Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

BE READY

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

St Clair County Homeland Security and Emergency Management recommend residents and local businesses check out their website and learn how to prepare for an emergency. Our County only has 800 emergency responders for 170,000 residents. We know that during the first 72 hours following an emergency or disaster, essential services may not be available. Businesses and residents must BE READY to survive on their own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for at least three days. It is recommended that every family and business create an EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT. This kit will contain the items you need to survive prior to help arriving. For more helpful advice you can also check out SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo website or contact our office. We are always here to help.

Sandbags

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Sandbags 

In the wake of the St. Clair County flood Warnings You've probably heard about using sandbags to help prevent flooding in your home or business. Little did you know as with any prevention and protection there is a right way and a wrong way. 

Sandbagging is an old flood prevention technique that's simple, but still effective. If the bags are not filled and stacked properly, though, they will be useless. Here are some tips and steps for the most effective way use sandbags:

  • Only use sand in the bags:
  • Try to use coarse sand:
  • When building a sandbag wall, it's crucial for the bags to shape around each other tightly:
  • Stagger the sandbags on top of one another:
  • Set up your sandbags before flooding is anticipated:

IICRC Certified

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo

SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo Today, We can help. 586-336-7373

FEMA supply list

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

FEMA Emergency Supply List

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

  • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
  • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheets and duct tape to secure shelter-in-place
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
  • Local maps

Additional Items to Consider adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

  • Prescription medications and glasses
  • Infant formula ad diapers
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
  • Cash or traveler's checks and change
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper- When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
  • Paper and pencil
  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

We Are Coronavirus Cleaning Services and Biohazard Experts

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

About Coronavirus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and has now spread internationally. While the virus is termed coronavirus, the sickness that results after infection has been termed COVID-19.

COVID-19 has now been declared a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease.

For specialized cleaning services, including the new Certified SERVPRO Cleaned defensive pathogen cleaning program, call Us Today. SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo 586-336-7373

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO franchise 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 perform on a daily basis. Our 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 cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

    • Kitchen/Food Areas
    • Bathrooms
    • Schools/Classrooms
    • Offices
    • Retail Spaces
    • Water Fountains
    • Shelving/Racks
    • Sales Counters
    • Carpets and Rugs
    • Stair Handrails
    • Elevator Cars
    • Playground Equipment
    • Fitness Equipment

If this is something your company can benefit from, please call SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo @ 586-336-7373 24 hours a day.

Biohazard and sewage tips

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Biohazard and Sewage tips

Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk. Sewer backups and flood water are two common biohazard scenarios that can affect homes and businesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore this type of contamination.

Call SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo Today. 586-336-7373

After any biohazard or sewage contamination in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.
  • Flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

What to Do After a Contamination

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

What Not to Do After a Contamination

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

Commercial Mold Remediation

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Mold Remediation

Besides causing a major business interruption, a mold problem can present a serious health risk for people exposed at your commercial property. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you suspect your property has a mold problem, call a SERVPRO Franchise Professional, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.

24/7 emergency service SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo 586-336-7373

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, they will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. They have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition. 

  • Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
  • Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • Odor Control Technician
  • Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

Dealing with and preventing Ice Dams

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.

Effects of ice dams

Moisture entering the home from ice dams can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause respiratory problems.

  • Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
  • Take immediate action to get rid of the water source, clean the home environment and maintain its air quality.

What causes ice dams?

Nonuniform roof surface temperatures lead to ice dams.

Heat loss from a house, snow cover and outside temperatures interact to form ice dams. For ice dams to form there must be snow on the roof and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof's outside surface must be above 32 degrees F (freezing) while lower surfaces are below 32F. These are average temperatures over sustained periods of time. For a portion of the roof to be below freezing, outside temperatures must also be below freezing.

The snow on a roof surface that is above freezing will melt. As water flows down the roof it reaches the portion of the roof that is below 32F and freezes. This causes the ice dam.

The dam grows as it is fed by the melting snow above it, but it will limit itself to the portions of the roof that average below 32F. So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid. This water finds cracks and openings in the exterior roof covering and flows into the attic space. From the attic it could flow into exterior walls or through the ceiling insulation and stain the ceiling finish.

How to prepare your office for a winter storm

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

How to prepare the office for a winter storm

When the weather forecast predicts a serious winter storm, keep these winter preparation tips in mind for your small business:

  • Communicate with your employees.Have a predetermined way to communicate with all employees to let them know if the store or office will be open that day.
  • Let customers know if and when you’re closing.If you will be closing early due to a blizzard, or not opening at all, use social media channels to relay that information. If you have a store-front, make sure to post a sign notifying your customers of your closing as well.
  • Salt the sidewalks.If you plan for your small business to be open during the winter storm, be sure to brine or salt the sidewalks to prevent ice from forming and causing slippery situations.
  • Keep an eye on power lines.If you see a downed power line near your business, call 911 immediately and do not go near it, it could be still live with electricity. Try to prevent any customers from getting near it as well.
  • Consider buying a generator. Have a generator for any important devices or products needing electricity, like walk-in coolers and food storage.
  • Check on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.Regularly replacing batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is a good practice, and especially important if you will be using a generator. Tip: if you’re using a portable generator, never keep it indoors. They produce high levels of carbon monoxide and could cause harm to those inside.
  • Have mailing back-up plans. Think about what things you rely on the mail service to provide. If you have payroll checks or other important documents coming in the mail, and the roads are too bad for mail to be transported, do you have other ways of accessing them? Contact whoever is sending your important documents to ensure that mail interruptions will not cause disaster in your small business.

Winter emergency kit for a small business

In extreme cases of winter storms, you and your employees may become snowed in at work, or need to wait out the storm. In areas where heavy snowfall is typical, consider making a winter emergency kit for your small business to ensure winter workplace safety. These items, provided by FEMA include:

  • A hand-crank or battery-charged radio 
  • Water and food snacks 
  • A whistle or noisemaker that can be used to signal for help 
  • Copies of important business documents, all kept in a waterproof and fireproof container. 
  • Flashlights and/or candles First-aid kit Moist towelettes or hand sanitizer 
  • Extra toiletries (including feminine hygiene products) 
  • Cell phone chargers for all types of cellular devices (and/or portable cell phone power banks or chargers)

Winter Weather Tips

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Weather Tips:

Disaster Recovery Team would like to offer the following tips to help homeowners and business owners avoid damages during this frigid winter weather.

  • Keep indoor temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, when possible. This will help keep pipes inside walls from freezing.
  • If you are a homeowner, remind those in your household where to find the main water shutoff valve in case of emergency.
  • If you are a renter or a business owner, be sure you have the contact information for your maintenance crew on hand in case of a burst pipe.
  • Turn on hot and cold taps just enough to keep them dripping slowly.
  • Keep cabinet doors underneath sinks open during extremely cold spells. This allows the warm air from a room to circulate around the pipes.
  • Disconnect all garden hoses from outside faucets and spigots. Shut off valves to these spigots from the crawlspace, if possible.
  • Close the flue in your fireplace when it is not in use, and, of course, always double-check to ensure your flue is open before starting a fire in the fireplace.
  • If you plan to leave your home unattended for several days, have a friend or neighbor stop in to check on your residence. Undiscovered burst pipes can lead to catastrophic flood and mold damage inside your home.
  • Beware of ice dams in gutters near downspouts.

Why SERVPRO

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo professionals understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo Professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is the SERVPRO franchise professional's first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.

Electronic Claims Information

Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

  • A Complete Electronic Job File.
    • First Notice of Loss.
    • Detailed Estimate.
    • Digital Loss Photos.
    • Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
    • All delivered by email or hard copy.
  • On-line Access to All Files.
    • New Assignments.
    • Pending Jobs.
    • Completed Jobs.
  • Informative Reports to Improve Results
    • Job Cost Data.
  • Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Flooding In Your Home

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most damaging and devastating things you can ever experience is flooding in your home. However, you’re not alone, we’re here to help you with some steps on how to deal with flood damage.

There are many causes of household flooding including – Heavy rains, Sewer back-up, Appliance Malfunctions, Malfunctioning sump-pump, and Burst pipes. This can be a time of great confusion as to what to do concerning safety, cleanup and even how to pay for all the repair and restoration.

  1. Call Your Insurance Company

Your homeowners’ insurance will vary depending on what policies you have. The insurance company will send an adjuster to look at and assess the damage and determine if it is a covered loss. Document the values of each and every item you can think of, and take as many photos as possible before, after and during the cleanup. This will help the adjuster when he/ she comes to assess the damage. You can call SERVPRO Of Marine City/ Romeo at 586-336-7373 24 hours a day.

  1. Safety First

The most important step in any major home disaster like flooding and water damage, is to make sure yourself and your family are safe. There are several things you can do to stay safe in your home.

Turn off the power: Water and electricity obviously do not mix. But, if turning off the power requires you to enter or stand in wet areas it is best to leave it alone and call an electrician. Do not reenter a flooded home before turning the electricity off.

Wear Protective Gear: Be sure to wear protective clothing–such as rubber boots and gloves–when you re-enter your home. This will protect you from injuries that can get bacteria filled water in them.

Protect Your Valuables: You can lift wood furniture off the wet carpet areas and insert tin foil under the feet to prevent staining of the carpet. Likewise, remove any rugs that may be on wet flooring. You may be forced to leave your home if the flooding is bad enough. Make sure it is also safe when you return to your home to begin dealing with the aftermath.

Mold In Your Home?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Mold in House on Walls, Ceiling, Windows

This page talks about places in the home where mold often grows such as:

  • Walls
  • Ceiling
  • Windows
  • Floor
  • Furniture
  • Insulation
  • Air Ducts
  • Clothes
  • Basement

Below you can find out how to remove mold from these places, as well as the signs and causes of the mold.


Removing Mold on Walls: If you have mold on the walls in your home then it's usually easy to remove. If the wall is non-porous then you can simply wipe the mold away using a wet cloth. You can also use a mold killing product if you like. You can use mold killing products like bleach, vinegar, borax and more.

Mold on Drywall Walls: Because drywall is a substance high in cellulose, it is one of the most common materials mold grows on in the home. As there is no practical way to completely remove mold from drywall, you will have to cut out and dispose of any drywall you discover which has mold growing on it.

Mold Growing Behind Walls: Mold commonly grows out of sight behind walls in the wall cavities. These spaces often contain pockets of humid, moist air. Mold can also grow hidden behind wallpaper. Wallpaper glue can hold organic debris which can then become a food source for mold growth.

Signs of Mold on Walls: Cracked or peeling paint, discoloration and bulging are all tell-tale signs that there could be moisture in a wall. If you notice any of these things in a wall in your home, take a closer look and you might see the beginnings of small amounts of mold growth.
These signs could also indicate that mold is actually growing hidden behind the wall, in the wall cavity. Seeing small spots of mold on a wall can sometimes be a sign that there is actually a larger mold colony on the other side which is slowly growing through.
 Smelling a moldy odor or suffering allergic reactions are also good indications there could be mold growing hidden behind a wall in your home.

How and Why Mold Grows on Walls: The most common causes of mold growing on walls are high humidity, condensation and water leaks (which are often hidden inside the wall).
 Condensation forms when water vapor in the air meets cold surfaces and cools to become liquid. Condensation is especially common on walls which form the perimeter of a house. These walls are often colder because of cool outdoor air on the other side.
 Things like drying wet clothes inside or steam from hot water increases the humidity in the home. If humidity stays high in your home for a long time then you might see mold starting to grow on your walls. Usually the best way to decrease the humidity is to ventilate your home by opening windows and doors.
 Leaking pipes near or inside of walls are a common cause of mold. If there's a leaking pipe inside a wall cavity then mold will usually be well and truly set in before it's discovered.

Remediation

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

The Mold Remediation Process

In addition to causing significant property damage, mold can produce allergens and irritants that can cause health effects. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Have Mold Related Questions?
Call Us Today @ 586-336-7373

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and they 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. 
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
  • Let your nose lead the way. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher than normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Understanding The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the “typical” process:

Step 1: Emergency Contact 586-336-7373

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call our Customer Care Center. Our specialist will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. They use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.  

storm safety

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Stay Safe Before and After Winter Storms

Heat your home safely.

If you plan to use a wood stove, fireplace, or space heater, be extremely careful. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and remember these safety tips:

  • Turning on the stove for heat is not safe; have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
    • Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats
    • Fireplace that is up to code with plenty of dry firewood or a gas log fireplace
    • Portable space heaters or kerosene heaters. Check with your local fire department to make sure that kerosene heaters are legal in your area.
  • Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Make sure to keep them away from any flammable materials, like curtains or blankets.
  • Use fireplaces, wood stoves, or other combustion heaters only if they are properly vented to the outside and do not leak gas from the flue or exhaust into the indoor air space.
  • Have your heating system serviced by a qualified technician every year.
  • Do not burn paper in a fireplace.
  • Make sure you have proper ventilation if you must use a kerosene heater.
  • Use only the type of fuel your heater is designed to use—don’t substitute.
  • Keep heat sources, like space heaters, at least 3 feet away from drapes, furniture, or bedding. Never cover your space heater.
  • Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
  • Never leave children unattended near a space heater.
  • Make sure that the cord of an electric space heater is not a tripping hazard, but do not run the cord under carpets or rugs.
  • Avoid using extension cords to plug in your space heater.
  • If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it.

Cleanup

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage Cleanup And Restoration

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today @
586-336-7373

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

  • Water from a clean source like a broken water line
  • If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

  • May contain bacteria and viruses
  • Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

  • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
  • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year @ 586-336-7373. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

Smoke odors

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Removing Lingering Odors After Fire Damage To Your St Clair County MI Home

Training, Knowledge and Equipment Restore Smoke Damaged Properties

When a fire occurs, the most vital thing is to get it under control. After this crucial factor has been achieved, the next stage is to restore your home and belongings to their pre-fire condition. However, even after the initial cleanup has been completed, the smell of the fire can linger. Many homeowners find that even after all charred and damaged items are removed, and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned there is still a smoky smell in the air.
 
If you can still smell a burned or charred scent after fire damage to your home, further work may be needed to deodorize your house. Our technicians are trained to deal with lingering fire odors swiftly and efficiently. Our professionally trained and certified IICRC teams have the skill and equipment needed to deodorize your house and leave it smelling fresh once more –"Like it never even happened."
 
We train our IICRC certified technicians to assess what is causing lingering odors after a fire. Confined areas, attics, rafters, and the insulation in your home are all especially susceptible to odor entrapment after a fire has occurred. Each area needs to be treated carefully to ensure the odor is removed.
 
We arrive at your home equipped with deodorizing equipment. The first step is to assess what is causing the smell to linger. The next step is to tackle the smell at its source. We thoroughly vent the problem area, and clean surfaces to help scrub away the source of the smell. For some spaces, an odor counteractant can be used to clean away those odors. In some cases, placement of an activated charcoal unit overnight can absorb the smell. IF the home is vacant of the residents, live plants, and pets, we can set up ozone machines which chemically capture smoke particulates in the air. Hydroxyl generators are also very useful in purging the ambient air of unwanted particles, thus mitigating, and finally, eliminating the smoke odors.
 
If cleaning and ventilation do not succeed in tackling stubborn smoke smells after a fire, our technicians are equipped with thermal fog equipment. Thermal fogging equipment mimics the heat and pressure of the fire in a safe manner. Materials that picked up the smell of smoke from the fire now pick up the deodorization droplets from thermal fogging in the same manner. 
 
Let SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo remove lingering smoke odors after a fire. Call us at (586) 336-7373 today for assistance.

Mold

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Mold in Crawl Spaces

Some houses have crawl spaces instead of basements. While crawl spaces are less expensive and recommended when you live in a place where it’s mostly dry. Anyway, they are nonetheless prone to moisture and mold in crawl space, unless they come with proper insulation and adequate ventilation.

Mold in crawl space under the house is an eyesore, and it is not a good sign, either because it’s indicative of a much bigger problem upstairs. Just how common is mold in crawl space? Mold under the house in crawl space is not unusual in the US and Canada, and the good news is, it’s largely preventable.

SIGNS OF MOLD IN CRAWL SPACE

Early detection of the mold is crucial to prevent an outbreak. It’s important to keep in mind that mold can spread very quickly, so taking the necessary steps at the first signs of mold infestation can go a long way to prevent major damage to health and property.

But first things first, what does mold in crawl space look like? What are the things you need to watch out for? In most cases, you’ll know when the situation calls for a mold fogger crawl space device when your house smells musty or when it emits some kind of a damp smell.

Sometimes, even without actually seeing the mold, you’ll be able to tell they’re there when your nose gets stuffy or running, your eyes get itchy, or you go into a mold allergy attack. When you experience these mold in crawl space symptoms or when you see visible signs of water damage and mold infestation, call SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo @ 526-336-7373

HOW MUCH MOLD IN CRAWL SPACE IS ACCEPTABLE

When it comes to mold growing in crawl space, a little can already be too much. So any type of mold is not acceptable in crawl space.  You can’t afford to be friendly with mold because it can easily become widespread, and if left untreated, it can cause a lot of damage to your health as well.

“There’s mold in my crawl space” is a complaint often heard by mold remediators, but one that can be avoided by taking appropriate measures, like sealing and dehumidifying the area, for one.

IDENTIFYING MOLD IN CRAWL SPACE

A musty smell is usually a tell- tail sign that mold growth has already begun. Checking your crawl space, you’re very likely to find patches or clusters of what looks like dirt or powder on the floor joists, posts, girders, and corners of the area.

Choose SERVPRO Marine City/ Romeo

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo has been a locally owned franchise helping the people in Marine City and neighboring communities for the last five years. Prior to owning and operating this franchise the owners were in the residential and commercial building industry for 30+ years. We are committed to our community and the communities we service. We understand the stress and worry that comes with experiencing a loss from fire or water. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo provides 24/7 emergency mitigation services. We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential or commercial properties after damage from fire, smoke, mold or water. We have well trained certified technicians on staff at all times. Disasters happen SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo is here to help.

To schedule service for your home or business, call us today at 586-336-7373.

Whether you need emergency flood restoration or just need your upholstery cleaned, SERVPRO has over 1,700 Franchises ready to respond faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo has advanced equipment and highly trained technicians to make it “Like it never even happened.” We can help you with all of your needs.

586-336-7373

24/7

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Schools/Classrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpets and Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevator Cars
  • Playground Equipment
  • Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo, 586-336-7373

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

MITIGATION!

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Don't wait to mitigate!

Swift mitigation process diminishes the loss of property by reducing the effect of water  damage. SERVPRO of Marine City/ Romeo will respond to your call within an hour and will be on-site within 4  hours to begin emergency services. We specialize in water mitigation and restoration for residential and commercial properties. 

Our trained certified technicians use the most advanced equipment needed to clean or restore your home or business in a timely manner.  By following industry standards we provide a more consistent and scientific drying process on every mitigation job.

Our company goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo at(586)336-7373 we are here in your community and here to help!

Locally Owned Franchise

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is a locally owned franchise and we are available to assist locally owned businesses if the need arises. We offer 24 hour emergency response, water removal and drying, dehumidification and odor control, structure and contents cleaning.

We know your main concerns are helping your customers. We respond to your call with an hour and will be on site to help with the disaster within 4 hours. Our highly trained technicians use advanced equipment to dry and restore your property. We work neatly and efficiently to help you recover your business and by using state-of-the-art restoration techniques and advanced equipment to ensure your business is taken care of the properly your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Call SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo 

(586) 336-7373!

Flooded Homes

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

Rising water in St Clair County has caused major flooding to many homes. Severe climate changes have created record level water heights.

SERVPRO of Marine City /Romeo has had several calls from customers in Algonac Michigan with flooded homes. Water can cause structural damage and should be dealt with quickly.

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Our trained technicians will work swiftly to restore your property. Once the water is extracted, we use specialized test equipment to find hidden water and advanced drying techniques to dry and monitor your property properly. Our job is to preserve and protect, stop any more damage from happening and restore damaged property to prior condition.

Call SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo we are here in the community and here to help!

(586)336-7373

Local Event

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is involved in many local events. We are here to help our community.

Marine City Fireman's Ball is an event we support every year. This year is their 145th annual ball. All the proceeds will go towards purchasing equipment to save lives.

Many events in the surrounding communities support local businesses and families. SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is dedicated to providing help for any disaster. We specialize in water mitigation and restoration for residential or commercial properties. We have well trained certified technicians on staff. Our team continues to train and has advanced equipment to clean and restore your home or business to working condition. 

Call SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo at (586)336-7373 we are available 24/7.

Disaster Happens!

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Your sump pump stops working and the sewer water over flows  into your basement. Disaster has hit are you prepared? Who do you call? SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is available 24/7.

Water from sewer backups are highly dangerous! The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause severe illness. Getting the water stopped and starting the sewage cleanup process as soon as possible will reduce damage and save you money.

SERVPRO of MARINE CITY/ROMEO gets numerous calls from local customers and plumbers to assist with cleanup of unsanitary water. Our highly trained technicians contain the contaminated water and start cleanup within 4 hours of every call. With the use of our advanced equipment and chemicals we restore your home or business to working order. 

CALL SERVPRO OF MARINE CITY/ROMEO 24/7 at (586) 336-7373

Septic Systems and Flooding in St Clair County MI

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

According to the St Clair County Health Department flooding can impact all parts of a septic system. This includes the septic tank(s) along with the soil treatment area.

Contact SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo if you experience a flooding event. In the meantime you take the following precautions:

  • Mark, or flag, the boundaries of your tank and drainfield to keep off that area until the floodwaters recede. This area could become hazardous and contaminated if the tank structure becomes impaired. 
  • There is an electrocution risk if a pump chamber is used that contains a pump serviced by electricity.Make sure that electricity to the pump is turned off to prevent electrocution risks.
  • To prevent backup into the house, restrict wastewater from entering into a flooded septic system. Drastically reduce water use in the house. Make sure all sump pumps and water softener discharges are NOT connected to the septic system. All gutter downspouts should be directed away from the system to carry water away from the site.
  • Do not open the septic tank for pumping while the soil is still saturated. Mud and silt may enter the tank and end up in the drainfield.
  • Do not dig into the tank or drainfield area while the soil is still wet or flooded. Try to avoid any work on or around the disposal field with heavy machinery while the soil is still wet. These activities will ruin the soil conductivity.

DO NOT

  • DO NOT attempt to service a septic system.
    A septic system contains a potential for disease transmission, dangerous gases, electrical shock and substances that can be hazardous to your health and safety.
  • DO NOT park or drive over any part of the system. The soil can become compacted and the basic function of the system can become restricted.
  • DO NOT place heavy machinery, dumpsters, or building material on any part of the septic system. The tank could collapse from the weight and the pipes can become dislodged in the drainfield.
  • DO NOT leave the opening to a septic tank uncovered. Assure that all the hole openings are immediately secured, repaired or replaced if the covers have shifted, broken, or lost in the flood. This is to prevent debris from falling into the septic tank along with maintaining safety from people falling into the tanks during clean-up activities.

If your water well has also been flooded, it could be contaminated. Contact the St. Clair County Health Department for questions if your well is safe to drink and how to test the water.

Site: bereadystclaircounty.org/flooding-2019

Here to Help® Connection Site

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo we like to let our customers know that they are important and we understand the stress involved when you experience water damage to your home or business. SERVPRO's Here to Help® Connection Site helps keep our customers informed. Constant communication is extremely important when it comes to cleanup and restoration jobs. Customers need to know that at any time they can check the status of their job or find important information regarding their claim. The Here To Help website gives customers protected access to daily updated job progress, mitigation tips, and offers solutions to common questions related to work being performed on their home or business. This site also provides detailed information about their claim, pictures, drying progress, local franchise information and the answers to frequently asked questions. This tool puts our customers back in control of their claim and hopefully provides a little peace of mind during a stressful time.

Damaged Floors after water damage!

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo using our professional equipment to dry water damage.

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is here too help when water damage is to big for the home owner to take care of on their own. The drying process for large damaged areas needs expert technicians and equipment to make sure there is not future structure damage to your home. Floors and walls that become soaked can warp or grow mold if not taken care of properly. They need to be cleaned and dried completely. Our technicians are trained to use the right products and professional equipment that will pull the moisture from underneath the floor boards for the most effective drying. Time is critical when drying water damage and SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is here to help you 24/7 we respond within 1 hour and can be on site quickly! Call us at (586)336-7373.

Winter is here!

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Winter has finally arrived in Michigan and it can cause frozen pipes. Pipes that are exposed or not properly insulated are susceptible to bursting or leaking. When this happens you may need SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo. We are here to help!

The first step is to shut off the water. You will then need to contact a plumber to replace any damaged pipes. But the removal of the water is priority and SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is ready to remove the water "Like it never even happened." Our technicians are available 24/7 and will document the entire process to help you through this crisis and return your home back to working order. We use professional products and equipment throughout the drying process to ensure your structure is completely dry. Call us at (586)336-7373 we are here to help!

Storm Damage in St Clair County

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage from a Storm in our local area!

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is here to help!

We are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage. Flooding from storms does not occur at a convenient time. SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is available 24 hours 7 days a week. When  a disaster happens we are here to help make this situation less stressful. We will walk you through this process and make it "Like it never even happened." Our highly trained technicians will respond promptly. They use advanced equipment from start to finish to ensure your home is dried and back to working order. This process is documented throughout the entire process. 

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is here to help you 24/7. Call us at (586)336-7373!

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo cleaning water damage from a customers carpet!

SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is dedicated to responding quickly and restoring your contents that have been damaged by water or fire. We can help you save money and preserve your homes contents. Our highly trained technicians will conduct an organized clean up and restoration process. We use several methods of cleaning and drying to restore your home back to working order. Damaged electronics, documents and valued photographs can make you feel overwhelmed, we will help you with coordinating this with qualified technicians. Once the cleaning and drying is complete the restoration process can begin. SERVPRO of Marine City / Romeo is available 24/7 responds within 1 hour and can be on site within 4 hours. We give you peace of mind when you need it most!

Always Here To Help

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Just the facts: Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If you would like your home or business inspected we can assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and remediation expertise to remediate any problem.

Call Us Today  586-336-7373