Bioremediation Services by SERVPRO

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO if you need or unsure if you need a remediation specialist for your home or commercial space.

We are Here to Help

Get Your Business Back to Normal

SERVPRO of Sebastian, is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All of our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we’re here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

SERVPRO can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize business interruption to your company.

SERVPRO of Sebastian professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. 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 the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

#covid #biohazard #SERVPROSebastian

SERVPRO of Sebastian and Commercial Properties

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

With your wares and building to worry about, our SERVPRO team has real-time mitigation solutions to protect your Indian River location

After a fire or water loss, you may not know the best approach to get your Indian River location back to pre loss condition. Many rely on the fast and confident response of our SERVPRO of Sebastian technicians to help, as we are "Faster To Any Size Disaster", and feature a team of in-house commercial contractors for any reconstruction needs that might also exist. By getting to work quickly, we can often limit the spread and severity of loss conditions stemming from either water or fire emergencies.

No matter why you need restoration services for your location, the more that you know and understand the process, the more at peace you are with what must occur. There are many times where the restoration process can look worse than the damage did as your property is on the path to complete drying or in need of some degree of rebuilding after controlled demolition. What our professionals prioritize when mitigation first begins can help you to understand what to expect:

• Contents in the shop
• Structural damage
• Standing water
• Debris
• Residue removal

What if Reconstruction is Necessary?

Regardless of the loss incident that your shop might face, there are many situations where structural elements have become too compromised or ruined to preserve. After controlled demolition, it is up to our experienced in-house contractors to build back these areas of your property after mitigation completes. While we work to restore the property before choosing to replace certain structural elements, this is not always cost-effective or efficient to get your doors open again quickly.

Understanding the restoration process can help you see how our SERVPRO of Sebastian, team can help you in an emergency. Give us a call anytime you need us at (772) 277-2100.

#commercialmoldfastremoval #officefirecleaning #SERVPROSebastian

Protecting Wood from Water Damage

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Most houses have wood integrated into their structures in some way or another. Often these wooden parts of the house are used for decks, doors, or garage doors. The problem with wood that is open to the elements is that water damage is always a possibility. Similar to issues with the foundation, if gutters are absent from the building or are defective so that water flows straight down rather than being directed away from the building, the result could be rotting, mold growth, or other problems associated with wood being affected by water.

Keep Outside of the House Clean

When rainwater flows off the roof, it brings with it the mud, sand, and other debris that may have collected on the roof. What fell from the sky as clean water is now dirty water that can leave a trail on the house. The result of this could be the staining of doors, windows, and siding which could negatively affect the look of the house and force you to clean the house more frequently. The primary purpose of gutters is to direct water away from the house so that the water doesn’t flow straight down where it can cause trouble.

By doing this, the water that would have caused these unsightly features will now be directed well away from the house leaving the home with a cleaner outside look.

House Flooding

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Water flooding in your house, business, or place of work can happen at any time. Most of the reasons for flooding are due to pipes breaking, backed up septic tanks, water heaters. When those times happen we dry up the areas and think everything is dry and fine. But what most people do not realize is that moisture can be hidden behind walls, cabinets, and rugs.

Here are some facts:

• Mildew (mold in early stage) and molds grow on wood products, ceiling tiles, cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves, and other organic materials.
• Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours.
• It is not always visible right after it happens, meaning if you do not get a rapid response on the matter it will grow.
• Even if you dry the area it can be wet behind walls.
• Bleach does not stop the growth behind the walls.

What To Do After Flooding

• Turn off electric to the affected area.
• Call SERVPRO of Sebastian!
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the 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.
• Open exterior doors and windows.
• 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 the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

#waterfloodinginhouse #waterdamage #SERVPROSebastian

What should I do when my property in Sebastian is affected by water damage?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Will Get You Back into Your Home After Water Damage

When water damage impacts your home in Sebastian, FL, immediately addressing the issue is important. Once the initial damage has occurred, water can make its way into the structure of your property. If not acted upon quickly, the result can be extensive structural damage coupled with the onset of mold and mildew. However, immediately reacting to the water damage can help limit secondary water damage. This will save you not only time and money, but also precious possessions. To expedite the remediation process contact a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Learn more about water damage and why attaining professional assistance is important by reviewing this short outline:

Water Damage: A Brief Overview

Water damage is the result when your property is impacted by a natural disaster such as a flood, fire, or tornado. Water damage can also occur due to household issues like leaky faucets or pipes that burst. Causing structural damage to your property because of unwanted water intrusion can generate a number of other challenges:

• Poor air quality
• Mold and mildew growth
• Humid atmosphere
• Unpleasant odors that permeate your ceilings, floors, and walls
• Damage or loss of furnishings, art, electronics and more

Mitigate the loss of possessions and structural damage by getting SERVPRO to begin water removal and cleanup as soon as possible.

Why You Should Call A Water Damage Specialist

Calling a specialist as soon as your property is impacted by water damage is important for many reasons. First, SERVPRO will perform a thorough assessment of your property to determine the nature and extent of the damage. This work empowers the specialists to develop a detailed, customized clean-up plan that will help optimize and expedite the restoration process. Additionally, SERVPRO can send multiple contractors to your property quickly to start the restoration process.

The Importance Of The Drying Process

After water pumps have removed the standing water, then vacuums, powerful air-moving machines, and dehumidifiers will eliminate the balance of water and moisture. With fast action and the right equipment, you can often lessen the need to replace hardwood floor, carpet, and walls. You can also minimize stains and bad odors that result from mold and mildew.

Acting immediately upon the onslaught of water intrusion is the most important step to take. Calling a team of professional water damage restoration experts like SERVPRO should be done right after reaching out to your insurance company. Here at SERVPRO, we're trained in offering a fast response that helps ensure that your home in Sebastian, FL, is restored with lightning speed. "Like it never even happened." We're also pleased to provide all of our customers with 24/7 emergency services.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Sebastian, is locally owned and operated. When you have a water or flooding emergency, we’re nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Indian River county community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be.

We proudly serve Sebastian, FL, Vero Beach, FL, and surrounding areas.

Call us at: (772) 277-2100

Five Preparedness Tips for Flooding

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

How to Prepare for the Possibility of Flooding

Storm season can certainly keep you on your toes. When you have a business in Viera, FL, it’s good to know how to prepare for the possibility of flooding. Here are five tips to help you be well prepared for anything a storm may send your way.

Have an Emergency Plan

A big part of preparing for flood damage is simply having a plan of action in place. Evacuation paths should be mapped, and those maps should be posted on every level of your building so that people know where to go in an emergency. Designate emergency responsibilities before the disaster occurs so that people know what is expected of them.

Waterproof Your Building

Even if your building is flooded during a storm, having a solid building envelope can lower your flood cleanup costs. Have your building inspected regularly to find cracks or spots that are worn so that you can get the necessary repairs.

Elevate Equipment and Furniture

Electrical equipment and furniture can both be damaged beyond repair during flooding. Elevate furniture, sockets, electrical panels, appliances and all wiring where floodwaters can’t get to them.

Have Sandbags Ready

A good way to stave off excess water is to put up barriers. Set sandbags near doors, windows and other vulnerable entry points to your building. Barriers may delay the flow of water enough that you can avoid storm damage altogether.

Update Your Insurance Coverage

It’s a smart idea to check your insurance policies periodically to make sure that all potential problems are covered. If you don’t have a policy that pays for services from storm cleanup experts, you may have to pay for a lot of damage out of pocket the next time a storm heads your way.

Flooding is a common occurrence when there is a storm in your area. By making sure your employees, your building and your insurance is adequately prepared, you can prevent a lot of damage and handle the problems that do occur with relative ease.

Escaping a Fire

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure you are prepared and have a plan for where and how you can escape from any fire.

Causing more than 2,500 deaths and 12,600 injuries each year in the United States, house fires are extremely dangerous for those that are unprepared for the event. But they are preventable.

To be prepared should a fire occur in your home, it’s important to know what to do:

• Before a fire
• During a fire
• After a fire

To ensure that your family remains safe throughout the ordeal.

It takes just two minutes for a fire to become life-threatening and just five minutes for a residence to become consumed by a fire. While the flames are what most people fear, that’s not what’s most dangerous as the heat and smoke do most of the damage. This is because the inhalation of extremely hot air can sear the lungs. A fire also has the ability to produce poisonous gases that can make you disoriented and drowsy making them all the more dangerous. In fact, the leading cause of fire deaths is asphyxiation which exceeds burns by a three to one ratio.

Preparing for a Fire

To make sure you’re prepared in the event of a fire, there are certain precautionary measures that must be taken to ensure your safety. The most important step is to create an evacuation plan for your family. Every second counts when a home is filling up with smoke so you need to know the fastest way out. Creating a plan and going over it with each member of your family will ensure that everyone can get out safely.

When developing your evacuation plan, make sure that you have two routes to escape each room in case one is blocked. Once your plan is formed, you should practice the plan at least twice a year. Being prepared for a potential fire means making sure that windows aren’t locked, screens can be taken out quickly, and that security bars can be opened. You should also have your family practice feeling around in the dark with their eyes closed replicating the environment they’ll be in if there’s a fire and teach the children not to hide from firefighters who are there to help.

The most important device to making sure you can safety escape a fire is a smoke alarm. Having working smoke alarms will significantly increase your chances of surviving the fire. To make sure that your smoke alarm will alert you of a fire in the home, test the batteries monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the smoke alarm every eight to 10 years.

How to Escape a Fire

If a fire does occur in your home, you should escape the building as quickly as possible. However, there are some things you need to remember to safety evacuate. The first step is to get to the floor and crawl to the exit as heavy, toxic smoke and poisonous gases gather initially at the ceiling. When you get to a door, feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either the doorknob or door is hot, you should leave it closed and go to your alternate way out. You should also leave the door closed if smoke is coming from around it. If you are able to open the door, do so slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should heavy smoke or fire be on the other side.

But what happens if you can’t get out? If the event occurs where you’re trapped in a room, cover the vents and cracks around any doors with cloth or tape to keep any smoke out. Then call the fire department and tell them where you are. You can use a light colored cloth or flashlight to get the attention of the firefighters. If you catch on fire yourself, simply stop, drop, and roll with your hands over your face to put yourself out.

What to Do After a Fire

If you’ve suffered a fire in your home rendering it uninhabitable and you have nowhere to go, contact your local disaster relief service like The Red Cross. If you have fire insurance, call the insurance company for details on protecting your property. You also should contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Sebastian to remediate the situation as soon as possible. The sooner they begin the restoration process, the more of your home and possessions will be salvaged.

A house fire is a devastating event that can lead to serious injury or death if you’re not properly prepared. These tips will ensure that you’re prepared for a fire and that you and your family can escape safely.

Broken pipes in your business could permanently close your doors

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If your building is damaged by water, contact SERVPRO of Sebastian, to keep your down time as little as possible.

How To Limit the Interruption To Your Business While Dealing With Water Damage

For a commercial property owner, your worst nightmare might go something like this: an event beyond your control, like flooding, forcing your building to shut down causing your business to hemorrhage money and lose out to competitors. If such a disaster were to occur in your Sebastian area business, would you be prepared?

Short Delay

If a scenario like a broken pipe flooding your commercial building occurs, you're going to need time to restore your property. Unfortunately, this could halt or slow down your operation for a period of time. However, there are ways you can try to expedite this process:

• Turn off your water so the damage does not spread.
• Ventilate the area - open windows or use fans if electricity is safe.
• Remove as much damaged content as possible to begin drying elsewhere.
• Find a water damage remediation company that can do everything - a one-stop-shop.

Insurance Coverage

When you are forced to close down your business because your premises are too damaged from flooding or water damage, you may lose out on income and opportunity. Despite this, you will probably continue to have expenses related to the building, such as utilities or maintenance staff. Luckily, you can add insurance coverage to your existing policy to compensate for these expenses and the value of the income you would have made if your business were still open. Be sure to clarify with your provider the amount of time you would be covered for - you probably want more than a few days.

Alternate Space

Large water damage can put you out of commission for a long time. One way around this is to find somewhere else to operate while the repairs and underway. Depending on your needs and how much of your equipment is available, you could temporarily rent a space to continue as much of your correspondence and dealings as possible.

To ensure your business is up and running as soon as possible, call SERVPRO of Sebastian, immediately at (772) 277-2100!

Three Things About Roof Damage Mitigation

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Roof mitigation after a storm is crucial for the restoration process of your home or office.

After a storm in Vero Beach, FL, your house might have some damage that you need to take care of. In some cases, this will include roof damage. Before repairs can begin, however, the restoration company might need to do some mitigation. The following are a few things that you should know about this process.

When Do You Need Mitigation?

If you have roof damage that could become worse over time, then mitigation should be done right away. It will likely be required if you have missing shingles, cracks or holes in your roof. After an inspection has been performed, mitigation is the next step. Particularly if the damage is severe, it is important to get it done quickly.

Why Do You Need Mitigation?

The purpose of mitigation is to keep any damage to your home from getting worse. There are several things that could happen before repairs begin that could make the process even more complicated and time-consuming. Even small cracks can allow water to get inside the house, which can damage your belongings or the structure of the building. It can contribute to the growth of mold as well. Holes in the roof can allow further wind damage and can even let in small animals. Mitigation will help prevent this.

What Happens During Mitigation?

During the mitigation process, the cleanup and restoration company will cover any cracks or holes in the roof to prevent water, wind or debris from creating more problems. This is often done with a tarp, but more severe cases might require the use of wooden boards. Mitigation can sometimes include cleanup and sanitization as well.

If mitigation is not performed on the roof damage to your house, it could make the restoration process more difficult. When damage worsens, it requires more time and money to repair. Because of this, you should always have mitigation done as soon as you can.

Grilling Accidents can Lead to Fire Damage on Your Home's Patio

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fires on Properties, Both Outdoors and Inside Sebastian Properties, Get Recovery Help from SERVPRO,

SERVPRO Restores Outside Living Areas to Pre-Loss Fire Damaging Conditions

Year-round cooking out is one of the perks of living in our sunny state. Sebastian area  residents can grill guests food while entertaining on the patio. Preparing food outside keeps the kitchen inside cleaner while still providing a beautiful setting for everyone.

Holding parties outside in the Spring and Summer months, can result in fire damage if grills and fuel endure mishandling or accidents happen. Just like in the kitchen, fires can spread quickly if grease catches on fire. Charcoal spilling out can also spread out and catch outside furnishings or other items on fire. Being outdoor, the smell of smoke can avoid detection, allowing fire or smoldering embers to grow.

Garages, patio overhangs, and other structures are at risk of fire damage when such situations develop. At SERVPRO, we train our technicians so they can restore, though not always replace, any interior or exterior construction after a fire takes place. They earn certificates, such as the Fire and Smoke Restoration (FSRT), from the IICRC, ensuring their capabilities in restoring the many different structures they might encounter at various homes and businesses.

Restorative work includes much more than tearing out damaged and unusable components of residences. Cleaning soot and smoke deposits from affected areas is a large part of what we do when working on a home. This cleaning aspect includes removing grime from the decorative brick on walkways and exterior walls, concrete patios, decks, and anything else whose surfaces become covered in soot. Soft materials like outdoor furniture cushions and other upholstery can also benefit from attention by our employees. We work hard to make everything “Like it never even happened”, so any future barbeques can proceed as planned.

When an outdoor fire burns, chemicals for pools, lawns and insect control can often become involved. We can also help dispose or otherwise handle such situations, so you do not need to worry about these posing any problems to your children, pets, or lawn. Minimizing spills from these substances also protects wildlife and groundwater.

SERVPRO of Sebastian, wants to assist you in resolving any fire damage at your residence. Our 24-hour service is always ready to answer your call at (386) 677-9993.

How to Prepare for Spring Storms

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

“Spring is the first kiss of summer.” -Anonymous

Spring has arrived and the excitement of summer, warm sun rays, and hot days are just around the corner. Although spring represents the end of winter and new beginnings, it also consists of spring showers, thunderstorms, and unpredictable weather, which can cause severe problems if not properly prepared. Since Florida weather already seems irregular, how do you prepare for unexpected spring storms, what do you do in the event of severe weather conditions, and what is needed to stay safe among hazardous conditions following a storm?

Preparing for the unknown can save lives, so we have provided these important preparation steps.

Organize an Emergency Plan

Putting a plan in place can potentially save you and your family’s lives. But one plan may not work for every type of severe weather condition, such as thunderstorms, floods, and tornadoes. For instance, your evacuation plan for a tornado should be different than if a flood occurred and the streets are two feet under water. Each emergency plan prepared needs to include a map of your home, routes to safety, and an emergency shelter or destination. Being prepared for each type of life-threatening weather condition is important in keeping your family safe before and after a disaster.

Go Inside When You Hear Thunder

According to the American Red Cross, lightning strikes are the leading killer. Every year lightning has killed more people than hurricanes or tornadoes. When you hear thunder, loud or soft, go inside! With lightening strikes following thunder, every lightening flash is a potential killer.

Protect Your Electronics

To avoid damaging your electronics during a storm, you should plug all electronics into surge protectors. By doing this, the surge protector protects your electronics from burning up due to voltage strikes. If any electronics are not safeguarded by surge protectors, unplug the devices before a storm.

Keep an Emergency Kit

Because severe weather can be unpredictable, you need to put together an emergency kit beforehand. When preparing an emergency kit you should include a first aid kit, a 3-5 day supply of water, nonperishable food, personal hygiene items, blankets or sleeping bags, flashlights, a battery-operated radio, and extra batteries. Make a list of important information to have on hand, like your insurance and utility company’s phone numbers. In case you get stuck in severe weather on the road, keep a second emergency kit in your car. Additional resources on an emergency kit can be found at: Ready.gov.

We at SERVPRO believe that by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Mold and Hotel Properties

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Mold found recently on an interior wall in the surrounding area.

We know how serious mold is, especially in your Indian River property

Short-term guests are the staple to many locations along the coast. While you can offer a memorable experience in this limited time frame, you also only have a brief period to make a positive impression. The proper upkeep and maintenance of your facility is vital for this effort and requires routine inspections of potentially problematic areas following all storms the hurricane season has to offer.

Roof vulnerabilities are not always as apparent as business owners might think and hidden leaks or moisture seepage into attics can lead to mold damage for structures. Caring for your bed and breakfast is often the same as the care you must put into a large family home, and the remediation and water damage recovery works similarly. We are qualified professionals capable of handling all phases of remediation and restoration, including being a licensed full-service general contractor.

Because attics do not always get the inspection and assessment that they should throughout the year, moisture and dampness often go unchecked for weeks or longer following substantial storms. When colonization has persisted for this extended period, a degree of controlled deconstruction and later reconstruction is likely necessary.

How your guests perceive this threat is vital to your reputation and continued word-of-mouth and online rating success. Choosing capable remediation professionals like our SERVPRO team ensures that appropriate containment measures get installed and work continues steadily until the threat has been removed.

Your business succeeds by making people feel at home and a situation like mold damage can significantly compromise your ability to achieve this. SERVPRO of Sebastian, can help you to get things back to a pre-mold condition and protect your staff and guests from any potential hazards and health effects that could result. Give us a call today at (772) 277-2100.

#moldcleanupathotels #moldinairbnb #hotelmold #SERVPROSebastian

Is your dryer vent clean?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

A blocked dryer vent can cause a major problem with smoke and fire damage.

So, what are the signs your vent needs cleaning?

As a homeowner in Indian River County, you're probably very diligent about fire safety. You may have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors on every floor, but have you checked your dryer vent lately? Many homes are damaged each year as the result of a lint fire. If the vent isn't cleaned out regularly, a dryer fire can result.

Clothes Are Taking Too Long To Dry

If your vent is blocked, your clothes can take up to two or three times as long to dry. You may find that the clothes you put in for a regular drying time are still a little damp when the cycle is over. This is happening because the blocked vent isn't allowing the moisture to be released to the outside.

Hot Dryer and Clothes

A blocked vent can also cause excess heat. If your laundry feels unusually hot when you take it out, and the outside of the dryer feels very hot when you touch it, this could be the problem.

Burning Smell

If you smell something burning inside the dryer, that's a sure sign of trouble. The drum casing, exhaust tube, and trap can get clogged, which makes it easy for a lint fire to start. If you're smelling smoke, turn off the dryer immediately and call a professional right away to inspect it.

No Regular Inspections

Your dryer vent should be inspected at least once a year by a vent cleaning specialist. A do-it-yourself job is certainly an option, but hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done thoroughly. These technicians are well acquainted with all the various brands of dryers and have the proper equipment to efficiently clean out the vent.

A lint fire can be a dangerous situation and cause a great deal of damage. But you can easily prevent a fire from happening by looking out for the signs outlined above.

#ventfires #dryerfire #SERVPROfirecleanup

Safeguarding Your Business From Storm Destruction

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Don't be caught off-guard. Make sure you and your staff are prepared for impending storms.

How to Fortify Your Building

When a major storm event such as a hurricane is barreling towards your business, time is of the essence in preparing your commercial building. Flood water from heavy rains can cause tremendous damage to an unsecured structure and force you to close your doors for weeks or months while you undergo an extensive restoration process. Protect your business in Vero Beach, FL, from the devastation of a storm by following a few simple guidelines to fortify your building.

Watch the weather.

One of the most important steps in preventing a flooded building is also one of the simplest – pay attention to your local weather forecasts and take any severe weather or flash flooding alerts seriously. Use the advance warning to enact preventative measures like placing sandbags around the perimeter of your business and moving expensive electronic equipment to a higher level of the building.

Design an action plan.

When a storm is about to hit, every staff member needs to have a specific role in preparing your business to withstand the destruction. Assign tasks to each team member so nobody gets overwhelmed. For example, one person should be in charge of fortifying the building to keep out flood water, another person should take care of backing up important electronic data, and someone else should supervise a final evacuation drill.

Prepare for restoration.

Even a well-prepared business can sustain water damage if a storm is especially severe. That’s why it’s a good idea to have the contact information for a reputable commercial storm damage restoration company on hand in case you need professional assistance in the cleanup and repair process. Enlisting the help of an expert means you can reopen your doors faster than if you try to manage complex reconstruction yourself.

A storm heading towards your commercial building means you need to take immediate action in preventing flood water from destroying your livelihood. By staying calm and taking steps to safeguard your building, you can ensure your business will ultimately withstand the destruction of a severe weather event.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Sebastian

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

When you heard construction crews were coming into your home to work, you may have the fear of dust going everywhere, debris left behind, unprofessional teams, and jobs not completed in a timely manner. And that is why SERVPRO of Sebastian, is different. Here are some of the other reasons why we are different:

• Our teams are professional and on time.
  We cover all areas we are working in to keep dust off and prevent further damage to your items.
• Our teams are on call 24/7 to respond to any disasters.
• We are certified and carry licenses to ensure your mitigation, remediation, or reconstruction is done correctly.
• Our project managers ensure your peace of mind by keeping you updated as we progress.
• We work with your insurance and offer a transparent estimate.

SERVPRO of Sebastian is committed to you and making it feel "Like it never even happened."

#whySERVPROSebastian #SERVPRO #topgoogleratingforwaterdamagecleanup #SERVPROSebastian

Mold in Your Commercial Property.

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Mold found recently on an interior wall in the surrounding area.

Dealing With Mold

Mold can grow on porous surfaces and then easily spread throughout your property. In some cases, it can be difficult to detect and thus to remove. Sebastian commercial mold damage can include ruined dry walls, leaks, and peeling tiles.

There are ways to prevent the accumulation of mold, such as assuring the proper heating and ventilation of the rooms in your business. In the event that mold does develop, its removal may be as simple as moving furniture and cleaning away the growth with a damp cloth. In more serious cases get a professional to help.

What to Expect From a Mold Restoration Company

SERVPRO of Sebastian, will determine whether you have a mold problem and, if so, the seriousness of the situation. In some cases, a brief inspection will uncover mold under the carpeting or floorboards, or in the cavities of the walls. Samples may be taken to identify the specific type of mold, in order to determine the best course of action.

The next stage of the process is to locate the source of the moisture that has caused the condition. The affected area will be dried before the removal of the mold can begin. Cleaning techniques range from the use of wet wiping equipment to special vacuums. It may also be necessary to clean ventilation ducts and heating equipment to prevent the future development of mold.

Commercial mold damage may be so bad that certain items, such as mattresses, will have to be discarded.

A restoration company will get rid of your mold problem and prevent it from returning. SERVPRO, is a premier mold restoration company that can get you back in business.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Sebastian, is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property. We are proud to be an active member of the community and want to pitch in and help make our community the best it can be.

When a major storm or event occurs, we can call upon our national network of 1,800 SERVPRO Franchises, and special Disaster Recovery Teams, if we need additional resources or personnel.

We proudly serve:

Commercial Mold Damage  in and around the Sebastian area.

Worried about flood damage affecting your building? Here’s What You Need to Know

3/6/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home or business is no joke...

What To Do When A Storm Is Headed Your Way?

Running a business in the Sebastian, FL area, requires one to wear many hats, one of which is disaster prevention. When a storm is brewing on the horizon, what can you do to avoid or reduce flood damage from happening? Here’s a couple of tips to get you started:

Get to Know Your Local Area

Some locations are more susceptible to flooding than others, such as neighborhoods located in a valley, at the bottom of a slope or below sea level. This may seem self-explanatory and painfully obvious but you’d be surprised at how many business owners are unaware of how their location could impact their company in the event of a natural disaster. Find out if you are in a flood prone area and plan ahead.

Plan and Prepare with the Right Equipment

There are tons of modern equipment out there that are designed to minimize the impact of flood damage on your building. When in doubt, go with the tried and tested classic: the good ol’ sand bag. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are plenty of alternatives out there that are reusable and are easier to transport. However, be sure to do your research before you commit to a purchase. Install storm shutters that are easy and quick to secure and check your electrical equipment to ensure they will be out of reach of flood waters.

Check Your Surroundings

Perhaps the most important part of avoiding storm damage is to look outside your immediate perimeter for things that may encourage floods. This means looking at street drains and storm grates and making sure that they are free of leaves and other debris that inhibit the flow of water. This is easily overlooked in the rush of preparing for an incoming storm and can have a disastrous impact on your safety.

If the weather gets the best of you, there are flood remediation experts in your state that can get your business up and running in no time. Flood damage is no joke, but if you are well prepared you can easily reduce the impact that a storm can have on your business.

Water Damage and Homeowner Insurance

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Keep up with your appliance maintenance.

Home insurance is useful in times of an emergency. Insurance allows you to avoid having to pay out-of-pocket for expenses that are related to damage to your Sebastian, Florida home. Submitting a claim after your home is damaged by water helps you recover money spent on repairs. However, it is important to know that there are positive and negative points to filing a water damage insurance claim has its good points and bad points.

The Positive Points

Your insurance company covers certain types of water damage. In most instances, the insurance company will cover any damage that is the result of a sudden event. For example, if the broken dishwasher leaks water and causes any damage, you are covered by your policy. However, any damage that results from a dishwasher that malfunctions as a result of inadequate maintenance or neglect will not get covered.

Another example of water damage covered by your insurance policy is damage caused by a pipe bursting suddenly. Insurance companies will cover a water damage claim if the pipe burst was caused by the temperature dropping below freezing.

The Negative Points

Insurance companies will not cover water damage that is the result of improper maintenance. This type of damage occurs gradually over a period of time and is avoidable when homeowners engage in regular home maintenance. An example of this would be a claim that is filed to cover damage caused by a bursting pipe. The claim will not get covered if the pipe’s bursting was the result of a rapid decrease in temperature that resulted from an improperly heated home.

Another issue that homeowners face that is not covered by a regular home insurance policy is flood damage. If a local river overflows and floods your home, the flooding is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. You will need to purchase a separate insurance policy to cover flooding. This type of insurance is advised for anyone living in an area prone to flooding.

Water damage is covered by homeowner’s insurance.

Unfortunately, there are some limitations to this coverage. An accident that occurs suddenly will likely get covered. However, flood damage that arises from poor maintenance is not covered by your policy. It is important to know that you may find yourself disagreeing with your insurance company about the nature of your water damage. An incident that you believe is the result of a sudden accident may not get viewed as such by your insurer. Your insurance company may argue that the damage was caused by improper maintenance of your home.

If you need help with flood damage in Sebastian, Wabasso, and surrounding areas, please allow us to be of assistance, give us a call at 772-277-2100

#waterdamagecleanup #inhomefloodingcleaningup #restorationcompanyinsebastian #SERVPRO

Why SERVPRO of Sebastian and Your Location

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Area cleaned during reconstruction

With your wares and structure to worry about, our SERVPRO team has real-time mitigation solutions to protect your Sebastian Location

After a fire or water loss, you may not know the best approach to get your Sebastian, location back to pre loss condition. Many rely on the fast and confident response of our SERVPRO of Sebastian technicians to help, as We Are Faster To Any Disaster, and feature a team of in-house commercial contractors for any reconstruction needs that might also exist. By getting to work quickly, we can often limit the spread and severity of loss conditions stemming from either water or fire emergencies.

No matter why you need restoration companies for your location, the more that you know and understand the process, the more at peace you are with what must occur. There are many times where the restoration process can look worse than the damage did as your property is on the path to complete drying or in need of some degree of rebuilding after controlled demolition. What our professionals prioritize when mitigation first begins can help you to understand what to expect.

• Contents in the shop
• Structural damage
• Standing water
• Debris
• Residue removal

What if Reconstruction is Necessary? 

Regardless of the loss incident that your shop might face, there are many situations where structural elements have become too compromised or ruined to preserve. After controlled demolition, it is up to our competent in-house contractors to build back these areas of your property after mitigation completes. While we work to restore the property before choosing to replace certain structural elements, this is not always cost-effective or efficient to get your doors open again quickly.

Understanding the restoration process can help you see how our SERVPRO of Sebastian, team can help you in an emergency. Give us a call anytime you need us at: 772-277-2100.

#commercialmoldfastremoval #rapidmoldremoval #SERVPROfSebastian #SERVPRO

Getting your business ready for a Storm

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Some of your items needed for a storm.

Preparing for a storm may reduce the amount of wind or water damage sustained by a commercial property in Sebastian, FL. Property owners or maintenance supervisors should follow these five steps to prepare for a storm, keep flood water out, or deal with a flooded building.

1. Develop a Storm Response Plan

In the event of a storm, there should be no confusion regarding responsibilities. A building owner or maintenance supervisor can delegate tasks such as boarding up or taping windows, making and placing sandbags to keep out flood water, or storing loose external objects such as antennas or trash containers.

2. Keep Drainage Systems Clear

Functional drainage systems prevent rainwater from accumulating and causing leaks from the roof or around the foundation of a building. An owner or maintenance supervisor should schedule drainage cleaning and maintenance at least twice a year. Reduce the amount of debris and the risk of storm damage by having overhanging tree branches pruned.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit

A storm emergency kit should include supplies for personnel as well as property. Gather first aid materials, flashlights, and a battery-operated radio. Keep sandbag materials or alternatives, plywood, duct tape or masking tape, and hand tools on site.

4. Acquire and Maintain a Generator

Property owners may want to obtain a commercial standby generator. This device can provide almost uninterrupted power to critical systems with an automatic transfer switch. Store enough fuel to power the generator for several days.

5. Keep Track of Important Numbers

Ensure that important phone numbers are easily accessible. An owner or maintenance supervisor may need to contact an electricity or gas company or notify a business insurance provider of damage after a storm. 

These tips can help owners and maintenance supervisors prepare for severe storms in Sebastian, FL. If flood water breaches a building, contact storm and water damage mitigation specialists at, SERVPRO of Sebastian.

Water Damage and SERVPRO of Sebastian

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Damage to molding caused flooding in a Sebastian Home.

Water Damage Specialists Have Industry Experience 

Water damage specialists in Sebastian typically possess a plethora of certifications as well as years of experience within their industry. This acquired knowledge and experience enable the SERVPRO expert to address and resolve any and all water damage issues at hand. Moreover, the water damage specialist's extensive study and "hands-on experiences" in the field will empower her or him to recognize quickly your unique challenges and implement the solutions necessary to resolve them. 

Water Damage Specialists Work In Teams 

Water damage specialists have several contractors that work for or with them. When these individuals arrive at your residential property, they will move throughout your home and tackle several important issues simultaneously. Some of the challenges the contractors will typically address are removing damaged furniture, drying out your living space, inhibiting the growth of mildew and mold, and repairing your home's structure. 

Water Damage Specialists Use Specific Tools

In addition to working with teams, water damage specialists utilize specific tools that most residential property owners don't possess. Some of these tools include ozone machines, air-moving machines, and industrial-strength dehumidifiers. The water damage specialist can also utilize powerful chemical cleansers to optimize the sanitation of your property. After your home has been damaged by water, the most important task of the water damage expert is ensuring that spores, mildew, mold, and other debris do not develop and proliferate.  Industrial grade equipment expedites quick remediation.

Conclusion

If your home has recently undergone water damage, it's important to know that a water damage specialist can offer you detailed, results-driven repair services that restore the order and sanitation of your property. When you initiate a search for the ideal service provider, the search stops with SERVPRO. Our professionals are passionate and precise in offering customized water damage services, and they're ready to start working on your behalf immediately. Call us now to attain the high quality, effective water damage services you need and deserve.

Locally Owned and Operated

We work and live in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Sebastian, is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Melbourne community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be. 

Our highly trained technicians will begin the water removal process almost immediately upon arrival.  Please call us at 772-277-2100

#sebastianwaterremoval #waterdamagetips #howtocleanupwaterdamage #barefootbay #SERVPROofwestbrevard

Unattended Cooking Fires

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know last year many kitchen fires were mainly caused by unattended cooking? 

Here are some stats of damages caused by kitchen fires:

Cooking fire stats: 

•  Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries, causing 49% of home fires that resulted in 21% of the home fire deaths and 44% of the injuries.
• Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
• Clothing is the item first ignited in less than 1% of these fires, but clothing ignitions lead to 8% of the home cooking equipment fire deaths.
• Ranges or cooktops account for three-fifths (61%) of home cooking fire incidents.
• Unattended equipment is a factor in one-third (31%) of reported home cooking fires and over half (53%) of the associated deaths.
• Frying dominates the cooking fire problem.

Here are some tips on cooking especially with oil or frying:  

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or too tired to cook. Do not cook.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains — away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Safety considerations for cooking with oil

• Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
• Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a dangerous sign that the oil is too hot.
• Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
• Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
• If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside

After the fire, call SERVPRO of Sebastian, we are open 24/7 and we are there when you need us the most.

Leaking Water Heater

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water heater fail with leak

Cleanup Process: 4 Basic Steps

A leaking water heater can cause a lot of damage in a hurry. As soon as you notice that your failed water heater is leaking water into your home, you must call the plumber to fix it, but you also need to call water restoration specialists to clean up the mess it leaves behind. There are four basic steps to the cleanup process to ensure that no one is injured and that secondary damage does not occur.

1. Safety Precautions

Water and electricity don’t mix, so the first thing you need to do is to make sure that you either unplug all appliances in the affected area or elevate the ones you cannot unplug. To do this, make sure you are wearing the appropriate protective gear, such as rubber boots. Never enter standing water without protection.

2. Water Removal

A broken water heater in your home in Melbourne, FL, can expel a significant amount of water. Technicians will likely start by siphoning out the water before they can deal with the damage underneath.

3. Item Removal

Everything the leaking water heater effects must be removed from the area. Rugs, furniture, toys, clothing, and other belongings must be taken out. The experts then determine whether the items can be salvaged or not.

4. Dehumidification

Even after the water is gone, the humidity levels in the room are likely higher than they should be. Technicians can use industrial dehumidifiers, fans, and other methods to bring the moisture in the air down to an acceptable level so that mold doesn’t start to grow.

If a leaking water heater in your home causes more than a tiny spill, your best bet for getting the damage repaired is a team of certified restoration experts. They can assess the problem and implement the appropriate solutions so that your home can return to normal as soon as possible.

What is Black Mold and How It Grows.

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Black Mold in a Sebastian area Home

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –  772-277-2100. You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold. Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold. Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause health effects, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Sebastian immediately. Understanding Mold When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts: Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent. Locally Owned Company with National Resources. SERVPRO of Sebastian is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 1,600 Franchises with certified teams.

How to prevent a Christmas Tree Fire

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to turn the lights off on you holiday trees while away and/or sleeping!

With Christmas around the corner and many people love having a Christmas tree up. 

Did you know every year? 

• Between 2015-2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 2 deaths, 12 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.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires.
• In one-quarter (25%) of the Christmas tree fires, some type of heat sources, such as a candle or equipment, were too close to the tree.
• One-fifth (21%) of Christmas tree fires were intentional. 
• Roughly three-quarters of Christmas tree fires occurred in December or January.
• Two of every five (39%) home Christmas tree fires started in the living room.

Holiday decorations

• U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 780 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2013-2017. These fires caused an annual average of three civilian fire deaths, 34 civilian fire injuries, and $12 million in direct property damage.
• Nine percent of decoration fires were intentional.
• The decoration was too close to a heat source such as a candle or equipment in more than two of every five (44%) fires.
• One-fifth (21%) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen. Sixteen percent started in the living room, family room or den.
• One-fifth (20%) of the home decoration fires occurred in December.  

Candles

• On average, 22 home candle fires were reported each day between 2013-2017.
• Three of every five (60%) candle fires started when something that could burn, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or decorations, was too close to the candle.
• Candle fires peak in December. January ranked second. Eighteen percent of December candle fires started in the living room and 8% started in the dining room compared to 14% and 3% for those areas during the rest of the year.
• The two peak days for candle fires were Christmas and Christmas Eve.

   Holiday cooking

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.

• Cooking equipment was involved in one of every five (19%) home decoration fires. This can happen when a decoration is left on or too close to a stove or other cooking equipment. 

Fireworks

• Ten percent of fireworks fires occur during the period from December 30 through January 3, with the peak on New Year's Day.

National Fire Protection Association - Christmas Fire Stats

Some tips on how to prevent a fire or damage during the holidays.

1. Pick a fresh-looking tree.
2. Keep the tree watered. 
3. Keep the tree away from heat. 
4. Shake the tree often to remove dried pines. 
5. Check the tree's lights look for burned bulbs.
6. Turn off your tree lights when sleeping or not at home.
7. Get rid of your tree soon after the holidays.

We at SERVPRO of Sebastian are here to help. 

#christmastreefire #christmaslightfire #elctricalfire #holidayfire #SERVPROsebastian #sebastian,fl

Certifications and Professionals Teams

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team of Professionals are always here to help!

Careful Frying that Turkey!

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

With Thanksgiving around the corner and spending time with our families, many people like to deep fry their turkeys. Did you know that each year there are over 15 million dollars in loss due to fires caused by turkey deep fryers?

Some Tips:

• Always check your fire extinguisher and make sure it is up to date and full.
• Keep the fryer at least 10 feet from your home.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and there are no ice crystals.
• Make use of the propane tank that is far from the fryer.
• Have your phone handy and charged in case of emergency.
• If you have a fire happen, Call 911.
• Use extinguisher if possible.

After the fire is out, check your damages and call SERVPRO of Sebastian and our professional teams will be available 24/7.

Heating Your Home

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a fire in your home, SERVPRO is there to help. But we also want to help you prevent fires in your home.

Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)? Cold temperatures during these winter months have led to people frequently using their heaters. Half of these heating equipment fires predictably take place in the winter months of December, January, and February when heating equipment is used the most.

Abiding by the following safety measures will keep yourself and your family safe from any potential dangers of using heaters in your home.

Stay Three Feet Away

One way to stay safe when heating your home is to keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment. That includes a furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.

Enforce a Three-Foot Rule for Children

The curiosity of children can cause a problem if they focus their attention on one of these heating options. Wanting to explore the equipment, the child could accidentally catch on fire or start a fire in the house. Therefore it’s a good idea to have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around all open fires and space heaters.

Don’t Use Your Oven As a Heater

Never attempt to use your oven to heat your home. The inefficacy of an oven as it pertains to heating could cause it to go out or not burn well which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning endangering the lives of your whole family.

Use Only Qualified Professionals When Installing Heating Equipment

Make sure a qualified professional install your heating equipment. An inexperienced person installing your space heater, water heater, or central heating equipment could lead to serious mistakes that could cause a fire. Hiring qualified professionals will ensure that the person installing your equipment adheres to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

Get Your Annual Chimney Inspection

It’s important to have your heating equipment or chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. In early 2000, the NFPA set a new standard that ensures that inspections include a thorough inspection and cleaning. Based on the purpose of the inspection (annual inspection, system change or real estate transaction, potential hazard) the inspector will inspect on one of three levels. The thoroughness of the inspection will increase at each level of the inspection.

Never Leave Portable Heaters On When Leaving a Room

Always turn off and unplug portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed. Portable heaters can short out while you’re away and start a fire before you return.

Make Sure to Use Correct Fuel

Use the right kind of fuel when using fuel-burning space heaters. The manufacturer will specify which fuel that specific space heater will need. Using the wrong kind of fuel could cause the fuel to burn hotter than the equipment was designed for and could cause a fire in your home.

Use a Fireplace Screen

It’s important to make sure that your fireplace has a screen in front of it. Without a screen, sparks could fly into the room and start a fire. Also, if you plan to dispose of ashes in a metal container, ashes should be cooled prior to entering a metal container. The container should also be kept a safe distance away from your home.

Test Smoke Alarms Monthly

If a fire starts in your home in Grant-Valkaria, a smoke alarm can save your life. Smoke spreads quickly and a properly working smoke alarm will give you enough time to get out. So make sure you test your smoke alarms each month. Also, make sure to replace your smoke detectors once every ten years.

Use Ventilation

When burning anything larger than a candle, make sure to provide good ventilation. You can do this by opening windows, doors, or fireplace fumes. Good ventilation will substantially reduce the amount of smoke that can be harmful to those in the home.

On cold days heating is a must. But without the use of certain precautions, it can be a very dangerous decision. By following the safety measures highlighted by the NFPA, you can ensure that you will be warm and safe during the cold winter months.

#heatersafety #spaceheater #righttempforhome #heatertips #SERVPROSebastian