How To Use a Fire Extinguisher?

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

PASS fire method

Use of a Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is an important tool that every household or business should have. With the right kind of training and education, you can use it to fight fires and prevent them from spreading. A fire extinguisher has three main components: the cylinder (which holds the agent that puts out the fire), the handle (or trigger), and a nozzle for directing the agent at the flames. Here's how each part works.

1. Assess the situation: is it safe?

Before you can use a fire extinguisher, you need to make sure it's safe for you and others around you. This includes making sure that:

• The fire is out of control. You should never try to put out a potentially dangerous fire unless there's absolutely no other option—if the situation requires immediate action, then get out of there! If you think it's safe enough to use an extinguisher, proceed as follows:

2. Pull the pin and aim the extinguisher

• Pull the pin and aim the extinguisher

• Pull the pin to release it from its mount. Aim at the base of the fire and squeeze the lever fully, aiming towards where you want to send foam or water. Sweep back and forth over the affected area

3. Squeeze the lever to release the extinguishing agent

Now that you have aimed and released the extinguishing agent, it is time to make sure that it does its job. To do this, use a continuous sweeping motion with the hose until you see no more flames or glowing embers. Make sure to aim at the base of any fires so that they are fully covered in foam. 

4. Sweep the nozzle from side to side

Sweeping the nozzle of a fire extinguisher back and forth will help you cover an area with foam, helping to put out flames. Never aim the nozzle at a person, pet, or object as it could damage them or cause injury. Be careful not to get any of the agent as yourself as it can be harmful to your skin. 

A fire extinguisher can help you fight fires, but only if you know how to use one properly.

In case of an emergency, the right fire extinguisher can mean the difference between life and death. But always remember, your safety and the safety of those around is always priority number one. In the case of a fire, here’s what to do:

• Call 911 immediately. This is the most important step. Take note of how many people are in the room and if anyone needs medical help.
• Make sure nobody else is going to put themselves at risk by trying to fight the fire on their own.
• The next thing you need to do is make sure that everyone gets out safely, especially those who might be injured or have mobility issues like seniors or children who aren't able to escape by themselves easily (or at all). 

As you can see, it’s not that difficult to use a fire extinguisher. The most important thing is to take the time to assess the situation and make sure that it’s safe for you to approach the fire before you do anything else. Next, pull out the pin and aim your extinguisher at the flames. Then squeeze the lever so that it sprays out its contents onto any nearby combustibles. Finally, sweep across any areas where embers may remain after being extinguished by this method with another person helping if possible, so as not get burned again while doing so (especially important if using water).

What You Should Know About Emergency Ready Profiles

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

An emergency ready profile (ERP) is a plan of action that details your facility’s key points.

Emergency Ready Profiles

Many businesses do not survive a disaster. Those that do survive most likely have a disaster preparedness plan in place. A key component of any disaster preparedness plan is the emergency profile. This profile contains crucial information that business owners and disaster mitigation experts can use to guide a business through a disaster and help ensure a smooth recovery.

1. What Is an Emergency Profile?
An emergency ready profile (ERP) is a plan of action that details your facility’s key points, such as water main and shut-off valve locations, power sources, priority areas, vulnerable areas, and contact information. It also identifies the chain of command and who authorizes cleanup and restoration work. Pertinent photos and diagrams are commonly included in the profile.

2. What Are the Advantages of Having an ERP?
Having an emergency profile speeds up the recovery process after a disaster. With the profile, the disaster mitigation team knows what has to be done and how it will be done and can begin work right away. The profile also instills trust and confidence among your clients, customers, suppliers, and employees if they know you are prepared and not likely to be shut down by a disaster.

3. What Is the Best Tool For Creating and Sharing Your Profile?
The ERP app, available for both ISO and Android devices, allows you to create, store, and share your emergency profile across platforms. Users can easily input and update information in the app, and that information can be instantly shared between business owners and members of the disaster mitigation team.
Business owners in Downtown, NV, can contact SERVPRO to arrange for an assessment by disaster mitigation and restoration professional. These folks can walk you through the process and give you peace of mind knowing your business can weather any disaster.

3 Questions To Ask Your Commercial Mold Remediation Team

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Fremont Street, NV.

Commercial Mold Remediation

When mold invades your Fremont Street, NV, business, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Mold removal is not something you want to take lightly, especially when you have little to no experience in how to handle it. Calling in an experienced remediation and restoration team can give you peace of mind when it comes to ridding your commercial building of mold, and there are several questions you can ask about the process.

1. Do I Have Black Mold?
One of the most common types of fungi many business owners encounter is black mold, which can develop as quickly as 24 hours after a water event. This fungi gets its name from its dark green to black appearance and can appear on drywall and other building materials in affected, humid areas. Your remediation team can verify whether this is the type of mold that must be removed.

2. How Long Will Removal Take?
The timespan for mold removal may depend on a variety of factors, but the most important is usually the size of the mold growth and how far it has already spread. Depending on the severity of the invasion, it can take up to seven business days for the mold technicians to assess the situation, provide you with solutions and then completely remove the mold in a manner that is safe for everyone in the building.

3. Will I Have To Evacuate the Building?
Your mold remediation technicians will probably advise you about which safety measures to take, which may include sending your employees home or moving them to a safe space in which to work while the process takes place. Consider allowing your employees to work from home until it is safe for them to return so no stoppage is necessary.
Mold removal at your Fremont Street, NV, business does not have to disrupt the normal operation of your company when handled by professionals. Asking a few important questions can offer you peace of mind before, during and after the process.

4 Tips To Avoid Mold in Your Restaurant

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

It's important to keep your humidity levels in check.

Avoid Mold In Your Restaurant

Running a restaurant is ultimately all about the customer experience. Mold growth in your kitchen is one of the last things you’d want your customers to associate with your restaurant, yet it’s a surprisingly common issue in the restaurant industry. Follow these tips to avoid a mold outbreak in your Medical District, NV, restaurant.

1. Be Aware of Mold-Prone Areas

It’s no secret that mold needs moisture to grow and multiply, and you probably already know that moisture-prone spaces attract mold spores. A restaurant kitchen is, in general, an environment with notoriously high humidity levels. However, some areas of your kitchen are likely more attractive to mold than others. Areas to watch closely include any place that tends to be dark, warm, and prone to condensation buildup, such as behind refrigerators and coolers and under sinks.

2. Take Care of Your Ventilation System

A functioning, properly maintained ventilation system is critical to preventing mold growth in a restaurant kitchen. Your ventilation system circulates air through your kitchen and is your primary means to minimize moisture in the air and decrease humidity levels. Your ventilation system is also responsible for either introducing or preventing dust, dirt, and contaminants, which can encourage mold, from entering your kitchen. Be sure to keep up a regular maintenance schedule.

3. Monitor Humidity Levels

High humidity is a key factor in mold production, so it’s important to keep your humidity levels in check. Hygrometers, which measure humidity, are inexpensive and widely available. Aim for a reading of 30-50%.

4. Keep It Clean

Keeping your restaurant kitchen as clean as possible is the best way to prevent a mold outbreak. Clean high-traffic and high-moisture areas regularly, and don’t forget corners and hidden spaces where mold flourishes. Keep an eye out for any signs of water damage. If you suspect damage, be sure that professional restoration efforts begin as soon as possible before mold begins to colonize.
No one likes to picture mold when they think about their favorite restaurant. These tips can help you avoid mold growth in your restaurant kitchen.

Sluice, Don’t Fail Me Now

2/5/2022 (Permalink)

Dams are another barrier to prevent high water levels.

Four Types of Water Control Systems

When moving your business to an area that deals with high water levels, it is essential to understand how that city goes about flood prevention. While you can purchase flood insurance and make emergency response plans, you shouldn’t have to worry that your city isn’t doing its fair share to protect you. There are mainly four types of water control systems used by cities all over the world, and it pays to understand how they work.

1. Dikes

One of the most common tools used to prevent and even stop flooding is a dike. Made of earth and rock, dikes resemble natural structures. This type of barrier originated in the Netherlands where most of the population lives below sea level.

2. Dams

Another barrier used to prevent high water levels; a dam is typically constructed of steel and concrete. These large man-made objects are used to control water levels and also to distribute water for activities, like consumption, industrialization, irrigation and much more.

3. Sluices

A sluice is a pressure-activated gate that is used to prevent flooding by essentially using controlled flooding techniques. When water levels are low, the gate remains sealed, but when the pressure increases the gate opens, allowing water levels to fall.

4. Locks

Water locks are used more in the transportation industry but are also a means of controlling water levels. There are two gates connected by a channel. The water level is higher behind one gate than the other. When necessary, the high-level gate opens flooding the channel, this is followed by a similar action by the low-level gate.

Granted, knowing how your city responds to flooding is useful, but when a flood happens, you will need to rely more on your own protective measures. Ensuring that you have flood insurance and a response plan from a disaster restoration specialist in the Fremont Street, NV, area are likely your best options.

Operating in an area with high water levels can be nerve-wracking. That’s why, while it is important to know your cities preparation plans, it is more important to have plans of your own.

Fire Restoration Professionals: Why You Should Call a Professional for Your Remediation Needs

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in Downtown, NV.

Fire Restoration Professionals

A commercial fire is often severely damaging for business owners, and the fire damage restoration process can be intimidating. Thankfully, you can enlist the help of a disaster restoration specialist in the Downtown, NV, area to take on the brunt of the work.

1. Availability

Most of these professional services offer 24 hour-a-day and seven-days-a-week availability, meaning that they are ready and willing to work whenever a disaster strikes your building. You can even call the company in the middle of the night during a holiday, and they can quickly be there to offer assistance in whatever way they can.

2. Assessment

Fire damage restoration experts will likely start by offering a free assessment of your property. They may walk the area, taking note of all structural damage and property loss, listening to your concerns, and offering an estimate of the work to be completed. Also, the individuals who provide the estimate will likely be the managers of your entire project.

3. Security

Beyond the initial assessment, most restoration companies offer tarping and board-up services to mitigate further loss and ensure the security of your facility. Some companies will even provide 24-hour surveillance, either in person or video. Whichever company you choose, make sure that the protection of your property is a priority because receiving your insurance coverage may depend on it.

4. Cleanup

While many of these companies advertise some expertise in water, fire and smoke cleanup, they may also be experts in several disciplines. Additionally, most companies can act as intermediaries between contractors, so you can rest assured that your business is cleaned, repaired and rebuilt with the least amount of stress as possible.

The fire damage restoration process can be grueling, but it doesn’t have to be your burden alone. Most restoration companies have excellent contractors in-house and have outstanding project managers as well. Reduce your stress and hire a skilled restoration team.

What Are the Most Common Business Losses?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage cleanup in Showboat, NV.

Common Causes of Property Damage 

Business losses are often due to malfunctioning systems, such as damaged pipes. Here are four common causes of property damage and losses at businesses in Showboat, NV.

1. Theft

The most common cause of business losses involves theft on the part of employees or customers. Although these losses can be frequent, they tend to cost business owners less than property damage.

2. Water and Freezing

Water damage can result from damaged pipes, leaking pipes, or problems caused by below freezing weather. Damage that results from plumbing problems may be covered by a general business insurance policy. Some types of water damage, namely flooding, could require additional coverage. The average cost to fix this type of damage is approximately $17,000.

3. Wind and Hail

Wind and hail can result in roof damage. In addition to the considerable expenses involved in roof repairs or replacement, leaks can also lead to internal damage and increase the risk of mold growth. Damage caused by high winds or storms is usually covered by standard business insurance policies as long as an owner maintains records of property upkeep and can prove that negligence was not a factor. The average cost of these types of damage is around $26,000.

4. Fire

Fire damage is one of the most expensive business losses. Depending on the severity of a fire, it may be necessary to rebuild substantial portions of a structure. Some building materials and contents may need to undergo restoration. The average cost of remediating fire damage is $35,000.

Business insurance provides protection against many losses and can limit the liability of business owners. It is important to regularly assess the amount and types of coverage that a business carries. Owners should be prepared to file a claim in the event of relatively minor occurrences such as damaged pipes or any other loss or disaster in Showboat, NV.

Discolored Ceiling Tiles Are Often the Result of Leaks

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water intrusion is the most common cause of discoloration of ceiling tiles in a structure.

Leaks Are Frequently The Cause Of Discolored Ceiling Tiles

Discoloration of ceiling tiles in a building is usually the result of water infiltration; often, this leads to issues with tile mold. Locations like Downtown East, NV, are hardly unique in this regard, as the phenomenon is quite common. Knowing a bit about how to address this issue can help a building owner decide whether or not it is necessary to call in a professional service to remediate the damage.

Identify the Cause of the Discoloration

In most cases, tile discoloration happens when moisture has broken through the tile material and caused water damage. There are at least three common reasons why this occurs.

1. A roof leak is often the culprit to water infiltration. Heavy precipitation and wind that lifts roofing material or flashing can allow rain, sleet, snow or snow melt inside, and gravity does the rest.

2. A failure in the HVAC system can allow moisture to collect and condense. This water can soak ceiling tiles and stain them. Tile mold can be another unwelcome outcome.

3. Interior plumbing that runs above ceilings can fail in a multitude of ways and send water or other liquids onto the ceiling tiles beneath.

Determine the Extent of the Damage

After a stain or discoloration on a ceiling tile has been noticed, it is important not to delay looking for the source. Timely remediation of the leak, whether it is a trickle or something more, can save property owners further aggravation and expense. After the repair has been made, assess how widespread the discoloration is and swap out the stained tiles with new ones.

Besides being aesthetically displeasing, stains on ceiling tiles in a building are a signal that all is not well and watertight up above. It is important to read this sign as early as possible to avoid an escalation of the problem, such as the development of tile mold.

Business Restoration: Cleaning Up After a Flood

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Air mover on a commercial water loss in Winchester, NV

Business Restoration After a Flood

 When a pipe burst and flooding occurs, a business can be out of commission for a while. In order to get back to full operation, you may want to follow the steps below to ensure proper cleanup. 1. Hose Down the Area

It may seem counterintuitive after a flood and the removal of excess water but hosing down the area may be the fastest way to remove any excess debris from the walls and interior of your business. Since there is still an amount of large water damage, using clean water to wash down surfaces will not cause much further damage.

2. Tear Out Damage

After washing away any stuck-on debris, it may be necessary to tear out any extensive damage from flooding. You can remove drywall up to at least 20 inches above the floodwater line. If you have porous/absorbent insulation, you can remove it up to the same point; however, be sure to remove any damp insulation even above this point, as it may produce mold/mildew.

3. Scrub and Disinfect the Area

While bleach may be a reliable and affordable cleaner, you may want to use something stronger, like trisodium phosphate (TSP), depending on the composition of the floodwater and the purpose of the broken pipe. For instance, a sewage pipe may require the use of TCP because of the presence of organic materials.

4. Seek Assistance

While every business owner is likely concerned with costs associated with the fixing and cleanup of a burst pipe, it can also be essential to focus on the expense of business interruption. Restoration specialists in the Winchester, NV, area can offer fair prices and faster recovery time, meaning that a business can reopen, or be functioning at 100%, sooner than without their assistance.

Flooding from a burst pipe can cause extensive damage to a business and may prompt a company to close temporarily; however, a proper cleanup can get a business back to full operation quickly without concern over further damage.

The Importance of Content Cleaning After Fire Damage

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

If you have suffered from a fire loss and equipment has been damaged call on the right professionals for help.

When a commercial fire strikes your company in Winchester, NV, you have a lot to think about all at once. At first, certain items are a priority: the safety of all individuals, the protection of the facility and the continued operation of your core business. Once these matters are secured, your focus will turn to smaller items that have been damaged in the fire. This is where dry-cleaning and other methods of cleaning take center stage. This aspect of the fire restoration process is important for several reasons:

• Personal items can be of significant value
  
• A restore versus replace mentality can save valuable contents
  
• Proper cleaning techniques can eliminate soot and smoke damage

The Best Methods of Content Cleaning

A professional fire remediation team has many tools in its arsenal to clean and sanitize the contents of a company after a fire. Highly-trained technicians use dry-cleaning for items such as clothes, fabrics and furniture. They utilize ultrasonic technology for non-porous items such as ceramics, metals, plastics, glass and rubber. This effective technique can remove soot and smoke damage from items as well as clean bacteria, dirt, fungus and smudges.
In cases of extensive damage to a building, technicians will sometimes take items out of the building for content storage; this protects the items from any additional damage and it enables a more efficient restoration process.

The Process of Content Restoration
Not all items can be saved after a damaging fire. Technicians will pretest items to identify good candidates for restoration, paying particular attention to irreplaceable keepsakes. This process helps save money by reducing the number of belongings that must be replaced. With a variety of cleaning methods at their disposal, these experts seek to match the best cleaning method to the damaged item.
Dry-cleaning is just one of the powerful tools cleaning professionals use after a fire. Specialists use advanced technology to get the best results when cleaning damaged items.

Pros and Cons of a Mold Inspection Prior to Purchasing a Commercial Building

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold inspection in Las Vegas, NV

When you're ready to establish or expand your business in Las Vegas, NV, you need to start shopping for real estate. Once you've found the perfect site, you have to decide on which inspections to have done. One of the less obvious inspections is for mold. Inspections can be pricey, so here are a few pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to get a mold inspection when purchasing a commercial building.

Pros

1. Certainty
For better or worse, once the inspection is done, you know if there's a mold problem. The age of the building, prior water damage, or structural issues could all contribute to the presence of mold in the building. An inspection helps you know if there is a little mold that can be resolved with a little effort or a lot of mold that might make you decide to pass up the site.

2. Safety
You want to have a safe environment for your business. If there is visible mold during a walkthrough, getting an inspection done will help you to understand the extent of the problem. The perfect site loses appeal when thousands of dollars of mold remediation needs to be done for the safety of everyone who might enter the building.

3. Remediation
If you're comfortable with the outcome of the mold inspection, you can work with a commercial remediation specialist to resolve the issues immediately. Even when it seems that mold is only present in a small amount, proper restoration by a professional will lower the chance of mold growing again in the same spot in the future.

Cons

1. Cost
There is really only one con to inspecting a real estate property for mold—the cost. The inspections themselves can run a little on the high end, and remediation could cost you even more if work needs to be done or if it turns out that the project is bigger than you thought.
A mold inspection, despite the cost, can really only work in your favor when deciding whether to buy a commercial space for your future business venture.

Understanding Electronic Smoke Damage in a Commercial Fire

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Electronic smoke damage in Showboat, NV

Electricity is great for two things: Working with modern conveniences and creating fire hazards. Indeed, an electrical fire is often the reason many businesses go into flames. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures and malfunctions are leading causes of fires in commercial properties. An interesting thing about electrical fires is the cause and effect relationship of them. Electronics often cause these kinds of fires to start, and in turn, these kinds of fires often damage other electronics.

Types of Electronic Smoke Damage

When you experience an electrical fire, there can be a substantial amount of damage. While you might initially think about the fire damage, smoke can also destroy unburned electronics. The most common types of smoke damage include:

• Black film
• Magnetic charge
• Acidity from soot

With black film, smoke leaves a dark film inside electronics that can cause them to overheat. This kind of damage can be obvious, but a magnetic charge can also occur. You might not notice a magnetic charge until you experience a short in a circuit. Additionally, smoke can leave acidic soot behind that can also ruin electronics.

Electronic Cleaning Process
While damage from a commercial fire can be frustrating, you may be able to salvage some of your most important devices. That said, cleaning damaged items is not the kind of work you want to try yourself. Most commercial electronics are expensive investments, so it is better to call a commercial fire damage restoration professional for help if you need a computer cleanup. These experts have the skills and training needed to carefully remove soot and other forms of smoke damage from your property.
If you have recently experienced an electrical fire at your business in Showboat, NV, you may be facing significant damages to your inventories and equipment. Electronics are often both the cause of commercial fires as well as the victims of these fires. The good news is, you may have cleaning options available.

Understanding Electronic Smoke Damage in a Commercial Fire

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Electricity is great for two things: Working with modern conveniences and creating fire hazards. Indeed, an electrical fire is often the reason many businesses go into flames. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures and malfunctions are leading causes of fires in commercial properties. An interesting thing about electrical fires is the cause and effect relationship of them. Electronics often cause these kinds of fires to start, and in turn, these kinds of fires often damage other electronics.

Types of Electronic Smoke Damage
When you experience an electrical fire, there can be a substantial amount of damage. While you might initially think about the fire damage, smoke can also destroy unburned electronics. The most common types of smoke damage include:

• Black film
  
• Magnetic charge
  
• Acidity from soot
  

With black film, smoke leaves a dark film inside electronics that can cause them to overheat. This kind of damage can be obvious, but a magnetic charge can also occur. You might not notice a magnetic charge until you experience a short in a circuit. Additionally, smoke can leave acidic soot behind that can also ruin electronics.

Electronic Cleaning Process
While damage from a commercial fire can be frustrating, you may be able to salvage some of your most important devices. That said, cleaning damaged items is not the kind of work you want to try yourself. Most commercial electronics are expensive investments, so it is better to call a commercial fire damage restoration professional for help if you need a computer cleanup. These experts have the skills and training needed to carefully remove soot and other forms of smoke damage from your property.
If you have recently experienced an electrical fire at your business in Las Vegas, NV, you may be facing significant damages to your inventories and equipment. Electronics are often both the cause of commercial fires as well as the victims of these fires. The good news is, you may have cleaning options available.

3 Ways Commercial Owners Can Prevent Clogged Toilets

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let shoppers see a clogged toilet

Follow These Simple Steps

Patrons can forgive many things. A clogged toilet isn't always one of them. This seemingly small problem is simply gross and unsightly. Customers do not want to be greeted with dirty puddles on the floor or mushy toilet paper idling in the drain. This disgusting sight is avoidable, though. Commercial owners in Fremont Street, NV, may keep the lines flowing freely by implementing several of these simple steps.

1. Promote Appropriate Disposal
Trash cans are an absolute must, and one is never enough. Many people toss paper towels and personal items into a commode because they lack an appropriate receptacle. To avoid an annoying toilet overflow, ensure that each stall has a small trash can. In addition, sinks and doorways have large cans, capable of holding more. Don't let it build up. Have employees empty it regularly.

2. Hang Up Pleasant Signs
Healthy, kind reminders are a plus. Encourage appropriate choices by placing signs in highly visible areas. Stall doors and walls are a good selection. Be polite, requesting that only toilet paper be placed in the drain. Explain that specific items such as tampons can create a clogged toilet.

3. Purchase the Right Supplies
Little choices make a big difference in warding off sewage trouble. Thick toilet paper bunches up, getting stuck in the lines. Too much, in fact, could force a flood that shuts down the restroom and requires a water remediation company's expertise. Consider investing in thinner products that are less likely to obstruct. In addition, install hand dryers. Paper towels are a concern for the line. The dryers, instead, permit appropriate cleaning and are one less object to cause complications.
Don't let shoppers see a clogged toilet. Have staff check the bathroom frequently, ensuring it works properly. When eyes aren't available, it's up to you to encourage the right flushing techniques. Educate customers with signs and provide the right supplies.

Restoring Artwork After Mold Damage

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Restoring artwork after mold damage

Restoring Artwork After Mold Damage

Whether it is an expensive painting or one that is priceless due to its sentimental value, an artwork affected by mold can quickly dampen your spirits. When it comes to painting, mold spores especially love the paper, wood and texture of the canvas. Instead of throwing in the towel and leaving the walls of your Las Vegas, NV, home blank, quick action combined with mold cleaning services may keep your artwork lasting for years to come.

The First Steps
While mold growth can happen for many reasons, it should be dealt with as soon as it is noticed. Since these microorganisms thrive when unwanted moisture is present, it likely means the paintings have excess moisture. Below are steps to take to stop spores from spreading:

• Do not wrap a wet painting in plastic. It will promote growth and may create further damage.
  
• If the piece is already wrapped, take it to a dry, safe place and remove the plastic.
  
• Remove the painting from the frame, especially if there is glass between the frame and artwork.
  
• Ensure it is dry before considering any mold cleaning methods.
  
  

Professional Help
While the frame and glass can easily be cleaned onsite, the mold remediation of the artwork is best left a mold damage and mitigation specialist. These highly trained and certified professionals will have the proper tools and cleaning solutions to eradicate the mold without causing additional harm to your precious artwork. Also, every type of artwork will require its own method of cleaning. Acrylic, oil and watercolors all react differently to different agents, as well as have different levels of durability. Depending on the amount of damage, there could be a significant amount of mold spores that will need to be mitigated via HEPA vacuums and other high-tech equipment.
Before ditching your beloved artwork after it has been damaged, remember that there are professional mold cleaning services that are Here to Help.

How To Dry Out Your Business After Water Damage

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Extracting water on a commercial building in Showboat, NV

A pipe burst or other plumbing issue has the potential to result in office flooding that soaks everything from floors and walls to chairs and files. If this happens to your workspace, put the following damage tips into motion and halt water’s relentless attack.

Forms of Drying Out

Shut off your main water valve and contemplate the following five forms of water damage mitigation:

1. Extraction
   
2. Removal
   
3. Evaporation
   
4. Dehumidification
   
5. Heating
   

Specific measures falling into these distinct methodologies are detailed below.

Procedures for Drying Out
Eliminate the majority of water through the use of a professional-grade vacuum or pump. The remaining dampness can be handled later with a portable extraction unit, available for rent at most hardware stores. While there, put their expertise to work for you by requesting additional water damage tips.
Remove seriously compromised carpeting and furniture from the building. In many cases, there are no cleaning tips that can help return these items to usability. Permanently discard anything hopelessly drenched.
Mold becomes a hazard if moisture cannot be evaporated from saturated wood or drywall. Therefore, concentrate your efforts upon these problem areas. Place industrial air movers every 10 feet to best accelerate the evaporation process.
If you occupy a sunny territory, your job of dehumidification has been simplified. Open windows and doors, allowing natural warmth to flood your space. Those existing in colder climates must acquire commercial-grade dehumidifiers to accomplish this goal.
Finally, turn up the heat, first checking that neither your furnace nor the A/C unit has been compromised. Cooldown once you reach approximately 80 degrees and then repeat this process as many times as necessary.
These damage tips are great for minimizing destruction, but there is no substitute for having a commercial water damage restoration professional set things right. After making your best effort to reduce fallout, allow an expert to rush to your location in Showboat, NV, and make repairs.

Drying out a Water-Damaged Building in Las Vegas

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

A professional water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO, can help you make sure the damage is cleaned up correctly

Drying out a Water-Damaged Building

Las Vegas water damage is devastating to any homeowner. There is the emotional toll of losing precious personal items and the financial cost of repairing the damage. Homeowners are anxious to dry out their home as soon as possible. Unfortunately, many homeowners go about the process the wrong way resulting in further damage. Here are helpful tips to keep in mind if you should experience rain or flood damage to your home.

Safety:
You should make sure electricity and gas are turned off before entering the building. Make sure you wear protective equipment such as gloves, boots, and masks to protect against contaminants in the flood water. Also, make sure you use good hand hygiene after handling flood debris.

Take photographs:
You should take pictures of the damage before you start repairs. Proper documentation of the damage is critical when submitting a claim to your insurance company.

Make temporary repairs:
You should make temporary repairs to windows and roofs to prevent further damage. You can make temporary repairs with materials such as tarps or plywood and tarpaper; however, you should plan the repairs lasting for at least six months.

Don’t try to dry the building too quickly:
The best way to dry a Las Vegas water damaged building is with natural ventilation. You can cause significant harm to features such as floorboards and plaster by using heated forced-air or air conditioning systems. A professional water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO, can help you make sure the damage is cleaned up correctly.

Don’t pump water from your basement too quickly:
You could cause the basement wall to crack or collapse if you try to pump water while the surrounding ground is still saturated.

Don’t forget to label any fixtures removed during cleanup:
Fixtures can get overlooked and thrown out if not labeled. Make sure you mark items such as trim with the room and precise location to make reinstallation easier.

Consult an expert regarding any antique or historic items:
It may be possible to restore some historic items, such as photographs. You should speak with a professional conservator before trying to repair these objects on your own.

Consult a professional:
A professional Las Vegas water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO, is often the quickest and easiest way to get your home back to normal. SERVPRO has technicians trained to handle all kinds of water damage and offer 24/7 emergency services.

3 Reasons Every Business Needs Business Insurance

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding the Benefits of Having Business Insurance 

Though many businesses have insurance, business owners and managers are often uncertain how their insurance can help after water damage affects their properties in Winchester, NV. It can be useful for business owners and managers to understand the benefits of having business insurance for their properties.

1. Quick Response

After your business is flooded, it's often important that water is removed in a timely manner. Removing water on your own can be labor-intensive and potentially hazardous. Even after water has been removed from the building, high levels of humidity can encourage mold growth, and specific mitigation techniques are often required to prevent the spread and growth of mold. Having business insurance can help to ensure water removal and mitigation efforts begin in a timely manner.

2. Lower Restoration Costs

The cost of restoring a business that has been affected by water damage can vary widely. During restoration and water cleanup, specialized tools and equipment are often needed, and many business owners and managers find it helpful to employ emergency restoration services. A business insurance policy can vastly reduce the amount of money that you spend on restoration, as the majority of business insurance policies will help to cover most costs associated with restoration.

3. Prevent Future Problems

Though some floods are not preventable, this isn't always the case. However, the cause of the flood may not be immediately apparent to you. If you suspect that a pipe burst or broken appliance caused the flood, it can be helpful to employ a plumber who can indicate if there is a widespread issue in your building. It can be costly to pay someone to fix a systemic issue in your business. If you have business insurance, however, the company will often pay for plumbing repairs associated with the flood.

Whether water damage results from a natural disaster, broken pipes or a malfunctioning appliance, the devastation can be widespread. However, when a disaster strikes, business insurance can help your business return to normal in a timely, cost-efficient manner.

How a Full-Service Contractor Accelerates a Recovery

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial fire in Downtown East, NV

How a Full-Service Contractor Accelerates a Recovery

Cleaning up after a commercial fire in Downtown East, NV is an effort that requires a lot of professional skills and industrial equipment. It's possible to get these services from a variety of contractors, but that just makes extra work for your company. Working with a full-service storm remediation franchise cuts down on the number of phone calls and speeds up the recovery process for fire damage. The key is finding a company that has a complete package of skills. A trusted franchise can help with the following steps in the process:

• Immediate inspection and assessment
  
• A thorough plan of action
  
• Water removal
  
• Soot and smoke removal
  
• Restoration of damaged items
  
  

Experienced technicians have the training and certifications to deal with any size fire. They can take control of the entire process.

Insurance Advantages

Your commercial property insurance is your protection against expensive fire damage. An efficient handling of the claims process is to your advantage, as this results in a faster payment to your company. By working with one fire mitigation franchise, the communication chain is simplified. The franchise can itemize all work and expenses and send it online to the insurance adjuster. Buttressing the paperwork with photos adds clarity and cuts down on misunderstandings.

Restoration Benefits

A business fire can cause damage to walls, roofs, doors and windows. Near the end of the cleanup process, a number of items may need to be repaired, restored or replaced. An experienced company can help save you money with a restore versus replace mentality. With the proper methods, many items can be restored to their original condition. Working with one reputable contractor often speeds up the process and allows you to reopen your business sooner. Fire damage requires action on many fronts, but it can be accomplished with just one general contractor. The right company will follow best practices for cleanup and restoration. When you return to business, your building should be "Like it never even happened."

Understanding the Basics of Mold Damage

3/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Medical District, NV

When you're at work, you expect to have a comfortable place to do your job. You certainly don't want to see mold growth on the walls, on the floor or anywhere else. Not only is this a concern to you and your co-workers, but it could be embarrassing to customers and visitors. If you understand how mold growths and ways to prevent it, you can ease your concerns about this unwanted invader.

Where it's Most Common

Mold spores can be just about anywhere outdoors, floating in the air. They can hitch a ride on people and get into your office, or the spores can find access through open doors, windows, and other gaps. Fungal growth will occur under the right conditions. Mold will develop and spread when this is standing water and humidity. Here are some favorite breeding grounds of this fungus:

• Under sinks
  
• Behind and under appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and water heaters
  
• In attics, cellars, basements and crawl spaces
  
• In showers
  
  

Flooding and Mold

When a flood starts in your Medical District, NV, office building, you shouldn't only worry about water damage. If you don't remove the water quickly, mold could show up in no time. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold growth could occur.

Eliminating the Risk

Your best bet is to hire an experienced flood remediation team to clean up your office. The pros will first remove all water from your office. Then, after thoroughly drying the affected area, the crews will use potent chemicals to kill any remaining bacteria. This will significantly reduce the risk of mold showing up once crews leave.

Other Considerations

A few days after the flood, you should walk through your building to look for signs of mold. It can grow even in areas where there might not have been visible water damage.
Do something to prevent mold growth in your building. Make sure you get the right flood cleanup company on the case as soon as possible.

Ditch the Bleach for Proper Cleanup

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that using bleach on mold is a common misconception

The minute mold or mildew is detected, a building owner in Downtown East, NV, may instantly turn to bleach as their fungus cleanup solution. While bleach has many beneficial purposes, mold growth isn’t one of them.

Downsides of Bleach

Mold loves porous surfaces and penetrates deep within them. Below are two reasons to reconsider how the cleanup mold process is done.

Designed for nonporous surfaces, bleach can actually promote mold growth. Since mold penetrates deep, your go-to cleaner won’t be able to eradicate the entire problem. The ingredients in the cleanser may also promote growth instead of killing it. Since water is a main ingredient, it can add moisture below surfaces, providing additional nutrients.
The natural evaporation process eventually reduces the effectiveness of a chlorine solution. Stocking up on cleaners that are rarely used may mean they won’t have the potency to truly eradicate the mold or mildew issue.

Expert Cleanup

When it comes to fungus cleanup, your best bet is to call in a mold remediation expert. Since mold spores can spread quickly, one noticeable area of damage could potentially mean many more areas of an infestation. Calling in an expert will eradicate the problem and get your business back on track. During the process, the experts will:

• Repair the source of the water problem
  
• Thoroughly dry out the affected area
  
• Ensure the contaminated area is confined
  
• Use an air filtration system to capture mold spores
  
• Remove wet or mold-prone materials
  
• Properly clean non-porous and porous materials, which will depend on the extent of damage
  
• Repair or replace building materials
  
• Cleaning solutions for furniture, drapes, documents, paintings and other belongings
  
• Conduct tests to ensure mold has been eliminated
  
  

Fungus cleanup can be dirty work. While you may be tempted to grab the nearest cleaner around, remember that mold can grow quickly if not properly cleaned. Calling a professional can help ensure your problem is wiped out.