain those items which have sentimental value. Did you know that according to research conducted by the insurance and repair industries, restoring property after fire and water damage is less expensive than replacing it? Restoring is also less disruptive to your home or business, allowing you to stay in their homes or continue conducting your business throughout the process and rapidly return to normal.  Our team is trained to identify when restoring can be performed with the high-quality outcomes that our clients deserve as a preferred mitigation and restoration partner for most major insurance companies. This "repair" rather than "replace" mindset can help you save money while keeping family treasures, keepsakes, and other impossible or prohibitively expensive items to replace. If your home or business has been impacted by water or fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham.

No Days Off For Disasters

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Summertime is here and we are all looking forward to warmer days and vacation getaways. The changing season presents us with the opportunity to lay back, enjoy the sun, and let the wind carry our worries away. 

But even with your away messages set and your phones on do not disturb, in our line of work, we’ve noticed that water damage doesn’t always get the memo. While you are away from home, water (in all classes) could be trickling inside your home just waiting upon your return. 

Summer storms, flash floods followed by sewage backups , clogged gutters and downspouts, cracks in the foundation that expand due to the heat; these are all common culprits when for this season’s water damage events. 

One of the easiest ways to prevent these potential dangers from ruining your summer is: (1) Regularly keep up with maintenance on the outside of your home and (2) If you plan to be away from your home for an extended period time, it’s best to shut your water main off. You won’t need it and it greatly minimizes the risk of water running through your home. 

Don’t let the headache of a water damage keep you from enjoying your summer vacation, but if you do arrive and notice that you now have an indoor pool in your living area, our team of IICRC water damage restoration certified professionals are more than happy to help get you back to a vacation state of mind! 

Why Work for SERVPRO of Birmingham?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of people around you each and every day. We are seeking individuals who are self-motivated, proactive, responsible, and service-oriented teammates. Please join us in our mission to help our customers in their greatest moments of need. Coupled with a family-oriented culture and a standard of excellence in all we do, not only do our team members feel right at home, but they also end the day knowing that the work they deliver is among the best in the industry. At SERVPRO, positions are always available for the right individuals who wish to join us in our vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. Not only is it our mission to develop a team of quality people who focus on fairness, excellence, and mutual respect, but we are also creating opportunities for our team members to grow within the organization. We desire to see you succeed!  So no matter which role you play in our organization, whether it is at the front desk taking calls or on the front lines extracting water, you can be certain that you are fulfilling duties that go beyond administrative tasks or heavy lifting, you are helping us restore hope and normalcy to the lives and daily routines of some of the most vulnerable and even traumatized members of our communities.  If you are highly dependable and excited about exceeding expectations, then you may be just the person we're looking for. To apply, visit our Birmingham Career Page!

Commercial Business Fire Damage

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

 The premiums for a bar, garage or a conventional office building may vary widely based on the difference in fire risk levels. Businesses that use hazardous or flammable equipment may have higher insurance premiums. These operations may involve

• Alcohol
• Chemicals
• Cooking equipment
• Smoking
• Vehicles 

• Alarms and detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Sprinklers

Where Should Home Fire Alarms Go?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

While many homes in Birmingham, AL come already installed with all the smoke alarms you need to make sure you are keeping your family safe. As more research has been conducted over the years on fires and how they spread, requirements have changed. Many older homes do not meet these standards which can be dangerous in the case a fire does occur. Keep your family safe by ensuring a fire alarm is located in the following four locations! Bedrooms - The National Fire Protection Association suggests the placement of a fire alarm in every bedroom of the house. This ensures that if a fire occurs while your family is asleep, the alarms will wake quickly wake up everyone. Outside Every Sleeping Area - Not only should alarms be inside every bedroom, but there should also be a smoke alarm right outside the room or any other sleeping areas as well. This is so you can react and start to escape before any fire or smoke even enters your room. 10 Feet From Your Kitchen - Kitchen fires result in approximately 50 percent of all home fires, many of which result in serious fire damage to your home. Make sure a fire alarm is located 10 feet from your kitchen rather than inside it since smoke or steam from cooking can easily trigger it. Every Level of Your Home - Ensure that there is as least one smoke alarm on every level of your home. Don’t forget your basement! Serious fire and smoke damage can occur from an undetected fire that starts in the basement. It doesn’t take long for a house fire to quickly get out of hand! That’s why it is so important to have all the required fire alarms installed so you can quickly get everyone out of your house and get in contact with the fire department and a fire restoration company to minimize the fire damage to your home.

Wait for an Adjuster After a Storm?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

When storms hit the Birmingham, AL area, you might be thinking, "should I wait for an adjuster"?

1. Documentation Is All You Need to File a Claim

2. Adjusters Are Likely To Be Backlogged

3. Secondary Damage Can Start In Hours

How Should I Handle Hail Damage?

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

What Exactly is Hail?

How Does Hail Damage Your Roof?

Repair Hail Damage with SERVPRO of Birmingham

What Do To If Your Sink Is Clogged

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

The last thing you need in slowing down production at your business is a clogged drain! Something like this could easily cause water damage that has you closing your doors for more than a day! If your sink is draining slowly or not at all, producing an odor, there may be a clog. It is critical to take care of these as soon as possible. In the event that a blockage is allowed to accumulate, it can result in burst pipes and a need to reach out to a professional plumber. Prior to unclogging a sink with water, use a basin or cup to remove the standing water. Always attempt to plunge the water first. Small clogs are often easily dislodged with the standard cup plunger. It's recommended to try using one with a flat rim that creates a seal over the hole to apply the pressure necessary to dislodge it. Ensure that the sink contains the right amount of water to submerge the plunger's head.  Another way to solve the issue can involve taking a half-gallon of water and bringing it to a boil with heat. After taking measures to remove the sink's standing water, pour the boiling water directly towards the drain with the aid of a steady stream. It should start to drain. If it fails, let the water cool completely, then repeat an additional time. Baking soda mixtures offer a natural way to unclog a sink, as it proves gentle on the pipes in comparison to chemical openers. Pour a single cup of baking soda down the drain in addition to white vinegar of the same amount. Place a sinkhole cover or rubber stop over the opening. Wait 15 minutes, then remove the cover and run the water down to clear out the clog. If these solutions do not work, SERVPRO of Birmingham will be there to help find the solution.

Construction is Complete! Now What?

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

With all of the fast-paced commercial building construction and remodeling going on who has time to do your after-construction cleaning?  SERVPRO of Birmingham is here to ensure your finished building projects always look their best. During construction, a building can often trap moisture.  excessive moisture could result in mold growth.  If you think that your project may have a potential for moisture, rely on our experts at SERVPRO of Birmingham to provide you with the tools that you need to eliminate that humidity in the air by placing dehumidification to stabilize your environment and prevent the potential for mold growth. Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it is time to remove the dust, dirt, and construction debris from the structure in order to lay carpet, paint and decorate.  Our team at SERVPRO of Birmingham is here to ensure that your project is ready for interior design. This step in the process is referred to as post-construction cleaning. After all, designs are completed along with fresh paint and flooring, the final cleaning will make your project complete. You will want your facility to look its best when the doors are scheduled to open.  SERVPRO of Birmingham can provide a final detail clean to give the building that extra shine that will surely impress your customers. Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham help to ensure your post-construction needs are handled in a timely manner so that you can open or reopen your business on time and as quickly as possible.

Two Minutes Is All It Takes

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape? The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire are to identify and remove fire hazards. 60 % of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Fire Safety Tips

• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

April Showers Bring Water Damages By The Hour

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

As one of the wettest months in the year, April is known for its rainy days and perpetual showers. Though spring is officially here, we hardly get to enjoy the nice weather until late in the month or on those rare days when the weather allows some sunshine to peek through the clouds. 

One thing we can consistently expect from April is the amount of water damage claims our teams respond to. Though the after effects of water damage are all the same. the causes can vary depending on where the damage takes place. To minimize the risk of water in your home or office, here are a few of the top causes of spring water damage:

1. Flooding 

Whether because of heavy rains, a low water table, or leaks and cracks in your, flooding is the top cause of spring water damage. Waterproofing your basement and properly weather-sealing doors and windows can help in minimizing the risk of water damage in your home. 

2. Roof Leaks and Drain Back-Ups

Second to noticing cracks in your foundations, this can be one of the trickiest to get ahead on, mainly because most of us don’t spend much time out on our roofs. Periodically checking your roof and gutters is key to getting ahead of leaks and drain backups that can seep into your home.

3. Frozen Pipes

Last, but not least — frozen pipes. You may think frozen pipes are only a danger in the colder months, but the truth is, plenty of water damage claims happen when these pipes defrost in the warmer months. That’s because outside faucets and water irrigation systems that were shut off during the colder months, yet not properly insulated, begin to leak into your home once it is turned on. So instead of only watering your lawn, you may see these pipes have also watered your indoor living space.

There are plenty of other causes of water damage ranging from leaking AC units, downed trees, and even heavy storms. Whatever the cause, SERVPRO of Birmingham is only a call away. 

Our Disaster Response Team Is Ready To Handle Your Storm Damage

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Storm season is well underway in our region of Central Alabama and our teams have stayed active in serving our communities following the aftermath of heavy winds, rain, hail, and even tornado watches and warnings. 

While the meteorologists can predict what will be the cause of storms, it’s hard to determine what the effects will look like once the winds have settled, the sirens go silent, and all that’s left is the debris and damage.

At SERVPRO of Birmingham, we’ve witnessed firsthand the magnitude of damage these storms have caused. They wreak havoc on homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and whatever structure stands in their way. 

Though we have absolutely no control over when, where, or what will be affected, we stand firm in the fact that we are “Ready for whatever happens” whenever it happens. 

Our Disaster Response Team is complete with experienced project managers that travel at a moment’s notice to site locations of large-scale storm events, making us “Faster to any size disaster.” Backed by one of the largest Emergency Response Teams in the country, we are uniquely equipped and positioned to take on even the largest restoration project; whether in Central Alabama or beyond. Our fleet of cars, trucks, vans, and yes — even 18-wheelers — are fully stocked with the resources needed to respond to disasters of any scale, anywhere. 

Whatever this storm season looks like, it is no match for the force that is our Disaster Recovery Team. 

No Job To Small

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. Our team at SERVPRO of Birmingham has the resources and more than 30 years of expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

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

Why SERVPRO?

• FASTER: With more than 1,900 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned throughout the nation to be faster to any-sized disaster.
• READY: SERVPRO is always ready to help when disaster strikes but also knows the importance of ensuring home and business owners are “Ready for whatever happens.”
• PROOF: The science of Drying was developed out of the need to further validate the drying process and use more precise documentation on defining when a structure is dry.
• HERE TO HELP: Communication is the most important part of the process to keep everyone informed during cleanup and restoration.  We accomplish this through the Here to Help Connection process.

Our team responds quickly to your Birmingham, AL area fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building, a senior facility, an apartment complex, or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our network of 1,900+ Franchises gives us access to trained restoration technicians and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency.

Benefits of Claims Inventory System

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Insurance companies prefer to work with mitigation and restoration services that maintain up-to-date systems. 

The SERVPRO Claims Information System enables an insurance agent to access the information he or she needs to process and settle an insurance claim.

Insurance companies seek out Preferred Vendors for mitigation and restoration services. The SERVPRO Claims Information System is one of many features that can help an agent or adjuster settle an insurance claim. Here are four benefits of this system.

1. Access To Individual Claim Information

Insurance agents and adjusters can gain access to information for each claim through the Claims Information System. Local franchises upload damage information and estimate to an internal database. Documentation is then made available to representatives of property owners' insurance providers to facilitate the claim process.

2. Ease of Data Comparison and Research

Agents and adjusters can also access information to ensure that each estimate falls within the normal range nationwide and for the region, state, county, or the surrounding area of Birmingham, AL. Discrepancies may be due to extenuating factors for a particular job, such as secondary damage. A claims inventory system makes it easy to sort data based on causes of loss, types of claims, and job costs.

3. Shorter Processing Times

It may take less time to process an insurance claim if all of the information about the job is available in one convenient online resource. Insurers can access updated information at any time, which should prevent delays due to communication. An estimate that accounts for both damage mitigation and restoration may make it easier to settle a claim.

4. Updated Estimates and Job Information

Experienced mitigation professionals and the option for pretesting can increase the accuracy of initial estimates. If additional damage becomes apparent later in the mitigation or restoration process, this information is made available to agents and adjusters through the claims inventory system.

Are the Ducts in your Business Clean?

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that investing in regular air duct cleaning can reduce indoor allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander?  Air duct cleaning is vital to the cleanliness of the air you breathe in.

Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, inspecting the ductwork in your home or business should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors and contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

SERVPRO of Birmingham provides commercial and residential air duct cleaning that can improve the air quality in your home or business.

How often do you need your air ducts cleaned?

It is recommended to get your air ducts cleaned every three to five years.  However, if you have elderly family members, pets, allergies, or young children it may be beneficial to clean your air ducts more often.  If you see a lot of dust gathering on furniture just after cleaning, that could be one sign that your air ducts need cleaning.

Our Duct Cleaning Process

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which aromatically adapts to the shape and diameter of the duct while traveling through the duct, removing debris and dirt before vacuuming begins
• Next, powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfer the debris from the ducting to a collection bag.
• Air is then filtered through a HEPA filtration system removing 99.97 percent of particles in the air-stream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Always have a replacement filter on hand so that we may change them out at the time of service.

What to do before a thunderstorm!

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can be dangerous and not taken for granted. Every thunderstorm produces lightning and other hazardous weather conditions, which can include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash flooding.

In Birmingham, AL we tend to get a mix of heavy rain and dry thunderstorms. Below are great tips from the READY to help prepare you for what to do before, during, and after a thunderstorm.

What to do before a thunderstorm

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.
• Lightning Risk Reduction When Outdoors

SERVPRO of Birmingham urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a thunderstorm comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO of Birmingham will be here to help.

Cleaning Tips for Outside your Home

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

With Spring approaching, it’s time to check your home and see if the wintery cold caused any damage to your home or building. Signs of winter damage start to show themselves once the weather warms up and the surrounding environment starts to thaw. This article will help you get out of winter hibernation and back into barbeque season! Here is a quick maintenance checklist focusing on the exterior of your building.

1. Start at the Top (Inspect the Roof)

A healthy roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Ensuring it is sturdy and sealed is central to keeping your entire home efficient. Damage to your shingles, flashing, or any leaks can quickly trickle down and affect other areas of your home. When looking at your shingles look for curled edges, tears, or loose stones in your gutters, these are all signs of damage and could be a signal for replacement.

2. Check the Structure (Inspect the Foundation, Walls, Windows, and Doors)

Do a walk around of your home and check for cracks/holes in the foundation. as well as inspecting the exterior walls, siding, windows, and door. If you identify a foundation issue, contact a specialist to take a look. When inspecting the windows and doors, pay special attention to the caulking and weather stripping, issues in the seal are often harder to find than obvious holes or tears. 

3. Independent Structures (Garages, Sheds, Fences, etc)

Make sure the garage door is functioning properly and has a strong seal at the bottom. Sweep and vacuum dust, dirt, and debris around the doors. Also, make sure there is nothing that could fall off the ceiling and impede the doors from working properly. Look for signs of cracked or split fencing boards, especially near any gates, and ice can raise fence boards and make gates stick.

4. Spring Yard Cleanup

It is almost grass-cutting season! Before you get ready to use that lawnmower, make sure to change the oil, and get the blade sharpened. Now, head to your local hardware store to restock on supplies such as landscaping bags and grass seed. Don’t forget to pick up the tools you need to thatch, weed, and clean out your garden beds. Now that you are ready, fire up the BBQ, pull out the cooler and invite the family and friends.

What is Pack-out and Content Restoration?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you have ever wondered why SERVPRO, it's because we are the professional pack-out and content restoration company for your home or business.

When you have fire damage at your home or business, our team can properly catalog your belongings and perform what is called a “pack-out”.  Our technicians treat the items from your home or business with respect and empathy while ensuring your belongings are handled with care.

When you have fire damage at your home or business, our team can properly catalog your belongings and perform what is called “pack-out”.  Our technicians treat the items from your home or business with respect and empathy while ensuring your belongings are handled with care.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Birmingham can conduct an organized, efficient plan of action.  Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

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

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs.

Content Restoration

If your belongings are affected by fire damage, we can restore them with content restoration.  SERVPRO of Birmingham has the expertise and a "restore" versus "replace" mentality that can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that cannot be replaced.  Our team of professionals will pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to preloss condition.  We use several methods of cleaning your contents including:

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

Let SERVPRO of Birmingham be the professionals that will take care of you!

Protect Those Pipes!

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Almost one year after the historic freeze event paralyzed the south-central region of the United States and halted the flow in many communities.

Most of the country still remember the events of the freeze which proved to be the costliest weather event in history, surpassing even more claims than Hurricane Harvey. Nevertheless, our team wants to remind you and members of our household, or facility management team, of steps you can take to minimize your risk of pipes bursting due to below freezing temperatures.

1. Insulate pipes - Exposed pipes are most likely to freeze. The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be. Make sure to drain the water from outside faucets and insulate them from outside elements.

2. Let water drip - Simply maintaining a light trickle or steady stream of water in your faucets can go a long way in preventing water from freezing up in your pipes.

3. Steady thermostat  - Keeping a consistent temperature in your home or office puts less strain on the furnace. 

All we need to follow these tips is to reminisce on the events following the freeze of 2021. Rolling blackouts, homes completely destroyed due to burst pipes, and citizens stranded with no place to go to keep warm and stay safe. Our team is here, and we are Ready for whatever happens®. 

Let Us Help You Succeed This Year

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

New Year, New Plans.

At least that’s what most of us have in mind when the clock starts a new cycle into a new season. We can’t help but conjure up strategies to help better serve our customers, build our brand, and grow our business. As a business owner, we can imagine your plans are similar to ours. 

But what if the best way to accomplish your plans isn’t on your carefully thought-out to-do list?What if the best way to plan for success is actually to plan for disaster? This plan is called our Emergency Ready Profile. It is a unique and customized emergency plan to help you and your business in the event of a disaster. 

Prepping for your best year yet looks a lot like putting contingencies in place to prevent it from being derailed by forces out of our control. When we consider previous events such as historic freezes, never-ending rainstorms, tornadoes even, one thing is made clear: we cannot control the weather, but we can do our best to prepare for it. 

By utilizing our Emergency Ready Profile, business owners and facility managers will have a clear and refreshed perspective of their property. Conducting our walkthrough and gathering pertinent information regarding the structure allows responsible parties to remind themselves of points of improvement that could eventually lead to potential headaches down the road. Overall, it’s an excellent way to keep track of your facility to ensure nothing catches your team off guard.

So whether you’re planning on growing your business, or you’re in maintenance mode, the ideal time to prepare for a disaster is before one even happens. For more information contact your local SERVPRO of Birmingham representative and schedule your complimentary walkthrough. 

Electric Heater Safety

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

As winter begins to hit and temperature begins to drop, you may choose to buy a space heater for warm up your home, apartment, or work space. Space heaters are a good alternative if you do not want to turn up your thermostat to heat up your home. However, space heaters, if not used correctly, can cause fire damage to your property. Here are some tips that you can use to prevent any disaster caused by a space heater:

• Leave the heater on level floor, don’t place on carpet - it can overheat and start a fire.
• Do not use in bathroom, unless it is designed for it - moisture can damage the heater.
• Keep three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.
• Should always be plugged directly into wall outlet, don’t use with extension cord because it can cause overheating.
• Don’t leave heater unattended, make sure to unplug when not in use.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor.

If you run into any issues with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Birmingham.

Mold, Mold, Go Away... Come Again, Never.

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

We have all experienced food going bad at some point and mold growing on foods that we have not touched in a long time. However, how can we prevent food from going moldy? Buying small amounts and using food quickly is probably the best way to prevent mold growth in food. However, there are other practices that you can implement to prevent mold growth in food. 

• Examine food well before you buy it. Check food in glass jars, look at the stem areas on fresh produce, and avoid bruised produce.
• Fresh meat and poultry are usually mold free, but cured and cooked eats might not be. Examine them carefully.
• When serving food, keep it covered to prevent exposure. Use plastic wrap to cover foods you want to stay moist.
• Empty opened cans of perishable foods into clean storage containers and refrigerate them.
• Be mindful of how long an item can stay in the fridge.

• Clean the inside of the refrigerator every few months with one tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water. Rinse with clear water and dry. If you do run into mold, scrub the visible mold (usually black) on rubber casings using three teaspoons of bleach in a quart of water.
• Keep towels, sponges, and mops clean and fresh. A musty smell means they are spreading mold around. Discard them if you cannot use them.

Fixing Busted Pipes

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

As the cold weather is starting arrive in Birmingham, you may experience bursting pipes. You may inspect your commercial property on a regular basis, but sometimes bursting pipes still occur. If you experience water damage, as the result of a damaged pipe, time is of the essence. You want to get it fixed quickly so that you can avoid as much damage as possible. Here is a timeline of how that may go.

Expert Location
As soon as you notice there is a problem, you may want to call water mitigation experts to fix the broken pipe. The representative who answers the phone will likely ask you a few questions to determine what kind of problem you have.

• Where is the pipe located?
• How big is the damaged area?
• How long has it been leaking?
• How fast is it leaking?
• Have you turned off the water and power to the area?

Make sure before you call know these answers or we can guide you through it. If you want to be extra prepared for the cold season, contact your Marketing Rep and have them conduct an ERP, that way you know 100% how to turn off your water at your commercial property.

Damage Assessment
Bursting pipes are as critical as they sound. Water is likely spewing in all directions, soaking everything in its path. Once the technicians arrive, they will assess the damage this has caused and be able to devise a plan.

Water Extraction
If your preliminary report over the phone was accurate, it will likely match the professional assessment pretty closely. This means the technicians can get right to the water extraction. They pump the water out to halt its potential to cause secondary damage.

Surface Drying
It's not enough to just remove the standing water. Everything has to be dried, or your building is likely to develop a mold problem. This is particularly probable if the leak has significantly raised the humidity of the area.

All of these things ideally happen within the first 24 hours. Mold can start to grow in as little as a day, so you are probably rushing the clock to get everything dry again. The sooner you call the problem with your bursting pipes in and get the repair process started, the better chance you have of avoiding secondary damage.

If you do experience a pipe bursting, call SERVPRO. 

7 Reasons To Replace Polybutylene Pipes

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

If you have polybutylene pipes in your business, you are going to want to replace them. Even if they seem to be in good condition, there are still plenty of reasons to go with newer materials. Here are a few of those reasons:

1. Damage
If a polybutylene pipe breaks in your wall, you are going to experience a lot of damage Even small leaks from this type of pipe can cause damage to your flooring, walls, HVAC units, equipment, and furniture.

2. Mold
Everyone knows about the danger of asbestos in old buildings. Roofing, siding, insulation, ceilings, flooring, and structures themselves all contain this toxic material. However, mold is also a danger you have to worry about. If your building has polybutylene pipes that leak, you could wind up with mold growing in your floors, walls, and HVAC units.

3. Exterior Pipe Breaks
If a pipe breaks outside of your business, dirt under your parking lot, sidewalk, and walkways can be washed away. This can lead to cracks and be a hazard for customers and employees.

4. Utility Bills
Even the smallest leaks can cause big problems with your bills. This is especially true as the leaks worsen, and your water bill rises.

5. Water Pressure
These pipes are small and require low water pressure to avoid leaks and bursts. When you replace them, you will be able to utilize the full water pressure that you need.

6. Hot Water
When you get new plumbing installed, you won't have to worry about hot water problems anymore. This is especially great news if there are many employees in your business or you need a lot of hot water.

7. Peace of Mind
Having these pipes can leave you worrying about the safety of your building. Replacing these outdated pipes will give you peace of mind and let you know your building is safe. There are many reasons you should consider replacing these pipes in your business. In particular, it can save you from having extensive water damage that requires a remediation company to fix.

Common Causes of Fire..

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Do you and your family know the common causes of fires?

 Here are a few common causes to look out for: 

• Cooking
• 48% of all fires are caused by cooking.
• Remember to turn off source of heat.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Heating
• Do not put anything close to the heater.
• Follow guidelines on how the heater can run.
• Electrical Fires
• Make sure fireplaces and lighting are up to code and are safe.
• Ensure alarms are replaced
• Smoking
• Never lay cigarettes, cigars, etc., down and forget about them.
• Smoke outside to avoid any potential fires related to dropping or forgetting about the item.
• Candles
• Never leave a candle unattended.
• All materials should remain 12 inches away from all candles.

These are just some tips in order to prevent fires. SERVPRO at Birmingham keeps your safety a priority and we hope you and family values that as well. Other things to have in place is a route for you and your family if there ever was a fire. Also, everyone in your family should know the route and plan in place. IF there is a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of Birmingham.

Halloween Tips

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, symbols of Halloween and activities while fun can also present fire risks that have the potential to become really scary. Halloween decorations are the first thing to ignite in over 1,000 reported home fires each year. Whether you are trick or treating, throwing a party, or staying inside, decorations can be a lurking fire risk and it is important to be aware.  Planning ahead, you can help make this Halloween a fire-safe one. Here are five Halloween fire safety tips:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
• When choosing costumes, stay away from the long trailing fabric.
• Teach young children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
• Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially cornstalks, dried flowers, and crepe paper.
• Provide young children with glow sticks or flashlights to carry with their costumes.
• Remember to keep all exits clear of decorations so escape routes are not blocked. Also, make sure all smoke alarms are working properly.

What to do After a Fire?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Have you had a fire in your home?  "Devastating" is an understatement when experiencing the chaos of a fire in your home. Not only is it difficult to deal with the loss, but the clean-up can be, too. If it is a small isolated fire, getting the area cleaned and repaired should be a priority!  The first thing to consider is the ash and smoke damage. These can lead to corrosion, unpleasant odor, and discoloration. Getting ash and smoke cleaned up immediately will prevent any of these from leading to an even larger problem.    Take immediate action by following these steps if you find yourself handling the aftermath of a house fire:  1. Contact your insurance company. 2. Contact your local fire restoration company. 3. Take photographs of the damage. 4. Keep a record of all conversations with your insurance company. 5. Make a list of everything you lost or that was destroyed. 6. Find a place to stay while your restoration company cleans up your property. While a house fire is a difficult experience, it helps to have a game plan in place. So remember these steps for the next time you or someone you know is handling the aftermath of a house fire, and call SERVPRO® of Birmingham.

Know The Risks & Prepare For Them.

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

The Birmingham area receives tornadoes, hurricanes and an immense amounts of rain each year. It is said that 30% of Americans make little to no preparations for a hurricane. And since, this month is National Preparedness Month and September is the most common month for hurricanes to make landfall, here at SERVPRO of Birmingham we thought we would go over what kind of damage hurricanes can bring. Hurricanes can produce:

• High Winds (155+ mph)
• Tornadoes & Microbursts
• Flying Debris
• Heavy Rainfall
• Flooding
• Strom Surges
• and more..

 Here are some ways to prepare your home before a hurricane or any natural disaster comes:

• Keep your emergency kit ready and easily accessible.

Keep at least several days of food and supplies in your emergency kit and have many available throughout your home, car and workplace, because you never know when disaster will strike.

• Prepare for any power outages.

One of the most dangerous things about hurricanes is the aftermath of the hurricane. Sometimes, residents can be without power for weeks on end. Having a generator to keep food available to you and your family can make a huge difference.

• Keep up with your trees.

Many people does not think about our much damage a tree could cause to a roof. However in order to prevent damage to your roof, water leaks, and flooding. Dead trees need to be cut down and long branches that are touching the roof need to be cut. Doing this will reduce the probability of pieces of your roof coming and water coming through.

• Verify insurance coverage.

The last thing anyone wants to do after a hurricane has caused damage to your home, is finding out insurance doesn't cover the damage. Make sure the you have adequate insurance protection. Check also about if your insurance covers if any flooding happens. Put a plan in place.The last and most important preparation you and your family should make is putting a plan in place for whenever a natural disaster does occur. Each family should know where to go and where the emergency kit is. 

SERVPRO urges each and every one of you to PREPARE before a natural disaster comes. And whenever they do come, SERVPRO will be here to help.

Does you and your family have an emergency storm kit?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Alabama is no stranger to severe storms that cause power outages, flooding, and severe damage. Therefore not having an emergency storm kit that has at least several days of supplies in it, can cause some serious issues whenever the Birmingham area does have a major storm come through. As the second week of National Preparedness Month wraps up, SERVPRO of Birmingham wanted to address putting together an emergency kit.

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. Here are a few items to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching.

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Emergency food and water
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

• Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
• Replace expired items as needed.
• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.

• Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
• Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

 These are just a few examples of what an emergency kit should contain. Residents can add whatever else they may need. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the home or office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources they can be easier to deal with.

SERVPRO of Birmingham wants to make sure the surrounding Birmingham Areas are prepared!

National Preparedness Month

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

September marks the beginning of National Preparedness Month as well as the month that historically sees the most named storms. The Gulf Coast is especially vulnerable to hurricanes and other disasters leading multiple goodwill and restoration personnel to prepare to make their way to provide help for those in need. 

Among those making their way south west, SERVPRO crews are also assembling to assist in restoration efforts following these disastrous events.

Our Disaster Response Team has traveled all throughout parts of the United States to assist various businesses and commercial properties in getting back on their feet following storm events. These properties range from manufacturing plants to child daycare facilities; industries where quick production time is necessary to ensure business continuity. 

In events such as storms, hurricanes, and large scale disasters, our designated Disaster Response Team has the capacity to scale up or down depending on the magnitude of the event. Large scale disasters such as the Texas/Oklahoma Freeze of 2021 required the presence of our team of over 100 technicians and experienced project managers to have boots on the ground for months at a time. 

Our team has walked through multiple commercial buildings, met with various facility managers to assess the needs of their properties, and assembled and dispatched crews to begin the restoration and eventual reconstruction of these buildings. In large-scale events such as the freeze or Hurricane Ida, readiness is of the utmost importance and our team always proves that they are “Ready for whatever happens.” 

Not only in our hometown of Birmingham, but wherever the winds may blow: we are always Ready to Restore. 

Into The "Ida" of The Storm

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Ida has came and gone and left major damage. Therefore here at SERVPRO of Birmingham, we want you to be prepared in the event you may experience a storm similar to this one. Storms often cause flooding which may cause a lot of damage to your home or office. 

First thing is first: 

Know the Difference Flood/Flash Flood Watch—Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. Flood/Flash Flood Warning—Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

What to do:

• Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).-
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.-
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.-
• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
• If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
• Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
• Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. 

Lastly if you experience flooding or damage to your home, call us at SERVPRO.

Various Storm Damage

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storm season brings a wide range of storm types.

Anyone of these storm types could easily cause damage to your home or business. It is important to know the different damages that a storm can cause and also be prepared for wind, flooding and lighting that can cause to your home. 

Wind Damage  

Storm damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof due to strong winds that may loosen flashing. This can cause your roof shingles to be removed from your home or business causing leaks. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions. One of our restoration experts can help property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively. 

Flooding Damage 

Heavy rains can cause river flooding all around the Dallas/Fort Worth areas. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems which call for experts to assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Our team can assist in your cleanup process after flood damage has occurred. 

Lighting Damage 

When a storm occurs, many times it brings the loud sounds of thunder which mean lighting is striking. Your home or business may have objects attached to the building that can attract a lightning strike that can cause a fire. A bolt of lightning can reach temperatures of roughly 30,000 kelvins (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightning strikes, or discharges of massive charges of static electricity, cause about 2% of all fires.

Beware of Batteries

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Technology turning against humans almost sounds like a 2000s horror movie. Unfortunately, that was the reality of a local family when their tech-savvy toys decided to spontaneously combust while charging. 

As this family’s toys started charging up for a fun time, what they got was something else entirely. As the batteries began to combust, the living room quickly caught on fire and the flames began to spread throughout the entire first level. 

How could this have happened? 

The lithium-ion batteries used on the hoverboards, although small, store a lot of power. These batteries are also prone to overheating, which can unfortunately cause explosions; and as this family quickly learned — explosions big enough to set an entire house on fire. What seemed to be a fun time, ended up turning into a homeowner’s nightmare.

Thankfully, the fire was put out in less than 5 minutes after it started, but before the fire department arrived. Those 5 minutes however, caused extensive damage.

Once the fire got going, it moved into their newly renovated, all-white kitchen with custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. Though the flames didn’t directly affect the hardware, the soot and smoke from the fire settled into the crevices of the heart of the home. If not addressed immediately, the soot could cause rust and the deterioration of the appliances and potentially cause them to lose their sparkle. 

As you can tell by now, one small spark can set a house ablaze. The focus of attention now is what to do after the fire has been put out? Do what this family did: call SERVPRO of Birmingham. Not only are our technicians restoring the fire and water damage, but our reconstruction team is also gearing up to ensure their house is back to feeling like home.

Leaky Roof?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Birmingham has you covered! 

We have experience flash flooding from excessive rains this year all over Birmingham, actually we just experienced this last night. Due to the flooding, there have been many homes experiencing basement flooding damage. With further inspection, some homeowners have found slab leaks (roof leaks) that were not noticed before the heavy rains. If you find any roof leaks, call SERVPRO® of Birmingham to help extract the water and treat your home to prevent conditions favorable to microbial growth.

We always respond to your call within one hour, begin the water extraction process within four hours, and notify the adjuster within eight hours from the time of your loss. 

Water damage must be handled quickly and properly to prevent severe damage to your home. Calling us as soon as you see the leaks will prevent the problems from worsening. SERVPRO® of Birmingham has you covered!

Do you know what is in your water?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Birmingham is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

Is Your Business Disaster Ready?

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

Sure, you may have your shelves stocked and your labels printed with restock orders on the way. But do you have a plan in place for when the unexpected happens and you’re stuck with picking up the pieces?

Disasters are a natural part of life here in Birmingham. When you take into account the year, or better yet, the decade, we’ve had so far, it would be wise to consider how your business may be affected when these disasters strike. Whether it’s an unprecedented pandemic, a historic freeze that forced the whole south central region of the United States to come to a screeching halt, or your average thunder, lightning, and hail storms that seem to make a weekly appearance. In this region, anything can happen. 

You may know SERVPRO of Birmingham as your go-to disaster restoration company, which we are. But do you also know that we specialize in helping your business get disaster ready as well? One of the ways we enjoy serving our community partners is by creating Emergency Ready Profiles, or ERPs, for their commercial properties. 

When our dedicated, local SERVPRO Representatives meet with local business owners and facility managers, we gather important materials such as building information, utility shut off locations, and key contacts. Not only is this information important as it pertains to the daily tasks of a facility manager, but it’s also pertinent in the event of an emergency or disaster when time is of the essence. 

One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your essential property information in one place. In addition to keeping such relevant information organized, your local SERVPRO representative will contact you periodically to update any changes to your profile. 

Becoming disaster-ready is a process and our team is eager to help you get started! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens", just like SERVPRO. 

Indoor Flooding

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure it doesn’t spring a leak.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 

If you find flooding inside your home, call us and we will be there to help.

Fire Pit Tips

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

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

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

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

Red, White and Barbecue

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

One of the main ways The Fourth of July is celebrated in America is through fireworks and grilling. Every year thousands are injured by unsafely handling grills. Here at SERVPRO of Birmingham we care about fun and safety: therefore, we are giving you a few do's and don'ts when grilling, that way you can stay safe and grill your favorite meal at the same time.

What TO DO when grilling:

• Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house.
• Clean your grill regularly, this will decrease the amount of fuel the grill would have if there was ever a fire.
• Check for gas leaks.
• Keep decorations like umbrellas or plants away from your grill.
• Keep a bottle of water near your grill just in case it is ever needed.

What NOT To Do when grilling:

• Don't turn the gas on when the lid is closed: this causes gas to build up.
• Never leave a grill unattended.
• Overload the grill with food.
• Never use a grill indoors.

Reminders:

1. Do not panic if an emergency occurs, instead call SERVPRO.
2. Keep safety always at the forefront of your mind.

 Why SERVPRO?

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

Have You Considered a Career at SERVPRO of Birmingham?

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

In today’s job market, job seekers are no longer looking for a place where they’ll make a paycheck, they are searching for a place where they’ll make a difference. At SERVPRO of Birmingham, our team members do just that on a daily basis. Not matter which role you play in our organization, whether its at the front desk taking calls or on the front lines extracting water, you can be certain that you are fulfilling duties that go beyond 

Coupled with a family-oriented culture and a standard of excellence in all we do, not only do our team members feel right at home, but they also end the day knowing that the work they deliver is among the best in the industry.

At SERVPRO, positions are always available for the right individuals who wish to join us in our vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. Not only is it our mission to develop a team of quality people who focus on fairness, excellence, and mutual respect, but we are also creating opportunities for our team members to grow within the organization. We desire to see you succeed! 

So no matter which role you play in our organization, whether its at the front desk taking calls or on the front lines extracting water, you can be certain that you are fulfilling duties that go beyond administrative tasks or heavy lifting, you are helping us restore hope and normalcy to the lives and daily routines of some of the most vulnerable and even traumatized members of our communities. 

If you’re looking for a place where you will make a difference in the lives you touch and have the opportunity to grow and develop your skills, a career at SERVPRO of Birmingham may be a great fit for you!

To apply, visit our website for open positions or send your resume to leo@SERVPROofbirmingham.com

TAKE PROPER PRECAUTIONS BEFORE LIGHTING FIREWORKS!

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

As Memorial Day and the 4th of July approach, make sure you and your family are aware of firework safety! We want the holidays for you and your family to be just as they were meant to be, FUN! Often times, though people handle fireworks in an unsafe manner. 

I am sure everyone has seen the viral video, "Back up Terry." In this video a man in a wheelchair lights a firework and there is a malfunction with his wheelchair. He can't get away from the firework fast enough, and the fireworks start going off right next to him. And yes, although we thought this video was funny, we need to realize that this could have ended entirely different and Terry could have been badly injured. 

DID YOU KNOW?

During the holiday months, on average 180 people a day go to the hospital for firework related injuries. We encourage you here at SERVPRO of Birmingham to: 

BE PREPARED!

• Store fireworks away from children
• Always read the labels and follow directions
• Keep small children and pets indoors: they are easily frightened
• Always have water near, in case of an incident

BE RESPONSIBLE!

• Soak used fireworks in a bucket of water afterwards
• Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly
• Never re-light "dud" fireworks
• Never keep fireworks in your pockets: the friction could set them off

BE SAFE!

• An adult should always be the one lighting the fireworks
• Keep matches & lighters away from children
• Use fireworks outdoors only
• Do not throw fireworks or hold them in your hand
• Don't be like "Terry", light firework and move away quickly

BE AWARE!

• Use only legal fireworks
• Make sure you are able to set off fireworks (every state is different)
• Fireworks are prohibited on all state parks, and state or federal forest land
• The National Fire Protection Association estimates that the local fire department responds to more than 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year. THEREFORE, DO NOT point fireworks toward homes and keep away from bushes, leaves, and flammable substances.

IF YOU ENCOUNTER A FIRE, SERVPRO CAN HELP!

Hurricane Season...

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

As we get ready to enter into hurricane season, we want to make sure our community is well prepared and informed of what to do in case the storms get way out of hand. To ensure you and your loved ones are safe during this upcoming storm season, read along for these tips on what to do to be storm safe:

1. Know Your Risks: One the most important things you can do is understand how susceptible your area is to hurricane weather. Being informed pf the likelihood of how a hurricane can affect your area by keeping up to date with weather announcement and local and governments 
2. Build an Emergency Kit: This one sounds simple, but it is often overlooked. Keeping an emergency kit that is stocked with water, canned foods, non perishables, and comfort items such as blankets and toys could be the difference between a disaster and an inconvenience. 
3. Review And Gather Documents: Review your policies ahead of time to see what is covered and if flood insurance is available to you. Gather important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, birth certificates, deeds, or even sentimental documents and keep them in a fireproof and waterproof safe. 
4. Be Informed: Knowing where to go and who to call is key to staying safe. Having an evacuation plan in place in the event of a disaster ensure members of your household know what to do in case home isn’t the safest place to be. Have a planned route and an alternate route to get to a safe place away from the storm.
5. Strengthen Your Home: Taking a look around your property to see if you are vulnerable in the event of a hurricane is a key factor in minimizing your risk of damage. By looking for vulnerable areas, you’ll be able to address them and fortify and susceptible areas around the home or property.

Implementing these tips will help you face this hurricane season and minimize the risk of your property being a victim of the elements. Keep SERVPRO of Birmingham in mind for all your storm damage restoration needs. 

Commercial Cleaning Tips

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Spring  & Summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deeper cleaning projects.  Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well.  The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria & messes start to grow.  A good cleaning helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment; additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning cleaning:   

OUTSIDE

• Windows

• Landscaping

• AC/HVAC

• Pest Maintenance

INSIDE

• Dusting

• Flooring/Carpets

• Reorganization

Sewer Line Issues

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Blocked sewer drain is relatively common in commercial properties!!

Odors:

Clogged Drains :

Indentations in Landscaping:

Deformations in Landscaping:

• Properly dispose of grease.

• Properly dispose of paper products.

EXPECTATIONS OF SERVPRO..

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

What should be expected when you contact us?

Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting SERVPRO of Birmingham: 

DO YOU HAVE AN ERP?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

An ERP is an Emergency Ready Program. As a business owner you always want to make sure you have an action plan if ever an emergency occurs. If there was a flood, major leak or a tornado, as a commercial property you would want contacts and action plan close by. We couldn't imagine the amount of stress whenever something like that ever occurred! SERVPRO® of Birmingham wants to ease that stress and we realize that you might not think about the unexpected things that may happen, therefore we have implemented the ERP program. 

What is the Emergency Ready Program?

• As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research.
• Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.
• By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Why Implement the Emergency Ready Program?

• The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage is of no-cost assessment to 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.
• It will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• An ERP can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes SERVPRO® of Birmingham as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

DON'T HAVE AN ERP? CALL US! (205) 664-6770!

SERVPRO of Birmingham is IICRC Certified

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

About SERVPRO of Birmingham

What Happens If You Discover Mold?

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

DID YOU KNOW?

• Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, and anywhere there has been flooding.
• Whenever mold drops on anything that has excessive moisture, it will grow. Check basements and places that hold a lot of moisture in your home, often to ensure no mold is present.

Here are some tips if you discover mold within your home or around your home.

What to Do:

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

What Not to Do:

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

If you and your family have found mold growing in or around your home, the best decision to make is to call SERVPRO in order to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. SERVPRO has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment to handle your mold problem. Mold, like mentioned above, can cause numerous health effects and cause damage to your home.

Call SERVPRO (205) 664-6770

1. Assessment:

Your property will be carefully inspected using technology that can detect mold.

2.  Containment

Then, containing the mold will be the top priority, in order for it not to spread any further.

3. Air Filtration

Specialized equipment captures any mold that remains in the air.

4. Removing

Any mold growth, is removed using anti-fungal treatments.

5. Cleaning & Restoration 

SERVPRO cleans all furniture, clothing, walls, etc. with chemicals to ensure the mold will not return. Lastly, if anything in your home needs restored SERVPRO will repair those items.

Surviving the Flood...

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

We live in a world where mother nature has a mind of her own at times, and natural disaster can strike at anytime and can ruin the "normalcy" of the life we once had. The nice furniture, flooring, and decor that once occupied our home, now washed away by water. Whether the flooding that has occurred in your home was because of a pipe bursting, a sewer backup, faulty appliance, a heavy rain or even rising floodwaters, there are important steps you should take in order to keep you and your family safe. 

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

You and your family may not even be thinking about flooding, but rather tornado damage or hurricane damage. But with any severe storm or rain there is always a chance of flooding. And even appliances can cause flooding. Here at SERVPRO® of Birmingham we want you to be as prepared and safe as possible, therefore we put together some do and don'ts to put into practice after you have encountered flooding within your home.

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

 Reminders:

1. Do not panic, take a breath and understand that although today feels like the worst day ever. Things WILL get better.
2. Keep safety always at the forefront of your mind (stop the water source, shut all electricity off, etc.)
3. Call SERVPRO in order to get things clean, dry and back to beautiful as quickly as possible.

 Why SERVPRO?

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

Preparing For Severe Storms

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Expecting a tornado or other major storm? Knowing the right steps to take BEFORE a major storm comes can protect you, your family, and your property. Storms can be challenging all by themselves, do not let your lack of preparation add onto these already challenging times. SERVPRO of Birmingham wants to ease the burden and inform you of several steps you can take to stay safe.

Make a Plan of Action

When a major storm threatens your community, you want to be able to evacuate if need be. In order to do this in a safe and timely manner you must have an action plan in place.

• Ensure everyone in the family is aware of this plan
• Be aware of evacuation routes
• If a tornado comes, know where you and your family will take cover
• Plan for any animals you may have as well

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Having the necessary equipment and food for whenever a power outage may occur is a great step you can take in order to stay safe during a storm. Some important items for an Emergency Kit are:

• First-Aid Kit
• Food & Water
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered radio

Stay Informed During the Storm

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

If After the Storm, Damage Has Occurred Contact A Professional

Disaster can strike anytime and SERVPRO® of Birmingham is here to help. We are open 24/7 and work to respond quickly to calls to minimize damage, and, in turn, the costs of cleanup and restoration. When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We are part of this community too and we take pride in being a part of Birmingham and want to do our part in making it the best it can be! 

Prolonging Your Life & The Life of Your Carpet

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Whether you have been living in an apartment complex for 6 months or a two-story house for 10 years, everyone needs to be mindful of when they last had their carpet professionally cleaned. We realize that there are things around the house that are tossed aside and forgotten about, however maintaining clean carpets should not be one of them. Here at SERVPRO® of Birmingham we understand life happens, like when your child spills a drink all over the carpet or the dog mistakes the carpet, for the grass outside. We get it, but we only want what's best for you and your health. 

Why Does My Carpet Need to be Professionally Cleaned? 

Many people have been exactly where you are now, thinking "I wipe up all spills and vacuum often, I am good to go." That simply is just not the case. And frankly this alone isn't good enough. It may not be evident to the naked eye, but carpets can house all sorts of dirt, bacteria, and allergens that can be harmful to your health. Carpets that are not well maintained can hold dust mites, molds, pet hair, dead skin cells, insect feces, and other particles deep-seated in their fibers. Below are three possible problems that can be the result of carpets that are not well-maintained.

Danger #1: Weak Immune System

• Everyday our bodies fight to keep us healthy and strong. However, living in an unclean environment, leads to being exposed to harmful bacteria, which can cause you to be more susceptible to diseases.
• Getting out carpets professionally cleaned helps to remove dust mites, bacteria and other allergens, which ultimately helps your family breathe easier and reduces the risk of colds and other health problems. As strange as it may sound, dirty carpet can negatively impact the airflow in your home.

Danger #2: Reduces the Life Span of the Carpet

• Not professionally cleaning your carpet allows for dirt to stay embedded inside the fibers of the carpet. Which ultimately will lead to the fibers breaking and wearing down.
• Regular vacuuming will keep your carpet looking good and prevent debris and dirt from embedding into the fibers.
• Keeping your vacuum in good shape will help keep your carpet in good shape. A vacuum that is half full will be much less effective than an empty one. Be sure to keep it cleaned out and keep up on the maintenance with it as well.

Danger #3: Odor in Carpet                                                         

• Professional cleaning companies can use top notch chemicals, to get out odors that regular vacuums or cleaners just simply cannot get out. A couple of these odors are dog urine and cigarette smoke. These odors almost always take a professional crew to come in and get rid of.

Do Not Worry! SERVPRO Can Help!

If you are unsatisfied with your carpet SERVPRO® of Birmingham is here to help. We are open 24/7 and work to respond quickly to calls.  We care about your health and safety. 

Trust SERVPROXIDE™ to Disinfect Your Commercial Space

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

One of our products SERVPROXIDE™ is our proprietary hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. It is a stabilized chlorine dioxide-based antimicrobial which carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating. The product itself doesn’t carry any fragrances other than a mild cleaning odor which dissipates quickly making it a great product for people with chemical or odor sensitivities.

There are many different applications for SERVPROXIDE™. It can eliminate odors through disinfecting and oxidation rather than just covering them up. That can be done by applying the product directly with towels or through misting or spraying which is often used when we clean HVAC systems. It has even been utilized in electrostatic spraying for an even application on surfaces inside buildings. 

In fact, SERVPROXIDE™ is the disinfectant we have used when we have been asked to clean and disinfect COVID-19 in homes and businesses here in Birmingham and throughout Jefferson/Shelby Counties.

The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar types of organisms to COVID-19 and SERVPROXIDE™ has EPA-approved claims against things like Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, staphylococcus, E.coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, and Swine flu. 

When you use SERVPRO of Birmingham, you can have rest at ease knowing that our team is using hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. Our chemists are even able to advise us in unorthodox situations to utilize our suite of cleaning products to clean and deodorize even the strongest and strangest combination of smells and soils.

What To Do After Your Pipes Burst

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

With the temperatures quickly rising and the hot summer season headed straight towards us, our natural inclination is to turn up the A/C indoors and head to the pool each chance we get. 

However, just because the risk for frozen pipes has passed, the risk of water damage still poses a threat even during the summer months. 

The extended use of air conditioning units, if not properly maintained, can cause drainage issues. To avoid this, make sure to change your air filter regularly. Regular inspections and cleanings are also important to prevent and stop any issues in your unit from worsening. One thing to keep an eye on is the drainage pan. Check to make sure water isn’t leaking and accumulating in the pan. Especially in the hotter weather; mold, mildew, and fungus can easily grow and spread. 

Another thing that keeps in mind is the potential for pipes to burst. Although burst pipes are more common during the colder months, hot summer weather can still cause this headache for a home or property owner. A good rule of thumb is to notice whenever there is a change in your water pressure. While it could be simply just an irritation, it could also be a sign that something bigger is on the verge of happened. This could be a result of corrosion build-up which leads to leaks and eventually, water getting into your home or office. 

The risk for pipes bursting doesn’t stop there. If you notice cracks appearing on the walls, especially around the corner, it’d be safe to assume there have been changes in your foundation. An easy solution, however, is to consistently water the soil and even place plants around the perimeter of the foundation. The plant helps moderate the temperature of the soil and can also serve to hold the ground together with its roots.

Don't Let Water Ruin Your Summer Fun!

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

With the temperatures quickly rising and the hot summer season headed straight towards us, our
the natural inclination is to turn up the A/C indoors!

However, the risk of water damage still poses
a threat even during the summer months.

The extended use of air conditioning units, if not properly maintained, can cause drainage issues. To avoid this, make sure to change your air filter regularly. Regular inspections and cleanings are also important to prevent and stop any issues in your unit from worsening. One thing to keep an eye on is the drainage pan. Check to make sure water isn’t leaking and accumulating in the pan. Especially in the hotter weather; mold, mildew, and fungus can easily grow and spread.

Another thing that keeps in mind is the potential for pipes to burst. Although burst pipes are more
common during the colder months, hot summer weather can still cause this headache for a home
or property owner. A good rule of thumb is to notice whenever there is a change in your water pressure. While it could be simply just an irritation, it could also be a sign that something bigger is on the verge of happening. This could be a result of corrosion build-up which leads to leaks and eventually, water getting into your home or office.

The risk for pipes bursting doesn’t stop there. If you notice cracks appearing on the walls, especially around the corner, it’d be safe to assume there have been changes in your foundation. An easy solution, however, is to consistently water the soil and even place plants around the perimeter of the foundation. The plants help moderate the temperature of the soil and can also serve to hold the ground together with their roots.

The last thing any home or property owner wants to deal with is water damage, no matter the
weather!

Fire Pit Safety Tips

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Warmer temperatures and longer days are finally upon us!

1. Clear all flammable materials away from your fire pit. Make sure it’s kept 10 feet away from the home or building. 
2. Pile dirt or rocks to keep the fire on the ground from escaping 
3. Before lighting your fire, check the wind direction. If it’s too windy, do not light your fire pit as the wind can cause the flames to travel.
4. Contrary to popular belief, lighting fluid is not safe for lighting a fire pit. Use a commercial fire starter kick with kindling on top. 
5. Once the fire pit is lit, never leave it unattended and never leave children or pets near the fire pit without adult supervision.
6. Avoid  softwoods like pine or cedar to prevent flying sparks and flame “pops”, 
7. Only put enough fuel to keep the fire burning gently to prevent flare-ups and uncontrollable flames. 
8. To extinguish the flames, use water to drown out the fire and stir it with a shovel to make sure it’s fully extinguished. Use the shovel to extinguish any escaped flames as well
9. Dispose of the ashes in a metal can use only for fire pit ash storage. Careful, even after a few days the ashes are still hot enough to cause a fire. 
10. Accidents happen, even with the correct preventative measures taken. Having a fire extinguisher nearby can greatly reduce the risk of the fire getting out of control. 

Dealing with Storm Damage to Your Property

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can lead to a multitude of damage to your home or business.

SERVPRO of Birmingham Sends Help to North Texas

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

As a major Winter Storm Warning went into effect early Valentine’s Day weekend, North Texas settled in for what was expected to be a long and cold week of record-breaking temperatures. With almost 2 million residents losing power and multiple businesses closed due to dangerous road conditions, the White House had officially declared a state of emergency over Texas. Rolling blackouts and empty grocery stores cast an eerie, almost apocalyptic spell over the usually warm and sunny climate the state is known for. Amidst unprecedented times, Winter Storm Uri was as singular in its effects as it was harsh in its weather. Our crews from SERVPRO of Birmingham responded to the Storm call to help home and property managers regarding water damages caused by burst pipes. Our trained technicians have slushed through several inches of water to find collapsed ceilings, ruined furniture, and buckled flooring that has forced residents into the homes of friends and neighbors. Though this event was uncommon, this is what we have been trained for. This is what sets SERVPRO apart — when you call us, you get access to over 1700 franchisees who are ready to respond to disasters at this scale. Winter Storm Uri was unprecedented and unlike anything we could have expected, it has also revealed the depth of commitment and strength that flows through the SERVPRO system. There’s a reason why tens of thousands of people have called us to restore the damage from their homes and businesses: because we show up.

SERVPRO is One Team

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

When the south-central region of the United States endured below-freezing temperatures for multiple consecutive days, they turned to one brand to help restore their homes and businesses that were affected by burst pipes and water damage: SERVPRO. As the temperatures dropped, the number of customers affected by flooding caused burst pipes to quickly increase. By the end of the week, tens of thousands of home and business owners were calling SERVPRO to mitigate the damage. There’s a reason why during the most historic cold snap in 70 years, residents of the south-central and southwestern part of the United States called SERVPRO. In fact, there are about 1700. These 1700 reasons show up in the form of franchises and crews that have left their home states, some for extended periods of time, to travel with their equipment and assist local franchises in the restoration of these homes and businesses that suffered water damage. The amazing thing about choosing SERVPRO of Birmingham is that our customers don’t just get access to one restoration company, but they partner with a trusted name in the restoration industry that has access to a network of franchises that are willing to come and assist in historic events such as the one we as a region experienced in February of 2021. So no matter if it’s hurricanes or freezes, SERVPRO is always ready to unite forces to help a region restore its communities, living true to the tagline: One Team.

SERVPROXIDE Disinfects and Sanitizes!

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

One of our products SERVPROXIDE^TM is our proprietary hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. It is a stabilized chlorine dioxide-based antimicrobial which carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating. The product itself doesn’t carry any fragrances other than a mild cleaning odor which dissipates quickly making it a great product for people with chemical or odor sensitivities. There are many different applications for SERVPROXIDE^TM. It can eliminate odors through disinfecting and oxidation rather than just covering them up. That can be done by applying the product directly with towels or through misting or spraying which is often used when we clean HVAC systems. It has even been utilized in electrostatic spraying for an even application on surfaces inside buildings. In fact, SERVPROXIDE^TM is the disinfectant we have used when we have been asked to clean and disinfect COVID-19 in homes and businesses here in Wichita. The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar types of organisms to COVID-19 and SERVPROXIDE has EPA-approved claims against things like Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, staphylococcus, E.coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, and Swine flu. When you use SERVPRO, you can have rest at ease knowing that our team is using hospital-grade disinfectant registered with the EPA. Our chemists are even able to advise us in unorthodox situations to utilize our suite of cleaning products to clean and deodorize even the strongest and strangest combination of smells and soils.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Let us give you 5 Reasons...

24-Hour Emergency Service

Certification and Experience

Advanced Technology

Locally Owned and Operated

Familiar with Insurance Requirements

Here to Give You Peace

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Birmingham has been serving the Jefferson and Shelby County areas since 1999. Our team understands what it means to be a small business and how to effectively serve our community.  Our team also understands that even the briefest of business closings can have catastrophic consequences for both businesses and their employees. Because of this, know that SERVPRO of Birmingham works to get your business back up and running as soon as possible so that you and continue running operations as normal. Should your business be affected by Covid-19, our team is Here to Help!  We have been providing our proprietary Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned cleaning protocol in and around the Jefferson and Shelby County areas as businesses, schools, and churches that have had exposure to Covid-19.  These responsible business owners and managers reached out to us, had their facilities cleaned, and were able to display the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window decals on their doors, assuring customers that they were cleaned, ready, and open for business! We are all in this together!  We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home. Call SERVPRO of Birmingham today at 205.252.8110 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

How Commercial Cleaning Benefits Your Business

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial properties must be regularly cleaned to maximize their function and appearance. Commercial cleaning services range from general cleaning to more specialized services such as mold removal, fire and water cleanup, and air duct cleaning. Below is a more detailed description of the services SERVPRO of Birmingham offers:

1. Water Damage Restoration - Water damage could be the result of a flood, water from a sink that has leaked, a pipe that has burst, or a faulty air conditioner. 
2. Mold Remediation - Buildings, offices, and homes can sustain microbial growth of mold if excess water and humidity are left untreated. Mold can spread and cause health effects.
3. Fire Damage Restoration - Fire damage carries with it the trauma of fire destruction, debris, air quality concerns, and potential health risks to those exposed. Water damage is often a secondary issue when there has been a fire. Fire damage services may include removal of debris, cleaning the fire-damaged areas of an office or home, purifying and making the air fresh and safe to breathe, and remediating any water damage.
4. Reconstruction - In the event of a fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern is to protect the building, home, or office from further damage and to secure the structure for restoration to occur. Services include but are not limited to drywall, electrical, painting, roofing, tile, and carpet repair. 

 How Commercial Cleaning Services Benefit Your Business?To operate at peak productivity, businesses need to provide a clean environment for their team and clientele. Specialty cleaning services include air ducts and HVAC, biohazard and sewage, carpet and upholstery, drapes and blinds, ceilings, walls and hardwood floors, odor removal, and deodorization, and vandalism clean-up. Why Hire a Professional Commercial Cleaning Company?The number one reason to hire a cleaning service is that they are professionals who are trained in the latest technology in the cleaning industry. The right cleaning products are necessary to achieve the proper level and appearance of cleanliness. One reason to hire a professional cleaning company is health and safety. Your staff or clients won’t get sick as a result of an unhealthy work environment. It is important to have immediate service any hour or day of the week, especially during an emergency. Trust the team from SERVPRO of Birmingham to ensure your cleaning needs are met and your business or commercial property is ready to handle the demand of the day-to-day operations. Give our team a call today!

When Was Your Last HVAC Cleaning?

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

During this winter season are you thinking about the air quality in your business or commercial property? Air ducts and a lack of HVAC cleaning can be to blame for this. In fact, a non-maintained ventilation system is usually the culprit behind getting good, quality air circulation in any building. This is why you should make it a priority to get your air duct systems maintenance by professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham. Take a moment and think about how long have I had this system in place? Have I ever taken the time to have the system cleaned? Do I know what is hanging on to the vents in that system? You always want to take time to be mindful of your HVAC systems. Our professionals can evaluate air quality and the system to see if it’s time for service. If your system has been around for a long time and you have not conducted a thorough HVAC cleaning, there is a chance that your air ducts have begun to accumulate a lot of the following:

• Contaminants
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dust
• Dirt
• Debris

Choosing a Disaster Restoration Company

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Our team works tirelessly to help ensure your home or commercial property is mitigated and restored.

The last thing anyone wants to deal with is a disaster to their home or property. That is a personal home property and a commercial business, there can be a handful of insurance policies and the well-being of those closest to you. SERVPRO of Birmingham understands it can create unwanted stress when it comes to choosing a restoration company. In an effort to help offset that stress you can feel, here are a few things to be on the lookout when choosing a company to restore your home or office after a disaster:

• Trained and Certified by the IICRC  
• The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Company) sets the standard in the disaster restoration industry. Choosing a company that has been trained and certified by the IICRC ensures you are working with professionals who truly know what they’re doing. SERVPRO of Birmingham has consistently gone through training and certification by the IICRC. 

• Response Time
• Disasters rarely happen on the clock. This means you need a restoration company that is always available to help whether it is on a weekend, holiday, or even during pandemic shutdowns. It’s important to choose a company that is always open. SERVPRO not only remained open during the shutdown, but we also assisted other essential businesses in keeping their doors open and employees safe by providing proactive disinfection services. We pride ourselves in not only always being open but also being faster to any size disaster.

• Manpower
• Major storm events can place a huge strain on restoration companies as they try to help their communities put the pieces of “normal life” back together. If the company isn’t adequately scaled to deal with the needs of their customers, this could result in job delays and cause even more damage than the storm itself. When that happens, instead of trusting out-of-town storm chasers who are here today and gone tomorrow, it’s critical to be able to count on your local disaster restoration company to answer your call among the dozens or hundreds of others that come in as a result of these storms. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Birmingham is not only capable of dealing with the needs of our customers in the territories we serve, but at our disposal are 1700+ franchises that are able to work together to serve our customers following large-scale disasters. 

The aftermath of these events, though shocking, does not have to be stressful. Whether its water, fire, or storm damage, the result of these disasters require the attention of a professional and trustworthy disaster restoration company, a company such as SERVPRO of Birmingham

Choosing a Local Restoration Companies

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Many people may not realize that a small grease fire can cause unsightly soot stains on their wall, or something like an electrical socket that might have a short in it can count as a home fire. 

What Can SERVPRO of Birmingham Do About a Small Kitchen Fire? 

• Grease fires can leave greasy soot on your walls
• Burning plastics can leave lingering malodors
• Ashes can get stuck in your carpets or rug

What Can SERVPRO of Birmingham Do to Remediate These Damages?  

• Use house-made cleaning agents designed to break down grime
• Set up odor-reducing equipment, such as hydroxyl generators and thermal foggers
• Professionally clean your carpets and upholstery to take the smokey smell and ashes away 

Preventing Pipes From Freezing

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Lower Temps Mean Busted Pipes

The Birmingham, AL surrounding areas, are seeing some cooler than normal temps and when this happens, if you are not prepared, you could find yourself in an emergency water damage.

Below a few steps, you can take to help decrease your chances of dealing with pipe bursts as a result of the cold weather:

1. Leave the Heat On - This may seem self-explanatory, but if you’re away overnight or gone for long periods of time, setting your indoor temperature no lower than 55°F helps ensure your pipes aren’t as exposed to the cold.
2. Insulate Pipes - Though you should always ensure your attic and crawl space are properly insulated year-round, a makeshift quick, and inexpensive way to insulate your pipes would be to wrap pipes in heat take or heat cables with thermostat control. This will work in a pinch, but we recommend properly insulating these high-risk areas.
3. Seal Cracks and Opening - To prevent drafts, seal or caulk cracks and openings around windows, doors, dryer vents, water pipes. and sill plates.
4. Open Cabinets - Opening cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom allow for warmer air to circulate around the pipes and plumbing. Just make sure to move any cleaners or household chemicals away from the reach of children.
5. Keep Garage Doors Closed - Protect your home from being exposed to colder temperatures and shield any water supply lines that may be in the garage by closing the garage door.
6. Keep Interior Doors Open - For the same purpose of allowing warmer air to circulate around pipes and plumbing, keeping interior doors open helps to spread the warmth.
7. Let Faucets Drip - Letting cold water drip from a faucet helps to keep water flowing throughout the pipes. As the water flows, even if it’s just a trickle, it helps to prevent pipes from freezing.

If you do find yourself in a water issue due to busted frozen pipes, make sure to call SERVPRO of Birmingham, our water damage professionals are trained and certified to handle any disaster you find yourself in during these colder months.

Preventing Spring Storms Water Damage

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Spring season is coming!

• Basement pumps- A working sump pump is crucial for helping to prevent water accumulation in your basement. Consider installing one with an alarm that warns when there is any water accumulation so you can attend to it quickly and prevent secondary water damage.
• Debris removal- Make sure to clear debris from your gutters, downspouts, and window wells. This allows water to flow away from your home freely instead of flowing back in because of debris buildup.
• Landscaping- This is an important and often overlooked step. Protruding branches and rotten trees often cause the most damage to homes and structures once strong winds and rain take place. The best way to prevent this is by trimming branches and clearing away trees that are too close to your home.

Remodeling Your Basement to Be Waterproof

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Have you considered remodeling your home?

How Extreme Cold Can Effect Your Business

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

This year we've seen colder than normal temps in our area and while we might enjoy a break from the heat, you always want to be prepared for those days of extreme cold temperatures. Did you know that your place of business can become damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health & the health of your customers are also at risk. Based on a report done by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), they estimated that in recent years, U.S. death rates in winter months have been 8 to 12 percent higher than in non-winter months. Much of this increase relates to seasonal changes in behavior and the human body, as well as increased exposure to respiratory diseases. Cold temperatures can also worsen pre-existing medical conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. For example, death rates from heart attacks increase as temperatures drop, likely due to the way cold affects blood circulation, blood vessels, and other factors With information like this, you must be aware of what could happen in your business should water damage or fire damage cut off your heat source. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness. Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused by long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately. We understand that a loss of heat from an emergency can affect your business. If you experience an emergency, know our team is ready to help you get your business back up and running.

Frozen Pipes in Your Commercial Business

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes in your business can be a big mess. When pipes freeze, they expand and may burst, leading to major water repairs. While our team will always be there to help mitigate these emergencies when they occur, we want to do what we can to provide information to you that can potentially help keep your business out of these situations.

Tips to prevent frozen pipes:

• Water conservationists’ frown on allowing faucets to drip, but letting even a small amount of water to flow through pipes at all times can do a lot to prevent pipes from freezing. A steady drip is all that is needed to keep the pipes free from ice accumulation.
• Many pipes do not have proper insulation to prevent them from freezing in cold weather. Pipe sleeves and heating tape can be applied to insulate the pipes. It is also a good precautionary measure to caulk around gaps where cold drafts can affect pipe temperatures.
• Shut off any outside water sources that you don't need, especially if you are expecting particularly low temperatures. When a building is left unattended, make sure the thermostat is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks and in storage areas to allow heat from the room to circulate uninsulated pipes.

Dealing with frozen pipes:

• Hairdryer – This is one of the safest and most effective ways to thaw a pipe. Open the faucet and then heat the pipe by working back toward the area where the blockage has occurred.
• Space heater – A small heater can work much faster than a hairdryer. Simply direct the heater toward the frozen area of the pipe.

 Make sure you and your employees know where the shut off valve is located. If you are dealing with frozen pipes or water damage from frozen pipes in your commercial building call SERVPRO of Birmingham as soon as possible.

Holiday Fire Facts

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fire at this home caused by an overheated extension cord

The holidays are one of the most wonderful times of the year! Are we right?! There is nothing better than putting up those Holiday lights and having the home feel warm and cozy. Not to be forgotten the rides at night to see all the homes dressed up with holiday lights! No matter what type of decorations we hang up during the holidays, we’re surrounded by electricity! If we aren’t careful, it can be a huge hazard if not used or maintained properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org), Holiday fires caused an average of three deaths, 15 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually. On average, one of every 52 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 135 total reported home fires. SERVPRO of Birmingham what to help keep you safe during this Holiday season, with the help of the NPFA, we’ve pulled together some safety tips for you to keep in mind! Electrical Fire Safety Tips

• Make sure that there are smoke detectors installed on every floor of the building, inside each room and right outside of every sleeping area to ensure that the alarms can be heard even when sleeping.
• Test smoke detectors monthly to make sure that they’re working properly and have working batteries.
• Have your electrical system inspected by a certified professional to make sure that all of the electrical work meets the National Electric Code safety standards.
• Look and listen for signs of electrical problems such as, flickering or dim lights, buzzing or sizzling sounds from electrical outlets, or insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. If any of these or any other electrical problems are found, contact a professional as soon as possible for the issue to be inspected.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many electronics. Consider having more outlets or circuits installed by a professional.
• In homes with children, install tamper-resistant devices to keep children from getting electrical shocks or burns.
• Create an evacuation plan that can be used in the event of a fire.

Our team understands that there is nothing worse than being out of the home for the holidays. We know this time of year is filled with traditions and creating memories. Make sure to follow all the tips we’ve complied together but also if an emergency occurs inside your home or business, know that SERVPRO of Birmingham is ready to help you get back to your holiday traditions!

Commercial Mold Damage Tips

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your commercial building recently experienced water damages, you're probably unsure of the next step. Not only are you worried about property damage from the water, but you also have to worry about mold in your business. Mold can affect indoor air quality, can cause significant property damage, and can cause a foul smell that even the best deodorization techniques can't get rid of! Follow these tips if you're dealing with residential or commercial mold in Birmingham, AL.  

1. Get Rid of Moisture - This is the very first step! Before the mold can be properly addressed, as much moisture as possible needs to be removed. If there is standing water, it can be dangerous to walk into your home or commercial property, so please make sure you can safely enter the building or structure.
2. Protect Yourself  - You just never really know what can be floating around in standing water that can hurt you. For example, electrical wiring. You don't want to endure an electrical shock. Once you know you can safely enter, protect yourself by wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask.
3. Hire a Professional - The best thing you can do is leave it to the experts. Rely on a team of professionals to help get your home or business back in tip-top shape. Experts can come in and assess the true extent of the damage and help ensure all of the molds are properly remediated. We promise it could save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the future. 

SERVPRO of Birmingham is ready to help you ensure your commercial property is cleaned and ready to support your business. Give our team a call at 205.252.8110

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your Halloween season spooky and fun!

Unfortunately, symbols of Halloween and activities while fun can also present fire risks that have the potential to become truly scary. Halloween decorations are the first thing to ignite in over 1,000 reported home fires each year. Whether you are trick or treating, throwing a party, or staying inside, decorations can be a lurking fire risk and it is important to be aware. Planning ahead, you can help make this Halloween a fire-safe one. Taking simple fire safety precautions like keeping decorations far away from open flames and using battery-operated candles or glow-sticks in jack-o-lanterns can help ensure your holiday remains festive and fun.  From the National Fire Protection Association, here are five Halloween fire safety tips:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
• When choosing costumes, stay away from the long trailing fabric.
• Teach young children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
• Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially cornstalks, dried flowers, and crepe paper.
• Provide young children with glow sticks or flashlights to carry with their costumes.
• Remember to keep all exits clear of decorations so escape routes are not blocked. Also, make sure all smoke alarms are working properly.

Everyone here at SERVPRO of Birmingham wants to ensure your Halloween is safe and fun! Follow these steps to enjoy your Halloween season. In the case of an emergency, know that the team at SERVPRO of Birmingham is going to work around the clock to help keep your Halloween season a good one! Give our team a call at 205.252.8110

Preparing for the Floods

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Team Wilson is part of a larger Storm Team that can handle any emergency

Are You Ready for a Flood?

Hurricane season is in full force right now. This season we have already had two hurricanes hit our coastline at the same time. Texas and Louisiana both were ravaged head-on but both these storms continued into the states bringing a lot of rain. Many times when moments like this occur, our cities and towns are able to hand the onslaught of rain due to the fact it may not be typical to get so much in such a little time. Being only at the beginning of the hurricane season, we thought it is important to make sure to share some flood preparedness tips with you. Below are some tips which were provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to help you prepare your home or business for a flood.

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel is susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood:

• Turn off all utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water.  Even six inches or moving water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters.  Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.  Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

 As always, our team at SERVPRO of Birmingham is part of the larger, national Brand of SERVPRO Industries. In the event of a storm or flood, our teams have the ability to call in reinforcements from the Wilson Storm Team. Know that you can trust SERVPRO of Birmingham to put your home or business back together, “Like it never even happened.”

Heavy Rainfall Brings Water Damage

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

While water damage is typically associated with events like flooding or plumbing malfunctions, heavy rain can also cause its own set of issues regarding water damage around the house.

While any level of moisture can cause damage, heavy rain is considered rainfall at rates over 0.3 inches per hour and can work its way into much smaller vulnerabilities in your home. To help you better prepare and avoid water damage, we have put together a list of how these rapid rainfall rates can cause issues.

How Heavy Rains Cause Household Water Damage

Backup of clogged gutters

Clogged gutters can cause significant damage to your home after heavy rains. If there is debris in the gutters, it will be difficult for water to drain away, which can then result in leaks from puddles as the water is left standing against the roofline.

Leaks around windows and doors

Windows and doors are supposed to be sealed against the elements, but as their weatherproofing ages, it can deteriorate as well. When heavy rains roll through, water can find its way into minuscule cracks and cause damages.

Poor drainage around the foundation

If your home is at the bottom of a hill or does not have adequate drainage around the foundation, heavy rains can build up against the base of your home and lead to leaks in your basement or crawl spaces.

Leaks in and around the roof

Roof leaks are one of the leading consequences of heavy rains, and they can sneak up suddenly. All it takes is for a shingle to be scraped away or a weak spot to form and rainwater can begin seeping in as it falls.

Malfunctioning of a sump pump system

For homes with sump pumps, doing regular maintenance and checking for issues is key—otherwise, the pump system can get overwhelmed and will not be able to effectively move water away from the home.

Leaks around chimneys and skylights

Houses with chimneys and skylights tend to be more vulnerable to heavy rains than homes without them. While they are nice features to have, the seals where they meet with the roof can grow vulnerable over time and become overwhelmed when rainfall is heavy.

Water Damage? What Now?!

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do you know what to do and what not to do?

• To minimize the damage, make sure to shut off the source of water and turn off the electricity. It is essential to remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. This is especially important for wood furniture. 
• To ensure that more damage isn't sustained by the furniture make sure to try and move it, if safe to do so. 
• Make sure to NOT enter a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock 
• Make sure to disconnect all power first. 
• It is recommended to NOT leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. 
• It is important to note that you should not be utilizing your household vacuum to try and suck up any water. 

Salvaged Items After a Mold Damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know Mold can grow on more than just your walls?

1. Leather Goods

2. Clothing

3. Paintings

What to do...

What Is In Your Water?

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Birmingham is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

4th of July Tips During The Pandemic

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

The 4th of July is just ahead, 4th of July in Birmingham, AL is always one of the cities favorite times. This is a time when people typically enjoy the summer holiday with backyard barbecues, fireworks booming over Vulcan, or water fun. But this year, celebrating Independence Day will be different due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The American Red Cross offers safety tips you can follow.

Community Safety

If your community is reopening, know which precautions to take in public settings.

1. Continue to social distance by staying 6 feet away from others, especially if you are at high risk for serious illness from COVID-19 (over age 65 or any age with underlying medical conditions).
2. Continue to wear cloth face coverings in public. Face coverings are most essential when social distancing is difficult.
3. Follow guidelines for your area when it comes to how large gatherings can be. Avoid crowds and mass gatherings.
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
5. Stay home if you are sick.

Fireworks Safety

While most kids love playing with fireworks, it is important to never toss or throw the fireworks at anyone. If dealing with fireworks, please consider the following safety tips and suggestions.

1. Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
2. Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
3. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
4. Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”
5. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

Grilling Safety

Grilling fires spark more than 10,000 home fires on average each year in the U.S. To avoid this:

1. Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
2. Never grill indoors — not in the house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
3. Make sure everyone, stays away from the grill, including children and pets.
4. Keep the grill away from the house or anything that could catch fire.
5. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.

 If you are choosing to build a bonfire this weekend make sure that you are using only dry material and make sure that all debris is at least 10 feet away. When you are finished ensure that you extinguish the fire, pour water on all embers until the hissing sounds stop. Always keep a fire extinguisher close by when having bonfires or grills going so you can keep any fire damage from spreading in the case of an emergency. If you do have a fire damage know that SERVPRO of Birmingham is a call and ready throughout the entire Holiday weekend! We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and/or smoke damage.  We will ensure the highest care to get you back to celebrating the Freedom we have so graciously been given. 

We at SERVPRO of Birmingham hope these tips will help you have a fun and safe holiday! Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us, Birmingham at 205.252.8110

Home Fire Pit Tips

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Here in Birmingham, AL its a tradition to enjoy the cooler nights outside around a homemade fire pit! Many of us are looking forward to spending time gathering around them to enjoy time with family and friends. Before you start dreaming of moonlit nights and toasted marshmallows, take a moment to check out some of these tips from Allstate to remember.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

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

6 Steps to Water Mitigation

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

When your property incurs water damage, acting quickly is important

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
   • You can call us 24 hours a day to begin the water restoration process because taking immediate action is crucial after water damage occurs. When you call us, we will ask you questions to get an overview of the damage and to help us determine what resources to dispatch to you.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
   • When we arrive on the scene in response to water damage, we will do a detailed property inspection to assess the scope of the damage and to develop a thorough plan of action. We will identify the water source, the category of water, and check for safety concerns.
3. Moisture Extraction
   • The water extraction process will remove the majority of moisture via our vacuum and pump units. We will start this process as quickly as possible to lessen the likelihood of more damage occurring and to reduce drying time. We can also help you move out of your belongings in the event that they might be damaged as well.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
   • After the excess water has been removed, we can begin fully drying all porous materials that have absorbed water. Our industrial-grade equipment moves air quickly and helps moisture to evaporate as fast as possible, which will dry out floors, walls, and carpets as well as discourage mold growth.
5. Cleaning and Repair
   • After sustaining water damage, impacted surfaces will typically require professional cleaning. In addition to structural cleaning, we will clean your belongings that are able to be restored. We will also do odor removal to prevent the musty odor that water-damaged objects often develop.
6. Restoration
   • The final step is ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-water condition. This will involve things like drywall and flooring repairs or even reconstruction. By working with us, you are working with a company that can handle all elements of the restoration, including the difficult reconstruction parts that truly restores things back to their pre-damaged state.

Hidden Appliance Leaks Can Cause Water Damages

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Many of the appliances we use each day require a water source

Think about the last time your appliances were moved or inspected

Many of us don’t think about the household appliances that we use every single day. For most, they probably become a passing thought about how much wear and tear they are receiving. Most of the appliances we use to make our everyday lives easier to utilize water. This means they are prone to leaks at some point if they are not caught early on.  Water damage can sit for ages before you as a homeowner realize. This is why regular inspections are important for prevention.

Inspect These Appliances for Leaks Often

• Hot Water Heater
  • The lifetime of a hot water heater will typically span 10 to 15 years, but leaks can start much earlier than this. The seals and pipes connected to the hot water heater can often break down, so keeping an eye out for any accumulation both during and after use is a smart move.
• Refrigerator
  • The rarity with which refrigerators are moved can lead to secret water damage that festers for ages before it is brought to light. A refrigerator’s water lines are typically made from a soft plastic that can easily fail, so checking for leaks behind and under the fridge as part of your annual home maintenance is wise.
• Dishwasher
  • A dishwasher’s tubing is just as problematic as a refrigerator, but is even more isolated and utilizes far more water. Additionally, homeowner’s insurance often does not cover water damage caused by older models of dishwashers, so regular checks are extremely important to keep up with.
• Washing Machine
  • Washing machine hoses are some of the most common sources of leaks. Because they are notorious for this, it is recommended that they are inspected at least once a month by homeowners so you can be sure no issues have arisen. In addition to these regular checks, they should be fully replaced every five years in order to prevent hidden deterioration.
• Air Conditioner
  • The drain in your HVAC unit is designed to keep condensation from pooling in and around the unit, but if this drain malfunctions, water damage can quickly be caused. Reference your manufacturer’s manual to determine how often your unit should be inspected and serviced—having a professional technician evaluate your machine is the best defense against HVAC-created water damage.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

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

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Birmingham today at 205.252.8110 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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

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

Where Is Your Emergency Storm Kit?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Here are some of the items your kit should contain

Do you know where your emergency storm kit is?

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Emergency food and water
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal

SERVPRO of Birmingham wants to make sure the surrounding Birmingham Areas are prepared!

Protecting Your Business from a Storm

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Have you taken steps to protect your business and employees?

1. Keep Your Lightning Rod Maintained

Standing Water Precautions

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

When floodwater intrudes into your home or commercial business it can cause what is called "standing water". This can be a dangerous thing if not respected. Many times, standing water must be dealt with that can sometimes take up to 10 or 11 days to completely disappear unless it is able to be mitigated immediately. There are some precautionary measures to take into consideration when dealing with standing water. SERVPRO of Birmingham took some time to compile the ones we felt were the most important.

Standing Water are not natural swimming pools

• Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the standing water leftovers
• Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick
• Don’t drink the water
• Water conducts electricity. Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock

Standing Water vs. Animals:

• Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when you clean up
• Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live
• If tap water is unsafe to drink, it is unsafe for your pets

If you find yourself dealing with standing water of any kind, SERVPRO of Birmingham is here to help make it “Like it never even happened."

Commercial Damage Levels

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Downtime can be costly both to your business and your customers.

One of the areas SERVPRO of Birmingham has the capability to handle is commercial damage.

There are so many factors that can contribute to commercial damage occurring such as fires due to unforeseen circumstances, facility usage which puts wear and tear on your property, down to the most basic water damage. No matter the source of the damage, this downtime can be costly both to your business and your customers.  When damage at your commercial property happens, how do you know to what level and extent? Below we have a grading system we use to determine the level of which your property is assessed and categorized to begin mitigation.  

Level 1

Small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.” Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If you have damage at your Commercial property. Give SERVPRO of Birmingham at call at 205.252.8110

Circumstances for a Flood Cut

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home our technicians may perform a technique called a "flood cut".

This specific technique requires cutting out sections of drywall about a foot above the flood line to inspect the wall behind it. While this process is not always necessary, there are a few circumstances that may require it after a flood occurs.

1. Black Water Floods

When outdoor flooding invades your home from overflowing streams or rivers, it may contain sewage, chemicals or dead animal carcasses. This water can be considered contaminated and is known as black water. A flood cut is usually necessary when this type of flooding occurs because your home’s drywall and any insulation behind it may be affected by the dirty water and may need replacing.

2. Wet Insulation

Flood technicians may perform a flood cut and tear out sections of drywall if they believe any insulation behind your home’s walls has water damage. Because insulation cannot be properly dried, a flood cut may be needed to remove any wet material. Once the interior wall is cleaned and dried, new insulation can be installed.

3. Mold Growth

After flooding, mold can begin to grow behind interior walls and spread quickly if it is not addressed. Flood technicians may perform a flood cut to check for mold and treat the area if any is found. Because mold does not need sunlight to grow, it can spread from interior walls to other areas and cause an unpleasant odor in your home. A flood cut can prevent this and keep mold at bay.

Do's and Don'ts for Water Damage

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

These DO's and DON'TS Emergency Tips for water damage will assist you in taking quick proper action to help you reduce damage and increase the chances of successful restoration before help arrives.

Sanitary Water-Clear

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may occur.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as this may cause staining.

Contaminated Water-Gray, Black or Sewage

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash you're hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician.

Fire Tips for Kids

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

According to the American Burn Association, children are the most susceptible to burn injuries. 73% of all burn injuries happen in the home. At some point in time, children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your family safe according to the National Protection Association:

• Be sure to keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, preferably somewhere up high or in a locked cabinet.
• Closely supervise your children, making sure that they are away from any fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, fire pits, and stoves.
• Take advantage of any opportunity to teach your children about fire safety.
• Explain that fires are something to be taken seriously as they move very fast and can hurt you with contact.
• Teach young children to not touch matches or lighters, and to notify an adult immediately if found.
• Establish a clear set of rules and consequences about unsupervised and unapproved uses of fire.
• Remember, children are always watching. Make sure you set a good example by handling fire in a safe manner.
• Show your children appreciation for displaying respect and age-appropriate responsibility when it comes to fire.

If your children happen to burn themselves, cool the burn by running it under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If it is a more serious burn, CALL 9-1-1.

Handling a Rainstorm

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Rainstorms can bring winds strong enough to blow down power lines. This is why it is important to stay inside during these storms

WHEN WILL THE RAIN STOP?!

Call SERVPRO of Birmingham at 205.252.8110

Servicing your Smoke Alarm

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

An unserviced smoke alarm is an unsafe smoke alarm

We’ve all heard the low, quiet, annoying beeping sound from inside the house that feels like it never beeps when you are standing next to it. Yes, you know what we are talking about, the smoke alarm. Did you know that the beeping sound is a reminder to change the batteries and perform a quick service to ensure it is working properly? The question is, do you know how to service your smoke alarms? We found some tips from NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) about how to maintain your smoke alarms. 

1. Smoke alarms should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
3. Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
4. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to keep smoke alarms working well. The instructions are included in the package or can be found on the internet.
5. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
6. Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
7. When replacing a battery, follow the manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.

In the case of a fire emergency in your home or commercial business, SERVPRO of Birmingham has the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home. Why should you trust us? Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property as an IICRC-Certified Firmed. SERVPRO of Birmingham is also an A+ rated business by the BBB. Call SERVPRO of Birmingham at 205.252.8110

The SERVPRO Advantage

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is not just a local brand, but a national one.

Why Realtors Should Choose SERVPRO of Birmingham

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Currently, we are in a time where the real estate market is hot. Houses are selling faster than they can be listed. We are seeing interest rates drop to an all-time low and what a better time to have an edge with a reputation for having quality listings whether it be a commercial or a residential listing. SERVPRO of Birmingham understands that you want to move a sale through quickly to get your commission. How your listing looks is everything to a potential buyer and we can assist in making that happen. It doesn’t matter what shape or situation your listing is in, the SERVPRO of Birmingham team can assist you in many different ways to make this sale is quick and the most profitable for you!  Our team can assist you in inspecting a crawl space/attic area for mold, water, or biohazard damage and fix this damage efficiently.  Our team can even assist in estate sales in the case of hoarder cleanouts with optional inventory itemization and cleaning services.   A SERVPRO of Birmingham professional would be happy to attend your next sales meeting to discuss how to recognize the potential for mold and what to do in case of a fire or water emergency.

Why Should you Board-Up?

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Board-Ups can Save you Time and Money

If you have experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. Aside from the safety side of choosing to board-up your damage property, it can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process quicker. SERVPRO of Birmingham offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.

In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.

Protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.

Keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.

Limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Practicing Fire Drills

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Who else used to love fire drill days?!

How to Prevent Fire Damage from Grills

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding grill safety could mean the difference between good food or a burnt home

Spring is almost upon us here in the Birmingham, AL area!

We all know what that means, it is time to fire up those grills! We all love the smells of freshly grilled hamburgers and hotdogs but if you aren’t careful, that smell you are experiencing could be the smell of fire damage! SERVPRO of Birmingham has seen fire damage and smoke damage caused by the early celebrations of springtime. Did you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association, gas grills cause more home fires than charcoal grills? According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 64% of households own a gas grill, 44% own a charcoal grill and 9% own an electric grill. A good grill master knows that being unaware of grill safety can be a factor for seasonal fires. Below are some tips we got from our friends at Nationwide to ensure your grill season is a safe one! Grill Safety Tips:

• Grill away from any structure.
• Make sure your grill is stable.
• Keep your grill clean.
• Check for propane leaks.
• If the flame goes out, wait five minutes before relighting.
• Keep an eye on what is going on around the grill.
• Be cautious when using a charcoal starter fluid.
• Don't wear loose clothing or clothing that can dangle.
• Be prepared to put out a fire.

If your property is affected by fire damage or smoke damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Birmingham at 205.252.8110.

Removing Malodors in a Commercial Business

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Have you experienced flooding or water damage in your Commercial business?

 These issues can leave unwelcome and defiantly unwanted odors in the air. This odor is most always displeasing to customers, employees or yourself. Based on the source of the issue, we have 5 tips to help solve the problem: 

1. Ventilate the Building and Evaluate the Situation - Allows any lingering scents to disperse through a window, if possible. You can then work to identify and locate any centralized, problematic scents. If sewage loss is causing the odor, it’s best to stay away from the contaminated water and contact SERVPRO of Birmingham to mitigate.

2. Dry Wet Carpeting and Flooring - Carpet holds moisture and it could be the source of the scent. A wet and dry vacuum, which can be rented if needed, can shampoo the carpet and then dry it afterward. This sanitizes the area to potentially remove some of the smell.

3. Scrub Moldy Surfaces - Mold growth left alone will continue to reproduce and spread along with its musty odor

4. Spray Furniture and Upholstery - Furniture can be sprayed and scrubbed. Porous materials are likely not able to be fully cleaned this way since the fungus settles within.

5. Consult Professionals for Extensive Cleanup - There are many instances that commercial-grade machines will need to be used to remove the malodor. An expert SERVPRO technician can help remove problems caused by floodwater and/or other water damage. When dealing with flood odors, most do-it-yourself remedies will fix only the symptom. Trust the help from SERVPRO of Birmingham where we can assist you to remove most of the unwanted smells alongside any mold growth or other nuisance.

Hotel Fire Damage Services

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a hotel can be a catastrophic incident. 

Process of Fire Restoration

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire damage, preparation is the key.

The first 48 hours after a fire often can be the difference between "restoring" vs. "replacing" your property and/or personal items. SERVPRO of Birmingham provides timely response with restoration services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.

If you have experienced fire damage in your home or business, here is what to expect from us:

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a priority responder will contact you.

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, our certified technicians will be onsite to assess the damage.

Eight Hours: Within eight hours of on-site arrival, certified technicians will be working neatly and efficiently to clean, restore, and deodorization. Pre-cleaning for restoration, to prevent any further damage from soot and smoke.

Detailed Explanation: A trained and uniformed technician will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your home or business is back to normal in an appropriate timeframe.

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

What to do when your pipes freeze

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Lately, freezing weather has finally been hitting the Shelby and Jefferson County areas! The best thing you can do is know how to keep your pipes from freezing before those below freezing temperatures hit. While common during this time of year, frozen pipes are preventable.   SERVPRO® of Birmingham wants to offer some tips on how to keep this from happening in your home or business. Below Consumer Reports listed ways to help prevent your pipes from freezing and what you should do if freezing does occur.

How to prevent frozen pipes

Some of the steps experts recommend may go against your better instincts of conserving water and heat, but the extra expense is nothing compared with a hefty repair bill. Here’s what to do: 

• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)
• Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night. Again, during a cold snap is not the time to set back the thermostat at night to save a few bucks on your heating bill.
• If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
• For the long term, add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in those areas. And to prevent drafts, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates, where the house rests on its foundation.

What to do if frozen pipes occur

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. If a pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the mainline enters the house. If the water is still running and no pipes have burst, you can take the following steps. (Of course, if you suspect a more serious problem, call a plumber.) 

• Turn on the faucet. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. As tempting as it may be, do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, a charcoal stove, or any device with an open flame; the high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see whether you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Knowledge to Handle a Commercial Water Damage

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Birmingham understands that Commercial property water damages have their own challenges.

This does not mean you need to be worried when an emergency does occur because we have certified technicians who understand the importance of getting your commercial property back up to normal as soon as possible. Our trained technicians work quickly to assess the situation, communicate a cleanup and drying plan, and start work immediately. We have the necessary resources to handle any size job. We understand that quick and efficiency must happen to minimize damage and to resume operations as soon as possible. SERVPRO^® of Birmingham has a large loss team specifically trained and ready to go in event of a large loss. If your commercial property experiences a water damage emergency call SERVPRO® of Birmingham. Our teams are readily available to make your property “Like it never even happened.” Our teams are staffed with highly trained technicians in property restoration under IICRC industry certifications, our teams are equipped with the education to restore your property.

Top Causes of Commercial Fires

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Property Destroyed by Fire

Fire damage to your commercial business can be catastrophic. It does not matter what your business does, it can mean downtime, loss of goods, costly equipment loss, loss of property, or worse. A fire can quickly move through a building and even put your team at risk. If you are not prepared it can be a situation that escalates faster than you are ready to handle. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen or if it does, how it can be handled quickly and effectively. Below the United States Fire Administration has listed the top five leading causes of a commercial fire. 

Top causes of fires in commercial buildings

According to data from the United States Fire Administration, between 2006 and 2015, the top causes of fires in commercial buildings were: 

Cooking

Cooking is a huge danger, and it was a culprit behind 30,900 fires within the past decade. This is why it is so important to install fire alarms and a sprinkler system in your kitchen to prevent against the worst! 

Unintentional and Careless Behavior

This is a broad category. Unintentional and careless behavior, better known as accidents, caused more than 10,900 fires. While it’s hard to stop people from being careless, business owners and property managers can’t afford to be. 

Arson

Intentionally set fires represented 9,800 of the total fires in these properties. 

Electrical malfunction

Problems with the electricity or wiring in a building caused around 7,000 fires in the past decade. 

Heating problems

Problematic HVAC systems are the culprit behind about 6,000 commercial fires nationwide. 

Trust that SERVPRO of Birmingham keeps in mind that time down for your business, is money lost. So our team will work around the clock to make sure it is “Like it never even happened,” and your business is back up and running!

Turkey Fryer Tips & Tricks

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Alabaster Fire Department puts out a fryer fire caused by a frozen turkey

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and there is nothing better than a deep-fried turkey during the holidays! Unfortunately, that also means a rise in house fires. It is estimated that 1000 house fires that occur during the holidays are related to turkey fryers.  Our friends at the Alabaster Fire Department shared a few things to be mindful of when you are preparing your Thanksgiving meal to keep yourself from having a house fire:

• Keep outdoor deep-fryers off decks, out of garages, and a safe distance from trees and buildings.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking
• Place the fryer on a level surface 
• Follow the manufacture instructions 
• Never leave the fryer unattended.
• Turn the burner off before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, remove the pot from the burner; place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing of.

The Alabaster Fire Department also helped demonstrate what could happen during a turkey fryer fire if you aren’t careful in this Turkey Fryer Tips & Tricks video! SERVPRO of Birmingham wishes everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving Holiday. In the unfortunate event of fire or smoke damage, we are available 24/7. Call us Birmingham, 205.252.8110

Commercial Water Damage

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

When a commercial business experiences water damage it not only slows production time but can damage the goods used to operate

Downtime means money lost!

Here are SERVPRO of Birmingham, we understand that when a commercial water emergency occurs in your business it is important that the issues is mitigated quickly and efficiently. During these emergencies, it is not just the building that needs to be back up and functioning but the materials and equipment you use on a daily basis that allows your business to be successful.  

SERVPRO of Birmingham has the ability to save things like office furniture, desk, and even sensitive information that may be stored in the office with our Document Restoration. We are in the business of restoring these items that may have been damaged during your water emergency. We always attempt to salvage anything damaged because we understand that it can keep the cost down for you and the insurance company as well the value it has to your company. If an item can be saved or restored it is worth the time to do so.  

SERVPRO of Birmingham works tirelessly to treat each of your items with special care to protect. Our team is trained to keep your items from damage while we do work. Our content specialists team does wonders with your clean-up on all types of materials.  

Trust that SERVPRO of Birmingham keeps in mind that time down for your business, is money lost. So our team will work around the clock to make sure it is “Like it never even happened.” and your business is back up and running!

Facts about Smoke and Soot Damange

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage can cause a long-lasting odor in your home

Smoke and soot can cause hidden damage and odor. Our Production Techs are experts when it comes to smoke damage who can accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a plan of action.   Facts about Smoke and Soot

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

 Different Types of Smoke Did you know there are actually different types of smoke? There is what is called wet smoke and dry smoke! Check out the two types below in more detail. Wet Smoke // Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke // Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Storm Damage Types

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

High winds from a storm can be the reason your roof has damage

Not all Storm Damage is Created Equal!

During storm season in Birmingham, AL we see a wide range of storm types. We see heavy rains, flooding, tornadoes and then wrapping all of those into one hurricane! Any one of these storm types could easily cause damage to your home or business. These damages can keep us from feeling like our home is complete or keeping us from running a business that contributes to our livelihood. No matter what your scenario, It is important to know the different damages that a storm can cause. Wind Damage Storm damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof due to strong winds that may loosen flashing. This can cause your roof shingles to be removed from your home or business causing leaks. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions. A SERVPRO of Birmingham restoration expert can help property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively. Flooding Damage Heavy rains in the Birmingham, AL area can cause river flooding all around the Jefferson and Shelby County areas. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems which call for experts to assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Our SERVPRO of Birmingham team can assist in your cleanup process after flood damage has occurred.  Lighting Damage When a storm occurs, many times it brings the loud sounds of thunder which mean lighting is striking. Your home or business may have objects attached to the building that can attract a lightning strike that can cause a fire. A bolt of lightning can reach temperatures of roughly 30,000 kelvins (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightning strikes, or discharges of massive charges of static electricity, cause about 2% of all fires. If this occurs in your home or business, SERVPRO of Birmingham has the team to help handle the restoration of both the fire and smoke damage.

Be Ready for a Hurricane

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Are You "Hurricane Ready"?

This time of year can always be scary for anyone who lives in the possible path of hurricanes or may have friends and family who do live in a consistent path. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents and tornadoes all of which can destroy homes, buildings, and roads. It is important to stay ready so you do not find yourself scrambling to brace for the impact. There is always the potential looming that our area could be hit by a hurricane. Living in the Birmingham, AL area, it can be easy to think you don’t need to worry about the potential of a hurricane. Here are a few things to know ahead of a hurricane if one was to head our direction. 

Know the Difference

• Flood/Flash Flood Watch—Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.
• Flood/Flash Flood Warning—Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

How to Prepare

• Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
• Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.

Always Know the RisksTo find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.” Be better prepared for this hurricane season, and learn more at www.ready.gov/prepare

Got Mold?

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

This home in Birmingham, AL found mold growth in their garage

Mold can be in your home and not even realize it. Whether you see the affected areas or not, here are a few things you can do! First, if you see visible mold, do not mess with it. When mold is disturbed, it can release microscopic mold spores. When this happens mold can circulate inside your home using your HVAC system and any fans you have on. This makes it so the affected areas grow and become larger. Check out what to do and not do.

What Should You Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and ALL fans.
• Contact SERVPRO® of Birmingham for mold remediation services.

What Should You Not Do:

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

SERVPRO^® of Birmingham specializes in mold remediation. We use specialized equipment and techniques to properly clean and resolve your mold problem quickly and safely. The safety and health of you and your family are our biggest concern. If you have mold in your home or business, give SERVPRO^® of Birmingham a call at 205.252.8110

Always Be Looking for Water Damage

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water rings in your ceiling or walls is a sign of water damage

Water damage can be very detrimental to your home or business

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls
• Soft or sagging on your ceiling or walls
• Wet or soggy carpets
• Warping in your wood flooring

HVAC Condensation Can Cause Water Damage

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

A broken condensation pipe causes water damage in the home

High temps mean more condensation from your HVAC

When your HVAC creates condensation, that water needs somewhere to go and those lines can become clogged quickly. This can cause your emergency line to either break or your drop pan to overfill and that water needs somewhere to go!So what should you do if this happens causing water damage?

• Call an HVAC company to service your unit. This is probably the easiest and most efficient method, but unfortunately the most expensive.
• Check to make sure your primary condensation line, usually located near the ground outside the home in an area of high foot traffic, is slowly dripping water when your HVAC is on.
• If your primary line is not dripping check the secondary line, usually located somewhere like above a window or door as to be more noticeable when dripping.
• If the primary, or both lines, are not dripping while the unit is on, find a way to flush out or remove the potential blockage. The cleanout will usually be located close to the HVAC main unit. Make sure you thoroughly research how to properly clear your lines before attempting to!
• Check your HVAC unit drip pan, make sure it has no holes or rust around it. If it is damaged you may need to have it replaced.

SERVPRO^® Birmingham will come out and perform a free moisture inspection on your Birmingham residence or commercial property if you believe you may have had a potential accident. We get an estimate to you or begin communication with your insurance. If you HVAC leaking, call SERVPRO^® of Birmingham at 205.252.8110

4th of July Safety Tips

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

4th of July in Birmingham, AL is always one of the cities favorite times. From the fireworks booming over Vulcan all the way down to the entire City of Alabaster, AL celebrating in parking lots and pools as the night sky is lit up. Gathering with family and friends gather around for food, festivities, and fun. It can be easy to just get lost in all the fun going on but this can be one of the most dangerous times of the year with things such as fireworks, sparklers, bonfires, and BBQ's becoming possible fire damage. 

SERVPRO of Birmingham has some reminders and safety tips to ensure this 4th is the best and safest it can be!  

If you are choosing to build a bonfire this weekend make sure that you are using only dry material and make sure that all debris is at least 10 feet away.  When you are finished ensure that you extinguish the fire, pour water on all embers until the hissing sounds stop. Always keep a fire extinguisher close by when having bonfires or grills going so you can keep any fire damage from spreading in the case of an emergency. While most kids love playing with fireworks, it is important to never toss or throw the fireworks at anyone. If dealing with fireworks, please consider the following safety tips and suggestions.

• Wear protective eye and hand gear
• Never carry fireworks in your pockets
• Always have a bucket of water nearby
• Keep unused fireworks in a closed box
• Make sure all spectators are 25 to 40 feet away

If you do have fire damage know that SERVPRO of Birmingham is a call and ready throughout the entire Holiday weekend! We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and/or smoke damage.  We will ensure the highest care to get you back to celebrating the Freedom we have so graciously been given. 

We are SERVPRO of Birmingham hope these tips will help you have a fun and safe holiday! Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us, Birmingham at 205.252.8110

Have you Checked on your Toilet Lately?

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

An unchecked toilet can go from good to bad quickly

Many times the toilet in your home can be the last thing you think about causing water damage. As they age, however, the components that allow it to function properly can jam or malfunction, causing several potential problems. While some of these might be a drawn-out refilling process that can affect your monthly water bill, more severe consequences might include overflowing of the reservoir when the float mechanism does not engage.

Overflowing reservoirs might not affect your Birmingham home but it does often require professional water removal and recovery. Even with noticing the problem shortly after it begins, an instance like this can quickly cover the bathroom floor and affect cabinetry and the vanity as well. Our SERVPRO® professionals can understand the importance of reacting quickly to this situation.

The tile or laminate flooring likely installed in your bathroom can resist penetration from the pooling water, but saturation can still occur with these materials if the problem does not get addressed quickly enough. While each plank or tile itself works to resist absorbing the moisture, seams and grout joints are more penetrable. To protect your flooring from extensive damage, extraction must begin shortly after the situation gets discovered.

Our SERVPRO® of Birmingham professionals can arrive with high-powered extraction equipment for severe damages like our gas-powered units. For smaller pools, we can also bring in our portable sump pumps and extraction wands. Once the excess has gotten removed from the flooring, we can set up our advanced drying equipment to protect and preserve exposed cabinetry, fixtures, and flooring. We can double check our drying efforts with our thermal imagery cameras to detect lingering moisture pockets that require added attention.

As traumatic as an overflowing reservoir might seem, the right professional assistance can make this water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Give SERVPRO® of Birmingham a call anytime disaster strikes at 205.525.8110

Taking on Storms with Technology

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Free ERP App for your home or business

These days, it is important to be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice! Technology working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.govsuggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe

The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Get in Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. Get an Emergency READY Profile®SERVPRO® of Birmingham is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles® (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepares you, your property, or your business for an emergency.By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App.  Get in touch with SERVPRO® of Birmingham today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business! Call us, Birmingham!

SERVPRO of Birmingham's Drying Equipment

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture Meters (like the one above) are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.

Small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Birmingham has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform properly. Our team will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by our SERVPRO of Birmingham technicians. Moisture Sensors - Used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls. Moisture Meters - Used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of Birmingham to monitor the drying process. Thermohygrometers - Measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized. Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers - Atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas. Thermal Foggers - Dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles to deodorize structures, garments, automobiles and other places where cleaning cannot reach. Call us Birmingham, we have the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 205.252.8110

7 Tips to Prevent Mold in your Commercial Business

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Why should you worry about mold in your building? According to OSHA, some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business.

#1: Clean Out the Refrigerator

#2: Look for And Repair Leaks

#3: Keep It Clean

#4: Turn on the AC/Dehumidifier

#5: Clean out Trash Cans

#6: Take Care of Your HVAC System

#7: Slope the Ground Away from the Foundation

Fire Safety for Pets

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Pets can be considered family, too!

Practice Evacuating 

Notice Where Your Pets Are 

Keep Collars and Leashes Handy

Flood Water Facts

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can be disastrous

During this time of year, we see a lot of rain in the Birmingham, AL area. Across the United States though, flooding is one of the most commonly widespread weather-related disasters. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is always potential for flood damage Though you may have never experienced a flood in the past, there’s no level of security to assure that you will not in the future. Did you know that 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities.  According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following safety tips:

Stay away from floodwaters

If you approach a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way.  Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

Driving on a flooded road

turn around and go another way.  If you are caught on a flooded road and water are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.  Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

Keep children out of the water

They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

Always be prepared and ready. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Birmingham is prepared to handle any size disaster. The sooner work begins; the sooner your home or business can return “Like it never even happened.” Call us Birmingham at 205.252.8110

Handling Heavy Rains in Birmingham, AL

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is here in Birmingham, AL!

We all love the warmer weather, fresh cut lawns, and spring flowers but we all know, spring in the South brings a lot of rain! Springtime can be challenging to our homes, businesses, and landscaping. Many times the rain can bring backed up sewage, holes in our roofs that lead to water damage and flooding the basements. SERVPRO of Birmingham thought it would be important to share some safety tips with you regarding heavy rains and flooding so you can keep the water mitigation to a minimum this season. 

Heavy Rain Tips

1. Check your Roof-Look for current damage and areas that look vulnerable to leaks. Repair these as soon as possible. If need be, call a roofer to perform the inspection and the repairs.
2. Trim Foliage-Plants and trees with overgrown branches can pose a danger to your household in harsh winds and rain.
3. Waterproof Windows-Check the edges of your window sills to see if they need a waterproof sealer or rubber on the edges.
4. Clear out Gutters-It is important that these are clear in case of heavy rain to prevent any possible flooding. You should check your gutters a couple of times throughout the year as the wind tends to carry leaves and debris into the gutters blocking the water from flowing freely.

Remember, it is very important to keep an eye on these things because a small leak can cause a lot of damage. SERVPRO of Birmingham is always here to help! Call us Birmingham at (205) 252-8110

Why is Board Up Important?

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Completed job after the adjacent home caught fire caused damage leading to board up

If your property in Birmingham, AL has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.  SERVPRO of Birmingham offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.  

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Why is Our Basement Flooding?

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

This home is Pelham, AL experienced flooding issues in their basement and is an example of what could happen if the right steps are not taken.

During this time of year, Alabama sees an increase in rainstorms. When this happens there is the potential to see flooding in the basement in your Birmingham, AL home. By understanding the usual causes of water retention in the lower floors of your home, you can take the necessary maintenance steps to ensure that your property stays dry for years to come. Check out a few tips we have for you: 

1. Location and Climate Factors A primary cause of excess water is above-average rainfall. Choosing to reside in a coastal area, for example, can increase the risk of a basement flood. Even in dryer climates, laying your home’s foundation on a low-lying or sloped part of the property can cause water to pool under walls and seep through the outer layers of the building. 

2. Basement Drainage Should your home sit near or on the water table, a basement drainage system and sump pump will likely be necessary to prevent excess dampness in the flooring. If the pump system breaks down due to electrical or plumbing problems, contact a qualified professional who can perform wiring or pipe repair. A powered mechanism for removing water from the basement after flooding is the most robust method for the prevention of property damage. 

3. Sources of Leakage Sometimes the biggest issues facing the homeowner lie in the ingress of water. Cracked walls or insufficient sealants and waterproof coatings can allow water that would otherwise drain away to enter the basement. Improperly positioned or damaged gutters and downspouts can divert water toward the house rather than into the yard. Gutters can also become clogged with leaves or other material, causing them to overflow. Gaps in roofing tiles or shingles can also cause undesirable water redirection, especially in periods of extreme rain or snowmelt. Controlling the water volume before it reaches the basement is often the best preventative measure. Following the above checklist of troubleshooting tips will usually stop the problem before it begins. Should you experience unavoidable flooding and require basement cleanup and decontamination, contact SERVPRO of Birmingham where we specialize in that process to avoid potential health hazards.

Are You Prepared for a Thunderstom?

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

During this time of year in Birmingham, AL we can experience a lot of rain, which can lead to thunderstorms. It’s important to be prepared and have a plan in place. Talk with your family and create an emergency plan for thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. Think about an emergency shelter and evacuation plan. Below we have a few suggestions to make sure you and your family are ready for whatever happens. 

Protect your electronics

Your electronics can get fried if they are not properly protected. Plug electronics into a surge protector to avoid damage during a storm. 

Prepare for power outages

Have battery-operated flashlights and lanterns in easy to get to places. Check on these items from time to time to make sure the batteries still work, replace them if necessary. Also, think about keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. If these food items rise above 40 degrees for 2 hours or more, they should be disregarded. Call your local power company to inform them of the outage and to get information regarding when the power should be restored. 

Stay away from power lines

Do not go near power lines should they fall to the ground, they can be very hazardous. Call 911 if you see downed power lines. 

Go inside when you hear thunder

If you hear thunder, it is likely that lightning is also occurring. Lightning can be dangerous, therefore, make sure to go inside when thunder occurs. 

Seek shelter

There are many different natural elements which can occur and be harmful when outside during a disaster. Therefore, during a storm, it is important to seek shelter and be safe. If your inside, a good place to be is at the lowest level of your home. If you have a basement or storm cellar you can hang out in until the storm passes. 

Keep an emergency kit ready

Consider putting together a kit of things you may want to have on hand during a storm. Items you may want to include would be water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets extra batteries, a radio, and a first aid kit. If you have an emergency does strike your home during a thunderstorm, SERVPRO of Birmingham is ready to help get your life back to normal. Call us Birmingham, (205) 664-6770

The Fire Restoration Process

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage is probably the last thing on your mind, but you may want to move it up on your list of priorities; preparation is the key. The first 48 hours after a fire often makes the difference between ‘restoring’ vs. ‘replacing’ your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Birmingham provides a timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal, to content claims inventory and document restoration.  

Here is a timeline to help ease your mind of what should be done before and after SERVPRO of Birmingham arrives: 

One Hour

Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO of Birmingham professional will contact you to arrange for service. 

Four Hours

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of Birmingham technician will be onsite to start mitigation services. 

Detailed Explanation

A trained and uniformed SERVPRO of Birmingham employee will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. 

Pretesting

A SERVPRO of Birmingham employee will begin pretesting for restoration, working from the source of the damage outward. 

Eight Hours

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope is communicated to the appropriate person. 

Cleaning, Restoration, & Deodorization

SERVPRO of Birmingham will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property. We then use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Final Walk-through

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. SERVPRO of Birmingham responds quickly, offering a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services to help you return home as soon as possible. Before risking further damage by attempting to clean up the damage on your own, call the fire damage clean up and restoration professionals. Call us Birmingham, (205) 664-6770

Residential Lighting Damage Happens More than You Think

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Strikes happen an average of twice a year

Home Lightning Strikes happen roughly twice a year!

Here at SERVPRO of Birmingham, we can help you with fire damages caused by lightning strikes. When the lightning hits a residence, it travels through the electrical lines to one of the home’s electrical boxes, which can catch fire. These fires can leave severe damage, including smoke damage to your home. SERVPRO of Birmingham’s mitigation team has the ability to do a chem-sponge technique that was used to clean soot off of the walls. In doing this, SERVPRO of Birmingham can ensure that no fire damage or smoke damage goes untreated. If needed, affected walls in all damaged rooms can be painted after the cleanup is completed and drywall replaced where necessary. Our professional in-house crew use a white-glove treatment on your residence and completed the entire project quickly; from the first contact to completion Here at SERVPRO of Birmingham, we are proud to serve the residents of Birmingham, AL, especially when the worst happens. Why chose SERVPRO? Because in the event of fire damage or water damages large or small, we’re here to help. Call us Birmingham at (205) 664-6770

Getting Rid of Unpleasant Odors in your Home

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Our equipment is designed to treat your home of unwanted odors

Don’t live a life full of unpleasant smells

SERVPRO of Birmingham Can Handle Hoarding Cleanup

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hoarding can be a sensitive situation

What is “Hoarding Disorder”

What is Hoarding?

How can SERVPRO of Birmingham Help?

What are those Noisy Water Pipes Saying?

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

What is that noise?!

We all know the noises our home makes. That cracking when it is quiet, the sound of someone walking around in the attic or the quiet drip of the shower even hours after it has been used. Our homes all have a set of familiar noises! However, not all those sounds can be good for your home or your wallet! Especially, the sounds coming from your water pipes may be a warning. While a whistling faucet may simply require a new washer to quiet down, if you have a hissing, whistling sound in multiple fixtures and a hammering noise coming from your pipes, you could be headed for a pipe break! Residential water pressure is usually around 80 psi, but sometimes municipalities have to increase pressure for nearby non-residential facilities. When this happens in the Birmingham, AL area the increased water pressure can damage your home’s plumbing. In addition to the irritation of noisy pipes, high water pressure can:

• Erode pipes
• Reduce life expectancy of fixtures
• Increase water bills
• Result in leaks
• Cause a pipe burst

What’s Causing the Noises?

As a large amount of water is forced through fixture openings designed to handle a lower flow, it makes a whistling sound, just like forcing a large amount of air through pursed lips causes a whistling sound. When water suddenly stops flowing through pipes, the momentum causes it to slam around inside the pipe, which causes a clanging or banging sound. Your plumbing has built-in air chambers to prevent this from happening, but when water pressure is higher than normal, the chambers aren’t enough to prevent the hammering sound. The longer you wait to address high water pressure in your home, the more likely it is to cause a pipe break.

What To Do About High Pressure

If you suspect your water pressure is too high, call a plumber in Birmingham, AL area to test the pressure for you. A device called a pressure regulating valve, or PRV can be installed to control the water pressure inside your home. Hiring a professional to prevent a pipe break is far preferable to hiring one to fix a broken pipe inside your walls. SERVPRO of Birmingham wants you to catch an emergency before they occur but if one happens before you can stop it, know that we are ready to help you at a moment’s notice. Our team of highly trained technicians will assess the damages and take the necessary steps to ensure this emergency feels "Like it never even happened." Call us Birmingham at (205) 664-6770

Document Drying Could Save What is Important to You

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Freeze Drying Chamber

When you experience a flood at your home or place of business, you can't afford to lose important documents or paper goods to water damage. Using state of the art technology, SERVPRO is well equipped to properly dry and recover paper goods ranging from paper files to books to x-rays and photos.

Why use SERVPRO for document restoration?

The SERVPRO document restoration facility uses the latest vacuum free-drying method in addition to gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing. The facility is under 24-hour surveillance and is managed by HIPAA Master-certified technicians to ensure proper safety and privacy of your documents. The SERVPRO document restoration team has the capacity to handle large scale commercial losses and smaller residential jobs.

Are there other services than just document drying?

Yes, there are! In addition to drying your documents, SERVPRO also offers cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization. No matter your document restoration needs, SERVPRO of Birmingham is "Here to Help"!

There's no time to waste! Call SERVPRO of Birmingham today at (205) 664-6770

Any Time, Any Problem, SERVPRO of Birmingham is Ready to Help with Restoration Services

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO?

With any disaster, cleanup can be a hassle in the Birmingham, AL area. The mess left by floods, fires, or mold is a lot to handle by yourself. At SERVPRO of Birmingham, we provide emergency cleaning services for any of these problems. Let us help you get your life back to normal after an emergency. Sometimes the most damaging thing from a fire is the smoke and soot that comes with it. Our cleaning professionals will remove any traces and odor left by smoke and soot after a fire. Getting rid of the mess after a fire is a difficult job, and it requires knowledge and experience to be completely successful. The same is true when it comes to removing mold, mildew, and sewage. With our trusted professionals, you can be sure the damage from any disaster will be minimized as much as possible. Cleaning services from SERVPRO of Birmingham will take care of these messes so you don’t have to! If you’ve already had to deal with the stress of a disaster, let us take the stress out of the cleanup. We are available 24/7 to help with any emergency, at any time. Contact us today, and our professional cleaning services will take care of any emergencies you have. Whether its mold, water, or fire damage, our team at SERVPRO of Birmingham has the most reliable emergency restoration services. We are available any time, day or night, to help with any problem, and you can trust us to do our best work every time. 

Mold Damage

• Mold grows when water damage has not been dried properly. If you have had previous water damage and are now seeing fuzzy or wet spots of mold somewhere in your home, call us today. The quicker a mold problem is taken care of by our professional restoration team, the less overall damage you will have to deal with.

Water Damage

• Immense water damage, like a flood from a burst pipe, always happens when you least expect it. Our emergency restoration services are available 24/7 because these emergencies cannot wait. Immediate action must be taken in order to save your home or business. Our trusted team will respond quickly to clean up the mess and lower the possibility of mold growth.

Fire Damage

• Fires are destructive, as well as the smoke and soot that comes with them. If these problems aren’t taken care of very quickly, the damage will be severe and permanent. Take action instantly after a fire and call our restoration team. We can fix all of the problems that come after a fire, and we do our best work to return your home or business to normal.

No matter what emergency you’re facing, contact us at SERVPRO of Birmingham today at (205) 664-6770 and let our emergency restoration services team take care of it!

Levels of Commercial Damage in Birmingham, AL

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Birmingham handles not only residential damage and restoration but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

What to Do Until We Arrive During a Fire Damage

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

A fire can be devastating. It leaves behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Fire damages can affect ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until your local SERVPRO of Birmingham arrives. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork. n Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer/ refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor
• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/ bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system

SERVPRO of Birmingham Can Restore Your Commercial Property from Storm Damage

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

What you want is access to a quality restoration company when recovering from storm damage in your Birmingham, AL area business. We have strategically located restoration teams with several years of experience helping businesses just like yours recover from storm damage throughout the area and all of the resources needed to assist you and your neighbors when an emergency situation strikes.

Preventing Your Pipes from Freezing

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Tips for preventing frozen pipes inside and outside your home

Frozen Pipes Can Burst!

It has been colder here lately in the Birmingham, AL area! When cold temperatures happen that can cause pipes to freeze. Frozen Pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter.Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. These include:

1. Keeping your house warm - If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.
2. Opening faucets - When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.
3. Insulation is key - Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

SERVPRO® of Birmingham is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at (205) 664-6770

Birmingham, AL Commercial Property Management: Signs of Sewer Line Issues

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

While a blocked sewer drain is relatively common in commercial properties, legitimate concerns over sewer line functionality may be few and far between. However, when major sewer line issues occur, it is essential to remedy the problems quickly to avoid potential backups and structural damage. Be aware of these four signs, which may indicate sewer line problems.

1. Odors

While drain or toilet overflow are frequent problems in commercial properties, you should pay attention to odors surrounding these problems. For instance, if after clearing a clog you smell sewer gas, you may want to call a plumber for an inspection, as strong sewer smells can be an indicator of issues further in the line.

2. Clogged Drains

A blocked sewer will not only cause unpleasant odors to occur in your building, but the blocked pipe can also cause frequent clogging of your drains and toilets. This problem may also cause sewer backups into your facility.

3. Indentations in Landscaping

Also, while you may not have any clogging issues, it is still possible that your sewer lines have failed. Pipe breaks may cause indentations in your landscaping, like divots in the lawn. If the break is severe enough, it is possible that sewage is leaking into the grounds of your property. Eventually, this can also lead to a sewage backup in your building.

4. Deformations in Landscaping

In addition to indentations in the lawn, you may notice perpetual puddling in certain areas. You may also see that areas of your parking lot have sunken or cracked along with sidewalks. Depending on how close the break is to your building, you may even notice cracks in the foundation. These issues often require the expertise of a disaster restoration specialist in the Birmingham, AL area to resolve, which depending on your insurance policy may be covered.

A blocked sewer line can wreak havoc on a business and may even lead to significant business interruption. You should be aware of the warning signs of such a problem so that you can resolve the issue as early as possible.

Top Commercial Mold Damage Tips to Remember After a Flood

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

If your home or commercial building recently flooded due to storm damage or some sort of plumbing issues, you're probably unsure of the next step. Not only are you worried about property damage from the water, but you also have to worry about mold in your home or business. Mold can affect indoor air quality, can cause significant property damage and can cause a foul smell that even the best deodorization techniques can't get rid of! Follow these tips if you're dealing with residential or commercial mold in Birmingham, AL. 

Get Rid of Moisture

This is the very first step! Before the mold can be properly addressed, as much moisture as possible needs to be removed. If there is standing water, it can be dangerous to walk into your home or commercial property, so please make sure you can safely enter the building or structure.  

Protect Yourself 

You just never really know what can be floating around in standing water that can hurt you. For example, electrical wiring. You don't want to endure an electrical shock. Once you know you can safely enter, PROTECT YOURSELF by wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask. 

Hire a Professional

The best thing you can do is leave it to the experts. Rely on a team of professionals to help get your home or business back in tip-top shape. Experts can come in and assess the true extent of the damage and help ensure all of the molds is properly remediated. We promise it could save you a lot of time, money and headaches in the future. Visit www.SERVPRObirminghamsouth.com for more information on mold removal.

Dealing with Mold

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

When there is water in your home, mold can quickly become an issue. It can cause health issues and damage to your property. SERVPRO of Birmingham has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment to handle your mold problem.

Call SERVPRO of Birmingham
The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. One of our employees will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Assessment
Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Containment
Different containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration
Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of Birmingham technicians use powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing
The process of mold remediation depends on the amount of mold growth and the type of surface it's on. Anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new ones from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary.

Cleaning
SERVPRO of Birmingham cleans your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings.

Restoration
Depending on the level of mold damage, some building materials may have to be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs or major repairs such as reconstruction.

Are You Ready for an Emergency?

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Setting up a quick and simple ERP

As a business owner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. We couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO® of Birmingham realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc.

Emergency Ready Program

Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, plan for it now! As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile Advantage is of no-cost assessment to 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 it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes SERVPRO® of Birmingham as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Mold During Cleanup

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage clean up in Birmingham, AL

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Mold During Cleanup

During the process of mold remediation, it’s important to protect yourself, and your staff, with the proper safety gear and equipment. If you’re concerned about conducting the procedure yourself, SERVPRO of Birmingham mold remediation specialist may be able to help. The recommendations for a safe cleanup remain the same for everyone involved.

1. Wear Protective Clothing

When cleaning up mold growth it’s important to wear protective clothing. A coverall suit is recommended in most cases, but long sleeves tucked into gloves, and long pants may work just as well. Protective gear is an important tool for keeping any cleaning agents and mold spores off of your skin. If wearing everyday clothing instead of a protective suit, it’s important to launder them in hot water immediately after use.

2. Change Before Entering an Uncontaminated Area

Another way to protect your business is to change out of your safety gear before entering uncontaminated areas. This can help prevent the spread of mold spores into areas where mold growth has not yet occurred. The necessity of changing gear is why many professional use covers for their hair and shoes, as well as wear protective over-suits.

3. Wear a Mask and Goggles

The use of a respirator mask and protective goggles are also recommended. These can help prevent the inhalation of any cleaning fumes, and keep dust or debris common to clean up out of your eyes. The mask and goggles should fit snugly without pinching.

Using the proper equipment when cleaning up mold can help protect everyone, including the cleanup crew and the employees who regularly work in the building. Proper gear can not only help prevent the spread of mold to uncontaminated areas but allow for cleaning solutions to be used safely. If you’re unsure about the proper procedure or don’t want to conduct the cleanup yourself, a professional may be able to help.

Do you have Mold?

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through quickly through a home in as little as 48 hours, in the Birmingham Area!

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

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Birmingham! 205-664-6770

Golf Tournament Donations

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

Every year we have a customer appreciation golf tournament where our customers come and enjoy a day on the course; everything is provided by SERVPRO. The past few years we had a corporate partnership with the American Red Cross but this year we decided to honor our firefighters in Jefferson and Shelby Counties. 

As part of the golf tournament sponsorship, you could support a firefighter foursome to play in the tournament. We were lucky enough to have almost 10 different fire stations present. We showed our appreciation during our lunch and then gifted them with over 10,000 in sponsorship donations. 

Our sales and marketing representatives have been delivering the checks over the last few weeks. We work very closely with our fire departments and appreciate all they do! We look forward to supporting them even more in the future. 

F1RST Responder Bowl Honoree

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

F1RST Responder Bowl

SERVPRO is proud to be the sponsor of the first-ever First Responder focused bowl game and we extend a heartfelt thank you to all the brave men and women on the front-lines. Their courage and compassion is inspiring to all. We are grateful to live in a country where individuals dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their fellow citizens. We are humbled by their bravery and thank them for putting their lives on the line in order to save those around them. We thank them for their service and sacrifice. 

The game will be played on December 26th in Dallas, TX. However and broadcast on ESPN; we have an exciting opportunity to take part, here in Birmingham, at the Birmingham Bowl.

We are currently seeking nominees within the Jefferson/Shelby County areas that are worthy of receiving the "Honor a Responder" award. To qualify, the nominee must have served in fire, police/law enforcement, EMT, National Guard, disaster relief, or military. This includes anyone who has been injured and returned to work, has saved lives during their career, entered retirement (but had served their community for many years), trained or mentored fellow First Responders, or has lost their life in the line of duty (their family members are encouraged to receive the award on their behalf). The nominee shall be someone who has accomplished something remarkable in 2018. The winner of this award, as well as their family and friends, will be given tickets to the Birmingham Bowl on December 22nd and will receive media recognition.  

Please forward your nomination, to include the name, affiliation or department, and the reason you feel they deserve this award, via email to; marketing@servrpoofbirmingham.com. The deadline is Friday, November 30th. The winner will be chosen by our corporate office. If you would like additional information please contact our marketing support coordinator, Adam West, at 205-664-6770. 

Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to bestowing a local First Responder with this honor for years to come. Because when we lift up those we depend on, we strengthen our ability to serve - our ability to make the memories of Fire & Water Damage "Like it never even happened." ®

Prepare Now

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities. Learn how to be prepared.

Make and Practice Your Plan Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with your family before, during and after an incident? Do you have an emergency supply kit? Make sure your family is informed and practiced in your emergency plan. Be sure to sign up for alerts and warnings for your area, and download other necessary apps to stay informed, such as the FEMA app.

Learn Life Saving Skills Do you or someone in your family know CPR? Could you turn off your natural gas if necessary? Do you know how to take cover in an earthquake? Knowing these life saving skills could mean life or death in an emergency situation for you, your family or your neighbors.

What to do until help arrives:

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until your local SERVPRO of Birmingham South arrives. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

-Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

-Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. n Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.

-If electricity is off, empty freezer/ refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.

-Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/ bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.

-If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.

-Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Safety Environmental

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fungal organisms can grow and multiply wherever suitable conditions of moisture and a food source exist. Common sources of indoor moisture that may lead to mold problems include flooding, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, overflow from sinks or sewers and damp basements or crawl spaces. Warping floors and discoloration of walls and ceilings can be indications of moisture problems. Unchecked moisture problems can lead to extensive mold contamination in your home, workplace or school.

• American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA-LAP) Proficient Mold Laboratory
• Preliminary Indoor Mold and Bacterial Assessments
• Post Remediation Mold and Bacterial Assessments
• Black Water/Sewage Screen Assessments
• Cause and Origin Insurance Assessments
• Remediation Project Management/Oversight
• Remediation/Design Specifications
• Food Service Assessments

If mold spore concentrations are high, people can become sensitized and develop allergic reactions. Symptoms of mold-overexposure include respiratory problems, eye irritation and skin rashes. In addition, if mold growth is left unchecked, structural damage to the facility can occur.

Safety, Environmental Laboratories and Consulting Services, Inc. specializes in assessing mold growth and contamination. We have performed indoor air quality assessments for residences, businesses and schools throughout the United States. In addition, we can make recommendations for the remediation of your mold problem and perform turnkey project management to insure the problem is corrected.

selcinc.com

Power Outages

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Power Outages