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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Water damage restoration near me, Water damage restoration companies near me, Water damage in Colorado

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in residential property in Colorado Water damage in residential property in Colorado

Residential Water damage and Commercial Water Damage Restoration, and Flood Damage, can occur at Any time. 

Our SERVPRO of Summit Team, can Solve this Problem for You. 

In attached Picture, Water damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Mold Remediation, if not Inspected Properly and/or Dried out Properly. 

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235

Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

Website:

https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/company-profile

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit?share

Certifications

  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
  • CRT - Color Repair Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
  • FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
  • FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
  • MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - Other Training
  • RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
  • UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

  • American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
  • Eco Friendly
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC
  • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
  • Restoration Industry Association

Awards

  • Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties


***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235140

Metcalf Road, Suite 6

Avon, CO 81620

Flood damage in Wichita Kansas, Water damage in Wichita Kansas, Commercial Water damage in Wichita Kansas, Water Damage Companies near me,

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Wichita Kansas Flood damage in Wichita Kansas, water damage companies near me,

Water Damage in Wichita Kansas, and Flood Damage in Wichita Kansas, can occur at Any time, with your Commercial Property, and Residential Property. Water Damage will require Water Damage Restoration. Our SERVPRO of Summit Team can Solve this Problem for You and Your Property and is in the Wichita Kansas Area. ***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235  Our Services include Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Water damage restoration, Sewage Backup cleaning, Sewage Cleanup, Fire Damage restoration, Smoke Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation, Biohazard Cleaning and Restoration, Termite Damage Remediation and Reconstruction  Website:https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/ Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit... ***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235  Jon BarrettDigital Marketing and Brand Strategy Manager andCertified Mold Remediator (C.M.R.)Office: 970-949-3235 SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & EagleSERVPRO of Grand JunctionSERVPRO of Garfield & Pitkin CountySERVPRO of Grand, Routt & Rio Blanco CountiesSERVPRO of Farmington/Aztec/BloomfieldSERVPRO of NE Alburquerque

Commercial water damage in Wichita Kansas, Commercial Flood restoration in Wichita Kansas, Water Damage Companies near me,

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Summit is onsite in Wichita Kansas, for water damage restoration SERVPRO of Summit is onsite in Wichita Kansas, for water damage restoration

Commercial Water Damage in Wichita Kansas, and Commercial Flood Damage in Wichita Kansas, can occur at Any time, with your Commercial Property, and Residential Property.

Water Damage will require Water Damage Restoration. Our SERVPRO of Summit Team can Solve this Problem for You and Your Property and is in the Wichita Kansas Area. 

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235  

Our Services include Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Water damage restoration, Sewage Backup cleaning, Sewage Cleanup, Fire Damage restoration, Smoke Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation, Biohazard Cleaning and Restoration, Termite Damage Remediation and Reconstruction  

Website:https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/ 

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit... 

***For an Estimate or Emergency Services-

Call us at 970-949-3235  

Jon Barrett

Digital Marketing and Brand Strategy Manager and Certified Mold Remediator (C.M.R.)

Office: 970-949-3235 

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle

SERVPRO of Grand Junction

SERVPRO of Garfield & Pitkin County

SERVPRO of Grand, Routt & Rio Blanco Counties

SERVPRO of Farmington/Aztec/Bloomfield

SERVPRO of NE Alburquerque

Commercial water damage restoration companies near me, Commercial water damage near me, commercial water damage restoration Colorado,

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water damage occurred causing flooding Commercial Water damage occurred causing flooding

Commercial Water Damage Restoration, and Flood Damage, can occur at Any time. Our SERVPRO of Summit Team, can Solve this Problem for You. 

In attached Picture Collage, Commercial Water damage occurred. These incidents can lead to Mold Remediation, if not Inspected Properly and/or Dried out Properly. 

***For a Free Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235

Our Services include Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

Website:

https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/company-profile

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit?share

Certifications

  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
  • CRT - Color Repair Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
  • FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
  • FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
  • MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - Other Training
  • RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
  • UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

  • American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
  • Eco Friendly
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC
  • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
  • Restoration Industry Association

Awards

  • Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties


***For a Free Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235140

Metcalf Road, Suite 6

Avon, CO 81620

Cat urine removal in CO, Pet Odor removal in CO, Pet urine damage to hardwood floor,

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Pet urine damage to hardwood floor Pet urine damage to hardwood floor

Nasty odors like cigarette smoke, pet urine and food permeates into our furniture, carpets, walls, windows, and just about every other nook and cranny in our homes, making it particularly difficult to eliminate.

We are able to extract the odors out of carpets, drapes, furniture, clothing and bedding. We also work in your car or recreational vehicle, pulling the odors from the carpet and upholstery.


We literally clear the air and penetrate surfaces and objects within the space. Not only can we eliminate odors like cigarette smoke and strong food smells. We can also kill, eliminate and neutralize bacteria, allergens, viruses and mold.

WE can come to your home, office, vehicle, recreational vehicle and anywhere else to remove lingering odors including:

Cigarette and tobacco smoke
Pet odors
Smoke and fire damage
Food smells
Stale smells
After water damage
Mold and musty smells
Allergens and Air Quality

***For a Free Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235

Our Services include Pet odor and Pet Urine removal, Fire Water Mold Biohazard Termite Remediation and Reconstruction   

Website:

https://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/company-profile

Check out our many 5 Star Google Reviews:

https://g.page/SERVPROofsummit?share

Certifications

  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
  • CRT - Color Repair Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
  • FCT - Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician
  • FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • LCT - Leather Cleaning Technician
  • MSI - Marble and Stone Inspector
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
  • OSHA - Other Training
  • RCT - Rug Cleaning Technician
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • SMT - Stone, Masonry and Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician
  • UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Affiliations

  • American Red Cross Disaster Responder program
  • Eco Friendly
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC
  • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration
  • Restoration Industry Association

Awards

  • Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) Graduate Master Builder (GMB)
  • FIRELINE CONTENTS CERTIFIED
  • IICRC Applied Structural Drying

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties


***For a Free Estimate or Emergency Services-Call us at 970-949-3235140

Metcalf Road, Suite 6

Avon, CO 81620

Avoiding a disaster during a power outage in Summit County

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

During power outages in the winter, it's critical to prepare for and protect your house, company, and family, as many threats can go unreported.

Unattended candles can rapidly become a catastrophe, potentially causing a structural fire. The safer option is using flashlights or other battery-operated lighting solutions that do not contain an open flame. This means you should always have extra batteries on hand. If candles are your only alternative, make sure the fire is never left unattended and that the candle is kept in a fireproof holder away from combustible things and drafts.

During power outages, fire threats aren't the only danger. Indoor barbecues or generators can potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which is exceedingly dangerous. However, if these devices are used in confined spaces such as homes, garages, or sheds, the result could be fatal. Because carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, it can go undiscovered. It's possible that a person will not recognize they've been poisoned until it's too late.

According to the manufacturer's instructions, these items must be used only outside, in a well-ventilated environment.

If your house or company has been damaged by fire, smoke, or water, our highly trained technicians and customer service representatives are available 24/7 to assist you. Call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle Counties today at 970-949-3235.

Today's Tip: Best way to Clean your glasses and mirrors

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning your windows and mirrors with a cloth might leave streaks, smudges, and lint. Because the newspaper is a dense material with soft fibers, it is ideal for cleaning glass because it is non-abrasive. It is also easily accessible in most homes. Vinegar is an excellent cleaning ingredient and alternative to expensive window cleaners if you want to save money or switch to less hazardous cleaning products. It's also better for the environment because the used newspaper can be recycled.

Here's how to do it:

  • Take an empty spray bottle and fill it with 50% white vinegar and 50% water
  •  Shake well and spray on the mirror or glass
  • Use your newspaper to wipe down the surface

What to do During a Flood in Gypsum

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Each year, more deaths occur because of flooding than any other hazard related to thunderstorms. The most common flood deaths occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous floodwater. Fortunately, during a flood, you can take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your home.

  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Listen to a Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.
  • Evacuate immediately if told to evacuate.
  • Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to direct traffic out of flooded areas safely.  
  • Contact your healthcare provider If you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
  • Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Turn-Around. Don't Drown!
  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
  • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
  • Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the vehicle.

If you experienced a flood or water damage in Gypsum. Call a professional flood restoration company that can help get your home back to its pre-flood condition and make it "Like it never even happened." Our highly trained technicians of SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties are available 24/7 at 970-949-3235.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Fireplace Safety Tips for your Heeney Home

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

While a wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and comfort to a home during the colder months, safety should always be top of mind. The NFPA estimates that fireplaces and chimneys cause15,000 house fires per year in the United States.

 Creosote is a black or brown residue that can build up over time and could cause a fire.  It is important to make sure that your chimney is clean and safe for a fire.  Check out these tips to learn how to work and maintain a fireplace.

 Before that first fire of the season, check the chimney structure for cracks, loose bricks, or missing mortar.

  • Keep the glass open to allow air to be drawn up to cool the chimney, but keep the screen closed to prevent sparks from jumping onto the carpeting.
  • Do not burn paper in your fireplace.
  • Use fireplace tools to handle burning logs. Never use your hands.
  • Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the chimney when necessary. Have him show you how to check it yourself, too.
  • Put ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, at least three feet from your home
  • Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home
  • Fireplace coals can remain hot enough to start a fire for up to three days, so always wait at least that long before removing the ashes. 

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties has a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to a fire damage emergency 24/7.  Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Water Damage from a sprinkler in your Avon Business

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

broken sprinkler broken sprinkler

An automatic fire sprinkler system is one of the essential fire protection features. They are reliable and affordable. However, fire protection systems may fail if not properly maintained or afforded adequate heat. For example, a failure could result in disaster if a fire occurred or tremendous water damage from fire sprinklers if water is unexpectedly released.

When a fire sprinkler head accidentally discharges, it soaks walls, floors, furniture, and anyone unlucky enough to be nearby. Regular maintenance can’t guarantee it won’t happen, but you can be ready for unexpected sprinkler breakdowns with these tips.

Call the experts in Water Damage Restoration.

Call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties; we are experts in water damage restoration. This is the first step to ensuring all water damage is addressed and managed with the skill to eliminate future damage. This service provider will assess the existing water damage and develop a strategy to return your property to its original, non-damaged state.

Don’t try cleanup by yourself.

When fire sprinkler heads accidentally discharge – usually because they are broken –  they release a spray of dirty water contaminated with rust, oil, and sediment. The mixture stains the surface and spreads strong, unpleasant odors throughout the building. Don’t try to tackle the mess on your own. Leave clean up to us.

  • We do the cleanup and the mitigation. We care for all interior materials, including sheetrock, carpets, and flooring.
  • Our certified restoration technicians often salvage damaged furniture, equipment, and even paper records.

Document everything

Document water damage from a sprinkler system as soon as possible. Record all the damages immediately. That way, you can demonstrate the extent of loss to your insurance company.

  • Take detailed pictures and videos of all affected interiors, including broken sprinklers, wet walls, and wet floors.
  • Leave large items like furniture and equipment in place for the adjuster’s inspection.
  • Save the receipts for damage-related expenses.

Remember, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is ready to help you restore water damage and get your business back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Storm Damage Restoration You Can Trust

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

servpro van after the fires SERVPRO van after the fires

There is so much to offer in Colorado, from world-class skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports to fishing, hiking, and camping in the summer months. Along with our natural wonders, there is a wide range of picturesque shops, fine restaurants, and other attractions, particularly in the Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle county area.  There’s no wonder that so many people come here every year.

While the natural beauty of the state can be breathtaking, it can also be a harbor for devastating storms. Whether it’s the ice and snow of winter or heavy rain in spring and summer, the possibility of severe storm damage is a very real threat. When residents are facing the prospect of cleaning up after a storm, they need professionals they can trust to provide storm damage restoration services. For over 20 years, SERVPRO has been the first name for storm damage restoration in all of Colorado. 

A Helping Hand When Storms Hit

Storms can strike without warning and it’s not always possible to prepare in advance, which means you may not be able to avoid storm damage. You may think you can handle storm cleanup yourself, but that process may be more complicated and dangerous than you think, so it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.

At SERVPRO we understand just how devastating storm damage can be and how important it is to get the restoration process completed as quickly as possible. We have the training and specialized equipment that allow us to handle any kind of damage and we’re guaranteed to respond “faster to any disaster”.

We’re ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll be sure to have a technician on-site within four hours of that call to thoroughly assess the damage and draw up a detailed plan for addressing it. Our inspection of your property will include everything from the roof to the basement and our restoration plan will ensure that your property looks “Like it never even happened”.

As members of the local community ourselves, we understand the particular challenges of Colorado weather. That’s why we’ll specifically look for things like ice dams on the roof and snow buildup around the foundation, which can compromise support structures and rot flooring if not addressed quickly.

Our ultimate goal is always to get our customers back on their feet again and help the healing process begin. That means dealing with all storm damage quickly and thoroughly, with the care and concern that you expect. We treat your property the way we’d want ours to be treated and we’ll never sign off on a job until we’re sure that you are completely satisfied. 

Expert Storm Restoration When You Need It Most

SERVPRO has always believed in providing the most up-to-date expert services, which is why all of our technicians participate in ongoing training from The Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our certification covers a number of areas involved in storm damage restoration, including Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, and Commercial Drying.

Along with our training, we use industrial-grade equipment to ensure that every job is handled properly. Our powerful pumps and vacuums remove excess water and each one is outfitted with HEPA filters to help remove all irritants and toxic chemicals. Our air movers and dehumidifiers thoroughly dry all surfaces and Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers remove noxious odors. 

Because we understand just how much damage water can do, we go beyond simply removing standing water and drying all surfaces. We’ll also perform full mold remediation to identify any problems and help you avoid the potential health risks of a serious mold infestation.  

We know that the healing can’t really begin until your property is back to its previous condition, so we’ll do everything we can to ensure that it gets there quickly. That includes painting, replacing flooring, or even completely rebuilding rooms. Whatever it takes to alleviate your stress and help you to feel whole again. We’ll even help expedite filing your insurance claim by working with you to take a full inventory of your property.

Of course, disaster doesn’t just strike homes. SERVPRO also has specialized training and techniques to handle commercial properties so that you can get back in business as soon as possible because we know how costly any shutdown can be.

When storms hit, it helps to know who to call. SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle counties is here to handle all of your restoration needs and we’re ready to respond immediately. You never have to face the devastating effects of storm damage alone, just call SERVPRO and breathe easier knowing you’re your home or commercial property is in the best possible hands. 

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

SERVPRO Can Handle Any Type of Disaster

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Servpro technician with a hepa vac SERVPRO technician with a hepa vac

Disasters come in many shapes and sizes and all can be devastating. Nobody understands this better than the professionals at SERVPRO. From floods to blizzards to hurricanes and major fires, any kind of disaster can take an emotional and financial toll on a community. SERVPRO technicians have the training and equipment to handle all types of damage and restore your home or commercial property so it looks “Like it never even happened”.

Since our founding, SERVPRO has provided quality professional restoration and remediation services across the country. The Disaster Recovery Team has mobilized to support cleanup after major large storm events including Hurricane Irene, the 2009 California wildfires, Super Storm Sandy, and the 2013 Colorado floods.

Aside from flooding, there are other specific challenges that home and commercial property owners in the Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle county areas may face. These can include snowstorms, ice dams, and wildfires. All of these can bring about water, soot, and smoke damage and may lead to even worse damage if not handled quickly. In particular, untreated water damage can lead to potentially hazardous mold infestation, which can easily affect an entire property.

Winter weather is a particular concern here in Colorado and it brings its own unique issues. Sudden, heavy snowfall is a regular occurrence throughout the winter and it can put a tremendous amount of stress on roofs as it piles up. At the same time, ice can also build up on roofs and gutters, causing ice dams that may trap water and lead to severe leaks.

Of course, storms can occur at any time of the year and serious thunderstorms may lead to everything from backed-up gutters to leaking roofs and in the worst cases, catastrophic flash flooding. Water can be much more damaging than many people realize and even the smallest amount of standing water can lead to major problems if it isn’t treated quickly and thoroughly.

No matter what kind of disaster you’re facing, you need to have a name you can trust to help with your cleanup and restoration needs. With franchises across the country, SERVPRO has been that name for many people. Our technicians have the training and equipment to handle all of your water restoration, fire restoration, and mold remediation needs and we’re always ready to respond 24/7 to get the process started as soon as possible.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

SERVPRO: The Industry Experts

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians wearing protective gear Technicians wearing protective gear

SERVPRO has been the most prominent name in restoration for over 20 years and we have achieved that standard by being experts in the industry. Here at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle counties, we are focused on the needs of our customers in the local community. We understand the challenges that the Colorado weather can present and that’s why our technicians all have the latest training in restoration and mitigation techniques so we can handle any type of damage, from storms, fires, or any other kind of emergency.

We believe there can never be enough training, which is why all of our team members are continually taking classes and receiving instruction and certification in the latest techniques. Training and certification are provided by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The intensive training program of the IICRC sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries, so you can trust that our technicians are truly the industry’s best.

We don’t stop with IICRC training though. SERVPRO also offers a range of in-house training for all employees, with everything from employee certification to a franchise training course. We also offer a variety of unique web-based programs with video presentations and support materials that are designed to keep our technicians and office staff on the cutting edge of the industry.

Because a disaster can strike businesses as well as homes, we also have specific training in the particular techniques necessary to address fire and water damage in commercial properties. This can involve large-scale water removal, restoration, and dehumidifying using industrial-grade equipment to easily cover extensive spaces.

Our training begins before each franchise even opens. All new franchise owners participate in a 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility that provides information on the latest techniques in fire restoration, water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation. This way we can guarantee that every franchise is ready to provide the best quality service from day one.   

With this kind of dedication, it is easy to see why SERVPRO has earned a reputation as the name you can trust for all of your restoration needs. With someone ready to take your call 24 hours a day, we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster because we understand how important it is to get the restoration process started as quickly as possible. 

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Where Should You Turn For The Best Fire Damage Removal Company in Vail?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Homes burned down to the ground Homes burned down to the ground

The picturesque village of Vail is known worldwide and with good reason. This is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Colorado, with plenty to draw outdoor enthusiasts, from world-class skiing at the Vail Ski Resort to fishing in Gore Creek. From its natural wonders to the many local businesses, large and small, Vail attracts thousands of tourists annually.

Unfortunately, even this beautiful area is not immune to natural disasters, including the devastating effects of fire. Fire can strike without warning and leave behind a significant amount of damage in its wake. Flames, smoke, soot, and water can all take their toll and at times like this, you need a name you can trust to provide thorough and effective removal and restoration services.

It can be difficult to know where to turn, especially at such an emotional time, but that’s why SERVPRO is the name that stands out from the pack. SERVPRO has been providing quality professional fire damage removal and restoration for home and business owners for many years. Combining that record with the personal touch of a local business, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle counties has earned a reputation as the best fire damage removal company in Vail, Colorado.

Understanding The Full Impact of Fire

The destruction caused by flames is the most obvious type of fire damage, but it’s really only the tip of the iceberg. Equally devastating is the lingering effect of smoke and soot, both of which can adhere to many surfaces and even become airborne, allowing them to spread even further.

As if all of this isn’t enough, the water used in firefighting efforts can also cause considerable damage, from destroying furniture and rotting wood to weakening support structures and opening your home to mold infestation.

With all of this potential for severe health hazards, it’s essential that all fire damage is addressed as quickly as possible so that your home or business will look “Like it never even happened”.

Call The Professionals For Help

There is no question that a fire can be traumatic and the after-effects can be emotional. When it comes to handling the cleanup you may feel as if you’re in over your head. At times like these, you need professionals you can count on and that’s where SERVPRO comes in. We understand the emotional and financial cost of fire damage and we offer full fire restoration services backed with the SERVPRO guarantee of speed and quality.

We’ll walk you through every phase of the fire damage removal process, from your initial call to restoration. We have someone prepared to take your call 24/7 and we will send one of our technicians to your property as quickly as possible to assess the damage and give you a complete estimate of all work that needs to be done.

We’ll begin the work by covering any holes in roofs or walls, then remove any standing water using our specialized, state-of-the-art equipment. Next, we’ll use powerful dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry all surfaces.  At the same time, we’ll specifically target soot and smoke damage using the most advanced techniques.

Of course, the end goal of fire damage removal is restoring your property to its previous condition. To reach that goal we’ll take any necessary steps including replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. We know how devastating this time can be for you and your family and that’s why SERVPRO provides the professional restoration services you need so that you can focus on healing.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Storm Damage Emergency in Eagle Counties

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians wearing protective gear Technicians wearing protective gear

Without warning, nature can take a violent turn: floods, wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards. Any of these can have a devastating effect on your home, turning your life upside-down.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties we know that our fast response time is key to minimizing the cost and time involved with storm damage restoration. Here is a water damage timeline detailing the damage water can do to a structure in a short period of time:

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
  • A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
  • Paint begins to blister
  • Wood flooring swells and warps
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible

When a Storm Damages Your Home, We're One Call Away

Our SERVPRO team of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties are prepared for any storm damage emergency. Our team of highly trained restoration technicians is ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 970-949-3235. We’ll restore your storm damage in The High Rockies, and we will make it“Like it never even happened.”

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

The Solution For Commercial Damage Cleanup in Colorado

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Summit Truck servicing Aspen SERVPRO of Summit servicing the Aspen Colorado Area

There is so much to love about the beautiful area that encompasses Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle Counties in Colorado.

From skiing to hiking to enjoying the incredible natural vistas, there’s no wonder thousands of people are drawn here every year.

There’s also little question why so many businesses have opened here, leading to a wide range of commercial properties throughout the area.

Unfortunately, all of those businesses can also fall victim to fire, water, storm, and other types of significant damage and when that occurs they’ll need specialized commercial damage cleanup services.

That’s where SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle Counties comes in.

With years of service and the expertise that comes with the SERVPRO name, we’re the name you can trust for all of your commercial damage cleanup needs. As a local business ourselves, we understand exactly what is required to treat damage to commercial properties and restore them to their previous condition so that you can get back to business as quickly as possible.

The Specific Challenges of Commercial Cleanup

Whether from fire, water, or storm, any kind of damage that hits your commercial property can be particularly devastating. The longer any business remains closed, the more it can cost in terms of profit, so at times like these, it is absolutely essential to get your business restored and get back on your feet.

SERVPRO understands that all too well, which is why we make it our business to respond faster to any disaster. Our staff is ready to take your call 24/7 and our highly trained restoration specialists will be on-site within four hours of that call to begin the cleanup process.

All of our specialists have the training and certification necessary to handle any kind of commercial property damage, including the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We are also prepared to handle all types and sizes of business, from small mom-and-pop shops to large corporate buildings, hotels, and other properties.

While fire, water, and storms can wreak havoc on any kind of property, there are particular challenges that are presented by commercial properties:

  • Most commercial properties are larger in size and scale than residential properties, meaning the cleanup process may be much more complex.
  • Because there is more ground to cover and many specialized areas including upholstery repair, complex electrical systems, waterproofing, and other issues, commercial clean-up can require a greater level of skill and experience.
  • Time is a particular concern for commercial properties. Keeping the doors closed can continue to cost you money, so cleanup needs to happen as quickly as possible

Guaranteed To Get You Back To Work Fast

At SERVPRO we put our focus on getting you back to work quickly, which is why we are guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster. That lets you rest easy knowing that your business is in the best possible hands and will be up and running again as soon as possible.

We use industrial-strength, professional quality equipment to address water and smoke damage and thoroughly dry every inch of your property. We understand that commercial properties require special handling and we’re ready to provide all of the support necessary to get the job done right.

Our team of highly skilled technicians has all of the necessary training and certification to handle any size commercial property and we are continually learning and re-certifying to ensure that we are up to date on all of the latest techniques.

We have even taken steps to guard against the spread of viral pathogens with our new program, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. We know how devastating and costly damage to commercial properties can be, so we take nothing for granted when it comes to the cleanup process.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, and Eagle counties, we combine the resources of a national network of over 1,700 franchises with the small-town feel of a locally owned and operated business.

We’re part of this community too and we’re invested in keeping it healthy and thriving because what’s good for one of us is good for all. That’s why we treat every property with the same care and concern we’d want for our own. Our goal is to restore your business to its previous condition so that there are no lingering signs of damage.

When disaster strikes your commercial property it shouldn’t put you out of business permanently. Fire, storms, and flooding can all cause different types of damage that require a very specific approach, but SERVPRO is up to the challenge. 

Call the professionals of SERVPRO and we’ll provide the thorough commercial cleanup services you expect so that you can quickly put the damage behind you and start serving your customers again.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers 

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
    WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

How does Smoke affect your Home?

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

House affected by smoke House affected by smoke

How Smoke Damage Affects Your Home

Even small home fires can result in significant smoke damage. Taking a noticeable toll on your items and resulting in unseen damage to your home’s structure, the cleanup of smoke and soot is time-sensitive. Acidic in nature, it affects each surface of your house differently, rapidly taking its toll unless quickly and carefully addressed. Smoke affects various materials in different ways. Not only that but the temperature and type of the fire will cause different variations of smoke damage throughout your home. One of the worst ways that smoke can cause harm is by sneaking into small cracks and crevices since the particles are so delicate. They can often go undetected for a long time, leaving a lingering smell of smoke that can last for months. The only way to remove the odor from your home is to remove or clean affected items and clean your home's building materials with agents designed to remove the smell.

Also, the smoke particles put your health and your family at risk because they are toxic. The toxic ingredients are carbon monoxide, soot, tar, carbon dioxide, and harmful chemicals, depending on what burns. The microscopic particles are suspended in air and later settle as soot on whatever surfaces they land on. The soot and particles that settle on the clothes and furnishings severely irritate the skin. Breathing in these toxins over time will lead to health effects.

Remember, SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is ready to assist you after a fire with fire damage, smoke damage restoration, and help you get back to normal. Getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible is our number one priority. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Protect your employees and Business from COVID-19

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Technicians wearing protective gear Technicians wearing protective gear

As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread throughout the country, businesses are grappling with employee shortages due to illness. They are also constantly haunted by the threat of government-mandated shutdowns that can make it difficult or impossible to stay operational. Even if they aren't mandated, shutdowns can become an inevitable reality if an outbreak affects several employees. Whether they're worried about being short-handed or ending up on the news, companies want to do everything they can to avoid uncontrolled outbreaks at their facilities.

Whether you're a large retail shop, small physician's office, an industrial facility, or an outpatient clinic, have an expert in commercial cleaning services with coronavirus cleaning know-how.

SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties can mitigate the risk of an outbreak at your facility with routine COVID cleaning services and preventive disinfection to keep your environment safe from an unintentional outbreak.

SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive, proactive viral pathogen cleaning program backed by more than 50 years of experience in cleanup and restoration. With an industry-leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes, we're helping businesses across the country open safely. So, commit to keeping your employees and customers safer. Make sure your space is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Our certified SERVPRO Commercial cleaners have years of experience interpreting and following guidelines from the CDC to keep people safe during outbreaks of all kinds. Call us today at 970-949-3235. We are a 24/7 emergency response.

Winter safety tips for your employees

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Winter

It’s winter season again. The days are short, the temperatures are dropping, and snow is knocking at the door in many parts of the country. But this winter season will be unlike any we’ve seen before. With the COVID-19 pandemic altering how we work, convene, and communicate, it will be more important than ever to ensure your workplace is prepared for the cold months ahead.

A proactive safety plan that explicitly addresses slips, trips, and falls enhance worker safety and minimizes potential costs from workers’ compensation payments, government fines, or equipment/facility remediation requirements.

There need to be eyes on the parking areas, outside break areas, and walkways at all times.

Keep walkways, stairways, and other work areas clear.

Remove hazards, such as water on floors and snow on sidewalks, immediately.

Avoid carrying heavy loads that may compromise your balance.

Mark hazardous areas. Use temporary signs, cones, barricades, or floor stands to warn passing workers.

Outside, wear footwear with heavy treads for increased traction. Make yourself visible to drivers by wearing a brightly colored jacket or clothes.

Winter preparedness is essential to protecting your people and business, and steps must be taken to prepare your facilities. You can’t prevent all falls, but you can salt the parking lot, sidewalks, and efforts ahead of time. You can also place large, absorbent mats at every entrance to prevent slips once employees are inside the building.

Inspect your facilities (roof, plumbing, etc.) and make sure to perform all required preventative maintenance and repairs.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is always ready to assist you. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-949-3235.

How to Prevent Basement Floods

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement Flooded Basement

Unexpected water in your basement can damage walls and floors, destroy carpeting, ruin furniture, and lead to mold. These spaces are often used for storage; a wet basement can ruin irreplaceable items like photo albums, antiques, and family heirlooms. It is crucial to determine if it is safe to leave things in areas that may flood and take precautions to prevent the risk of flooding.

Whether it's a plumbing leak, roof leak, or a basement filled with water, water damage can require a costly fix. Taking the proper precautions can save you money, time, and headaches in the future, and it may even help protect against large, unforeseen natural disasters. Here are a few home improvements to make water damage less likely:

Add or update drainage. Use gutters and downspouts to make sure water is diverted away from your home and its foundation.

The most straightforward solutions to overflowing gutters are either adding another downspout on that gutter run or increasing the downspout size. The best solution between these two is probably adding another downspout; the second downspout can act as a backup if the first one gets blocked.

If you choose to replace the existing downspout with a larger one, make sure the contractor increases the size of the corresponding hole in the gutter.

  • Install a sump pump. Try this addition if water damage has been a severe problem in your home's lower level. Choose a cast-iron sump pump, which may last longer, and consider buying a battery-powered backup pump if the power goes out.
  • Seal Your Basement. This is a logical step, but many homeowners fail to keep up with it year after year. Sealing openings to your basement means keeping weatherstripping around doors in good condition and making sure windows are caulked.
  • Install a water leak detection system.

An automatic water shut-off valve is a water leak detection system that will shut off the water supply to the home when it detects water on the floor or an irregular flow in the pipe.

  • Check Your Landscaping

Although plants absorb water from the soil, they can also cause water intrusion in your basement. If they're too close to the foundation, roots may penetrate, resulting in cracks or bowing walls that allow water in. Overgrown shrubs may also restrict once-proper drainage and allow water to pool too close to your home.

  • Clean the Gutters

Clean the gutters on your roof to ensure that they don't overflow during a rainstorm. The downspouts carry the water away from your home, and if they aren't clear of debris, the water might flow into your home's basement.

  • Check Your Foundation for Cracks

Check your home's foundation from the inside and outside for any cracks. If you notice small cracks, use caulk to seal them. If the cracks are extensive, you will need the help of a professional to fix them before they cause damage to your basement.

Our SERVPRO team of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties are Professionals in water damage restoration, and we are your best option to efficiently and thoroughly inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.

Give our SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties a call today to help avoid these concerns as much as possible. We are 24/7 Emergency Response at 970-949-3235.

Water Damage: What to do?

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Living room flooded Living room flooded

After your home or business experiences water damage, your prompt action can minimize further damage. It is essential to know the source of the damage at the start of the cleaning process. The safe, timely steps listed below can assist you in your home or businesses’ water damage restoration process so that it can be returned to its pre-crisis state. Incorrect actions can be costly mistakes.

  • Call your insurance company.
  • Try to contain the water in the affected area.
  • Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe furniture dry.
  • Place a piece of foil between wet flooring and furniture legs.
  • Protect any furniture or pillows.
  • Open furniture drawers, closet doors, and luggage to start the drying.
  • Move guns, photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location
  • Lift the drapes off the floor, looping them through a coat hanger and hanging them on the curtain rod.
  • Remove all area carpets.
  • Turn off any electrical items.

If you find water damage on your property, follow some of these helpful tips, and call SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties to start the restoration process right away. We are a 24/7 emergency response.

Preventing Mold in your Commercial Building

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold in the white ceiling Mold in the white ceiling

Mold can be very challenging to deal with. It can sometimes be challenging to spot, pollute the air, and even threaten your establishment's structural integrity.

It gets even more problematic with commercial properties since they can cause business interruption, make you, your employees, and your clients experience health effects, and of course, cost you a lot of money. Follow these tips to prevent mold from growing inside your commercial buildings.

Prevent Mold From Taking Hold in your Office Building.

Mold is not something to take lightly when you own or manage a commercial property. Mold can grow on any organic surface where moisture and oxygen are present. Your commercial property is full of areas that have these perfect conditions. Add in that mold spores are invisible to the human eye, and you have an ideal breeding ground for mold – and you may not even know it.

  1. Stay vigilant: Mold can be sneaky, growing in places you may never have thought. Create a plan and inspect your property regularly. These places include anywhere that has high moisture levels, like basements or crawl spaces. Watch for fuzzy stains on walls, musty smells, and mold marks on carpets and rugs. 
  2. Repair any plumbing issues right away. Bring in a restoration company right away if you notice leaky roofs, leaky pipes, or unsealed windows and door frames. These are all prime areas for mold to grow. 
  3. Use a dehumidifier. Your establishment's humidity must always be maintained and kept at no higher than 50%. We understand how it can be challenging to keep track, so your bet is to install commercial dehumidifiers.
  4. Ensure proper ventilation. Keep HVAC systems clean. HVAC systems are an excellent place for mold to hide; not only can mold hide in the vents, but since they are the perfect way for mold spores to get around the building quickly and efficiently. 
  5. Call in a professional. If you can't find the source of the mold or the problem has spread, it is time to bring in a professional service to assist in mold remediation.

Our SERVPRO team are Professionals who have the right tools, equipment, and products to take care of it. We specialize in mold removal from residential and commercial buildings and can assist with ridding your property of any mold and residual spores. You can trust SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties to take care of any mold problems you encounter in your commercial building. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Preventing Water Damage in your Commercial Building

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Pipes Pipes

All buildings are different, but each is at risk for water damage. From a minor roof leak to violently destructive hurricanes, any unwanted water intrusion can significantly impact the value of a commercial property.

If your business experiences a water-related incident, you’ll need to act quickly to mitigate the damage. Small business insurance can also play a crucial role in lessening the financial impact. However, it’s best to prevent such occurrences from happening in the first place. Use these tips to protect your business from flooding and freezing damage.

Conduct Regular Inspections

The components of a commercial building are diverse and complex. Unlike residential property, commercial buildings tend to have major external HVAC components, roofs decorated with an array of pipes and fans, and large utility rooms. The best way to keep the harsh weather outside is to hire a professional to conduct frequent and thorough inspections.

Insulate exposed pipes

Exposed pipes during the winter are vulnerable to freezing. Plummeting temperatures can freeze water inside a poorly insulated pipe, causing the pipe to burst. A broken pipe can lead to costly flooding or even structural damage. Ensure the pipes are insulated. The more insulation you use, the better protected your lines will be.

Inspect gutters and drainage

Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior and interior walls. Regularly inspect your business’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage system, and remove any debris or buildup.

Locate your shut-off valve

If a pipe breaks, you’ll need to act quickly. That means you should know the location of the main shut-off valve for your building’s water supply. Shutting off the main valve will temporarily cut the water flow to the building, preventing flooding until you can fix the problem.

Seal cracks and gaps

Seal any cracks, holes, or other gaps in your building’s exterior and foundation to ensure that cold air doesn’t penetrate your structure, and warm air doesn’t escape. Caulk, weather stripping, and other sealants can be used to make your building more energy-efficient and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Have a Plan B

Ideally, each commercial building should have options for temporary office space and plans to inform clients of quick changes in the case of severe water damage. Additionally, it’d never be a poor use of time to back up critical paperwork electronically.

Protect your business with insurance

It’s essential to have adequate insurance in place if you experience water or freezing damage when it comes to small business insurance—the details of your coverage matter.

Ask your insurer to add a rider or endorsement to extend coverage to hazards that are excluded from your policy to ensure your business is protected.

Quick response to water damage events

Often the speed of response to a water damage event is the most vital key to getting back to normal day-to-day operations quickly.

Remember, SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is ready to assist you with water damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible is our number one priority. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-457-1449.

Call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Servpro Trailer SERVPRO Trailer

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is Faster to Any Size Disaster in all the counties.  We respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

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

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage, you can rely on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can assist in getting your property to the preloss condition. Learn more about our residential services:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Mold Remediation
  • Storm Damage Restoration
  • Cleaning Services
  • Biohazard Cleaning
  • Covid Cleaning
  • Sewage Cleaning
  • Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

If water or fire strikes your commercial property. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services.  

  • Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
  • Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
  • Commercial Mold Remediation
  • Commercial Biohazard Cleaning
  • Commercial Covid Cleaning
  • Commercial Sewage Cleaning
  • Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Reasons you window is leaking

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Window leaked issue Window leak, water damage

Windows leaking isn't a very uncommon issue, and it's difficult for homeowners to determine what the problem may be. Also, this can lead to mold, wrapping, and structural damage. There are many factors to consider when analyzing the cause of a window leak, so before repair can take place, a diagnosis is necessary.

Water on the Windows When There's No Rain

This is a sign of condensation, and it can be easily fixed by adjusting your home's humidity with central air conditioning or a dehumidifier. By lowering the moisture levels in the air, you can reduce the amount of condensation that forms on the window. Excess condensation can lead to mold growth over time.

Water is coming in around the window.

Often, these leaks happen because the caulk or sealant around the window has gotten old and cracked, allowing rain to enter the house. The fix for this situation is simple – peel out the old caulking and replace it with new window caulking.

The window leaking in Around the Top of Your Window
Leaks at the top of the window can be a sign of mistakes made during installation. The flashing might be improperly installed, for instance, or it might be missing altogether. If the house wrap isn't correctly installed, that could cause the window to leak, too.

The window is leaking at the bottom
If the windows have metal or vinyl frames, they have drain holes near the bottom edge of the frame. These holes are designed to allow the water to escape the frame, but they can become clogged. Clean out the jams.
All windows should have a sill pan that allows water to drain to the house's exterior, and the sill needs to slope away from the window. If either is missing or wrong, you may need to reinstall the window to correct the problem.

Water is leaking between the panes of a double-paned window.

The glass seal has deteriorated, and rain is working its way between the panes. However, that gas that's supposed to be between the panes to provide an insulating factor is gone. Installing new windows will increase the home's energy efficiency.

For any water damage in your home or commercial property, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties' highly trained technicians are ready to help you 24/7. We'll restore the water damage and make it look "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 970-949-3235.

Board up and Tarp your property with SERVPRO

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

House roof tarp House roof tarp

Roof damage to your home or business can be caused by a storm, fire, or another emergency. The damage needs to be addressed immediately to help avoid further harm by the elements or intruders. If your windows or walls are damaged, you will need professional board-up services to secure your property.

Our highly trained technicians use approved board-up techniques to help minimize further damage and secure your home or business from weather, animals, and illegal entry.

 We secure the correct locations and use the proper materials. Our techs know how to navigate around cracked windows and doors. We can detect areas that appear undamaged to the naked eye but may present leakage and stability issues.

There are several reasons to perform a board-up or tarp over.

  • 24/7 Emergency Service

Our quick response will help lessen the damage, limit further property damage, and help reduce costly repairs. Openings in the wall or roof provide access to harmful elements such as wind, water, and debris. Human or animal invaders could cause even more damage, adding to your current issues and increasing your repair bill.

  • Helps your insurance claim:

SERVPRO will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, more accessible experience.

  • Reduces additional property loss and liability: Thieves may remove essential belongings or cause unnecessary destruction, and their injuries could become your liability. It is not recommended to re-enter your home until deemed safe by the fire department or proper authority.

Contact SERVPRO of Summit Lake, Park & Eagle Counties for Board up and tarp if your home has fire or water damage. We can help; call us today at 970-457-1449. We are a 24/7 emergency response.

What to do after a Flood

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Houses Flooded Houses

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States, the damage left behind can be devastating and present many dangers. Floods can destroy homes and buildings; it damages possessions and decimates roadways. Also, Floodwaters often become contaminated with sewage or chemicals. Gas leaks and live power lines can be deadly but are not obvious at first glance.

If your home has been flooded here are some things to remember:

  • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
  • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
  • Do not return home until authorities have advised that it is safe to do so.
  • If the main power switch was not turned off prior to flooding, do not re-enter your home until a qualified electrician has determined it is safe to do so
  • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it's also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
  • Be extremely cautious when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

If you have experienced a flood or any type of water damage Contact SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, & Eagle, our professional in flood restoration can help get your home back to its pre-flood, call us today at 970-949-3235. We are a 24/7 emergency response.

Know Who To Call When Lightning and Hail Strike

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

air mover on carpet in allway Even after storm damage due to water we are ready to dry even the wettest carpet

Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties are a beautiful community, with so much to do both indoors and out.

With so much to offer, it’s hard to believe that Mother Nature can carry many threats for residents and businesses here in the area but unfortunately, it’s true.

One of the biggest dangers is lightning and hail damage caused by severe thunderstorms. When these storms strike they can cause a tremendous amount of damage to any kind of building, leaving home or business owners reeling.

At times like this, you need to know you’re not alone and that’s why you should call the professionals at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties.

SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry with over 1,700 franchises nationwide.

We have the training and expertise to handle lightning and hail damage restoration quickly, thoroughly and safely so that your home or business can be returned to its previous condition.

Since lightning damage can result in particularly dangerous conditions, it’s especially important to have professional help to handle it properly.

What Kind of Damage Can Lightning and Hail Do?

There are several kinds of potential damage that thunderstorms may cause, two of the most severe being lightning and hail damage. Lightning can strike any part of a building, but is most likely to strike the roof.

A direct hit can result in fire, either to the building itself or to the grass or trees surrounding it which can then quickly spread to the building.

Since lightning is actually a buildup of static electricity, when it strikes it can be conducted through various surfaces and pass into the wiring of your home or business.

This can cause both direct fire and smaller fires that smolder under the surface of walls and ceilings. It can also severely damage electrical appliances and even water pipes, resulting in water damage as well.

Hail damage can be quite severe. In fact, according to NOAA hail results in as much as $1 billion dollars of damage annually.  Thunderstorms can produce hail of various sizes, which can take a huge toll on roof shingles, gutters, vents, window and door frames and even windows themselves.

If you experience any of this type of damage, it’s important to act quickly to address it so that it doesn’t get any worse. At the same time, especially with lightning damage which can remain dangerous long after the initial strike, it’s important to get professional help rather than trying to handle it yourself.

Call SERVPRO When Storms Hit

SERVPRO is the name you can trust to help with any lightning and hail damage restoration. We have staff ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ve got the training and equipment necessary to quickly and safely handle all of your restoration needs.

When storms hit SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties will get you back on your feet again.

Fire Damage Cleanup And Restoration

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

man standing on ladder cleaning window blinds with duster It's not just the fire... It's the soot that permeates the are that needs to be cleaned too

Fire can strike a home or business suddenly, with no warning, and that can leave you feeling disoriented, emotional and overwhelmed.

It can really catch you off guard and that’s perfectly understandable. Fortunately, in times like this residents of the Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties area don’t have to go it alone.

The professionals of SERVPRO are trained to handle fire damage cleanup and restoration so we’re ready for any situation.

As part of the community ourselves, we take pride in helping our neighbors so that this area can continue to be the vibrant, thriving locale that draws so many visitors.

With everything from gourmet restaurants to nature trails to attractions like The Museum of The West, there is so much to enjoy in the area and we don’t want the aftermath of a fire to take away from any of it.

Quick Response Makes All The Difference

When fire strikes it can leave behind two distinct types of damage: damage caused by the fire itself and damage caused by the fire-fighting efforts. Together, this can all take a terrible toll on any residence or commercial property.

The key to mitigating this damage is acting as quickly as possible and that’s why SERVPRO has staff ready to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’ll get all of your information and send a trained technician to your property within four hours of that call to get the restoration process underway.

Once on site, our technicians will perform a complete walkthrough of your property, identifying and assessing all damage and then writing up a comprehensive plan to address it.

We’ll go over that plan with you before we do anything, so that you know exactly what to expect. We’ll even perform a thorough inventory of all damaged belongings as we work in order to help you file your insurance claim.

The Professional Approach To Cleanup And Restoration

Our professional cleanup and restoration services begin with boarding up windows and covering holes in the roof with tarp to prevent any further damage from the elements.

Then we employ submersible pumps and industrial strength wet/dry vacuums to remove any standing water. 

Next, professional grade air movers and dehumidifiers ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly dried and all excess moisture is removed from the air.

Finally, we’ll perform any necessary repairs including removing and replacing drywall and removing and replacing damaged carpet and flooring.

When we’re through, we’ll give you a complete walkthrough to make sure that you’re satisfied with what we’ve done.

A Name You Can Rely On

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire don’t try to tackle it yourself.

Call SERVPRO, we service the entire Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties area. We are the name you can rely on for top quality fire damage cleanup and restoration with the personal touch. 

We’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster and we treat every property as if it were our own. There’s no need to feel overwhelmed when you’ve got SERVPRO on your side.

Training of our SERVPRO Technicians

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we take pride in sending highly trained technicians to service our Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle locations. Each of our technicians is IICRC Certified and is required to maintain that certification. Our technicians are trained to look for damages that may not be visible to the naked eye and utilize state-of-the-art equipment to locate damages.

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle requires our employees to undergo initial and ongoing continuing education. Our training program includes the following:

  • IICRC Training
  • Employee Certification Training
  • Initial Franchise Training
  • e-Learnings
  • Continuing Education Classes

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after the successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

  • Crew Training
  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A 15-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
  • Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

Ongoing education and e-learnings are provided through web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to keep our office staff and technicians up-to-speed on industry standards. It allows us to provide high-quality service and support that our residential and commercial business customers expect.

Water Damage Restoration Tips in Gypsum CO

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

before and after image of water damage of sheetrock wall in graphic titled water mold damage cleanup Before and after image of water damage of sheetrock wall

Named for the nearby gypsum deposits, the town of Gypsum is one of the nation’s biggest suppliers of wallboard products including drywall.

There’s more to find here than the gypsum mines, however.

There’s plenty to draw outdoor enthusiasts, from the Gypsum Creek Golf Course to nearby Sylvan Lake State Park and the Gypsum Shooting Sports Park.

Life can be idyllic here but unfortunately, that doesn’t stop disaster from occasionally striking.

Burst pipes, broken appliances and storms can all bring significant water damage and knowing what to do at times like this can make a huge difference.

Of course, the first thing you should do is call the professionals at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. 

We’re prepared to respond faster to any disaster and equipped to handle any size job.

Even before we arrive, there are some tips you can follow to help get the restoration job started off the right way:

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting or using a shop vac if you have one. Do NOT try to use a regular household vacuum to remove water.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps or other table top items. This can help to mitigate damage to the wood.
  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery and cushions in order to begin the drying process as quickly as possible.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • In the summer, turn on AC to maximize drying.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather any loose items from the floor.

Know What NOT To Do

While the tips above are simple things you can do to help the drying and restoration process, there are also a few things that you shouldn’t do:

  • Don’t leave wet fabrics in place.
  • Don’t leave books, magazines or other wet colored items on wet carpets or floors as this can cause staining.
  • Don’t use your television or any other electrical appliances in affected rooms.
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and stay out of any room where the ceiling is visibly sagging.

Call The Name You Can Trust

When any water damage occurs, make sure to call the name you can trust for professional quality restoration service.

SERVPRO has someone ready to take your call 24/7 and we will have technicians on site within four hours to get the process started as quickly as possible.

We’ll use powerful pumps and vacuums to remove all standing water and air movers to ensure that everything is thoroughly dried.

Next, we’ll make sure that all surfaces are carefully cleaned and sanitized and we’ll perform a complete mold remediation so that you know your home is safe.

We won’t finish the job until we know you’re satisfied because we treat each customer’s home as if it were our own.

That’s the SERVPRO difference and we stand by it so that you can rest easy.

Water Damage Restoration Services In Summit County, CO

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

before and after image of water damage of hair salon  in graphic titled water damage Before and after image of water damage of hair salon

Beautiful Summit County, there’s no wonder why so many people are drawn to the peaceful, serene area.

Unfortunately, though, even the idyllic surroundings aren’t immune from natural disasters

Water damage can occur at any time, whether from storms or from everyday accidents such as burst pipes.

No matter what the cause, when water damage strikes it’s important to move quickly to address the problem so that it doesn’t get any worse.

Faster To Any Disaster

No one understands the need for speed more than SERVPRO, which is why we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster.

We have someone ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll have our highly trained technicians on site within four hours to assess the damage and formulate a plan of action.

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Our focus is on restoring your home to its previous condition and we’ll do whatever it takes to achieve that end.

After we assess the damage, we’ll develop a step-by-step plan to address it and we’ll go over that plan with you so that you are completely informed at every step of the process.

In order to help make you whole again, we’ll even be sure to perform a full inventory so that it’s easier for you to file an insurance claim.

We’ll begin the restoration process by removing any standing water and then we’ll employ our state of the art equipment to thoroughly dry all surfaces and remove all excess moisture from the air.

Next, we will perform a complete mold remediation, paying particular attention to your HVAC system, to help prevent potentially hazardous mold infestation.

The Name You Can Trust

With highly trained and certified technicians, SERVPRO is the name you can trust to handle all of your water damage restoration services.

As a local company, you can also rest assured that we’ll approach each job with the utmost care and we’ll stick with it until we know that you’re satisfied.

It’s what we would want for our own homes and that’s what we want for our customers as well.

We don’t want anything to take away from the scenic splendor of Heeney, CO.

That’s why SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park and Eagle Counties is dedicated to serving this community.

We know the kind of damage water can do and we’re ready to tackle whatever challenges it may present.

When water damage strikes, a quick response can make a big difference and nobody understands that more than SERVPRO.

We’re ready to respond at a moment’s notice and to provide the professional quality water damage restoration service that you expect.

We’ll help you get back on your feet again so that you and your family can rest easy.

Signs of Storm Damage To Your Roof in Summit County CO

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

before and after image of water damage of ceiling in graphic titled water mold damage Before and after image of water damage of ceiling

Storm damage can happen in winter or summer.

Unfortunately, nature can also have its destructive side and has its share of both winter and summer storms

In the summer, storms can bring driving rain, heavy winds and even hail, all of which can take a toll on your roof.

When a storm does strike, it’s important to know the signs to look for to determine whether your roof has sustained any damage.

  1. Shingles

The shingles on your roof adhere to each other in order to form one solid, water tight roof deck. Heavy wind and rain can cause dented, torn, curled or missing shingles, which are the most visible sign of storm damage.

The wind and rain can also wear away the protective granules on the surface of shingles, making them less effective at protecting your home from the heat of the sun.

Look for a large pile of granules at the end of your downspout to determine if serious damage occurred. 

A small amount of worn off granules is normal and not necessarily a cause for concern.

  1. Gutters, Vents and Windows

Aside from the roofing material itself, gutters, vents and windows can all sustain damage from storms and it may be easier to visually detect this damage than damage to the shingles.

Check for dents to gutters, gable vents and other overhangs and carefully inspect windows for cracks, broken glass, loose weather stripping and torn screens.

  1. Attic and Ceilings

Leaks and water spots in your attic or on ceilings may be a sign that the roof has sustained storm related damage.

Even if your roof looks fine from the outside, there could still be unseen damage that may lead to leaks.

  1. Outside Areas

Check the exterior of your home after a storm for such things as downed tree limbs, missing or damaged fencing, and damage to lawn decorations, mailboxes and other exterior furnishings. 

If there is damage to these areas, it’s likely that your roof may have been damaged as well.

If you do suspect storm damage to your roof, the most important thing you can do is call the professionals of SERVPRO rather than trying to handle it yourself.

Our technicians are trained to handle all types of storm damage restoration and guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster.

We understand how important your home is to you and we’ll treat it as if it were our own.  Don’t put yourself or your home at further risk after a storm, let SERVPRO fix the damage and give you the peace of mind you deserve.

Your Source For Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

before and after image of items effected by soot in graphic titled fire soot damage cleaning Before and after image of items effected by soot

With all of the commercial properties in the town, the need for specialized commercial fire damage restoration services is particularly important.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is prepared to offer the kind of attention that you expect for your commercial property for water, fire and storm damage restoration as well as mold remediation.

We’re part of the local business community ourselves so we understand how critical it is to have the restoration service you need when you need it most.

The Challenges of Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Any time a fire strikes it can be devastating, but that’s particularly true when your business is affected. Every minute that you have to remain closed can cost you thousands of dollars, so in times like these speed is absolutely crucial.

That’s why SERVPRO makes it our business to respond faster to any disaster. We have someone prepared to take your call 24/7 and can have our highly trained fire and water damage restoration specialists on site within four hours of that call.

We have the training, experience and equipment to handle fire damage restoration in any kind of business, from hotels to restaurants to office buildings.

Our technicians are trained in fire and smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning and water damage restoration, so you know that whatever comes up we’ll be able to handle it quickly and thoroughly. 

We also have Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, which is updated regularly to ensure that we’re always on the cutting edge.

SERVPRO’s Guarantee Gives You Peace of Mind

Because SERVPRO understands the need to move quickly when businesses are involved, we guarantee that we will respond faster to any disaster.

That means you can breathe easy knowing that your business will be back up and running as soon as possible. We also understand the particular complexities involved in providing restoration for commercial properties.

That’s why we use industrial strength, professional quality equipment to remove standing water, clean all surfaces and ensure that everything is thoroughly dried.

With the resources of a national network of over 1,700 franchises combined with the personalized touch of a locally owned and operated business, we are the name you can trust for all of your commercial fire damage restoration needs. We take pride in treating every property as if it were our own, so you can rest assured that your business will be restored to its pre-fire condition.

If fire strikes your commercial property it doesn’t have to mean that you’re out of business

With the professionals of SERVPRO in your corner, you can get your business back on its feet and be opening your doors to customers again in no time.

We do storm damage too.

Any questions or need help? 

Fire Damage Restoration Tips

7/3/2021 (Permalink)

before and after image of kitchen in graphic titled kitchen fire Before and After

Vail is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Colorado. 

The village of Vail has so much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts, from skiing at the world class Vail Ski Resort to some of the best fishing you’ll find in the country in Gore Creek.

It’s no wonder that this area regularly draws thousands of tourists each year with attractions such as the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

Unfortunately, all of the natural beauty of Vail doesn’t prevent it from experiencing its share of fires. When fire strikes, the residents and businesses of Vail need a professional restoration service they can count on and that’s where SERVPRO comes in.

We’re ready to respond 24/7 and provide the best quality restoration with our exceptional training and state of the art equipment.

Facing the prospect of restoring your property after a fire can be daunting.

Here are some handy tips that can help you through the restoration process:

  • Limit movement in your home to prevent the spread and deeper embedding of soot particles.
  • Keep your hands clean when working to prevent the further soiling of all surfaces.
  • Place clean towels or old linens over rugs, upholstery and high traffic carpet areas to prevent further damage.
  • If your electricity is off, remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer and prop the doors open to air it out.
  • Clean and protect any chrome surfaces with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash all houseplants carefully, being sure to wipe both sides of leaves.
  • Change your HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to prevent the spread of soot particles.

All of these steps can help to mitigate the damage and prevent soot from spreading even more, giving you a head start in the restoration process. 

Of course, the best possible thing you can do in these situations is to call SERVPRO and let our professionals handle the work. We have the necessary training to ensure that your property is thoroughly cleaned and returned to its previous condition and we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster.

There are some things you should avoid doing, including washing walls, painted surfaces or carpeting yourself or cleaning electrical appliances and turning on ceiling fixtures in water damaged ceilings.

Safety is always first when it comes to fire restoration.

You should determine whether it is safe to remain in the house, taking particular account of any electrical or slip and fall hazards.

Only undertake restoration activities that are safe for you to handle and remember that wet material can be very heavy, so be careful when handling it.

Don’t assume you have to do everything yourself.

Call SERVPRO and let us handle the restoration process for you. We’re ready to take your call and send our trained technicians out to your property right away to begin the restoration.

With SERVPRO on your side, you’ll know your home is in the best possible hands.

Water Damage in your Mountain Home

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

  •  Identifying the source

Sometimes the source of water is easy to find. However, sometimes the issue is a pipe in the wall or a slow leak under the sink. Some signs of water damage are standing water, discoloration, musty odors, and in some cases, mold. Knowing where the water is will assist you in where to shut off the water. Some homes have a water shut-off valve in the home, and most homes have a main shut-off valve commonly by the street. It is important that whatever the source of the water is repaired or replaced by a professional.

  • Minimizing the damage

While we cannot plan for when a water loss will happen, we can control what happens after. Water will take the path of least resistance. Shut off the source of water from its source or from the main to your home. Call your insurance company and a water restoration company such as us so that we can inspect the damage and come up with and execute a plan to dry your home. It is always better to have a restoration company come out as soon as possible to start the drying process.

  • Time Frame

Remember, minimizing the damage will not stop the damage. Materials such as wood and drywall will absorb damage. Additionally, avoiding secondary damages depends on the source of water and the time taken to remove said water from the affected materials. Given that we can get to your home and start work promptly, our goal is to minimize any damage and necessary demolition in your home.

Carpet Cleaning

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Crews using SERVPRO equipment Are Your Carpets SERVPRO Cleaned?

How DIRTY are your carpets and floors?  Where your children play with their toys and lie down to watch their favorite cartoon.  Even the highest quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time.  IICRC states that 70% of the soil in carpet is dry soil.  Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include:

- Regular vacuuming

- Spot removal

- Pilating the carpet to prevent matting

- Moving furniture to change traffic patterns

- Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

A good rule of thumb would be to clean your carpets every 12 months professionally.

So, If you need your carpets clean, make sure you call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties at 970-949-3235.  When calling, be sure to have the estimated room sizes so they can calculate a price for you.

Storm Damage Restoration Services in Edwards, CO

5/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo on the back of a man dressed in a PPE suit What ever the storm brings... we are ready

Nestled in the heart of Summit County, just fifteen minutes from Vail and at the base of the Beaver Creek Resort, Avon, CO is a winter wonderland. Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports can all be experienced here. There are many quaint shops to enjoy off the slopes, along with fine dining at Vin48 and many other local restaurants.

The winter ice and snow may be pretty, but they can also be dangerous.

Winter storms can bring a great deal of damage, from caved-in roofs to downed power lines to flooded basements. When storm damage occurs, residents and business owners need to know where to turn for help. 

For 20 years, SERVPRO has been providing professional storm damage restoration services that Avon residents can trust.

Helping You Recover From Storms

No matter how much you prepare in advance, you can’t always avoid storm damage. After a particularly severe storm, that damage can be devastating to a home or business.

Even though you may feel that you can handle cleanup and restoration by yourself, the fact is that if it’s not done properly, it can be dangerous and costly. That’s why it always makes better sense to rely on professionals.

At SERVPRO, we have both the training and specialized equipment to handle any storm damage restoration. We’re also members of the local community ourselves, so we understand the kind of hazards that Aspen and Avon’s winter weather can present.

That’s why so many Eagle and Summit residents turn to us to treat their property with care so that they can breathe easier.

We have someone ready to take your call 24/7, and we’ll have a technician on-site within four hours of that call to begin a thorough, careful assessment of all damage and formulate a detailed plan to address it. We’ll inspect everything from the roof to the basement for any sign of damage, and we’ll determine exactly what needs to be done to ensure that your property is fully restored to its previous condition.

Some of the particular issues we look for include ice dams on roofs and snow buildup around foundations, both of which can lead to water damage on the interior of a home or commercial property if they aren’t removed quickly. If water builds up from this kind of winter storm damage, it can compromise support structures and rot flooring, all of which can make a property unsafe. Power outages caused by storms can present a fire hazard if they lead to damaged wires or heating systems.

We understand the potential dangers that storms present, which is why SERVPRO is ready to step in as quickly as possible. Our main focus is always on helping our customers heal, and cleaning up storm damage quickly and thoroughly is a big part of that healing process. It’s the way we’d want our own property treated so that we won’t give you anything less, and we won’t sign off on a job until we know you’re delighted.

The Storm Restoration Experts

SERVPRO technicians are uniquely qualified to help with restoration after any size storm, with ongoing training from The Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We have certification in several areas, including Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, and Commercial Drying, so you can rest assured that we are prepared to handle any situation.

We have industrial-grade equipment, including powerful pumps and vacuums to remove excess water, air movers, and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry all surfaces and Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers to remove noxious odors. All of our vacuums are outfitted with HEPA filters to ensure that any irritants or toxic chemicals are filtered out.

As part of treating water damage, we’ll also perform full mold remediation to prevent a potentially hazardous mold infestation.

It’s essential to do this quickly as mold can begin to grow and spread within 24-48 hours after flooding occurs.  The sooner you address the problem properly, the better your chances of avoiding further complications and keeping your property safe and healthy.

We know how stressful it can be to clean up after a storm, which is why we’ll do everything we can to make the process easier on you. That can include everything from painting and replacing flooring to completely rebuilding rooms if we feel it’s necessary. We will even help you to take a full inventory to help expedite filing your insurance claim so that you can get the compensation you deserve.

Even when disaster strikes, SERVPRO is ready to respond with our Disaster Recovery Team. These specialists are trained to handle any size restoration job and have completed recovery work after wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, and major floods. Our Commercial Large Loss Division works with all types of businesses to ensure quick cleanup and restoration so that you can get back up and running again as soon as possible.

Avon winters can be beautiful, but when winter weather goes wrong and storms hit, you don’t have to go it alone. Just call the restoration experts at SERVPRO and trust us to start putting things back together again. We make it our business to respond faster to any size disaster so you can get the help you need when you need it most.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Water Damage Restoration Tips

4/3/2021 (Permalink)

Graphic - water damage summit with mold picture too We are here to serve you... 24/7 Water, Fire Mold Damage restoration

Water damage can come from any number of sources: a broken pipe, a backed up toilet, flooding caused by storms or water trapped by ice dams.

No matter the cause, the cost to your home or business can be significant and since water can also carry any number of contaminants, it can present health effects as well. At times like this you need trained water damage restoration specialists like the professionals at SERVPRO.

No one likes to consider the potential dangers of water damage, especially here in the Summit area where the beauty of nature is such a vital part of life.

The mountain paths and ski trails that make this area the perfect location for businesses such as the Aspen Outfitting Company can also contain many hazards, especially when winter storms lead to icing and flooding.

As part of the community ourselves, SERVPRO understands those particular issues and we’re prepared to handle any kind of water damage they may cause.

With the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment we can tackle every aspect of the restoration process and ensure that your property looks good again.

We also know that the restoration process can be a complex one, since water can cause a wide range of problems and carry many different hazards. With that in mind, we have a few tips for handling any type of water damage and making the restoration process easier:

  1. Not everything is restorable – unfortunately, not all items that suffer from water damage will be able to be restored. In many cases, it may not be possible to determine exactly what is salvageable until all water is removed and the property is thoroughly dried out. At SERVPRO, we understand this and we also understand your desire to save as much of your property as possible. For that reason, we’ll schedule a follow-up to monitor the drying process and perform a complete evaluation to determine what can be saved and take any steps toward restoration, including removing and replacing carpeting and carpet padding, and cleaning any furniture or other items.

  2. Pre-existing damage may not be included – there may be some items which have issues that pre-date the water damage. If we can clean up pre-existing dirt during the restoration process we will, but if treating the pre-existing dirt requires extra time and effort, we may not be able to include that in our restoration efforts. We’ll keep you apprised of any such circumstances so that you know exactly what can and can’t be done.

  3. Some items should be removed prior to restoration- some personal items, such as guns and ammunition or jewelry and other valuables, should be removed prior to the restoration work as our technicians are not allowed to handle these items.

  4. We can help prep for your insurance claim – we’re not insurance adjusters or agents ourselves, but we do understand the importance of filing a claim quickly and accurately in order to get compensation for damages. For this reason, we’ll do everything we can to help you formulate a complete inventory of all items and catalog damages so that you’re ready to file your claim.

  5. Emergency Charges – although we are as thorough as possible, we may not be able to accurately determine the exact cost of the restoration process on our initial visit. Since we do understand how important it is to have a good idea of your costs, we can provide you with the SERVPRO Water Damage Emergency Services Report to give you an estimate at the time of the initial visit if you request it. Unfortunately, the actual scope of the work can change due to unforeseen circumstances. We’ll provide a final bill to you and your insurance company upon completion of our services.

  6. Always maintain health standards – standing water can contain harmful contaminants. It can also lead to mold infestation, which may cause health effects to the people and animals. For this reason, it is recommended that all people and pets stay away from the premises during the restoration process. SERVPRO is always mindful of health effects, which is why we use the safest possible products and take all necessary precautions while working.

  7. Speed is crucial – like costs, the time involved to complete the restoration process cannot be easily estimated during the initial walkthrough, as unforeseen circumstances can sometimes cause delays. We do understand the crucial need to act quickly, however, since the longer water is allowed to remain the greater the damage it can cause and the better the chances of mold infestation occurring. As such we will do everything we can to act as quickly as possible.

Professionals You Can Trust

Understanding these basic tips can help to make the water damage restoration process that much easier. No matter what the cause or extent of your damage, though, the best tip to remember is to leave the job to the professionals. Since water can contain so many safety and cause health effects, it’s always a better idea to call a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO rather than try to handle it yourself.

At SERVPRO, we have a thorough, step-by-step process that we follow to ensure that every property is restored to its previous condition.  It begins with answering your initial call as quickly as possible, 24 hours a day, and sending a technician to your location within four hours of your call to assess the extent of damage and formulate a specific plan for addressing it.

Included in that initial assessment will be a thorough examination of all affected surfaces and belongings so that we can determine exactly what can be restored and what is unsalvageable. We’ll explain everything as we go along so that you know what to expect and are prepared to file your insurance claim.

For the restoration process itself, we’ll employ our professional training and state-of-the-art equipment to remove all standing water, thoroughly dry out all surfaces, clean and sanitize everything and perform mold remediation. 

Of course, we also understand that the restoration process is never finished until your property is returned to its previous condition. To achieve that end, we’ll also make any necessary repairs, including replacing drywall, removing and replacing carpeting and carpet pads and replacing damaged flooring. We always keep our customers’ needs first, so we won’t be satisfied until we know that you are.

Restoring Doesn’t End With Your Property

SERVPRO is proud to be the leading name in water damage restoration, but we know that restoration doesn’t end with your property. We’re part of the Summit community ourselves and so we take the needs of our neighbors very seriously. Water damage can be devastating and our goal is to help make you whole again.

That’s why we go out of our way to treat every property as if it were our own and why we always take a “restore first” approach.

Because water can do so much damage, trying to replace everything lost in a water related emergency can be difficult and sometimes even impossible. It may be possible to get some compensation through your insurance company, but providing all of the necessary information for filing a claim isn’t always easy at such an emotional time.

SERVPRO understands this too, which is why we’ll take any steps we can to help make the claims filing process that much easier. 

The most important thing to remember when a water related emergency strikes is that you’re not alone.

The professionals at SERVPRO are ready to answer your call at any time of the day or night and we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster.

We’ll do everything we can to fully restore your home or business to its previous state as quickly as possible because we know how upsetting this type of situation can be. When water related problems occur, make sure that SERVPRO is your first call and you’ll know your property is in the best hands.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT   -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD     -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT     -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP   -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT   -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST    -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT    -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP  -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • WRT   -Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Why Fire Damage Should Be Handled by Professionals

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

2 men cleaning ceiling of soot Fire is very dangerous and the results can be devastating

A fire can be one of the most devastating events in one's life.

In the aftermath, your first priority will likely be to clean up and restore your home. 

If your family or you are experiencing a stressful time, it is normal to want things taken care of and fixed as quickly fast. However, if you've been hit by fire, you should proceed cautiously. The process of making fire damage repairs is not only about removing soot and dust, it can also be a complex process.  Broken glass and water damage are also possible during firefighting efforts.  Because of this, it is highly recommended that you enlist the help of a trained professional to help repair your home after a fire.

A professional team can serve you very well.

Fires can occur for a variety of reasons, including being caused by a thunderstorm.  Buildings, homes, and local businesses can all be susceptible to water damage and may require the help of a company such as SERVPRO to get the job done right. We live in this community ourselves, so we have a vested interest in helping it.  At SERVPRO, we are committed to providing fast disaster recovery, but our service doesn’t cease there.  We go beyond what is expected to ensure that your home is treated with the same loving care you would give it yourself.  That means getting your home back to its pre-fire condition while making sure you and your family are safe. 

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT   -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD     -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT     -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP   -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT   -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST    -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT    -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP  -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • WRT   -Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Commercial Restoration Brings Special Challenges In Summit & Eagle Counties CO

3/13/2021 (Permalink)

graphic commercial cleaning services SERVPRO Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties CO area graphic commercial cleaning services SERVPRO Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties

While business and commercial buildings can face the same kind of threats from water, fire, and mold that private residences do, commercial restoration holds several unique challenges that can make it more difficult.

In order to perform a complete restoration of commercial properties it’s important to recognize these differences:

  1. Commercial buildings are large – generally speaking, commercial properties tend to be much bigger than homes and that can make performing restoration services more difficult. 

    While home restoration can be accomplished using smaller pumps and vacuums, commercial properties may require the use of larger, industrial-grade equipment.  

    It can also require much more equipment and cleaning supplies and may require a greater amount of personnel to tackle the job properly.

  2. Commercial restoration may require more expertise- because commercial properties are larger and more complex performing a full restoration may require more extensive expertise and training as well as experience. 

    Your business is your financial lifeline and you can’t afford to leave it in the hands of a restoration company that isn’t adequately prepared to handle the job.

  3. Commercial projects can have time constraints – when it comes to business, time can quite literally be money. You can’t afford to have your business shut down any longer than is absolutely necessary. 

    The best commercial restoration contractor will understand the need to move as quickly as possible so that your business can get back up and running.

Put Your Business In The Best Hands

Because your business is valuable, you can’t afford to trust it to just any restoration company. You need to know that you’ve got a contractor you can trust and that’s where the professionals of SERVPRO come in.

We’ve got specific training to help us handle fire, water, and mold damage in any number of commercial properties, from small or large office buildings to restaurants, shops, and hotels to residential high-rises and even government and military properties. 

We’re ready to respond with precision and effectiveness to any job, no matter how large or small, and provide complete restoration services with the quality your business deserves.

Just as we do with our residential services, SERVPRO employs a thorough, step-by-step process for all commercial restoration that is geared toward making your property look “Like it never even happened.”

That starts with having someone ready to answer your call immediately, 24 hours a day. Once we’ve gotten all of the necessary details, we’ll send a technician to your location within four hours to begin a thorough walkthrough so that we can assess the extent of damage and put together an effective plan for addressing it.

We’ll cover every area on your property to ensure that all damage is identified and to determine exactly what type of surfaces we’re dealing with so that we know how best to proceed.

If there are any items that we feel cannot be salvaged, we’ll indicate those immediately so that you can make the final determination and use the information to help file an insurance claim.

In order to mitigate your damages, we’re prepared to board up windows and cover damaged roofs with tarps

Once these initial precautions have been taken, we’ll then begin the process of removing standing water and any other hazardous debris. 

Once everything is cleared, we’ll use our state-of-the-art equipment and professional training to thoroughly dry all surfaces, clean and deodorize.

We’ll perform full mold remediation to ensure that you don’t experience a mold infestation that can be hazardous to you, your employees, and your customers.

Of course, we understand the need to get your business functioning again as quickly as possible to help cut your losses, which is why we keep speed in mind through every step of the restoration process.

We know that you can’t afford to be shut down any longer than absolutely necessary so our goal is to get you back in business as soon as we can

We know that making you whole again is also critical, which is why we offer a full range of services for all commercial properties including replacing drywall, removing and replacing carpeting and carpet pads, and replacing damaged flooring. 

For any services that are beyond our scope, including roof repair, restoring furniture, electronics, and other items, drying out and preserving important business-related documents, and removing trees, we can make recommendations of other qualified services.

Commercial Restoration You Can Count On

SERVPRO is proud to be a part of the thriving Aspen business community and that’s why we go the extra mile to ensure that your commercial property gets the care that you expect.

We would want no less for our own property, which is why we keep up our training and employ the best possible techniques geared specifically toward commercial restoration.

Our technicians are all Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) certified, which means we’re up to date on all of the standards for the best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet, and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration techniques.

We even offer specialized cleaning services that are particularly important in this day and age when everyone is ultra-sensitive to the spread of pathogens and other contaminants.

We can specifically address the removal of sewage and biohazards, treat fabrics and upholstery including drapes and carpets, and remove any signs of vandalism on your property. 

We know how hazardous mold can be, so we are prepared to pay special attention to your HVAC system and air ducts to ensure that mold is not spread throughout your building.

The “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned” shield, which is affixed to your building after we complete our new defensive cleaning program, will allow customers, visitors, and employees alike to enter your building with confidence knowing that it has met our exacting standards for cleanliness, designed to target viral pathogens and provide the safest possible environment.

The SERVPRO Difference For Commercial Restoration

Whenever an emergency strikes your commercial property, you need to know that you’ve got a restoration solution you can count on.

SERVPRO is the expert when it comes to handling water, fire, and storm damage restoration as well as mold remediation.

We’re ready to respond faster to any disaster and we won’t sign off on a job until we know you’re satisfied with the results.

There are so many challenges involved in the commercial restoration and the professionals of SERVPRO are ready to help you meet them.

We want what’s best for our neighbors in the Aspen business community and that’s why we use the latest training and equipment to handle any job, large or small.

Having the best commercial restoration contractor on your side can make all the difference for your business, so when disaster strikes don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO. We’ll get you back in business in no time. 

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

  • AMRT   -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • ASD     -Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • CCT     -Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • ECTP   -Employee Certification Training Program
  • FSRT   -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • HST    -Health and safety Technician
  • OCT    -Odor Control Technician
  • RRRP  -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • WRT   -Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

  • ASBO
  • EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
  • Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

  • Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Fire Damage Restoration in Vail Colorado

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Graphic of fire & smoke damage restoration with photo of aspen co The Beast Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Company

Fire can strike without warning and take a devastating toll on a home or business.

Because it usually happens suddenly, there is no way to be prepared for the damage caused by a fire. At times like that, you need a name you can trust, and in the Vail, Colorado area SERVPRO is ready to handle all of your fire damage restoration needs in a timely and thorough manner.

Thousands of people come to the Vail area every year to enjoy the natural splendor. From hiking to camping to skiing, there’s something for everyone here.

With destinations like the Sunlight Mountain Resort, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of everything the Vail area has to offer.

Unfortunately, that close access to nature can also leave homes and businesses exposed to the threat of wildfire, and that’s why all residents need to have restoration services they can count on.

What Kind of Damage Can Fires Cause?

When most people think of fire damage, they automatically picture burned and broken surfaces, scorched wood, and melted plastics and metals resulting from the extreme heat caused by flames.

While that’s certainly a big part of the equation, there is much more to fire damage, which needs to be considered when performing the restoration.

In addition to flames, smoke and soot can cause a tremendous amount of damage as well.

Smoke can permeate several surfaces, leaving behind noxious and often dangerous odors.

Depending on the specific type of surface, those odors can be deep-seated, requiring a thorough cleaning process. In some cases, items may be beyond restoring and will, unfortunately, have to be discarded.

At the same time, soot left behind after items burn can also produce a great deal of damage, coming to settle on any number of surfaces from wood and plastic to fabrics.

If it isn’t properly cleaned, soot can become a mess; it can become airborne in ducts and heating systems. Once it permeates the air, soot can end up on your walls, in your craws and cabinets, essentially almost everywhere in your home. It can leave a dirty, dingy look to your entire home. 

Perhaps the greatest factor in fire-related damage is actually water

The water used by firefighters in their efforts to put out the fire can cause more damage to homes, businesses, and belongings than the fire itself, and this damage will need to be carefully addressed to return your property to its previous condition.

 How To Properly Address Fire Damage

Since it’s usually impossible to avoid fire damage, it becomes more important to know how to address the damage once it occurs.

In every case, whether it involves a home or commercial property, speed is a primary concern.

The sooner you begin the restoration process, the better your chances of reversing it and the greater your chances of reducing your overall costs.

At SERVPRO, we understand this need for speed, which is why we will respond within one hour of your original call to begin the process of providing our services.

Within four hours of your call, one of our technicians will be on-site to perform a thorough assessment of your damage and recommend how to proceed. Within eight hours, we’ll supply your adjuster or property manager with a complete verbal briefing.

Of course, you’ll also want to contact your insurance agent and begin the process of filing a claim to get reimbursement for your losses. 

We can help you with that by providing a thorough inventory of all damaged surfaces and belongings so you can be sure nothing is being overlooked.

We can’t guarantee you a reimbursement, but we’ll do everything we can to help make the process that much easier for you.

Once we have determined the exact extent of damage, we can work up a plan to specifically address it so that we can get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

As with all of our restoration services, our goal is always to make it “Like it never even happened,” and we’ll make every effort to reach that point, guiding you along the way step by step.

When Fire Strikes Call The Professionals

The aftermath of a fire can leave you in a state of shock and confusion, and that can make it hard to figure out what to do. That’s when it’s most important to call the professionals. We understand what it takes to restore your property after a fire, and we have the training and equipment to handle the job efficiently, making all the difference.

Not only are the professionals of SERVPRO ready to answer your call 24 hours/7 days a week, but once we have assessed your damage, we can draw up a comprehensive plan of action and provide you with a detailed explanation of exactly what we’ll do to restore your property.

We’ll begin with pre-testing all surfaces and items to determine exactly what can be restored and what will have to be discarded.

Once we begin the actual restoration process, we’ll employ the latest techniques learned through our expert training as well as high-tech equipment designed specifically to treat the kind of damage caused by fires.

Our specialized Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers can help remove all hazardous odors from any surface type. In contrast, our industrial vacuums with HEPA filters can remove all water and help mitigate mold growth.

Air movers and dehumidifiers will thoroughly dry out your home, and we’ll even employ specialized techniques where necessary to address any belongs that we deem salvageable.

After the work is over, we’ll give you a complete walkthrough of the property to ensure that you are delighted with everything we’ve done.

Along the way, we can help you generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories to make the process of filing an insurance claim that much easier.

We understand how important it is to return your property to its previous state, and we’ll do everything we can to help get you through this difficult time as smoothly and easily as possible.

We’re In This With You

Fires are an all too common occurrence in the Aspen area, and as part of this community ourselves, SERVPRO understands just how devastating they can be.  When fire strikes, acting quickly and knowing the proper steps to take for repair and restoration can go a long way toward getting your home or business back to normal.

That’s why the most important step you can take is calling in the professionals of SERVPRO.  We’ve got the training and equipment to handle even the worst fire-related damage, and we make it our policy to restore every property as thoroughly as possible.

Like your neighbors, you can always rely on us to have your best interest at heart. 

At SERVPRO, we promise to respond faster to any disaster, and we have the resources to handle your fire restoration needs thoroughly and professionally.

With state-of-the-art equipment and certified training, you’ll know you’re getting the best quality help.

Fires can do a lot of damage, but with the professionals of SERVPRO in your corner, you’ll never have to face that challenge alone. 

SERVPRO is Available Around the Clock to Help you Restore your Colorado Mountain Home After a Fire.

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Loss SERVPRO is Available Around the Clock to Help you Restore your Colorado Mountain Home After a Fire.

Most homeowners in The Colorado High Rockies know that restoring their home after a fire takes time. The flames, smoke, and extinguishing agents left behind by the fire and first responders can leave your home in disarray. Do not let the mess intimidate you; instead, call a company certified to handle these situations.

Only a professional group can help mitigate your loss as it helps you salvage, remove, and restore your home and your personal belongings.

For our Colorado High Rockies neighbors, fire damage restoration is a phone call away. Our SERVPRO team is available around the clock because we recognize that emergencies happen day and night. Our Green Fleet is ready to spring into action, assess the incident's impact, and create an action plan for your home. Our goal is to erase this disruption from your life by doing a conscientious and thorough job of restoring your home.

How do I decide what to keep and what to toss after a fire?

Looking at the soot sitting on your furniture, books, and decor may leave a hopeless feeling in your heart, but don't jump to conclusions until you consult our SERVPRO experts. At its fingertips, our team has different options to restore documents, electronics, and flooring, among others. Fires also leave behind an acrid smell, which our team can address as well. At the core of our restoration process, we focus on the following-

Use of chemical agents to loosen soot and dirt while protecting the surface itself. Once the process of emulsion occurs, removing debris becomes easier.

Use deodorizing agents to neutralize and kill any smell molecules lingering in your home, including those that traveled through your ventilation system.

Use of extraction equipment to remove any remaining water used to extinguish the fire.

Our team at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle is looking out for you when you need it the most. Call us at (970) 949-3235 when disaster strikes and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

Emergency Sewage Backup? Call SERVPRO

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Sewage Backup? Call SERVPRO - Image of technician in PPE Emergency Sewage Backup? Call SERVPRO

Sewer backups obviously are a situation we all would like to avoid, yet it can hit at any time. When it does hit, you would agree it is a true and definite emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes. Our team of professionals has specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean sewage backups.

Water damage is classified by Category, depending on the level of contamination, and how it is handled is based on the specific classification.

There are three classifications for a water loss:

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 the length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated. 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 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 and dealt with as quickly as possible. Our team of certified SERVPRO heroes is available day or night and ready for any size disaster. 

Is your business protected?

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ERP Program Protect your business with SERVPRO ERP Program.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 40% of businesses DO NOT  REOPEN after a disaster, and another 25% FAIL WITHIN ONE YEAR. The United States Small Business Administration shows similar statistics indicating that over 90% of businesses fail within 2 years after suffering a disaster.

Most business owners focus on protecting their businesses from earthquakes, floods, and fires. However, the smaller incidents can be just as catastrophic such as burglary or water damage. These can result in immense losses due to damage and lost business.

What can you do to survive?

To survive, business owners must prepare for emergencies and take steps to prevent or, at the very least, minimize the effect of disasters. The first step is to be aware of the condition of your building. Document existing problems such as any wall cracks or plumbing issues and when repairs are made. As the owner, this allows you to keep up with necessary repairs and maintenance before it becomes a problem. This will allow your employees to stay calm and productive, knowing that the building is safe and sound.

The second step is to have a Disaster Preparedness Plan. Have copies of your Plan in areas easily accessible to all employees with a list of emergency contacts, shut-off valves for gas and water, as well, like any other important contacts or documents. SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle can help you prepare an Emergency Ready Program (ERP), which will contain the above necessary information at no cost to you. 

Is your business protected?

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ERP Program SERVPRO ERP Program

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 40% of businesses DO NOT  REOPEN after a disaster, and another 25% FAIL WITHIN ONE YEAR. The United States Small Business Administration shows similar statistics indicating that over 90% of businesses fail within 2 years after suffering a disaster.

Most business owners focus on protecting their businesses from earthquakes, floods, and fires. However, the smaller incidents can be just as catastrophic such as burglary or water damage. These can result in immense losses due to damage and lost business.

What can you do to survive?

To survive, business owners must prepare for emergencies and take steps to prevent or, at the very least, minimize the effect of disasters. The first step is to be aware of the condition of your building. Document existing problems such as any wall cracks or plumbing issues and when repairs are made. As the owner, this allows you to keep up with necessary repairs and maintenance before it becomes a problem. This will allow your employees to stay calm and productive, knowing that the building is safe and sound.

The second step is to have a Disaster Preparedness Plan. Have copies of your Plan in areas easily accessible to all employees with a list of emergency contacts, shut-off valves for gas and water, as well, like any other important contacts or documents. SERVPRO of Grand Junction can help you prepare an Emergency Ready Program (ERP), which will contain the above necessary information at no cost to you. 

Categories of Water Damage

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Types of Water Loss Categories of Water Damage

Not all water is the same when it comes to water damage in the home or office. Water and moisture can significantly affect drywall, plaster, weakening beams and supports, rusting metal surfaces, and more if untreated. SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle is professionally trained to meet IICRC standards to properly assess and devise the best plan for restoration of any water damage category.

Category 1 – Clean Water

As its name states, this category is from a clean source such as faucets, toilet tanks, or drinking fountains. This is the lowest and easiest type to deal with by drying out any affected material if untreated category 1 water can quickly downgrade.

Category 2 – Gray Water

Greywater has a level of contaminants that can cause illness or discomfort if ingested. Sources of greywater include a washing machine, flush from sink drains, and toilet overflow with some urine but do not contain feces. Clean up from gray water requires additional steps, including containment of the affected area and removal of materials that present moisture or damage. Category 2 can downgrade to Category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3 – Black Water

As the name suggests, black water is the worst classification and is grossly contaminated. This water can cause severe illness or death if ingested. Sources of black water include sewer backup, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces, and stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth. Blackwater should always be avoided. Never try to clean up black water on your own as it can cause severe illness! Clean up from Category 3 water requires a measure of safety precautions for all those involved. This includes containment of the affected area and hazmat suits to protect the technicians from removing contaminated materials. Blackwater, therefore, is the hardest to deal with and the most costly.

Commercial Mitigation

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems can be a common source of water damage in commercial facilities. While their benefits far outweigh their cons, both properly and improperly working sprinkler systems can contribute to a flooded facility. In this case, a fire in an adjacent building caused the sprinkler system in this building to go off over the weekend. The sprinkler shut-off was eventually found, but not until the damage had affected the facility's 36,000 sq ft. If this was your facility, what would you do?

Choose a Trained Professional

When your facility is affected, it is important to call a commercial drying specialist such as SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle; we understand that every hour closed leads to an hour lost of productivity and potential revenue. Commercial damage restoration produces unique challenges, so it is imperative to choose a trained professional with a proven track record. 

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle, we will respond immediately to your damage regardless of size or scope. When your facility is affected, no job is too big or too small. 

Different Types of Water Damage

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Different Types of Water Damage

There are several types of storm damage, including wind, flooding, or even fire. Flooding can cause extensive amounts of damage to your home, and lightning can create fires, while high winds can cause many issues to your home structure.

Wind
The damage which results from extremely high winds is quite easy to see most of the time. Nowadays, roof shingles are designed better than their predecessors regarding their resistance to wind and ever-increasing knowledge and standards. There are many times little can be done to prevent damage by the wind in very extreme conditions. Wind-damaged roofs usually appear to be affected only in certain spots. The room's edges or perimeter are affected by high winds easily since the edge of a roof is quite prone to lifting.

Hail
Round dings in metal are clear signs of hail damage. Determining whether your roof has suffered damage from a hail storm, however, could be a bit more challenging. After hail hits the roof, it knocks off the protective granules where the hail has hit, and these areas of damage are the sources of leaks in the roof in the future if it is not fixed within a few years.

Snow
Snow causes most of its damage from its weight, which immensely increases when ice, rain, and sleet are added to it. On an average-sized roof, two feet of snow can weigh the equivalent of thirty-eight thousand pounds or nineteen tons. The obvious sign many times that a roof is about to fail is if it is sagging.

Ice
The functionality of many gutter and roof systems is affected by the temperatures that fluctuate, making the snow melt then refreeze on the edge of the roof. This makes a dam which the water cannot pass through, meaning that as more snow melts off the roof and trickles down, it gets blocked by an ice dam and makes a puddle. Since roofs were not made to handle standing water, especially as the water line and growing puddle move up the roof, the water can seep through small openings in the roof into your home or attic.

Rain and Flood Damage
Water running out of a typical water drainage basin due to overflowing from a storm can wreak havoc on your property. Streams, creeks, rivers or lakes that overflow, flash floods, a storm surge, or a tsunami are all examples of possible flood damage.

Flooding can cause damage to your property, including your foundation and drywall damage. Most of the time, the drywall will need to be removed and replaced. The flooding can also cause mold to grow on the property due to standing or hidden water, such as inside the walls. This should be taken care of as soon as possible, usually by a professional storm damage remediation company, as mold can cause health effects to you and your family.

Call an Expert
At the first sign of damage, contact a professional storm damage restoration company. We use specialized equipment and technology to tackle any storm damage to your property. We will be able to restore your property to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle to restore your commercial or residential storm damage "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Large Loss Division

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Large Loss Large Loss

It's been a while since we've posted a blog about our large loss division. We wanted to share some information we've shared before if you needed a reminder that we are here and ready to handle ANY size disaster. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

A commercial operations manager supervises every large loss to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through strategic placement and temporary labor oversight. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients who have trusted SERVPRO and the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

  • The Hospitality Industry
  • Property Managers
  • Universities
  • Municipalities
  • The Pentagon

This means that SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle  is a part of a network of franchises across the country to be able to get you and your business back to "Like it never even happened." No job is too large for us. Give us a call today. 

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (970)-949-3235!

Thunderstorm Preparation

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Ready Storm Damage

Knowing when a thunderstorm is on its way is very key when protecting your home from any damage.  There are a few things to look out for whether it be from water damage or fire damage, or structural damage.  Most people know to batten down the hatches on your patio or deck when we see windy, stormy weather coming, so here are some tips to check off when going around the house.  

  • Unplug appliances and electronic equipment when not in use.
  • Remove dead or overhanging tree branches that could fall on your house if the tree is struck by lightning.
  • Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose. Metal pipes and plumbing can conduct electricity if struck by lightning.
  • Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor, resulting in a costly repair job.
  • Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by the wind or large hail, the shades will help prevent the glass from shattering into your home.
  • Flood proof your home by making the foundation watertight with concrete.  

Completing these tasks will help save you costly expenses if storm damage hits the Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle area.  Call us at 970-949-3235 if you ever need our services!

How To Prepare for Natural Disasters

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Ready How To Prepare for Natural Disasters

The best way to prepare for a natural disaster is to have a plan in place for each type of disaster that is likely to occur in your area.  For your basic emergency kit, keep these things in mind when putting it together. 

Pack enough food and water for each person in the household per day.  Have an updated first aid kit, cell phone chargers, important documents, and have cash on hand.  If the power goes out, it may become difficult to access online banking or ATMs.  

Pets need an emergency kit too!  Pack their food and water, important documents, medicine, vaccine information they may have.  Having a crate for your pet would be helpful in case you are relocated to a hotel or shelter.  Keep a photo of you and your pet if at any time you are separated from them.

When hurricanes and flooding are planning to come to your town, keep your gas tank full if you are evacuating from your home.  If you start to have water in your home, turn off your power at the breaker box to prevent damage and electrocution.  Stay out of the floodwater as much as possible and move to higher ground.

Winter storms are also something to plan for each year.  70% of winter deaths are related to automobile accidents in the snow and ice.  During the storm, stay inside as much as possible and make sure you eat regularly and stay hydrated.  In case of power loss, ensure that you have alternative heat sources and that these are in good working order. 

If you have had a disaster strike your home, call SERVPRO of Summit, Eagle, Lake & Park to help! 970-949-3235

Why SERVPRO®? 3 Ways a Disaster Remediation Team Can Improve the Mitigation Procedure

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

3 Ways a Disaster Remediation Team Can Improve the Mitigation Procedure

When your clients have a flood, fire or storm damage their commercial property in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, they often turn to you as a knowledgeable source of information on a reliable restoration company. You know that the always open, 24-hour availability of a service team is important in managing the restoration process and saving many of your client’s business items. Here are three ways a disaster remediation team can improve the mitigation procedure with a quick response.

1. Timing Is Essential

When the initial call is made, the disaster team must move quickly because decisions about the scene, water removal, and area restoration often require quick and comprehensive decisions. You want the restoration service to respond to your call as soon as possible so that your clients don’t try to handle the job on their own and make matters worse. When you call a restoration company that offers an immediate on-site response with certified technicians, you know you can receive up-to-date status reports soon after their arrival.

2. Quick Mitigation is Important

A fast response is important, but so is quickly mitigating the standing water at the disaster scene. Experienced restoration and remediation service personnel understand that there is a 24-hour window before mold and mildew often begin growing in the wet environment. Quick mitigation at the scene can help prevent the growth of mold.

3. Restoration is Vital

Once the water has been removed, restoration can begin. Repairing the area can be much less costly than removing and rebuilding, so it is vital to dry the area out quickly and begin the final site assessment to look for any further damage. You know your client depends on you, just as you depend on the quick response of the restoration team.

Employing a knowledgeable team with a 24-hour window of availability can allow you to expect a quick response to any disaster scene. Choose the team that is “Faster to Any Size Disaster.”

Why SERVPRO®? The Professional Packout & Content Restoration Company for Your Home or Business

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO®? The Professional Packout & Content Restoration Company for Your Home or Business Our new FireLine Contents Restoration System

Why SERVPRO®? We’re the professional pack out and content restoration company for your home or business. 

You’ve had a minor fire at your place of residence or establishment. One of the many things that cross your mind is all your sentimental valuables. Everything is affected: your autographed balls, cards, and photos from your favorite sports team, your family heirloom, your framed picture frame that contains all your degrees, and the list goes on. Just ruined. Or so you think. 

When you’re faced with something as overwhelming and stressful as that, you need someone to come in to turn that into a stress-free situation. That’s where our heroes here at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties come in. Our heroes save the day by making it "Like it never even happened."® 

When you have fire damage at your home or business, our team can properly pack out your belongings and perform the content restoration. We’ll treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home or business and belongings with care.  

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties can conduct an organized, efficient move-out/pack-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

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

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Content Restoration 

If your belongings are affected by fire damage, we can restore them with content restoration. SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties’ expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to the pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

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

If you ever wonder why SERVPRO®, it’s because we’re the professional pack out and content restoration company for your home or business. We have specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment. We can quickly restore your home to the pre-fire condition. Allow us to take on your next fire damage job. Call our One Team MVPs at 970-949-3235.

Why SERVPRO®? We Make the Damage "Like it never even happened." ®

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

When a bad situation occurs at your home or business, such as water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or mold damage, it can leave you in a bad headspace. It can leave you feeling hopeless. But, there is hope. Your hope can be restored with SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. So, why SERVPRO®? We make the damage "Like it never even happened." ®  

Water damage? "Like it never even happened." ®

SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is your local professional water damage repair and restoration company. No matter if your home or business has water damage from an internal or external source, we identify the water source, get to the root of the problem, and solve it. Don’t allow that water damage from flooding or leaks cause you a flood of emotions. Our experienced and qualified heroes can get your property back to "Like it never even happened." ®  

Fire damage? "Like it never even happened." ®

Our heroes here at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties specialize in fire damage repair and restoration. We are your local professional fire damage repair and restoration company. Our experienced and qualified heroes can get your property back to "Like it never even happened." ® We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Storm damage? "Like it never even happened." ®  

We specialize in storm damage cleanup and restoration here at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. When you are dealing with storm, flood, and water damage, immediate action is crucial. You should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. 

Mold damage? "Like it never even happened." ®  

SERVPRO® SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is your local professional mold remediation and restoration company. Mold damage can do a number on your residential or commercial property. Did you know a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours? Our team of heroes specializes in mold remediation. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your residential or commercial property has a mold problem, our heroes can inspect, assess, and remediate your property. We fit the “mold!”

The point is, no matter what kind of damage you have, there is no job too big or too small for the heroes at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. We have the capacity to take on and handle ANY job. If you ever wonder why SERVPRO®? It’s because we can make the damage "Like it never even happened." ® When you’re ready for those kinds of results, just call 970-949-3235.  

24/7 Fire Damage Company

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage does not have a set time that it occurs. It typically happens when you least expect it. When that does happen, you need a 24/7 fire damage company to come to you and your family’s rescue. That’s what the heroes at SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties do on a daily basis. We are available 24 hours of the day (including holidays), 7 days a week for your emergency needs. We’re Here to Help and to make that fire damage at your residential or commercial property "Like it never even happened."® 

Have you ever been on vacation, soaking up the rays, playing in the sand, enjoying that quality family time together on the beach? Then, you receive a phone call from your neighbor notifying you of that fire at your place? Or, perhaps, you’re at work, completing all your to-do items, exceeding all your goals, receiving compliments from your boss about the fantastic job you’re doing, telling you you’re a valuable asset? You’re just having a winning day. Then, you go home for lunch and, surprise, a fire in your kitchen. As you can see, fires can happen at the least unlikely time. 

When your home or business is hit with a fire, it’s vital you know what to do. Here are some fire damage emergency tips for you: 

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so you don’t further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator, and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change the HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Our experienced and qualified heroes are faster to any size disaster and can get your property back to Like it never even happened.® We’re dedicated to responding immediately -- day or night -- to your home or business. A faster response helps to prevent secondary damage and to reduce costs.


If you have a fire at your home or business and need a 24/7 fire damage company, you can rely on SERVPRO® of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties. We are your local professional fire damage repair and restoration specialists. Will you give us your next restoration job? We’re just a click away and/or phone call away. Call 970-949-3235.

Wildfire Prevention and Fire Restrictions

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Wildfire Prevention and Fire Restrictions

More than 80 percent of wildfires are caused by humans, so each of us plays a role in preventing a wildfire. It’s important to be aware of and abide by current fire restrictions. And it’s important to understand wildfire prevention strategies related to camping, campfires, driving, outdoor equipment use, smoking, shooting and more.

 

Summit County Fire Restrictions

In January 2020, the Board of County Commissioners and the towns of Blue River, Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco and Silverthorne approved and adopted a year-round fire code that prohibits non-permitted open fires. Violators are subject to fines of up to $250. The Dillon Ranger District of the White River National Forest is currently in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Violators are subject to fines of up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail.

Prohibited Activities and Uses

Stage 1 fire restrictions, and Summit County’s year-round fire code, prohibit building, maintaining, attending or using an open fire. An open fire is defined as any outdoor fire, including but not limited to campfires, warming fires, bonfires or prescribed burns of any material.

The following activities are prohibited under Stage 1 fire restrictions and the fire code:

  • Building, maintaining, attending or using an open fire
  • Use of fireworks
  • Use of tracer ammunition
  • Use of any projectile containing explosive material, incendiary material or other flammable chemical substance
  • Use of recreational explosives, including explosive targets
  • Disposal of any burning object outdoors, including any cigarette, cigar or match.

Allowed Fire Activities and Uses

Fires: Fires are allowed in constructed, permanent fire pits or fire grates within developed recreation sites, such as campgrounds and picnic areas. Fires are allowed on private property if contained within a commercially designed and manufactured outdoor fireplace or portable outdoor fireplace (including chimeneas) that is assembled, located and operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Any such device must also meet the following criteria:

  • The resident or property owner has obtained a valid permit from the local fire district.
  • The device must be equipped with a protective screen that reduces the spread of embers.
  • The area directly underneath the fire is barren.
  • The fire is at least 15 feet from any flammable material or structure.
  • The size of the fire is no larger than 3 feet wide and 2 feet tall.
  • Only nontoxic fuel sources such as wood or charcoal may be burned.

Natural gas and propane-fueled fire tables and fireplaces that have on/off switches do NOT require a permit from the fire district.

Required Safety Measures: Any of the allowed fire uses and activities must be conducted with the following safety measures in place:

  • The fire must be constantly attended by a responsible adult.
  • The fire must be extinguished and cool to the touch prior to it being left unattended.
  • The supervising adult must have available for immediate use a portable 2A10BC fire extinguisher, 5 gallons of water or a charged garden hose.

Grills: Use of gas, propane, charcoal or wood pellet grills are allowed under Stage 1 restrictions.

Pile burns: Wood pile burns are allowed only with all required permits from the local fire protection district and Summit County Environmental Health. Certain restrictions and precautions apply.

Smoking

Smoking outdoors is allowed under Stage 1 fire restrictions, and Summit County year-round fire code, as long as the individual is at least 3 feet away from any natural vegetation or flammable materials. On U.S. Forest Service lands, smoking is only permitted within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or in a barren area free of vegetation.

Equipment Use

  • Operation of a chainsaw, trimmer, mower or similar internal-combustion-engine-powered equipment is permitted as long as the operator is equipped with a 2A10BC fire extinguisher available for immediate use, and the engine is equipped with an approved spark-arresting device.
  • Welding is permitted when the operator has a valid permit, the device is at least 15 feet away from any natural vegetation or flammable materials and a 2A10BC fire extinguisher is available for immediate use.

Restrictions in Other Counties

For information about fire restrictions in other counties, view statewide fire restriction and fire danger information across Colorado.

Wildfire Prevention Strategies

Summit County, in partnership with local towns and the Dillon Ranger District of the White River National Forest, is using a variety of strategies to prevent wildfire. Join us in our efforts by reviewing the info below and taking appropriate action. Help us stop a wildfire before it starts.

  1. Campfires
  2. VehiclesSmokingShootingEquipmentDebris Burning

Campfire Safety to Prevent Wildfire

  • Check For Restrictions: Find out if local fire restrictions are in place: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, and Summit County’s year-round fire regulations, allow recreational outdoor fires only in developed campgrounds, inside permanent fire pits or fire grates; or in commercially manufactured fireplaces on private property for which the owner has obtained a valid permit from the local fire district. Outdoor fireplaces must be placed on barren ground 15 feet from any flammable material or structure and have a protective screen to catch embers. Stage 2 Fire Restrictions prohibit campfires altogether.
  • Burn Safely: Keep all recreational fires small, and always have a charged hose, 2A10BC fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby. A responsible adult should monitor the fire until it is completely out. Unattended campfires are one of the most common causes of wildfires.
  • Put Out Completely: Drown the fire with water, and stir with a shovel to wet all ash and coals. Feel them with the back of your hand – they should be cool to the touch. Move some dirt onto the fire site and mix thoroughly to create a cool, wet "soup."

Wildfire Prevention Patrol

Summit County has partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to conduct wildfire prevention patrols. A four-person U.S. Forest Service crew is patrolling the Dillon Ranger District of the White River National Forest throughout the summer.

The crew conducts campsite monitoring, visitor contacts and fire-prevention messaging throughout the Dillon Ranger District, which is located entirely within Summit County. Crew members inform visitors about U.S. Forest Service and Summit County regulations that protect natural resources and prevent wildfires. Contact with individuals in undeveloped, dispersed campsites is the top priority. In addition to the USFS crew, personnel from the Summit County Sheriff's Office also conducts fire-prevention patrol work.

The Wildfire Prevention Patrol is a Summit County Strong Future initiative.

 

Wildfire Evacuation Kit

Below is a list of items to consider including in your household's wildfire evacuation kit. The items in your kit may vary depending on the needs and priorities of your household, as well as the circumstances of a given wildfire, such as the scale of the incident and access to food, water and shelter.  
  • Baby supplies (bottles, formula, diapers, baby food)
  • Batteries
  • Can opener
  • Cash
  • Clothing, hats, sturdy shoes
  • Duct tape
  • Emergency blanket and/or sleeping bags
  • Emergency contact information
  • Family contact information
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Food: Non-perishable, 3-day supply
  • Games and books
  • Glasses and contact lenses
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Items of sentimental value that could not be replaced
  • Keys: House, vehicles
  • Matches
  • Medical items, devices, records and information
  • Medication: 7-day supply; list of medications
  • Multi-tool
  • Personal documents (proof of address, home lease/deed, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
  • Pet supplies: food, leash, carrier, bowl
  • Phone, tablet, laptop and power cords
  • Rain gear
  • Scissors
  • Toiletries and personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, moisturizer, razor, soap, sun screen, hair brush)
  • Towels
  • Water: 3 gallons/person
  • Whistle
  • Work gloves

Recovering from Fire Damage: What To Do After A Fire Disaster

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Restoration Wildfire

1. Get in touch with your insurance agent as soon as possible.

One of the first phone calls you need to consider making after a fire disaster should be to your insurance provider.

One of the first phone calls you need to make should be to your insurance provider. Before you start planning ways on how to deal with the damage, inform your agent of the incident so you can go over the details of your insurance coverage.

Be sure to confirm if there are any inclusions in your policy that you may have missed or overlooked – like a living allowance or temporary accommodation assistance, perhaps. You also have to discuss the claims process and what you can do to speed things up.

Most importantly, don’t forget to advise the agent of your immediate fire damage remediation plans. Wait for the insurance company’s go signal before taking any action.

2. Ask for a copy of the fire report.

A fire report contains the critical details surrounding and contributing to the fire incident. It also includes basic information such as the date and time, the location, an account of the damage, and the source of the fire (if known). All this data is essential to your insurance claim.

Fire reports are public documents, so you shouldn’t have any problem requesting a copy.

3. Start the mitigation process.

Fire can continue to endanger lives and cause damage to property even after it has been put out. Weakened structures can cave in, and damaged pipes can burst. There’s also the risk of inhaling toxic chemicals from the smoke residue and complex mix of gasses released into the air.

It’s important to start fire damage mitigation as soon as possible, but this is not something that you should do on your own. Let a local fire damage mitigation company take care of that for you.

4. Keep a record of all the damaged items.

Homeowners insurance usually includes contents coverage, which means your policy will also cover the replacement cost of items destroyed in the fire. Insurers typically ask for an inventory of personal properties damaged during the fire. To ensure that everything is accounted for, create a register of your belongings, and document your losses.

As you secure and mitigate the damage on the property, make a list of all damaged items and photograph them for proof. If possible, include the date of purchase, price, a description of the items on the inventory, and online statements.

If you lost important documents in the fire – driver’s license, passport, birth certificates, deeds, and title, etc. – you’ll have to replace them immediately. Some of these documents are necessary for the claim. Ask your agents which documents are needed, and request for them first.

Preparing a detailed record of your possessions and documentations beforehand will save you time and may help expedite the claim.

4. Clean the property and move undamaged items.

Fire disasters often leave the property looking dark, stained, and scorched. Thus, the fire damage cleanup and restoration crew usually spends the first phase of the clean-up scrubbing soot, smoke, and dust that stuck on the surfaces.

The next phase is water damage restoration. During this part of the clean-up, standing pools of water are removed by using submersible pumps. Afterward, these areas undergo drying and sanitation. Sanitation is vital to prevent any health effects due to water contamination.

Another critical issue that fire damage restoration professionals address is the odor. When smoke enters a room, it usually leaves behind an unpleasant stench that tends to stick on walls, carpets, upholstery, etc. Areas directly affected by the fire and the rooms nearby have to be cleaned and deodorized.

The final part of the clean-up involves segregating the damaged from undamaged items. Allocate storage space for the things that look good enough to keep and set them up for cleaning. Anything that’s badly burned or soaked in water should be disposed of properly – ask the restoration company if they can do that for you.

5. The restoration process.

Rebuilding a home after a fire can be very costly. As such, you need to document all the repair and replacement expenses to prove the extent of your loss and recovery costs. The claims process will move quicker if you’ve got all the requirements ready. Should you any need help with your insurance claims, you can ask your restoration contractor for help.

Restoration brings your home back to its pre-damaged state so you and your family can go back to living your normal lives. Most restoration companies offer a wide range of services. They can help you in almost all aspects of the process, from repairing furniture to installing new walls.

Some fire damage restoration companies, however, can do more than just restore the property. They also offer renovation services, so your home ends up looking even better than it did before.

Preventing Fires at Home

Recovering from a fire disaster is a fulfilling and rewarding feat, but it’s not something you wish to experience or go through again. Preventing house fires can be as easy as installing a smoke detector or keeping a fire extinguisher at home. Even the simplest safety measures can make a big difference.

Many local fire damage restoration companies also provide fire prevention consultation services. Should you need any advice on how to better equip your home against fire risks, ask a pro.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm Damage

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance

The federal government may have declared the area affected by the storm as a disaster area that is eligible for low-cost loans to help restore your property to normal. You will be required to file documents to receive these loans.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, to normal. At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle , we provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in the stabilization and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster.

What is a Large Loss?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Large Loss
What is Large Loss?

A disaster has hit your home or business and left behind an excessive amount of damage. In the blink of an eye, you’ve lost your property and belongings. You’re also potentially looking at spending a large amount of money and time on repairs and renovations. Because of the extent of the damage, you will most likely be looking at a large-loss situation. But what exactly does that mean? What steps should you take to start putting your life back together? Fortunately, knowing what to expect and who to contact in a large-loss situation can help you wade through a lot of the unknown. 

What is Large Loss?

For the most part, “large loss” is exactly what it sounds like. It’s any situation where there’s been a significant amount of damage to your property. For example, if a home has suffered a fire or several inches of flooding, the damage would most likely be extensive. There may be thousands of dollars worth of damage to the structure of the home and its contents. But determining whether damage constitutes as large loss is not just dependent on the amount of money involved, it varies per situation. Unfortunately, this means that there’s no set of rules or instructions to help you wade through it all. There are, however, several factors that can assist in determining whether or not your damage constitutes as large loss.

Damage can usually be considered a large loss when:

  • A significant area or portion of a structure is damaged
  • Damage results in a very complex set of repairs to restore things to their original state
  • Most of the structure has to be replaced
  • A large part of the business is put to a halt because of the damage

When you break it down, a large-loss project can be categorized by one or more of several different factors:

  • The cost to restore the use of the structure to a “like new” condition
  • The sheer size of a facility
  • The specific use or purpose of a facility

While there is no structure or facility that is 100% safe from damage, some are definitely more time-consuming and pose more of a challenge to resolve.

Large Loss and Insurance

When disaster strikes, you need to know that your insurance company has your back. Being confident that you’re taken care of will help you begin the process of clean up, restoration and recovery. When it comes to insurance restoration, the extent of the damage to your structure will determine how your claim is handled and the steps you will need to take to move forward. You could be hit with the daunting task of renovating or rebuilding your property. In many cases, you may also have the added responsibility of replacing or salvaging things like documents, materials, equipment, or memorabilia. Regardless of what your situation looks like, it’s important to know just what your insurance policy covers.

What Will My Insurance Cover?

Before damage hits your home or business, it’s important to understand what your insurance policy does and does not cover. If you aren’t sure what you’re protected from, now might be a good time to call your insurance agent and find out!

Typically, your insurance policy pays to rebuild or repair your home or office building if it is ever damaged or destroyed by things like lightning, hail, a fire, a hurricane, or other disasters or accidents noted in your policy. Keep in mind, however, that many standard home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by an earthquake or flood. Knowing this ahead of time and having clarity on just what is included in your coverage could save you a huge headache in the event that you ever need to file a large loss claim.

What Should I Look For?

When searching for insurance coverage, your policy should cover the cost of clean up and repairs from natural disasters. It should also cover the cost of bringing your building up to code compliance. Remember, codes change over time. If your building was not in compliance at the time the damage occurred, you will want to make sure that gets addressed once you start repairing or rebuilding. Your policy may also cover additional living expenses. This includes things like renting an apartment or paying for your hotel stay while your home is under renovation. To make sure you’re well-covered, search for a policy that will pay to have your home rebuilt, if needed. The more protection you have, the better off you’ll be in the event of a disaster.

Single Structure Loss

Homeowners insurance coverage typically provides financial protection against damage or loss due to accidents, theft, and other disasters. This could include things like flooding and water damage, storm damage and electrical fires. When it comes to suffering large loss, you want to make sure you’re well-covered. We often use $50,000 as a break point of what really constitutes a large loss for a single structure. Other factors could be the number of affected floors of a multi-story building or the size and square footage of the facility itself.

Weather Disaster

A weather disaster that has destroyed multiple homes, communities, or even a large portion of a city or town is very clearly considered a large loss. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires all tend to do an extensive amount of damage. Some of the more memorable natural disasters over the last few years have resulted in billions upon billions of dollars in damages:

  • Colorado Wildfires
  • Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas
  • Hurricane Michael in the Florida Panhandle and the Gulf Coast
  • Northern California Wildfires
  • Hurricane Florence on the East Coast, specifically the Carolina's
  • Southern California Wildfires
  • Hurricane Irma in Florida, Puerto Rico, and Cuba

And so many more

FIRELINE Contents Restoration - Our New System!

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

The Four Stations Trust the experts at SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties to professionally clean your contents with precision and care!

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties has recently adopted the FIRELINE system, which has become the most widely used contents restoration production system in the industry. We are always looking for the best tools in the industry to satisfy our customer’s needs and provide them with the best results possible.

What is FIRELINE?

The FIRELINE Contents Restoration cleaning system is designed to thoroughly clean contents affected by soot damagesmoke damage, and other contaminants. This state-of-the-art, stainless steel construction delivers the ultimate in durability and efficiency while utilizing the latest advancements in ultrasonic technology. FIRELINE provides consistent, high-quality cleaning results and high-volume production. It also comes equipped with specifically crafted contents baskets to cut down on damages caused by manually handling contents.

The Four Stations

The FIRELINE production system includes APW 4800 Pre-washer, APC 4800 Ultrasonic Cleaners, and Oversize RDS 4800 Rinse Detail Station. Each of these units can accommodate three contents baskets simultaneously. The system also includes the TD 8000 High Volume Tunnel Dryer. Designed to keep up with FIRELINE’s high flow production rate, the Tunnel Dryer accommodates up to four contents baskets at a time.

After cleaning the affected contents, each item is carefully wrapped and placed in a specifically labeled box to be delivered back to the customer. Trust the experts at SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties to professionally clean your contents with precision and care! 

9 Water Damage Prevention Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Home water damage in Summit County

“Water wears away mountains”, so when it enters your home it can cause extensive structural damages, such as wood rot and mold growth.

But by regularly checking appliances and doing basic household chores you can avoid expensive water damage problems that can drain your wallet.

Don’t get flooded with repair bills. Be proactive and follow these easy water damage prevention tips.

1. Regularly Inspect Your Appliances

Any appliance or pipe that’s connected to a water supply line has a chance of springing a leak or bursting.

Since all appliances have a limited lifespan, it’s important to regularly check your fridges, dishwashers, water heaters, ac units, showers, and other related fixtures for signs of failure.

Other than a puddle of water on the floor, here are some other signs that your appliances might be on the fritz:

  • Sounds of water running even though nothing is turned on
  • Unpleasant odors coming from floors, walls, or drains
  • Reduced water pressure
  • Mold growing around the appliance

Because many appliances rely on hoses, worn out hoses are a common culprit behind water damage problems. Replace any brittle, rusty, leaking, or damaged hoses as soon as you notice them.

Hoses are relatively cheap, so this is an easy, proactive repair solution that won’t break the bank. You should use the highest quality hose replacements to increase the lifespan of your appliances.

2. Don’t Ignore Leaks

Water doesn’t like to sit in one place. It likes to travel, especially through porous materials like drywall, carpeting, and underneath floorboards.

If a leak is left untreated it can lead to mold growth, staining, and damage to walls and flooring. The faster you address a leak, the less damage there will be and the more likely it will be that your insurance company will accept your water damage claim.

If you have a leaking pipe, apply quick repairs following these steps and then call out a trusted plumber to inspect the problem:

  • This is a water supply valve on a toilet. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.
  • Most water-based appliances have a water supply valve connected to it that allows you to shut off the water supply at that fixture without turning off the water to the entire house.
  • Turn the handle clockwise to shut off the water supply valve.
  • Turn on the faucets to release the remaining water that’s left in the pipe.
  • Wipe down the pipe and allow it to dry.
  • Patch up any cracks using epoxy putty. Wrap the putty up around the leaking area. You can purchase epoxy putty at any hardware store.
A quick fix like this can get you by until you call a plumber to apply permanent repairs, but you shouldn’t rely on it to provide long-term water damage protection.

3. Watch Your Water Bill

Many pipes are hidden in walls and underneath subflooring, making it hard to know if there’s a leak or not.

A 1/8 inch crack in a pipe (for reference, that’s about the size of your pinky nail) can waste up to 250 gallons of water per day!!! 

If you get an unusually high water bill, you might have a leaking or malfunctioning appliance in your house.

You can also read your water meter to check for leaks.

Most meters are located near the curb by your house and are typically located within a concrete box marked “water”.

You can pry open the lid by using a screwdriver or pliers.

Before you read it, turn off all the taps in your house. If the dial is still turning then that means you have a leak somewhere.

4. Consider Purchasing a Water Detection Device

A water detection alarm is a device that’s designed to go off when it’s sensor comes into contact with water.

Some of them even come with an auto-shutoff function, that will automatically turn the water supply off if it detects a large amount of water that has escaped.

Install them near pipes or appliances such as water heaters, washing machines, or fridges.

These devices can help prevent little leaks from becoming big water damage emergencies.

5. Know Where Your Water Main Valve Is & Turn It Off Before Leaving Town

Every homeowner should always know where to locate their water main supply valve is in case of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe.

Turning off the main valve will cut off your home’s entire water supply.

The valve location varies on the design of the house. Check out these three places:

  • If you have a basement or crawlspace, the valve will be on an outside wall.
  • If your house is built on a slab, it will be located on a wall in the garage or near a water heater.
  • Your valve might also be located in the water meter box near the curb marked “water”.

If the valve is located within your house, simply turn the valve clockwise to stop the water.

If the valve is located outside your house, use a wrench or a screwdriver to pry open the water meter box. Use the wrench to turn the valve clockwise.

There’s nothing worse than going on a nice vacation only to come home and find your house has been turned into a water park.

If you’re going out of town, turn off the water main to prevent broken faucets and pipes from wreaking havoc on your house while you’re away.

6. Winter Is Coming. Are You Prepared?

Every winter there’s a chance of your pipes freezing, regardless if you live in a colder or warmer region.

When pipes freeze, the water inside them turns into ice and expands. As the ice expands, it creates pressure which causes the pipe to burst.

The pipes most susceptible to freezing are in the low insulated areas of your home, such as the attic or crawlspace. Check this area of the home out and see if you’re pipes are vulnerable.

If you need to add insulation, make sure to follow all directions and wear the necessary protective equipment, especially when dealing with fiberglass insulation.

If you have exposed pipes, consider installing insulation products, such as a “pipe sleeve” or “heat tape”.

During the winter, remember to keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to reach pipes and don’t fiddle with the thermostat. You might be tempted to turn the thermostat down during the night to save on heating bills, but this drop in temperature can cause your pipes to freeze.

7. Roof Maintenance

The roof is your main line of defense against the elements, so it’s important to maintain it.

Get up on the roof every 6 months, and especially after a storm, to check for vulnerabilities or damages.

Here’s what to look for: broken shingles, built-up debris from trees, cracked flashing or roof vents. Roof repair is not a DIY job, especially if the surface is wet or slick. In this instance, it’s best to call a storm damage repair company that has the proper safety equipment and licenses.

8. Do Your Chores & Clean Out the Gutters.

Nobody wants to get up and clean the gunk out of the gutters. We get it. But it’s an important chore, especially if you want to prevent water damage problems.

The gutter’s main purpose is to collect excess water off the roof and direct it away from your property.

When the gutters get clogged, water overflows down the side of your house or into your basement instead of away from your property.

This can lead to foundation damage, yard damage, and roof leaks.

You should clean your gutters once a year or after severe storms.

Get a ladder and use a scoop or shovel to remove debris from the gutters. Dispose of any debris in a trash bag or plastic tarp.

After you’ve cleaned out all the gunk, flush your gutters out with a garden hose.

9. Be Careful When Planting Trees

Know where major pipelines are located before you plant trees. Trees will grow towards the nearest water source and will easily break pipes apart in order to access the water inside.

There are companies that will mark the location of your sewer line if you don’t know how to find it.

Some tree roots grow more aggressively than others and are more likely to damage your sewer lines. Consult with a landscaper to choose a tree that won’t harm your property.

Need  Water Damage Help?

Preventing Water Damage is one of the most important investments you can make as a homeowner.

However, sometimes leaks unexpectedly happen and there’s nothing you can really do about it.

If you live in Summit, Lake, Park, Eagle, Salida, Steamboat Springs, and need water damage help, contact SERVPRO at 970-949-3235.

Our trained High Rockies crew will respond to your call within immediately to begin the process of drying and repairs.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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

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

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle today at  970-949-3235.

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

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

How To Avoid the Worst Winter Storm Damage

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

The pipelines in the insulation and pressure gauges flow and return pipes in the boiler room of a private house household Use freeze protection or insulation on exposed pipes

Major Damage That Can Be Caused By Winter Weather

Winter storms can severely damage a residence in Edwards, CO. Homeowners should prepare for the worst effects of below-freezing temperatures or a winter storm. Learn more about several types of major damage that can be caused by winter weather.

Bursting Pipes
When the temperature dips below freezing, pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage. There are several ways that homeowners can reduce the risk of water freezing, expanding and causing a pipe to burst:

  • Maintain indoor temperatures that keep all pipes above freezing
  • Use freeze protection or insulation on exposed pipes
  • Shut off indoor valves to exterior faucets
  • Keep outdoor valves open

These measures can reduce the likelihood that frozen blockages will form in pipes. In addition to adding insulation or sealing air leaks, allowing water to drop from any faucets connected to exposed pipes may prevent freezing and pressure buildup. If a pipe bursts, arrange for timely repair and water damage restoration.

Roof Collapse
Every inch of snow on a roof weighs about 1.25 pounds per inch of depth. A cubic foot of snow can weigh as much as 21 pounds, depending on the moisture content. Excess weight combined with poor drainage can result in roof damage or even a collapse during a blizzard.

Basement Flood
The risk of damage can seem lower after a winter storm passes. In reality, melting snow can flood a basement. As drainage systems fill, saturated soil may permit moisture to seep into the lowest level of a structure. Waterproofing a basement and clearing snow away from the foundation of a structure may be helpful for avoiding this type of damage.
A winter storm poses a variety of risks to homes in Edwards, CO. Homeowners should prepare by checking the condition of plumbing, roof drainage, and basement waterproofing. Preventative measures can reduce the likelihood of all of these forms of severe storm damage.

How To Prevent Mold Growth After Flooding

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Two SERVPRO technicians getting ready to fix water damage on floor Water can lead to mold growth

How To Prevent Mold Growth After Flooding

If your, business suffers water damage Avon, CO, it is important to clean up as soon as possible because mold growth can begin within 24 hours. The following steps outline the restoration process.

1. Contact the insurance company and document the damage. You should make your insurance agent aware of the situation as soon as possible. The company may have instructions on how to document the damage. They will need this documentation in order to file your claim. Make sure to take a detailed photo or video of the damage. Make a list of all the damaged items along with their purchase date and price.

2. Remove standing water. There are specialized pumps and vacuums available to extract water. You can also use buckets to scoop the water out.

3. Dry out the remaining water. After you have removed the standing water, there will still be moisture that can cause mold growth if not dried. You can use fans and dehumidifiers to help speed the drying process. If the outside humidity is low enough, you can open windows and doors to increase air flow.

4. Clean and sanitize. Unless you are dealing with a clean water flood, such as from an indoor pipe, there is likely to be bacteria in the water. Disinfect all items that came into contact with the floodwater. Everything that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown out.

5. Repair and replace. Once the area has been dried and sanitized, you can begin making repairs and bringing in replacement items. Some repairs you may be able to do yourself, but for other items, especially antiques and electronics, it may be best to hire a professional restorer.
If you feel overwhelmed after a flood, don't worry. A certified restoration company can help you deal with water damage and mold growth, so you can get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

What To Do After a Business Fire

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Private property in the forest angle shot Install a security fence after a fire to protect your business in Edwards, CO

A fire to your Edwards, CO, business can leave your property vulnerable. Fortunately, installing a security fence and taking other safety measures can help keep your property safe from vandals and wildlife.

Securing the Property

After the fire has been extinguished, do not return to the property until the fire department says it is safe to do so. Once you have access to your property, taking the following actions can help you protect your business:

  • Install a security fence
  • Board up broken windows and other openings
  • Tarp over damaged areas of the roof

In addition to damage from the fire itself, the firefighters may have broken windows or created other openings during their fire-extinguishing efforts. Therefore, the building could have several entry points for vandals and wildlife. It is important to board up or tarp over these areas. Installing a fence adds another layer of protection. If damage occurs after the fire has been extinguished and the insurance company determines the damage resulted from the building not being properly secured, they may deny that portion of the claim. If anyone enters the property, even without permission, and gets injured, the business could be held liable.

Restoring the Property

After the property has been secured, it is time to document the damage and begin restoration. Take a detailed photo or video evidence for the insurance company so that they can adequately assess the property. Then remove the water from the fire-suppression efforts. Do this as quickly as possible because mold can begin to grow within 24 hours. Next, clean the smoke and soot from the surfaces. Clean and sanitize affected areas. Throw everything away that cannot be fully dried and cleaned. Finally, begin repairing and replacing damaged items.
From installing a security fence to smoke cleaning, taking care of your commercial property after a fire can be a complicated endeavor. Fortunately, a certified restoration service can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.

5 Places Mold Can Hide

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Old faucet (water tap) over sink in the bathroom. Dirt Bacteria. Hard water stain of soap and mold. Mold growth around faucet

5 Places Mold Can Hide

When it comes to mold growth in, Eagle, CO, finding mold in the home can seem daunting. Fortunately, a mold remediation service can help. Here are the top five places you may see these professionals look when inspecting your home for mold.

1. Around Plumbing

It’s not uncommon for mold to be found in places around plumbing. Most often this is because there has been a leak of some kind which can create a water damaged area where spores may settle.

2. Under the Roof

Professionals may also check for mold on wood in attic spaces, particularly in areas under the room where water damage may have occurred. This is why it’s important to have any roof damage repaired as quickly as possible.

3. In the Basement

It’s also possible for mold growth to be found in basement areas or crawl spaces. These areas are usually dimly lit and cool enough for condensation to collect, creating a humid environment. The installation of a sump pump may help with this issue.

4. Between Walls

The professionals looking over your home may also inspect between the walls for moldy drywall. Spaces like these can be affected by plumbing leaks, and often do not contain light which can create the dark space mold usually grows in.

5. In Flooring

Mold can be found in and under flooring. Water can seep between cracks or through carping and pool along the sub floor creating a damp space where spores can form. The use of mats in the bathroom, and rugs by the entrances of the home can help collect water and reduce these issues.

The professionals inspecting your home for mold growth, may look in several common places. This includes around any plumbing, under possible roof leaks, in basement or crawlspace areas, between walls, and even in the flooring. Once mold is found, these remediation professionals can remove if from the home.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Proactive Cleaning Take preventative measures for your business.

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. Our team has 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 at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, & Eagle Counties today – (970) 949-3235

Storm Damage: Cleaning Up After the Flood

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Drying equipment on wooden floor Drying equipment on wooden floor in Silverthorne, CO

Storm Damage: Cleaning Up After the Flood

The hardest part of flood damage restoration is sorting the salvageable things from those that will end up in a landfill. You might have to throw away expensive or sentimental stuff, and that can feel like a waste of money. However, your health and safety depend on the decisions you make at this point.
Here are some of the things you should look out for when content cleaning in Silverthorne, CO:

  • Utilities
  • Electronics, furniture, and carpets
  • Walls and floors

Disconnect Utility Lines

Shut off the power and gas supply as the first thing you do after arriving on site. Still, do not assume the power is off just because you flipped a switch in the circuit breaker box. It is safer to double-check the current using a non-contact voltmeter before doing anything else. If in doubt, call a qualified electrician and have them disconnect the power.

Electronics, Furniture, and Carpets

At this point, you are ready to start content cleaning. Remove everything from the building, including furniture, electronics, and carpets for individual attention and water removal. Then have an electrician attempt to save your most valuable equipment.
You can hose down all non-porous materials such as metals and get away with it, but you might have to throw away any upholstered furniture. Walls and Floors
Sometimes, water might seep through the walls and floors, causing rot, mold and insect infestation. For this reason, it is important to have a restoration company check out the entire building for signs of structural and black water damage. Any issues should be addressed immediately to prevent degradation or something worse.
Content cleaning after a flood can be time-consuming and expensive, but it’s nothing compared to the health and financial implications of not doing it correctly. The general idea is to save as much non-porous stuff as you possibly can, and have all porous things cleaned by an expert.

How Boarding Up Can Save Your Home After a Fire

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

House boarded and tarped Board up services can make it possible to keep your house safe

The damage from a house fire can be widespread and the water used to fight a fire is also destructive. On occasion, firefighters may need to chop through parts of a roof or wall in order to gain access to the fire, leaving your home in Frisco, CO, open to further damage and making it necessary to board up exposed openings as soon as possible.

Why is an Emergency Board Up Necessary?

Boarding up a home after a fire may be crucial to the protection of your home. Weather can wreak havoc with your home’s contents. Raccoons and other pests can get inside and make a mess of things. Looters may take any valuables found in your home. Boarding up the home can help protect your contents and privacy.

What is Involved in Boarding Up Your Home?
There are a couple of ways damaged openings in your house can be covered. The main goal is to secure the openings so no one can get inside and to protect from the weather so materials used must be suited to the task. The following are some ways this can be accomplished.

Tarping - A length of tarp spans a roof opening and the edges are fastened down using pieces of wood or by directly nailing them down
Plywood - Sheets of plywood are used to close up window or door openings and fastened in place with screws
2”x4”s can be used to cover smaller openings as needed

Who Can Help Board Up Your Home?
A professional fire damage restoration company in Frisco, CO, will offer board up services and will be able to help secure your home following a house fire. They can also help with fire damage, water, and smoke damage. It will likely be too large a task to handle alone.
Board up services can make it possible to keep your house safe and prevent would-be intruders or pests from causing further destruction following a fire disaster. It is one way to help keep a bad situation from becoming worse.

What You Should Know About Water Damage

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Air movers placed in a hallway. Drying equipment. Water restoration in Vail, CO

A Few Things You Should Know About Water Damage

If you have witnessed the unfortunate after-effects of a pipe burst, you know it can cause considerable damage to your home. Your first priority should be to get the water cleaned up as quickly as possible. Since mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours, time is of the essence. If you have experienced flooding in Vail, CO, there are a few things you should know about water damage.

1. Why it Occurs When water invades an area, it can cause damage to all the surfaces it encounters. The longer the water is left to sit, the more damage can occur. Dyes in fabrics can bleed into other materials, drywall and floors can warp, and metals can begin to tarnish.

2. The Cleanup Process After a pipe burst or other flooding disaster, your main priority should be to remove the water, completely dry the area, and disinfect if needed. If it is only a small amount, you may be able to do this yourself with towels, a mop, and a bleach solution. If it more than a small area, you may need to hire a professional. Experts use specialized equipment designed to extract water and dry the area quickly. When a water line breaks inside of a wall, you may not be able to see all of the damage. Luckily, professionals can use moisture meters to help locate water in hidden places.

3. Restoration Flooding can cause extensive damage to your home. Some materials like drywall, wood floors, or carpeting may not be salvageable. A professional restoration company can determine which things can be saved and which cannot. If some materials need to be removed from your home, experts can do this safely and then replace them with similar items, usually of your choosing.
You will need to begin the process quickly to avoid further damage. Although it may seem like your home may never be the same after a pipe burst, it can be returned to normal with the help of a professional water remediation company.

An Explanation of Category 2 Water Damage

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Technician wearing protective gear, on his knees fixing a water heater A leaky water heater can lead to Category 2 damage

When it comes to water in your building, some types are more concerning than others. Of course, you never want to see water all over your office floor or dripping down the walls. Water from any source can cause extensive damage. Water pipe repair and other similar issues will require the work of a professional water cleanup company. Water damage is divided into three categories: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3. It's important to understand these classifications so you know what you're up against. Category 2 is common in commercial buildings.

Examples of Category 2 Water Damage

Multiple problems could cause a flooded building. While an overflowing toilet or backed-up sewer line will bring Category 3 water, or black water, into the office, these are some of the most common culprits of Category 2 damage:

  • Leaky pipes
  • Burst or broken pipes
  • Ruptured or leaky water heater

A Definition

Water pipe repair isn't necessarily a Category 2 issue. This type of water is initially clean but sits too long. In the meantime, it will collect chemical or biological contaminants that can harm people who come into contact with it. Though not deadly like black water, this category can make a person ill. Often, as water makes its way through a building and various materials, it turns from Category 1 to Category 2 water. So, you're more likely to see this form of water on the first floor than on the second.

Mitigation Procedures

Professional crews in Breckenridge, CO, should handle Category 2 cleanup. The team will first evaluate the broken pipe, or whatever caused the flooding. Crews will inspect the area and remove all traces of water. After thoroughly drying all affected materials, the team will sanitize all surfaces to ensure that you can safely return to work.
Water pipe repair may sound like a routine issue, but it may be more complicated. Pipe problems could introduce Category 2 water into the building. Understand what this means and how you should respond.

How SERVPRO Can Help With Large Disasters

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Air movers placed in a commercial building, plastic covering walls and ceiling Commercial loss in Leadville, CO

Disaster recovery can be a difficult process, especially for small areas that have experienced major storm damage. Frequently, the local restoration services do not have enough technicians and equipment to handle the workload. Fortunately, larger companies, such as SERVPRO, do have the means to help regardless of the size of the affected area.

Skilled Professionals

SERVPRO's Commercial Large Loss Division assists smaller Franchises with storm response after large disasters. This division employs some of the most talented professionals in the industry. They have the skills and equipment to deal with many types of catastrophes, including the following:

  • Hurricanes
  • Floods
  • Wildfires
  • Tornadoes
  • Winter storms

SERVPRO's training school has been approved by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration. This means that SERVPRO technicians are equipped with the proper knowledge of effective, evidence-based techniques to handle any size disaster. Additionally, technicians have access to continuing education so that they are always informed of the industry’s current best practices.

Strategic Organization

Disaster recovery is a complex process, and for larger losses the process becomes even more intricate. There are many people involved, from the local government to individual residents and other restoration services. Therefore, the organization of the Large Loss Division is integral to the overall effectiveness of the teams. A highly-skilled operations manager oversees the process to ensure everything is done correctly and to facilitate communication between all parties. Additionally, the divisions are carefully located throughout the United States to ensure a team is available no matter where disaster strikes. The Large Loss Division frequently works with local Franchises, and the fact that both are part of the larger SERVPRO team ensures smooth interactions.
If a major catastrophe strikes Leadville, CO, a specialized large loss service may be needed to assist with the disaster recovery process. A large company with adequate personnel and resources is often the best approach to large-scale restoration projects.

Commercial Mold - How To Prevent Mold Reoccurrence

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

A warped wall paper with mold Call SERVPRO right away after a water damage to keep mold from growing

Mold growth in your Dillon, CO, commercial building can be a major hassle, especially if it is persistent and recurring. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep mildew from returning after a successful cleanup job.

Invest in Mold-Resistant Products

During the restoration process, you may find yourself repairing and replacing damaged items. There are mold-resistant alternatives available for many products, including the following:

  • Fabrics
  • Carpet
  • Drywall
  • Paint and primer

Remember that paint, even a mold-resistant formula, will not kill the mold. You still need to remove the mildew before painting over it.

Keep the Area Dry

Even after thorough remediation, there will still be mold spores in the area. If the conditions are right, these spores create new hyphae, which in turn release more spores. Moisture, even high humidity, can lead to an infestation, so keep the area as dry as possible. Keep indoor humidity below 50%, and address any water damage or spills immediately.

Check for Signs of Mold Growth

In addition to keeping your building dry, a key factor in preventing mold reoccurrence is routinely checking for new growth. If you catch mold in time, the cleanup process will be much easier. Be sure to check all previously affected areas as well as other mold-friendly locations, such as bathrooms, basements, carpeting and paper goods. In addition to visible mold, there are many other indicators to watch for. These include a musty odor, warped drywall or flooring, peeling paint and other signs of deterioration. If you notice any of these, you may need to hire a professional to locate the infestation. Make sure to keep up with the routine maintenance and inspections of the HVAC system as well. The technician can let you know if there is a mold problem in the ductwork.
If the mold growth does return, you may want to call a certified restoration company. They can restore your business to its pre-mold condition quickly and safely.

Tips for Estimating Fire Damage

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl generator, smoke odor remover Hydroxyl generator - removing smoke odor

Tips for Estimating Fire Damage

If your business in Gypsum, CO, has suffered in a fire, you may be overwhelmed. Recovering after a blaze can be daunting, but luckily there are experts available to help you efficiently rebuild your property with minimal interruption to your business. The first step you need to take is to contact your insurance company. Your insurance will connect you with specialists in fire and water damage restoration who focus on getting your property back to its pre-fire condition as soon as possible. Here are some steps they will take to estimate the fire damage:

  • Survey the damage
  • Add up the costs of lost or damaged items
  • Calculate the costs for repairs and restoration services

Survey. An adjuster will need to come out to survey your property. How much of the building was affected, the extent of the damage, and the current market value of the property are some of the variables they will consider. These variables apply to the structure only, so it's important to consider belongings and repair costs as well.

Calculate. You will need to add up the cost of items that are damaged or destroyed within your business. A professional restoration company can assist you with this process, as it can be complex. Experts in fire and water damage restoration have the training and experience to know what to look for and how to create a detailed estimate that covers the full scope of the fire damage.

Restore. Your team of professionals should work hard to quickly clean up and restore your property to its pre-fire condition. Some items they will consider include trash disposal, equipment rental, smoke odor removal, reconstruction costs, emergency services, and water damage restoration costs. Experiencing a commercial fire can be stressful, so you need to find a team of professionals who can get to work immediately and make sure you're fully covered.

Getting back on your feet after a fire is crucial to keep your business running. Find the right professional who can correctly assess all of your losses to get the best estimate and recovery plan.

Does Your Commercial Property Have A Mold Problem?

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growing on wood. Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your commercial property.

In the High Rockies, even with low humidity, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (970)949-3235

IICRC Certified Firm

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is an IICRC Certified Firm.

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties 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 off 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 Summit

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties 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.

How To Remove Flood Odors From Your Commercial Building

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded building Flooded building in Edwards, CO

How To Remove Flood Odors From Your Commercial Building

When flooding strikes Edwards, CO, your commercial building could be affected in a variety of ways, including weakened or damaged building materials, ruined carpeting and mold growth. This latter issue can be especially troubling, as it can cause a foul odor that could travel throughout the structure. If your property recently experienced a flood, there are a few ways you can reduce and eliminate flood odors, no matter their cause.

Identify the Source of the Smell

Not all water damage odors have the same source. In fact, some can be quite strong and be the result of several different causes that might include:

  • Sewage loss
  • Black mold growth
  • Dirty outdoor floodwaters

Once you identify the cause of the smell, it may be simpler to employ deodorizing techniques.

Lower Indoor Humidity Levels
When indoor flooding occurs, rising flood water levels can also raise humidity levels. As the humidity increases, this can also cause dirty water to smell increasingly worse as well. To prevent this, open windows and use ceiling fans during a flood cleanup to keep air circulating. Remember to ensure the room’s electrical outlets are dry and still functioning if you plan to use large floor fans to reduce humidity levels.

Turn Off the HVAC System
While your building’s heating, ventilation and cooling system might be effective in lowering the humidity during storm cleanup, it might also spread foul odors to other areas of the building and allow mold spores to travel more rapidly. As you assess storm damage, You may want to leave the system off until water remediation technicians arrive to handle the removal of any fungi growth.

Call in a Professional Odor Removal Service
Once a flood occurs inside your commercial building, it can be difficult to eliminate foul smells on your own, especially if it has multiple floors. A flood mitigation and restoration service can help you handle this issue with several different techniques that include ozone machines, air-cleaning units and specialized cleansers that can help to banish odors for good.
When mold growth and dirty flood waters cause unpleasant odors at your Edwards, CO, business, it can be distressing for your employees and customers. Knowing how to eliminate these smells may prevent business loss and give you peace of mind in the aftermath of a flood.

Colorado Ski Country Mold Remediation

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Man in a crawl space underneath a structure. We specialize in mold remediation in Colorado Ski Country homes and businesses. Call us today for 24/7 emergency service.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we know that every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution.

We are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and we will begin the mold cleanup and restoration process as soon as you call us. Our representative who answers your call will ask you a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel that we should bring to your property for the remediation.

We Get There Fast and Begin Remediation Immediately

In general, the mold remediation process will stay the same no matter what type of property we are servicing. Because we are locally owned and operate out of Avon and Frisco, Colorado, we are able to arrive very quickly to your Ski Country property and begin the remediation process almost immediately.

See the steps listed below to learn more about our mold remediation process.

  1. Step 1: Inspection and Damage Assessment – We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.
  2. Step 2: Mold Containment – Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.
  3. Step 3: Air Filtration – Our specialized filtration equipment allows our team to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful air scrubbers with HEPA filters and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of mold spores while remediation is in process.
  4. Step 4: Removing Mold and Infested Materials – Our process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.
  5. Step 5: Cleaning Contents and Belongings – We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We’re also trained to remove odors using fogging equipment.
  6. Step 6: Restoration – Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. This step returns your home or business back to normal.

Call Us 24/7 for Emergency Mold Remediation – (970) 949-3235

Commercial Ice Dam and Snow Removal Service

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Home with an ice dam and snow on the roof. Ice dams can cause damage to your shingles and cause leaks if not taken care of properly.

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is the ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof which prevents melting snow from draining as it should. The water that backs up behind the ice dam can leak into the home and cause damage to walls, floors, ceilings, insulation, and other areas. Most ice dams occur on the lowest edge of your roof. 

There are 6 warning signs for ice dams:

1.     Your home has had ice dams in the past.

2.     You see roof ice– icicles forming on the edge            of the roof, or off the front edge of the gutter.

3.     Ice is coming through the soffit.

4.     Ice is forming behind the gutters (if gutters              are present).

5.     You see ice or water on the exterior wall.

6.     You see water coming through the frame of a          door or window.

Professional Ice Dam Removal

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties offers safe, professional snow and ice dam removal services for your business. Our experienced team will be onsite within a matter of hours, saving you time, effort and costly repairs later. Don't wait until it's too late. Call us today and have the job done safely and done right. (970) 949-3235. 

Filing an Insurance Claim for Home Water Damage

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Insurance claim form Your agent can provide a complete list of covered items and help you file an insurance claim

Filing an Insurance Claim for Home Water Damage

If your washing machine leaked or a water pipe burst, your home could sustain significant damage. It can be a stressful time, as you are suddenly called on to organize the cleanup and restoration and research what type of claim to file.
The source of your water damage will determine the type of insurance coverage that applies to your situation. Your homeowner’s insurance will cover many types of home water damage, but it will generally exclude damage related to floodwaters. If severe weather caused floodwater to damage your property, you would file a different type of insurance claim. This discussion about insurance coverage for water damage may help you prepare for that aspect.

What Does Conventional Homeowner’s Insurance Cover?

Most common causes of home water damage will be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. If your damage was caused by any of the following, it would be appropriate to file a conventional claim:

  • Leaking toilet or shower
  • Leaking appliances, such as dishwashers or ice makers
  • Broken water pipe
  • Sewer backup
  • Stormwater entering through a roof leak or other structural damage

Coverage limits and deductibles may vary between policies. Your agent can provide a complete list of covered items and help you file an insurance claim.

What Insurance Covers Damage from Floodwater?

Flood insurance is a product issued by the US government and can be purchased through your insurance agent. In order to file this type of claim, you would have had to purchase this policy prior to the incident. Floodwaters generally originate from a severe storm event or an engineering breach, such as a broken water main or blocked municipal culvert. Your insurance agent can assess whether your damage is eligible for coverage.

If water ended up where it doesn’t belong in your Avon, CO, home, you have many unexpected tasks to fit into your busy schedule. You will undoubtedly want some compensation for your damage, and knowing which type of insurance claim to file may help streamline the process of returning your home and your life to normal activity.

What Is IICRC Mold Certification?

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Due to the fact that certified restoration specialists adhere to the strictest industry standards, many insurance companies choose to work only with t

Mold growth in your home can cause serious damage. Fortunately, there are certified mold specialists that can help you with the restoration process.


What Is Mold Certification?


The Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) publishes standards relating to mold remediation. They devise these standards in conjunction with experienced professionals, including:

Public health officials
Microbiologists
Restoration companies
Industrial hygienists

The IICRC standards address everything from removal methods and equipment to legal requirements. These standards are updated every five years, so they are always current with the latest science relating to mold removal. The IICRC assesses mold certification programs on these state-of-the-art standards, so you can be sure a certified mold remediation company has the skills and knowledge to do the job correctly.


What Are the Benefits of Mold Certification?


Certified mold specialists not only know how to remove mold, they will also let you know of any ongoing moisture problems you have that might result in future mold growth. These companies are aware of the best and safest fungicides available and have the knowledge to select the most appropriate one for each unique situation. Additionally, they will address hidden mold. Some companies only clean surface mold, but IICRC standards require elimination of all live mold growth. Because of IICRC's continuing education requirements, you can be sure that these companies are using the most up-to-date methods, regardless of when they received their initial certification. 

Additionally, IICRC certified companies are required to hold liability insurance, so you are ensured another layer of protection against accidents and professional malpractice.


If you experience mold growth, certified mold specialists can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely. They will also do everything they can to help you prevent future mold infestations.

What Does Renter's Insurance Cover in a Fire?

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Renters insurance As a tenant, it is important to understand what your responsibility is and what should be taken care of by your landlord.

The specifics of what renters insurance covers in an emergency situation can be confusing for both tenants and landlords. Here is some information on what a renters policy is and what it covers in the case of a fire.


What Does Renters Insurance Cover?


Anyone who rents an apartment or home should obtain renters insurance. In fact, many landlords refuse to rent out their property to anyone without this type of policy. The main purpose of this type of plan is to cover a tenant’s personal belongings, provide liability coverage, and cover the costs of additional living expenses if the rented home is temporarily uninhabitable. Most policies provide coverage in the following situations:

Theft
Damage to a vehicle if on the property
Injury caused by pets
Fire damage
Lightning
Wind and hailstorms
Falling objects
Freezing and weigh from ice and snow

Most policies will not cover damage caused by pets, pest infestations, flooding, and accidental damage to belongings.


How Does Renters Insurance Help in the Case of Fire?


Any fire restoration services needed to repair the home where the tenant lives is the landlord’s responsibility to cover. However, renter insurance can pay for the cost of restoring the tenant’s belongings or replacing them completely. Apart from arson, the tenant should have coverage in every situation, even if due to negligence. The policy should also cover the costs if someone else, such as a guest or tenant in another property, suffers any injury due to the fire. If the home needs to be repaired and can’t be lived in for a period of time, renters insurance can pay for the cost of living in a hotel or other dwelling.


Renters insurance protects tenants if a fire ever occurs in their rental home. For this reason, you should never go without coverage if you're renting your home.

How a Home Fire Safety Plan Can Protect Your Family

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire safety plan Once you have completed a few drills, it can be useful to run a surprise drill to simulate an actual emergency.

It’s hard to imagine a fire happening in your Colorado home. Fires can be devastating, and bolstering your fire readiness with a fire escape plan is the key to protecting your property and your family. This discussion may help you formulate the best plan for your situation.


Designing Your Fire-Readiness Plan


Organizing a safety meeting for your family is the first step. The goal is to create an emergency escape plan that will enable everyone to evacuate the house safely and quickly. Consider the following suggestions:

Walking through the house with your family will allow you to identify two exits from each room.
Placing an escape ladder in upper-story rooms will ensure window evacuation is possible.
Setting a meeting place across or down the street will allow you to account for all family members after an evacuation.


Checking the visibility of your house number from the road will help fire services locate you.
Posting a map in the house that clearly locates the meeting place and escape routes can be a helpful reference.

Once you have created your fire escape plan, it may ease your mind to have a local fire remediation expert review it. You are then ready to test your plan.


Testing Your Evacuation Plan


Scheduling home fire drills is the best way to practice your plan. It’s recommended to have a drill twice a year, with every family member participating. It may help to start with a daytime drill, so escape routes are visible. For the first night time drill, you can give your family some warning then, during the night, begin the drill by pressing the test button on your smoke alarm. 


If you should have a home fire, a comprehensive fire escape plan will help ensure you are able to quickly evacuate your home. When your family has practiced the plan, they will likely be calmer in the confusion of an actual emergency. The sooner you can evacuate and call for help, the sooner the situation can be under control.

How To Clean Sewage Backup from Bathtub

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage water coming out of bathtub and sink Sewage backup from bathtub in Eagle, CO

How To Clean Sewage Backup from Bathtub

If you have found murky brown water coming up through your bathtub drain, you likely have a sewer backup. Most of the time, the horrid smell will give away where this substance is coming from. Unless it is a very small area that is easy to disinfect, you may need to hire a professional restoration company to properly identify the source, disinfect the area, and restore your bathroom.

Where it Comes From

A bathtub backup can happen for a variety of reasons, but most often it is a clog in the main drain line. The blockage keeps the water from effectively leaving the house and the liquid seeks out the lowest path, which is usually a bathtub drain. There are several common reasons main sewer lines get blocked:

  • Flushing non-flushable items
  • Tree roots clogging the system
  • Congealed grease build-up

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, it will need to be identified and fixed so that it does not happen again.

How To Clean Small Messes

If your sewer backup is contained in the bathtub, you may want to clean and disinfect it yourself. This type of water contains bacteria and other organisms, so you will need to use gloves. Dispose of the spill in heavy-duty plastic bags and double bag them. Whatever you use to clean the mess will also need to be discarded into these bags. Make sure the bags are tightly sealed. Once the mess is cleaned up, you will need to disinfect anything that came in contact with the water with a bleach solution. Let it sit the recommended amount of time, which is usually a minimum of 10 minutes.
Finding a sewer backup in Eagle, CO is never fun. If it is a small area on an easily treatable surface, you may be able to clean it yourself. If you have additional damage, you will need the help of a professional restoration company to extract water, disinfect the area, remove, and replace items.

3 Types of Water Found in Commercial Floods

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Hallway flooded with debris. Each incident involves different types of water that a commercial building restoration company will handle in a specific manner

Floods create powerful water damage that can harm your business establishment unless you take quick action. However, not every case is the same. Make the restoration process faster and easier by learning more about the three types of water you might encounter during commercial flooding.


White Water
This type of water is also known as clean water because it is essentially free from any polluting agents. This water comes from sources where it avoids the most contaminants.

Broken pipes
Rainwater
Melting snow
Defective appliances

Even though this is the type of water least damaging to the building, it can still affect the structure and encourage the growth of mold and mildew. You can prevent this by ensuring the water is removed immediately and the affected area is properly dried.


Gray Water
Unlike white water, gray water does include some pathogens that make it more hazardous and more damaging to the structures and objects that touch it. This water may come from a flood started by a malfunctioning toilet, dishwasher or washing machine. Therefore, it may include soap, skin particles or food grease. Water damage caused by this type of liquid can be more difficult to repair and strongly impact anyone cleaning it. You or the people handling gray water may need special equipment to avoid contact.


Black Water
Perhaps the most dangerous kind of water, it includes more powerful contaminants and toxic chemicals, such as sewage matter, dirt, pesticides and bacteria. This water can be harmful to others and it can greatly damage and taint your building, your appliances and anything else in your business. Experienced restoration specialists can use safety gear and special equipment to clear the dangerous water and repair the location.


The fluids involved in flooding can vary in source and composition. From relatively harmless clear water to the foul black water, you may need to identify it to effectively save your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO business from water damage.

How To Fix a Flooded Basement

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded basement There are some things you can do yourself, but if damage is severe or you do not have the necessary skills and equipment it can seem impossible.

Many homeowners have heard horror stories of sump pumps failing and basements filling with floodwater. A basement flood can happen quickly and cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. If your basement in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO has experienced flooding or water damage, your insurance coverage may include the cost of professional restoration services. There are some things you can do yourself, but if damage is severe or you do not have the necessary skills and equipment, professional assistance can help. Here are a few tips on how to safely restore your basement.


Stay Aware of Danger
Keep safety first. When entering a flooded area, watch out for these common dangers caused by a basement flood:

Slippery, slimy floors
Items you cannot see through the floodwater
Electrical outlets exposed to water or submerged

Anytime there is water in a home, there is the risk of electrocution. Be sure that the electricity is turned off before entering the area. If the water has gone above the electrical outlets and you cannot safely reach the fusebox, the only way to ensure your safety is to have the house taken off the electric grid by a professional.


Dry Out the Area
Once you have ensured your safety, the next step is to begin removing the water. If you can do this without entering the flooded area, even better. A shop vacuum can be used to suck out the majority of the water. Once the water is gone, you are likely to find that flooring, baseboards, and possibly drywall have been soaked by the water. Everything that was underwater may need to be removed and replaced.


Recovering from a basement flood can be done with the right equipment and a lot of hard work. If you discover that you need professional help, water restoration experts can restore your basement to its pre-flood condition, as if it never happened.

What To Do When Your Smoke Alarm Is Beeping

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Fire alarm with red light on surrounded in smoke. Each alarm should be replaced once every 10 years.

A beeping smoke alarm isn't just an annoying inconvenience. If your fire alarm keeps chirping, then there is probably something wrong with it. That could put you and your family at risk.
After all, if your smoke alarm continues to beep constantly, you and your loved ones won't know when there is an actual fire in your home. By the time you smell the smoke or see the flames, it may be too late. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to fix the problem and prevent the need for major fire damage cleanup.

Reset the Detector

Sometimes all you need to do to fix an electronic device is reset it. While it is fairly easy to reset a television or computer, the process is a bit more complicated with a fire alarm. You need to turn off the requisite part of the circuit breaker and remove the power source or battery. Next, hold the test button down for 15 to 20 seconds before restoring the power.

Change the Batteries

Your smoke detector may be chirping because its batteries are low. Even if your smoke detector isn't beeping constantly, you should still change the batteries every six months to prevent severe fire damage to your home. Make sure the new batteries are facing the right direction when you install them.

Remove Dust

Debris can also cause your smoke alarm to malfunction. Try using an air blower to remove any dust from the detector's vents.

Buy a New Alarm

If all else fails, you can always purchase a new fire detector for your home. 


Following the above steps will keep your fire alarm functioning. This will not just get rid of that obnoxious beeping noise; it can also limit the harm to your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO home in the event of a fire. Whatever smoke damage does occur can be addressed with the help of fire cleanup and restoration services.

Storm Damage to Roofs

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

A roof undergoing a hail storm. Some roofs are simply hardier than others.

A serious storm can cause major problems for your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO business. Roofs are especially vulnerable to damage, and a roof leak can result in damage to other areas of the structure.


Types of Roof Damage
Knowing what to look for after a storm can help you spot any problem areas and repair them quickly. The following are some common forms of roof damage that you may encounter:

Cracked, dented or missing shingles
Damaged sealant
Peeling or curling shingles

Mitigating Roof Damage
If your business suffers a damaged roof, the problems can compound quickly. A roof leak, in particular, can lead to water damage and mold growth in other areas of the building. After a storm, it is important to inspect the roof of the building. After taking photos of the damage to submit to your insurance company, use plywood or tarpaulin to patch any weak spots in the roof temporarily. Then call a trusted roofing contractor to repair or replace the roof.


Preventing Roof Damage
All roofs are going to be exposed to the elements every day and night for the life of the roof. While a strong storm can damage a roof in a very short period, long-term exposure to heating/cooling cycles and rain will degrade roofing materials over time. As the roof ages, it becomes more vulnerable to storm damage. Regular inspections by a trusted roofer can help keep your roof in good shape for years. Metal roofs, in particular, are very sturdy and may last up to fifty years. Asphalt shingles, however, generally last less than twenty years.
A certified restoration company can help you with all your storm damage needs. In addition to treating any water damage inside the building, they may be able to tarp over your damaged roof and recommend a reputable roofing contractor to help with a roof leak and other damage.

Why Mold Can Grow in Your Building After a Flood

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on a wall with a sign on the top that says Musty Odor? Mold damage on a Silverthorne, CO building

Why Mold Can Grow in Your Building After a Flood

If you are a commercial building owner or property manager, you know how much destruction a hurricane or heavy rain can cause. You are likely most concerned about flooding that results from this storm damage.
Unfortunately, floods do not just leave behind wet assets. They can also lead to excess bacteria and mold growth within your building. Mold spores, in particular, thrive in standing water and other moist areas.
Mold can spread quickly, as well. In fact, without proper mitigation, mold can appear within one to two days of the flood.
This mold can contaminate your property and make the building unsafe for employees. You thus need to take the following steps if you find mold while inspecting your office for flood damage.

  • Avoid touching the visible mold
  • Turn off any fans or HVAC systems to prevent the mold spores from spreading
  • Do not spray disinfectants or bleach on the mold
  • Do not attempt to dry wet areas on your own

Odor

Mold growth doesn’t just produce visible signs of damage, either. It can also create a musky odor that can distract your employees. The flood cleanup process should thus include the elimination of this smell.

Mold Remediation

Mold spores are present throughout outdoor and indoor environments. It is therefore impossible to completely remove mold from your property. Any company that promises to do this is lying to you. Instead, look for businesses that provide mold remediation services. These professionals will have the tools to safely and quickly reduce the amount of mold in your commercial building. They can also dry the flooded areas to prevent the excess mold from returning. Professionals can also clean off and restore any items within the building that were contaminated by the mold.
Mold growth in a commercial building can greatly disrupt a Silverthorne,CO, business. That is why your storm cleanup procedures need to address these spores before they spread.

3 Things You Shouldn't Do After Your Home is Damaged by Water

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding caused by the carelessness of those who forget to turn off the faucet, the water overflows and floods the room Water damage in a Frisco, CO home

3 Things You Shouldn't Do After Your Home is Damaged by Water

If you have a broken pipe in your Frisco, CO, home, you will probably have a lot of water damage to deal with. It is easy to become flustered or frustrated in this kind of situation, so it may be difficult to determine what you should or should not do next. If this happens, keep the following tips in mind.

1. Don’t Leave the Water for an Extended Period

When water in homes is allowed to sit, it can create a lot more damage and it only gets worse over time. It can cause wood to begin rotting or warping which can weaken the structure of your home and ruin your furniture. It can also cause mold to form and spread throughout the building. Because of this, any water should be removed immediately so the home can begin to dry.

2. Don’t Wait to Call Your Insurance Agent

Many policies include a certain time period after the damage has occurred during which you must report your broken pipe or other damage to the insurance company. If you don’t do this, your claim can be denied. Calling right away will prevent this and also allow the claim to be completed more quickly.

3. Don’t Use the Electricity

If there is flooding in your house, then you should avoid using the electricity because it can be a hazard to your safety. Attempting to turn off lights or unplug electronics can result in a dangerous spark, so it is best to turn the power off to your entire home through the breaker.
The water damage that occurs as the result of a broken pipe can be extensive, so you should have it repaired quickly. A professional cleanup and restoration service can do this for you. They can safely and thoroughly remove the water from your home, salvage many of your affected belongings and make any necessary repairs to your house.

6 Tips to Avoid Kitchen Fires

10/13/2019 (Permalink)

Cute little girl and her beautiful parents are smiling while cooking in kitchen at home When it's time to cook, focus on cooking.

Six Tips To Avoid a Kitchen Fire

Nearly 31 percent of all fires happen in residential homes. Of those, approximately half of them start in the kitchen. To keep your home in Vail, CO, protected, below are six tips to avoid a kitchen fire and extensive fire damage.

1. Keep It Clean

When it comes to tips, the easiest one is to keep things clean. Regularly inspect and service appliances to ensure they function properly. This includes disposing of toaster crumbs and cleaning the oven and microwave. Particles left behind could potentially ignite.

2. Unplug Small Appliances

Along with being energy efficient, unplugging toasters, mixers and other small appliances is a good habit. If they are older models, the wiring could begin to fail. If left plugged in, it could overheat and cause a fire.

3. Install and Maintain a Smoke Detector

A smoke detector is the first line of defense in fire safety. One should be installed near the kitchen but not in it so cooking smoke or steam doesn’t set it off. Be sure to change the batteries every six months to ensure it can be counted on.

4. Eliminate Buildup

A grease fire can happen when too much of it is being used and splatters. If it does spill over and is forgotten, it still retains its flammable properties.

5. Stay Involved

Like driving, when it’s time to cook, focus on cooking. When preparing food, items on the stove or in the oven should never be left unattended. Food can quickly bubble over or begin to burn.

6. Keep Fabrics Away

While cooking, avoid wearing long sleeves, which could easily catch fire. Keep towels, oven mitts and any paper products away from burners. Even the best chef has likely forgotten to turn off a burner. In the even that happens, making it habit to keep flammable objects away will keep a fire at bay.
These simple tips are easy ways to ensure the kitchen remains a safe zone. Changing a few habits can help you avoid needing professional help with fire damage cleanup.

Tips for Restoring Your Company’s Flood-Damaged Documents

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

Wet documents Wet documents are vulnerable to permanent damage if they are not addressed right away

Tips for Restoring Your Company’s Flood-Damaged Documents

If your business in Breckenridge, CO, has sustained flood damage, you are undoubtedly concerned about your property. Wet documents are vulnerable to permanent damage if they are not addressed right away. It is recommended that you hire a water restoration specialist with document services to facilitate the cleanup process.

Why Professional Assistance?

Floodwater can cause irreversible damage to your business documents. Because wet paper degrades quickly, time is of the essence. Here’s why hiring a professional cleanup and restoration company is essential to proper document handling.


Trained professionals work quickly to minimize secondary damage that can increase with time.
Experts are trained to safely extract highly contaminated floodwater from your wet documents.
Dangerous contamination is not always visible to the naked eye, and specialized equipment can better ensure complete sanitation.


Turning over your valuable documents to strangers can be unsettling. The more you know about what to expect, the more comfortable you may feel with the process.

What Happens to Your Documents?

Your important papers undoubtedly have significant value for your company. Client files, proposals, books, and other paper documents are often irreplaceable, making them a high-priority. Restoration crews generally use specialized equipment for document freezing as well as document drying and sanitizing. The team will begin by carefully gathering your papers and transporting them to a large freeze-drying facility. Freezing slows the deterioration of the paper and provides time for planning the restoration process.

The frozen documents are generally dried in a warming room equipped with special systems that vaporize the moisture and remove it from the environment. Because flood water causes severe contamination, an irradiation process may also be necessary for sanitization. Security protection is often offered as part of restoring your wet documents. HIPAA certified professionals will usually supervise the process, ensuring your valuable papers are handled confidentially.

Water damage from flooding presents an unsettling situation for you and your company. If your important business documents sustain damage, you will likely benefit from hiring a restoration company with document services. Professionals can provide state-of-the-art methods essential to restoring your irreplaceable documents as well as your peace of mind.

4 Ways To Minimize Losses After a Flood

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Parking garage with cars under water from a flood. In addition to damaged infrastructure, interrupted business operations and lost revenue may be concerns.

Enduring a broken pipe and substantial flooding can have a detrimental impact on any business in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO.  Fortunately, there are four proactive steps every owner can take to minimize losses and safeguard their financial investments.


1. Develop a Contingency Plan
Large water damage may make your building unusable for an extended period. To combat this potential dilemma, you should develop a well-devised contingency plan that allows you to continue essential operations during the cleanup and restoration process. Specific plan details may include designating a temporary office space, establishing vital communication procedures with staff and customers and identifying prospective equipment rentals.


2. Designate a Restoration Company
Quickly commencing repairs can reduce downtime and prevent secondary damage. To expedite this process, you should designate the professional restoration company you plan to work with in the event of serious flooding and identify personnel responsible for overseeing the process.
If possible, establish and file an emergency plan with the company. Understanding key aspects of your business in advance may allow them to commence work with minimal delays.


3. Understand Insurance Coverage
Because specific coverage and limitations vary from policy to policy, it’s also important to understand your insurance plan. Routinely reviewing your coverage can help you identify potential weaknesses and proactively enhance your policy. Business interruption insurance and a supplemental flood insurance policy are examples of key provisions that you may want to consider adding.


4. Keep Accurate Records
In the event a claim is necessary, your insurance provider may require you to submit a variety of documentation, such as a list of damaged items and their value. To facilitate this requirement, keep receipts and an updated inventory list readily accessible.


Enduring flooding and recovering from large-scale water damage can be daunting experiences. Recognizing that no business is immune from these threats and making proactive plans can help every owner minimize losses and quickly resume normal business operations.

How To Keep Your Sump Pump in Good Condition

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

A sump pump To prevent floodwater from invading your Breckenridge, CO, home, it’s crucial to take proper care of your sump pump

Tips On Pump Maintenance

To prevent floodwater from invading your Breckenridge, CO, home, it’s crucial to take proper care of your sump pump. This device, which drains water from the basin in your basement and keeps flooding at bay, is simple to maintain. Follow these tips on pump maintenance in order to avoid dealing with excess water in your living space.

Check for Issues

From the very start, you should confirm that there is nothing wrong with the condition of your pump. When inspecting the object, keep an eye out for:

  • Signs of wear and tear
  • Incorrect positioning
  • Debris

Keeping the object free of damage and debris allows it to work correctly. In addition, if the pump isn’t positioned correctly, it may not be able to drain water properly. Make sure that it is level and upright at all times to prevent further problems from occurring.

Inspect Drainage Pipes

After you examine your sump pump, it’s a good idea to turn your attention to your drainage pipes. These pipes have the role of removing water from the system and preventing flooding. First, verify that the pipes are draining water to the correct place, whether it’s a pipe that extends beyond your home’s foundation or the main sewage line. Once this is taken care of, make sure that the pipes are secure in order to prevent leaking.

Clean the Grate

Another central aspect of basic pump maintenance is taking care of the grate at the bottom of the basin. Over time, this grate can accumulate debris and eventually stop functioning properly. Be sure to clean your pump grate as often as needed to allow the pump to do its job of draining water from your living space.
If you come across any issues with your sump pump, it can cause severe flooding damage in your home. No matter what kind of harm you are facing, storm damage professionals can bring your home back to life in no time at all.

What To Do About Smelly Mold

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Mold mycotoxins Certain types of mold colonies can release a metabolic by-product called mycotoxins

You may know about mold, but you might not have heard the word mycotoxin before. As a homeowner in Vail, CO, this is probably a phenomenon you should become familiar with.

Why Does Mold Smell?

Mold is a living thing, so it does more than just look gross. Under the right conditions of moisture and temperature, certain types of mold colonies can release a metabolic by-product called mycotoxins, or toxigenic particles, that can be harmful to both humans and animals. You are usually alerted to their presence by a musty odor. Some common types of mycotoxin are:

  • Aflatoxin, usually produced by aspergillus fungi and often found on products from the tropics
  • Ochratoxin, usually produced by aspergillus or penicillum fungi and often contaminates beer, wine and fruit
  • Citrinin, usually produced by penicillum and used to make cheese
  • Fusarium, usually produced by fusarium fungi and often effects wheats and grains

How To Remove the Smell

Removing the smell requires removing the mycotoxin itself, which is in the air. HEPA air filtration devices are good at getting the job done. In order to prevent more being produced, you should also remove the mold itself. If the mold colony is less than 10 square feet, you are okay to clean it yourself. If it is larger, you should seek out professional help.

If the Smell Comes Back

If you have mold coming back in the same place over and over again, you may have a water issue. Mold needs moisture to thrive. Depending on where you find the mold, this could be a plumbing issue. Have your pipes checked for leaks. If the mold is found in the basement or attic, it may be a matter of proper sealing and insulation. Professional mold remediation specialists can identify moisture sources as well as remove your mold for you.
Now that you know what a mycotoxin is, you know what you can do about it. Mold can be a fascinating subject of biology, but for a homeowner, it is also necessary knowledge.

Should I Replace My Carpet After a Pipe Break?

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

A pipe in the ground bursting out water. In ideal situations, homeowners can usually clean wet carpets rather than replacing them.

When dealing with a pipe break in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO, it is likely that your carpeted flooring will be exposed to prolonged water saturation. Consider the following three factors when debating whether to clean or replace carpet flooring after a house flood.


1. Water Contamination Level
Any time flooding occurs in your home, the degree of contamination can be determined on a scale from 1 to 3. 1st degree flood water contamination is often referred to as clean water contamination. When water leaks from a sanitary source such as a sink or tub it is not contaminated yet but can cause structural damage. Rather than ripping up your padded floors and throwing them all away, attempt to salvage the carpeting. Pull back the flooring all the way to the padding and dry it out in the following ways:

Open windows for fresh air
Use fans to circulate air
Use a shop vac to suck-up excess sitting water

2. Amount of Exposure
After determining the source of the flooding, figure out how long has the carpet has been soaking in water. Even when a pipe break leaks sanitary water, the water's contamination level can change drastically with time. If your rug has been exposed to water for more than a couple of days the pollution may be considered "grey water" making it less sanitary. Carpeting that has grey or black water flooding may not be as easily salvaged.


3. Resources for Restoring
It's true, flood restoration may sound like a hassle after experiencing a home pipe break. However, restoring rather than replacing your floors can save you a lot of money in the long run. Evaluate the resources you have at your disposal and consider hiring a home water restoration company. These experienced professionals have the tools and experience needed to help you in your effort to save your existing flooring.

3 Types of Flood Water and How They Can Affect Your Workplace

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flood waters rising over business such as a McDonalds in the background. Every business owner should know these three categories of water damage.

As a business leader, you're concerned about the profitability of your company. You also have responsibility for the safety and well-being of your employees and for the integrity and functionality of your organization. You probably have plans in place to respond to fires and other emergencies, but are you aware of the dangers of flood water? There are different degrees of severity when it comes to flooding. The more you understand these, the better response you can have in your Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO, workplace.


Flood Causes
Any number of things could go wrong in your office to start a flood. Sometimes, it could be a simple matter of your building succumbing to age and to wear and tear. Often, the following will introduce water on the floors or into the walls or ceiling of your facility:

-A toilet overthrow
-Backed-up sewer line
-Poorly placed rain gutters and downspouts
-Broken or leaking pipes
-Damaged foundation

Category 1 Flooding
This is the least harmful type of flood water. It consists of clean water, so you can take comfort that it won't have dangerous materials in it. Though the water can still damage electronics, documents, furniture, carpet and walls, it won't pose harm to you or your employees. It can occur as a result of pipe problems or a leaking roof.


Category 2 Flooding, Gray Water
This type of water has moderate health concerns for individuals. A broken dishwasher in your break room or a toilet overflow could bring Category 2 water into your office. You should still exercise caution around this water.


Category 3, Black Water
This water can be lethal to humans, as it contains raw sewage, including fecal matter. You may also find hazardous materials such as silt in black water. Never attempt to clean up black water on your own Instead, call a skilled sewage cleanup team immediately.


Flood water can be a serious matter in your building, regardless of the category. Be aware of what characteristics constitute these three types.

How To Know Materials Need To Be Replaced

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hallway of home flooded, the living room and brick fire place are in the distance. Water damage can be costly, but repair can lower the expense.

A flooded home can lead to many problems. If materials in your home get waterlogged, you may see buckling or swelling wood. Water mitigation specialists in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO, can determine whether the materials can be repaired or must be replaced. Here are some of the questions involved in that decision.


Is It Saturated?
There is a difference between a floor or wall that is merely wet and one that has been completely saturated with water from a supply line leak. Some signs that your hardwood floors have taken on water damage include:

Cupping, evidenced by uneven edges
Bulging, evidenced by bowed shape
Buckling, evidenced by detachment from the floor underneath

Boards or other materials that are significantly damaged will probably have to be replaced.


Can It Be Dried?
Technicians will likely set up industrial fans or other means of increasing air flow to the flooded area. This drying process helps them determine what can be dried and salvaged. Slightly swelling wood that retains its shape after being dried may be able to be affixed or nailed back into place. Other items may dry on the surface but still remain warped or show lasting signs of damage. These materials will probably need to be replaced. If a large portion of the floor or wall is damaged beyond repair, it may be less expensive to replace the whole floor or wall rather than try to make new boards or materials fit.


Can It Be Cleaned?
If you have a leak from a clean water source, such as a pipe or supply line, technicians probably won't have to clean the materials to restore them. They can usually just be dried after water pipe repair has been completed. If the water has become contaminated, however, cleaning is necessary in order to avoid secondary damage. Once mold or other extended damage occurs, the affected materials will probably have to be replaced.
Certified experts can determine whether or not the swelling wood in your floors requires repair or replacement.

What To Expect From a Storm Cleanup Crew

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Thunder storm with a purple sky. Knowing what to expect when a cleanup crew arrives can give you peace of mind.

"When a storm wreaks havoc on your building in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO, you need the expertise of flood damage specialists to restore your building to its original state. They have to tear out old material and rebuild after the building is clean. You can expect the cleanup crew to work through four basic steps after arrival.


1. Water Extraction
The first thing that has to happen to stop further water damage is extraction. Floods usually leave a significant amount of standing water. Technicians use industrial pumps to remove water and special machinery to siphon off as much of the excess that is left behind as possible. 


2. Material Removal
Flood water typically leaves destruction of structural materials in its wake. The crew must tear out waterlogged drywall and any damp insulation they find. Ceiling tiles or flooring may have to be taken out as well. Anything that is no longer structurally sound has to go.


3. Area Drying
The parts of the structure that are salvageable must be dried thoroughly. If too much moisture is left in your building, your water damage problem can turn into a mold problem. Drying out the area prevents this from happening.


4. Building Restoration
The last thing technicians do before the job is finished is restore your building to its former functionality. Walls have to be rebuilt, and missing ceiling tiles must be replaced. The storm restoration crew will likely match the new materials with the remaining materials so that no one can tell where the former begins and the latter ends. Once the structure is rebuilt and everything looks like its supposed to look, the building is ready for use again.

Talk through the process of extraction, tear out, drying and restoration with your lead technician before the work begins."

-How To Prepare for Storm Season-

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy storm with dark overtones of storm clouds and orange flashes of lighting. You may not be able to avoid storms, but you can prepare for them.

"Heavy storms can be unpredictable, but one thing you can predict is how you will respond if they affect your building in Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, CO. You may not be able to prevent all flood water from invading your place of business. Instead, plan what you will do if such an event occurs.


Have an Emergency Plan
Every business owner should have a plan for dealing with a flooded building. There are several questions your plan needs to answer:

Who makes the decision to start emergency protocol?
How do people evacuate the building?
What are the necessary tasks that need to be accomplished, and who is in charge of each one?
How do employees communicate with you and one another during the emergency?

When you know that flood water is an imminent danger, an emergency plan can help you keep the people in your building safe and help you minimize damage to the building. 


Back Up Vital Data
It's always important to back up vital data, but it is especially necessary during storm season. The main threat to the items in your building during a storm is probably water damage. Equipment that cannot be repaired can be replaced fairly easily, but this is not the case with important documents. If the information is lost, it could set your business back. A digital backup may end up saving you money and time.


Set Mitigation Process in Motion
If your building is damaged by a storm, you don't want to wait to call in repairs. A water cleanup company can assess the damage to your building, provide an estimate of the cost of remediation and give you a timeline for how long the process is likely to take. Make sure you have the number of a trusted company readily available in case you need it.


By planning ahead, you may be able to minimize the impact that impending flood water has on your business."

6 Tips and Tricks For When You Find Mold in Your Home

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Moldy wall Very moldy wall.

1. Don’t panic. Mold can happen in everyone’s home, especially in bathrooms or damp basements.

2. Contact your insurance provider to find out if mold removal is covered under your policy. In most cases it will be, but it may depend on the cause of the mold.

3. It is beneficial to have the mold tested to see what kind of mold you are dealing with and to what extend your home has been affected.

4. Make any necessary changes to minimize mold in your home (caulk around water fixtures, fix any roof leaks, clean gutters, etc.).

5. Decide with your mold specialist whether it is safe to remove yourself or whether hiring a professional to provide remediation is a good idea. Once removed, retest your home to measure mold levels.

6. When you need a professional, turn to SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties! Our team specializes in stopping mold at the source, cleaning and decontaminating the affected area, and taking measures to prevent more mold growth. With state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques, we restore your property to its previous condition. 

Are you a Mold Spore or Contaminant Carrier?

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spores Are you a carrier?

While the cleaning equipment you use is inorganic and unlikely to cause such a scenario, the question remains: Should you regularly clean and decontaminate it, especially after cleaning such areas as healthcare facilities or the residence of a hoarder where pathogens exist? What about areas where there was a serious mold contamination problem?

Although medical buildings may not look dirty, most of their carpets, flooring, and furniture have contaminates that are easily dispersed by air movement caused by vacuum cleaners, dust mops, or even just being brushed against.

For example, it’s very common for families who escape from a mold-polluted residence to cross-contaminate their new place of residence to which they move by carrying the spores on themselves, clothing, and possessions. You can do the same by not decontaminating your equipment.

But, cleaning equipment before leaving a contaminated jobsite is essential. Otherwise, the vehicle you transport it in will itself end up with mold spores. Then, even if the equipment is cleaned back at your shop or warehouse, it can again become contaminated once it’s loaded back into the same truck—and you’ll carry those mold spores on to the next job.

If your equipment has been used where the flu virus is rampant, wash the surfaces with a general household cleaner to remove grime, then rinse with water and apply an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill germs. Be sure to read the label to confirm it’s EPA approved for effectiveness against influenza A virus. If a surface isn’t visibly dirty, clean it with an EPA-registered product that will both clean (remove germs) and disinfect (kills germs) instead.

If there was mold contamination at your last job site, wipe down all surfaces of your equipment with a disinfectant like Benefect or Sporicidin. Be sure to also replace the filters in vacuum cleaners and any portable air filtration devices before using them again. Recovery tanks on portable carpet cleaning extractors should also be flushed out and cleaned to remove any pollutants that were picked up on the worksite.

Granted, contamination may not happen on every job. And while air movement may scatter contaminates, that same air movement also makes it very hard for microbes to grow, including mold. Since every job is different, you’ll have to make a judgment call. But it’s a good habit to go ahead and clean your equipment after all jobs anyway. Doing so not only makes the units more presentable to your next customer—after all, who wants to see dirty equipment being hauled into their home or business?—but also ensures you won’t end up becoming a “carrier.” 

The Difference between Structure Fire Smoke and Wildfire Smoke

7/7/2019 (Permalink)

No debate needing, inhaling smoke from any type of fire can be hazardous to your health. Smoke inhalation is the most common cause of death in house fires. Just a few minutes of exposure to thick smoke can cause brain damage or even death.

As restoration contractors, we usually aren’t faced with that immediate, thick smoke, but dangers still remain after the fire is out – whether it’s dealing with structural damage from a large house fire, or smoke odor removal following a wildfire.

House Fire Smoke

There are more than one million house fires in the U.S. each year, meaning there are a lot of fire jobs out there for restoration companies. The biggest dangers post-fire come from VOCs (volatile organic compounds) found in the air that have been released from contents within the structure. For example, when some materials burn – like synthetic rubber, plastic, or foam – they can release cyanide into the air. Those substances are commonly found in furniture, clothing, Tupperware, and so much more within any structure.

Research published by the National Institutes of Health back in 2002 said, “During the past 50 years, synthetic polymers have been introduced in buildings in very large quantities. Many contain nitrogen or halogens, resulting in the release of hydrogen cyanide and inorganic acids in fire smoke as additional threats.”

Exposure to these VOCs can cause permanent health issues, which is why proper PPE is critical during fire jobs, especially during the initially scoping, estimating, and demo phase if the fire was severe.

Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke also carries fine particles that can be dangerous when inhaled. These particles tend to come from more organic sources, versus the synthetic sources we talked about above from house fires. When thinking about wildfire smoke, think about burning trees and other plant materials, and just how dense the air can get when the fire is nearby. Add to that litter, synthetic compounds from local structures that have burned, and ash, and it’s a recipe for disaster for human health – even after the fire.

When remediating a structure affected by wildfire smoke, it is important to remember to clean air ducts as well because it’s likely even the most inner parts of the structure have been touched by the smoke and soot.

Protection during Fire Damage Remediation

Here are some quick tips to keep your team safe during fire jobs, no matter the cause or source of the fire.

  1. Wear proper PPE. This includes respirators, and doing proper fit tests for them! A dust mask is not enough.
  2. Avoid direct contact with anything directly affected by the fire. Again, this is why PPE is critical. If you handle affected items with bare hands, it is easy for contaminants to transfer into your body.
  3. Use equipment, like HEPA vacs, that are able to filter out small particles.
  4. Ventilate the area where you are working if possible. But remember, if the smoke damage has not affected the HVAC system, turning that system on before remediating the smoke damage and odor could cause the odor and soot to be circulated throughout an entire building instead of contained to a certain area.
  5. Consider having IAQ testing done to determine VOCs in the air and establish a scope of work and remediation protocol.

Mold Prevention in New Construction

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

a man in a white suite spraying green paint on white wood Mold prevention is a must when it comes to commercial property management.

In new construction of commercial or residential properties, mold can be a pesky nightmare. While moisture – and the potential for mold – is seemingly inevitable in some situations, there are a number of things that you can do to avoid a major mold problem:


– Utilize a condensate pump and drain, which is used to filter any moisture build up within duct work out so that within that enclosed duct work the moisture does not sit for an extended period of time and begin to grow into mold.

 
– Activate a dehumidifier, which is used to collect the damp, humid conditions within an enclosed area with little to no air movement that has no outside exposure (such as a basement).


– Use a ventilator system, which is used to filter incoming air and recollects heat from used air before exhausting it out of the new building/new home.

And, in the situations of mold growth, do NOT hesitate to reach out to the team at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties –  we are your go-to for mold remediation!

Common Fire Hazards in the Home

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Hazards in the Home

House fires can happen in the blink of an eye if we aren’t careful. There are easy every day hazards we could avoid to help reduce the chance of a fire in your home.

Common Fire Hazards in the Home:

  1. Candles: Many candle fires are started due to unattended candle usage. Candles should not be left burning for hours at a time and its highly recommended to not use in the bedroom.
  2. Cooking: Kitchen fires are some of the top places home fires start. Never leave cooking unattended. If you leave turn off the burner, oven, or microwave. Clean your oven regularly and the rest of the kitchen appliances. Keep kids and pets clear of cooking areas and always turn pot handles in.
  3. Electrical fire: Use safe appliances. Keep appliances on level surfaces and remember to turn off all electrical appliances when not in use
  4. Matches and lighters: Keep out of reach of children. Make sure they are completely out when done using and if a lighter use all safety measures.
  5. Smoking materials: The misuse of products like cigarettes and pipes can cause house fires too. Make sure to put out all cigarettes and follow all guidelines for electrical smoking devices

These are just a few tips to help keep your home safe

Contaminated Water Damage: Why You Should Call Us for Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning up contaminated water can be a messy business, but the experts at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties have got you covered.

When it comes to sewage cleanup and contaminated water restoration, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties knows exactly how to help – safely and quickly.

Contaminated water should be considered very dangerous. For example, water from a sewer system backup is grossly unsanitary, which means it is extremely unhealthy to come into contact with. Sewer water can harbor multiple different kinds of bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness to people exposed. You’ll need an expert to help take care of this ASAP, and SERVPRO is here to help.

Sewage Backup or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today (24/7 Emergency Service) (970) 949-3235

Keep reading to learn more about contaminated water damage and how we can help.

Categories of Water Contamination

Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean up contaminated water, and we’re the experts you want to call to get your property or home back to its original condition.

We will inspect your water contamination to determine which category of water the contamination falls under, and then we will plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

Our industry identifies three major categories of contaminated water:

Category 1: Clean Water

Clean water comes from a clean source, like a broken clean water supply line or a leaking faucet. Though clean water is not contaminated, if it’s left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or category 3 water.

How fast clean water degrades into category 2 or 3 water will depend on factors like time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

Category 2: Gray Water

Gray water is the next level of contamination up from clean water. Gray water has a significant level of contamination (bacteria and viruses) that could cause discomfort or illness if it’s ingested. Sources for gray water may include a washing machine overflow, a toilet overflow with some urine (but no feces), or a dishwasher overflow.

It’s important to know that gray water can quickly degrade into category 3 water if left untreated.

Category 3: Black Water

Black water is grossly unsanitary and can cause severe illness or death if it is ingested. All contact with this type of water should be avoided. Sources for black water can include flooding from rivers or streams (groundwater flooding), water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Because black water may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes, it is very important to avoid all contact with it and call an expert ASAP to help you mitigate the damage.

We Offer 24-Hour Emergency Service

A contaminated water backup like a sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. Here at SERVPRO, we are water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.

We respond immediately to your water damage event and can begin mitigating as soon as we arrive.

Call Us Today For 24/7 Emergency Service – (970) 949-3235

Commercial Restoration in Summit & Eagle County: We Clean & Restore Hotels, Resorts, Stores, and More

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

If your Summit or Eagle County business needs help with cleaning, contaminated water damage, fire restoration or mold remediation – we’re here to help

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, in addition to offering services to homeowners, we specialize in emergency cleaning and restoration for commercial businesses in these counties, too.

Unfortunately, there's never a convenient time for damage to strike your business. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage, every hour you spend cleaning up yourself is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Call the experts – we’re available 24/7 and because we are locally owned and operate in Summit & Eagle Counties – we’ll get there fast and start helping you immediately.

Call Us for Emergencies With Your Business – (970) 949-3235

We specialize in the following types of emergency services:

  • Commercial Water Damage Mitigation & Restoration
  • Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
  • Commercial Mold Remediation
  • Commercial Storm Events

We Have What It Takes To Restore Your Commercial Property

At SERVPRO, we know that cleaning and restoring commercial properties requires a unique blend of the right training, hands-on experience, and specialized equipment. We have the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients and your business.

We service the following types of commercial businesses:

  • Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
  • Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
  • Manufacturing & Industrial
  • High-Rise Residential
  • Hotels & Motels
  • Restaurants
  • Small Office Buildings
  • Apartment Buildings
  • Small Retail Stores

Our Specialty Commercial Cleaning Services

Whether you need to remove a pesky odor problem or you need to deep-clean flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties to get the job done right – the first time. We’ll respond to your call quickly and get to work immediately – making your business look its very best.

We offer a wide range of commercial cleaning services. From removing biohazard contaminants to removing lingering odors like cigarette smoke, SERVPRO has the specialized training and products to get your property back to business as soon as possible. We will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Some of our commercial cleaning services include:

  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
  • Odor Removal and Deodorization
  • Biohazard and Sewage
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Vandalism

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (970) 949-3235

Wildfire Recovery & Restoration – How to Restore Your Ski Country Home & Clean Up After a Wildfire

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

When Wildfire Takes Control of Your Life, we help you take it back. [Pamphlet]. (2011). SERVPRO.com 47014

When wildfire takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties helps you take it back. As local residents of Colorado’s Ski Country, we know that wildland fires have made an unfortunate impact on many of us this season.

Ski Country Wildfire Restoration Pros

When a wildfire hits too close to your home, the results can be especially overwhelming. Cleaning up after a wildfire takes specific knowledge and skills. Since our team members live here in the Colorado mountains, we are very familiar with wildfire cleanup, and we know exactly what techniques to use to help you get your property back to preloss condition.

We will help guide you through your wildfire cleanup and restoration project, as well as offer some helpful tips on what to do after you’ve experienced a wildland fire event – like how to tackle the fire retardant solution your home was doused with.

Keep reading to learn more.

Wildfire Retardant Clean-up Experts

One of the hardest parts about cleaning up your property after a wildfire is tackling the reddish-pink fire retardant that firefighters may have dumped on and around your home. While this fire retardant may have saved your home from the wildfire, it can be very difficult to clean off of surfaces, and it does contain ammonia – which can over-dry and sting your skin if you come into contact with it.

Since firefighters drop large amounts of fire retardant on structures to protect them from burning, there may be a substantial amount of the substance left on your home after the fire has been contained.

Call Us at 970-949-3235 for help with your wildfire damage event – we respond quickly and can get to work with cleanup immediately.

For more help, check out these Fire Retardant Clean-up Tips:

  • Wash retardant off as soon as possible. If the retardant solution has dried and is present for several days in the hot sunshine some discoloration may result.
  • To remove retardant solutions from smooth surfaces, use a garden hose to wet the surface followed by scrubbing to clean the surface.
  • Some products may discolor or corrode metal. Corrosion generally occurs over a prolonged period. Unless removed from painted surfaces before the retardant dries, it is possible that fading may occur.
  • The highly colored, fine particles (iron oxide or rust that make the drop more visible to pilots) present in fire retardant can be very stubborn to remove from rough or porous surfaces such as stone and rock. Use clean-up procedures that do not have a tendency to drive the color pigment deeper into the rough, uneven surfaces.
  • Rinse retardant off of vegetation like trees as soon as possible to avoid leaf “burning”.

Learn more about Wildland Fire Retardant Clean-up.

Call us at 970-949-3235 for immediate help with your wildfire restoration project. Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond fast to your Ski Country fire damage event.

Need Commercial Cleaning Services in the High Rockies? SERVPRO is here to help!

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we offer commercial cleaning services for your office or business in the High Rockies of Colorado.

Most people don’t have time to worry about the daily wear and tear that soils their office workplace or commercial business. When your regular janitorial staff needs help tackling grime, odor, and moisture challenges, call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties for fast and efficient service.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (970) 949-3235

Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your place of business look its very best.

We Specialize in Cleaning Commercial Spaces

SERVPRO offers a wide variety of cleaning services – from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants – we can clean-up almost any commercial space. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

Some of our specialized cleaning services include:

  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
  • Odor Removal and Deodorization

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. Carpet and upholstery tend to show soiling over time. A great way to protect your investment is to clean and maintain these items. SERVPRO offers a number of cleaning options to match any type of upholstery or carpet.

Here are some of our specialized cleaning methods:

  • Bonnet Cleaning – a less aggressive method for short piled carpets
  • Hot Water Extraction – a deeper cleaning method for all types of carpet
  • Deluxe Precondition and Rinse – helps restore deeply soiled areas.
  • Showcase Premier Cleaning – the most thorough cleaning method in the industry.

Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

Your business’s ceilings, walls and hardwood floors may be exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants. The heating and air conditioning system can distribute these contaminants throughout your property. Soils tend to accumulate on these materials over time, and eventually you’ll need professional cleaning to remove this buildup.

At SERVPRO, we have specialized training in time-tested and industry-approved cleaning methods.

Our proprietary cleaning system allows our team members to properly clean and restore your property’s original beauty.

Professional Odor Removal and Deodorization

As experts in deodorization, we are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contact any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

Need Professional Cleaning? Call Us Today (970) 949-3235

Always There When You Call: Why 24-Hour Emergency Service is Crucial in Water Restoration

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties at 970-949-3235 any time day or night for your water damage emergency.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we provide 24-hour emergency water restoration services 7 days a week, 365 days per year – including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response from us anytime you call, day or night.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (970) 949-3235

Why We Take Immediate Action

Many water damage events require immediate action to be taken to find the source of the water and begin mitigating. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage, cleaning and restoration costs. Water is particularly invasive. That’s why SERVPRO arrives quickly and starts working immediately.

Our water damage timeline below will give you a better idea of how water damage affects your home or business – and more importantly – how quickly the damage can spread. 

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes:

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Within 1 – 24 hours:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

Within 48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

As you can see, taking into account the information above, it’s best to call a water restoration professional as soon as possible after your water damage event.

Call Us 24/7 for Emergency Service – (970) 949-3235

When Cañon City Experienced Severe Storms, We Were There to Restore the Flood Damage

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

This photo of storm damage in a Cañon City, Colorado, home shows water and mud that flooded in and caused damage to the floor and walls.

Flood cleanup and ground water damage restoration can be a messy business, especially when you don’t have the help you need to mitigate the damage and restore your home and belongings back to their original condition.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we recently had the opportunity to travel down to Cañon City, Colorado, to help a number of homeowners who experienced flooding due to a severe storm event. The storms caused significant temporary ground water flooding, heavy hail, and very high winds.

We Were There FAST

Even when a storm event takes place outside of our immediate service area – SERVPRO is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week for emergency storm damage and flood cleanup in the Central Colorado Mountains.

When we received the first call from a homeowner in Cañon City, we were there within a matter of hours to begin mitigating the storm damage. A fast response to begin mitigating and extracting water is essential to keep damage and restoration costs down for homeowners.  

Severe Weather Means Serious Cleanup

Restoring storm- and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

We are storm damage specialists and have extensive water damage and storm restoration training that allows us to get your home back to normal quickly.

From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Qualifications – IICRC Training and Certification

The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certifies and sets the rules for the water restoration industry.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, our team members study IICRC standards and best practices and are certified in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and more.

This gives us the ability to take your water damaged home from wet and muddy to “Like it never even happened.”

Have Storm or Flood Damage in Colorado?
Call Us Today 
(970) 949-3235

Fire Damage Restoration – Mitigating Fire Damage from Small and Large Fires in the High Rockies

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows significant fire damage that resulted from a large garage fire in Salida, Colorado.

If your home or business in the High Rockies suffers fire damage, it can be especially devastating. Not only does the actual fire and smoke cause damage, but your property may have suffered water damage from firefighting efforts. You’ll need a team of trained and caring experts to guide you through the fire damage restoration process.

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties has the specialized knowledge, fire damage and water damage equipment to help mitigate the damage and restore your property back to its original condition.

We are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and because we’re locally owned and operated, we respond fast to your fire damage event in the High Rockies, and we will begin helping you as soon as we arrive.

Small & Large Fires Both Cause Big Damage

Small fires are treated no differently than large fires at SERVPRO. The photo above shows the damage from a large garage fire in Salida, Colorado. The fire caused significant damage to the entire garage and the living quarters above it. We were able to arrive quickly and begin mitigating immediately. We cleaned up and restored the garage and upstairs bedrooms, which included reconstruction services.

While that was an example of the damage a large fire can cause, even small fires, like a small bedroom fire, will still smoke out most of the home, causing smoke damage to areas the fire didn’t actually reach.

See our photo gallery for more examples of fire damaged properties that we have cleaned up and restored.

How to Handle Fire Damage in Your Home or Business

We know fires can be very traumatic events. If you suffer a fire damage event, remember 2 things – 1. Call us 24/7 at 970-949-3235 for emergency services, and 2. Follow the fire damage emergency tips below to protect yourself and your property.

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

DO-

  • Limit movement within property to avoid embedding soot particles into upholstery and carpets.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.

DON’T-

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.

Summit & Eagle County Residents: If You Suspect Mold, Follow These Safety Tips

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

This shows a significant mold infestation that was found in an Eagle County crawlspace. We performed a mold remediation and eliminated the infestation

Mold growth can be a big problem for a homeowner, and at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park, & Eagle Counties, we know exactly how to handle the testing, mold removal, and restoration of a property back to preloss condition. 

The Growing Effects of a Mold Infestation

The mold in the photo shown above infested a local Eagle County crawlspace – thanks to a pin-sized hole in a freshwater pipe that went undetected for almost a month. Thankfully, mold problems like this can be mitigated with the right expertise and equipment – and SERVPRO was there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Check out the before and after photos to learn more.

Our trained technicians were able to test for and remove the mold growth in the crawlspace, and then restore the space back to its preloss condition. The family who owns this home was very grateful that we were able to recover their home and protect them from any potential health effects. 

What You Should Do If You Find Mold

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we specialize in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If you see visible mold, it is very important to make sure you don’t disturb it. Microscopic mold spores can spread very easily, and you can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home to unaffected areas.

When mold is disturbed, the mold spores can become airborne and circulate inside your home.

Below are some tips on how to handle mold damage should you discover it. Check out our mold damage emergency tips as well to learn more.

Tips on How to Handle Mold Damage

What to Do-

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Call us 24/7 at 970-949-3235 for emergency mold remediation.

What NOT to Do-

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

After the Storm: Flood Restoration & Water Damage Cleanup in the Central Colorado Mountains

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

Flood, boarded-up home This photo of a home we serviced in Cañon City, Colorado, shows the windows boarded up as a result of hail damage from severe storms.

At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we specialize in flood restoration and water damage restoration services. Though we are based in the High Rockies, we respond to calls in many service areas, including places like Cañon City, Colorado.

Our crew is trained in the most up-to-date cleaning and drying techniques, and we use highly specialized drying equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition, whether it’s a residential property or a commercial business.

Fast Response

Since we are locally owned and operate out of Avon, Colorado, we are able to respond quickly to storm emergencies in Vail Valley, Summit County, and surrounding mountain regions. We are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies with the right resources, which is extremely important in a flood cleanup situation.

We begin to mitigate the water damage as soon as we arrive at your property and gain access to the affected area.

A fast response lessens the damage to your home or property, limits further damage from water and mud, and reduces the restoration cost. The first 48 hours are the most crucial to prevent further damage from the water affecting the property.

Learn more about the timeline of water damage here.

How to Handle Floods and Storms

When intense thunderstorms, strong winds and hail hit the mountain regions of Colorado, we can scale our resources to handle a storm disaster or flood quickly and easily. The most important thing is to contact us as soon as it is reasonably possible after you notice or are notified about flooding and water damage in your home or commercial business.

The faster you contact us, the faster we can get to the property and begin to mitigate.

We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States, ready to respond to even the most catastrophic and major storm events.

No job is too large for the best of the best in restoration.

Do you have storm or flood damage? Call Us Today at 970-949-3235.

Water Damage Restoration & Asbestos Testing in Colorado – When Do You Need to Test?

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

This shows the demolition process on drywall in a garage in a Breckenridge home. We had to perform asbestos testing before we removed the drywall.

As water restoration specialists in Colorado, our team at SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties knows the regulations for asbestos testing in this state well. Every state has different regulations that govern the rules for when you are required to test for asbestos. It’s our job to help you navigate the question of when to do an asbestos test, and we will work closely with you to determine whether you need to perform a test during your project.

You probably have questions about why asbestos testing is even necessary. “Isn’t that something older homes need? My home was only built a few years ago!” you might be thinking.

Keep reading to learn more about the laws for asbestos testing.

What You Need to Know as a Colorado Property Owner

Some water damage restoration jobs require demolition in order to restore the property to its preloss condition. If this demolition disturbs enough manmade material, the job will require asbestos testing. As a customer, you can rely on us to tell you exactly when we will need to test for asbestos during your water restoration project.

The amount of manmade building material being removed from the structure will determine whether or not you’ll need to test for asbestos. Regardless of the material’s age, once a certain threshold is reached, asbestos testing is required by law.

The threshold for testing is determined by type of material being removed. So, there are different thresholds for different materials.

Manmade materials are classified into 3 categories:

  • Surfacing materials, like drywall texture or popcorn ceilings
  • Thermal system insulation, which is used to insulate heating systems and water pipes
  • Miscellaneous materials, like wallboard or shingles

Trigger Levels: When to Test in Your Home or Business

It’s important to understand the threshold levels for asbestos testing are different for residential homes and commercial properties. If demolition for the water restoration project exceeds any of the following trigger levels, asbestos testing is required per Colorado state law.

Asbestos Test Trigger Levels

For Residential Areas

  • Surfacing materials (sq. ft.) - 32
  • Thermal system insulation (lineal feet) - 50
  • Miscellaneous materials (gallon drum) - 55

For Commercial Areas

  • Surfacing materials (sq. ft.) - 160
  • Thermal system insulation (lineal feet) - 260
  • Miscellaneous materials (gallon drum) - 55

When We Test at SERVPRO

As a water restoration business with a team of employees, SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties is required to test for asbestos even when the material thresholds listed above may not have been reached.

Any time one of our employees needs to cut any amount of drywall during the demolition process, we are required by law to test for asbestos. 

Do you have questions about a water restoration project in Summit County Colorado? Give us a call at 970-949-3235.

SERVPRO is here to help!

We Get There Faster: 24/7 Emergency Service for Your Colorado Ski Country Water Damage Event

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties provides 24-hour emergency water damage restoration in the Central Colorado Mountains.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. At SERVPRO of Summit, Lake, Park & Eagle Counties, we provide emergency water extraction and restoration services 24 hours per day, 7 days per week – 365 days per year.

We Respond Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and is absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. At SERVPRO, we are locally owned and operated, so we are able to arrive quickly to your Ski Country property and start mitigating the damage through water extraction almost immediately.

This immediate response helps to minimize the damage, cleaning, and the restoration costs.

Tips: What You Can Do Until Help Arrives

When you encounter any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. To address safety, you can follow the tips below until help arrives.

  1. Determine if it is safe to stay in the house.
  2. Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  3. Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  4. Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Here’s what you should do – and what you should NOT do after flooding or water damage:

DO-

  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

DON’T-

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

Need Emergency Service? Call us 24-hours per day at 970-949-3235. 

Restoring Your Ski Country Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events in the High Rockies commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Summit

SERVPRO of Summit specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

 

Storms or Floods Hit the High Rockies, SERVPRO is Ready!

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Storm Ready Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Summit, Eagle, Park, and Lake Counties.

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the high rockies, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (970)949-3235

Ski Country Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/22/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Ski Country Home.

 

 

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Summit will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (970)949-3235

SERVPRO of Summit, Park, Eagle , & Lake: 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/22/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Summit provides 24 hour water damage restoration service in the higher rockies (Summit, Park, Eagle, and Lake Counties).

SERVPRO of Summit, Park, Eagle, and Lake is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (970)949-3235

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Summit has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Summit

SERVPRO of Summit 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. 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.

http://www.SERVPROsummitlakeparkeaglecounties.com/employee-photos

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