Recent Posts

SERVPRO CONVENTION 2023

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

A photo of three Servpro people with a pirate Pirate Night at SERVPRO Convention!

SERVPRO's annual company wide convention was held in Tampa, FL this year. Convention is a great opportunity for all 2,000+ franchises to come together under one roof and collaborate new ideas.

For 50+ consecutive years SERVPRO has seen it's company wide revenue increase. It has also been ranked by Entrepreneur magazine 35 years running as one of the top 500 franchises in the nation, topping out at #1 in its franchise category.

SERVPRO convention is a staple in every SERVPRO franchise owner's yearly schedule. The amount of knowledge that circulates through the convention halls and work shops is unmatched.

It is always refreshing to hear from other SERVPRO owners about their successes, but most importantly their failures. As a massive company family, we are all committed to staying on mission and working every year to further our position as the #1 restoration company in the nation!

As you can see from the photo, this years opening night them was pirates!

When a Storm Gets Water in Your Home

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

Photo of water on a painted wall Water from a storm got into this house and made the paint run from all the moisture

SERVPRO of Limestone and Lawrence Counties/Decatur specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 2.000 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

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

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

Professionally Cleaning a Fire Job

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

Image of a bathroom covered in soot from a fire House fire covers bathroom in thick black soot

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

Bring in the Fire Damage Pros

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

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

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

Know Who to Hire

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

What a Trained and Certified Fire Damage Restoration Professional Does

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

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur today at (256) 233-4033 for help with any fire related issues to your home or business!

Neat Facts About Mold

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

Image of mold Black mold on the wood framing of a home

SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur's website gives some neat facts about mold that you may have not known:

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

If you have mold in your home, it is nothing to be embarrassed about, however it does need to be addressed and looked at if you question your well-being and your home being negatively affected by it.

Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur today and we will be glad to assess any mold damage that you may suspect. (256) 233-4033

How to Prevent Commercial Water Damage

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Every day, hundreds of commercial buildings experience water damage. In fact, water is the most common type of damage that commercial buildings experience. When it is not dealt with promptly and effectively, the problem can rapidly grow from a minor issue to something costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars. 

How can you best protect your business from water damage and minimize the fall-out when something does happen? Follow these steps:

  1. Prepare an Emergency Plan
  • Given how integral water is to all life and most industries, it is almost guaranteed that a commercial building will have to deal with water damage at some point. Thus, one of the best things a business owner can do is prepare for that inevitability ahead of time to keep losses to a minimum. Because water damage can grow exponentially if not addressed immediately, time is of the essence. 
  • Your emergency plan should include:
    • A blueprint is showing where the shut-off points are for water, electricity and gas plus a set of instructions on how to shut them down fast.
    • A conveniently located toolbox.
    • A list of emergency phone numbers, such as the fire department, plumbers, SERVPRO of Catonsville, emergency personnel, and police.
  1. Regularly Inspect Vulnerable Areas
  • Inspect Your Roof Regularly
    • Check all rooftop penetrations, both interior and exterior.
    • Look for water stains.
    • Check all flashing, drains and seals. 
  • Inspect Your Walls Regularly
    • Check wall joints around doors and windows.
    • Check flashing and sealant integrity. 
  • Inspect Your Windows Regularly
    • Check for air seal integrity.
    • Test all locks and other mechanical parts.
    • Check flashing and joints.
    • Look for water stains or mold growth on window sills and interior walls.

Emergency plans and inspections are both measures to lessen any disruption to your commercial building. Questions about commercial water damage or how to prevent it?

Every day, thousands of commercial buildings experience water damage. In fact, water is the most common type of damage that commercial buildings experience. When it is not dealt with promptly and effectively, the problem can rapidly grow from a minor issue to something costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars. 

How can you best protect your business from water damage and minimize the fall-out when something does happen? Follow these steps:

  1. Prepare an Emergency Plan
  • Given how integral water is to all life and most industries, it is almost guaranteed that a commercial building will have to deal with water damage at some point. Thus, one of the best things a business owner can do is prepare for that inevitability ahead of time to keep losses to a minimum. Because water damage can grow exponentially if not addressed immediately, time is of the essence. 
  • Your emergency plan should include:
    • A blueprint is showing where the shut-off points are for water, electricity and gas plus a set of instructions on how to shut them down fast.
    • A conveniently located toolbox.
    • A list of emergency phone numbers, such as the fire department, plumbers, SERVPRO of Catonsville, emergency personnel, and police.
  1. Regularly Inspect Vulnerable Areas
  • Inspect Your Roof Regularly
    • Check all rooftop penetrations, both interior and exterior.
    • Look for water stains.
    • Check all flashing, drains and seals. 
  • Inspect Your Walls Regularly
    • Check wall joints around doors and windows.
    • Check flashing and sealant integrity. 
  • Inspect Your Windows Regularly
    • Check for air seal integrity.
    • Test all locks and other mechanical parts.
    • Check flashing and joints.
    • Look for water stains or mold growth on window sills and interior walls.

Emergency plans and inspections are both measures to lessen any disruption to your commercial building. Questions about commercial water damage or how to prevent it? SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur is here to help. Call us! (256) 233-4033

How do We Properly Handle a Water Damage?

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a water loss Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur for help TODAY!

Water damages are bound to happen, whether from a deteriorated pipe, leaking refrigerator supply line, or one of a million other possibilities. When these damages do occur, it is important to handle them as quickly as possible to limit the amount of affected area and reduce the likelihood of secondary damages. One of the most frequent questions that we are asked when we take a call for a water damage is “how are you going to handle this?”  SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur utilizes industry leading technology, equipment, and practices to tackle even the most disastrous of damages, and here’s how:

  • 24 Hour Emergency Response. The quicker that we can arrive on site and begin assessing the damages the better.
  • Standing Water Extraction. Depending on the type of flooring, we have various equipment options to extract and remove any standing water present.
  • Stabilization of the Property. There are many steps that can take place during this phase, including placement of containment barriers, setup of drying and dehumidification equipment, and contents manipulation to better access the affected area.
  • Once these first steps have been taken, we will thoroughly assess the extent of the damages, formulate a plan for restoration and/or demolition, and begin coordinating all resources needed to take on the project.
  • Communication is Key! Throughout the course of the project, we focus on staying in communication with the stakeholder(s) involved and providing them with progress updates. Along with these briefings, we will also extensively document our progress through photos, notes, and drying logs.

Planning of Traveling this Spring/Summer? Guard your Home Against Water Damage!

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a house gutter Returning from out of town just to find a water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY!

The spring and summer months mean warmer temperatures, blooming foliage, and for many Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur families, travel plans. Whether you are relaxing in the mountains, or spending time with loved ones in another state, the last thing you want is a phone call saying, “I’m so sorry, but there’s been a water damage at your home.”  Help safeguard yourself and your property against this scenario by prepping your home before heading out of town. How, you ask? SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur offers these tips: 

  • Turn off the main water supply to your house before leaving. Since the water will not be in use, it may be beneficial to keep the water from flowing in case of a plumbing issue.
  • Check your pipes for any corrosion, cracks, or leaks before heading out.
  • Clear out debris from rain gutters. Clogged gutters can allow rainwater to back up onto your roof.
  • Double check that all doors and windows are closed and locked. Not only is this imperative to keep your property safe from burglary but can also help limit water intrusion.
  • Have a friend or neighbor check in on your home. Depending on the length of time you will be away, this approach may help limit the extent of damages if they were to occur.

In the unfortunate event that you do incur water damages at home while you travel, or at any other time, know that SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur is Here to Help. Our team of experienced professionals utilizes industry leading equipment and techniques to quickly address these damages and begin the mitigation process. Looking to learn more about our services, or in need of assistance? Give us a call at (256) 233-4033

Why Won't My Toilet Stop Running

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a water damage Water Loss From Broken Toilet? Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY!

It’s a necessity in every residential and commercial building:the toilet. Proper toilet and plumbing maintenance are essential for helping to protect your property from the risk of water damage, but all too often, people find that their toilet just won’t stop running! Fortunately, a running toilet is often a simple fix, with one of these three most common causes:

  1. A Broken or Dirty Flapper. The flapper is the rubber piece inside of the tank that stops the water from going down into the bowl. This flapper is regulated by the flushing handle, attached to a chain. If the flapper becomes damaged, warped, or soiled, the hole to the bowl will not seal properly, allowing the toilet to run continuously. By turning off the water to the toilet, draining the tank, and inspecting the flapper, you can determine if cleaning or replacement will be necessary.
  2. Improper Chain Length. The chain between the flushing handle and the flapper must be the proper length to allow the flapper to seal properly after flushing. If the chain is too short, the flapper will not be able to settle into the proper position to seal the toilet tank from the bowl. Checking the chain for any damages, and adjusting the length if needed, can help correct any running toilet issues.
  3. Float Out of Position. This float regulates the water level within the toilet tank and is often accompanied by a fill level indication on the tank. If the float is positioned too high, this will allow too much water into the tank, which will continually cause the toilet to run. 

Not only can fixing your running toilet help reduce the risk of a water damage, but it can also save quite a bit of money on you water bill. If your toilet, or any other commercial or residential appliance, does happen to cause your home or business a water damage, know that SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur is equipped and prepared to help!

How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Bathroom

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a bathroom Have a Water Damage in Your Restroom? Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY!

Your bathroom is probably the most vulnerable area in your home or business when it comes to damage from water, and that only makes sense. To prevent such damage from occurring, you will want to do regular assessments of pipes, faucets and fixtures, caulking, and more. If you can identify aging equipment and replace it before it fails, you will avoid the most common causes of water damage in your bathroom. 

Here is a great list of things to look for:

  • You may notice wallpaper or paint peeling away or appearing discolored in your bath area. Check for bowing in the walls, which can be a result of long-term seepage. If the flooring is swollen or removed from the subfloor, that is another indicator of water seepage. If any of these signs appear, it’s important to find the source of the leak. 
  • Look for cracks in window seals and door panes, as well. 
  • Odors are a powerful indicator that there is an excess water problem. Oftentimes, it’s mold or mildew that causes those smells, so look in those hard-to-see places, such as under the sink, behind the toilet, and in the closet. 
  • Make a regular inspection of pipes and hoses; if you see one that is getting old, replace it BEFORE it fails. Waiting until it breaks will mean a water damage event, which you want to avoid. 
  • If you do experience flooding in your bathroom, such as from a toilet backing up or a bathtub overflowing, make sure you remove the standing water right away. Employ fans if you can (be sure not to plug them in until you know that there is no dampness in the wall); these will help to speed up the drying process. 

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur if the worst happens; we’re experienced and trained to remediate and repair areas that have extensive damage from excess water due to leaky pipes, flooding, etc. Our team here is here to help with cleanups after water damage or fire damage, and we handle mold invasions, biohazards, vandalism, and more. We can get your home or business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, too!

Maintaining Your Smoke Detector

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of a smoke detector Have a Fire or Smoke Damage in Your Home or Business? Call SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur TODAY!

Smoke detectors are not something we pay much attention to during our day-to-day living, but they immediately become essential if a fire happens! Make it a priority to maintain your smoke detectors regularly so that they are always ready to alert you in the event of a fire. 

Making Sure Your Smoke Detectors Work As They Should

  • Make sure you know how old your alarms are, and test them monthly using the provided test button.  
  • Keep them clean and free of greasy build-up and dust, which could affect their performance. A scheduled cleaning will make sure your smoke detectors stay in good working order.
  • Ensure that your smoke detectors are powered up and ready to go at all times and schedule battery changes so that they are always prepared to alert you whenever you need them.
  • Your smoke detectors should all go off simultaneously in the event of a fire, so contact a professional to make sure they are all synced.
  • Replace all smoke detectors, including those using 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, before turning ten years old. If they don’t respond correctly during a routine check, it’s definitely time for new units. 
  • Save and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing and maintenance of your units. 
  • A certified inspection entity should mark your smoke detectors. 

Install Smoke Detectors In All The Right Places

  • Every room in your home or business needs a smoke detector, any place where people will be, and where a product is stored, as well. 
  • Each unit should be securely fastened to its surface, whether it is a wall or a ceiling. 
  • Ensure that smoke detectors are in all areas where people spend time, from the bathroom to the warehouse of your business, and remember that customer waiting areas and public restrooms need to be outfitted, as well. 

We care about your safety here at SERVPRO of Limestone & Lawrence Counties/Decatur so don’t hesitate to contact us for all your large-scale cleanup projects. We’re experts at handling water and fire damage, mold prevention and remediation, vandalism, and biohazards. Ask us how we can get your home or business cleaned TODAY!