Wildfire Safety Tips – How To Protect Yourself From Smoke Damage In Paradise Valley, AZ

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Wild Fire & Smoke Damage, Paradise Valley, AZ.

Did you know that Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source? In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

With the recent wildfires Arizona has been experiencing in both the northern & southern regions, we wanted to share some tips to protect yourself, family and loved ones:

• Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
• Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
• Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. 
• Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

If your property has been affected by smoke damage, help is one call or click away!

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for all your Fire & Smoke Restoration needs. Schedule your appointment today:

(602) 341-6737 OR office@SERVPROparadisevalley.com / www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com.

Source Credit: https://www.iqair.com/

Storm Season in Scottsdale, AZ - How To Prepare & Prevent Water Damage!

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage, Roof Leak in Scottsdale, AZ

With Storm Season in full swing in Arizona, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley wants to provide you with some Roof Maintenance tips to help prevent damage to your residence:

1. Look up.

   Twice a year (spring and fall) do a visual, from-the-ground inspection. Look for these problem areas.

   • Lifting or missing shingles
   • Damaged drip edge
   • Buckling, loose or missing flashing
   • Missing or exposed fasteners
   • Sagging or broken gutters
   • Piles of granules
2. Clean the gutters.

   Call in an expert to clean your gutters a few times a year — and especially before a big storm. Otherwise, water can back up and rot the fascia.

3. Trim the trees.

   One good storm can send branches crashing into your roof. Trim overhanging tree limbs.

4. Look for moss and algae.

   You can help prevent moss and algae growth by doing the following.

   • Keep your attic properly ventilated
   • Remove debris
   • Trim overhanging branches
5. Re-caulk, if necessary.

   If a low-grade caulking was used during the roof installation, flashings may not hold their seal. Call in an expert if you think the caulking needs a refresh .

6. Check the insulation.

   Proper insulation and ventilation in your attic can help keep your roof in good condition by preventing ice dams from forming and reducing moisture.

Even when we are most prepared, damages still strike! If all else fails and you spring a leak, call us at (602) 341-6737 or visit our website (www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com) to chat online to speak with a representative waiting by to assist!

What is "Monsoon Season" & How Does It Impact Phoenix, AZ

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoon Season, Storm Damage, Water Damage Restoration, Phoenix, AZ

In Arizona, we now look forward to the Monsoon season starting on June 15th... Every year the news channels start the "monsoon watch" and daily rainfall totals on this date. Commercials for the news channels talk about how to get warnings for heavy downpours, flash floods and haboobs (or dust storms if you remember the news pre 2008). 

We look outside though and see beautiful sunny days, no clouds in the sky and surely don't see any monsoon storms coming. So what really is the deal with the "monsoon season"?

In 2008 the National Weather Service changed the season to have specific dates from June 15th to through September 30th. Pre-2008 the monsoon season started when there were three consecutive days with an average dew point temperature of 55 degrees and ended when the storms stopped. 

Why the sudden change? In short, the change was made to keep track of monsoon data easier and more consistent. 

No matter what date the monsoon starts or ends, you can always count on SERVPRO of Paradise Valley to be there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

If one of our beautiful but powerful storms makes its way into your home or business call and we'll show you why we are "faster to any disaster". 

For immediate help call 602-341-6737

Storm Season... Are You Prepared? Protect Yourself From Storm Damage In Paradise Valley, AZ

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage & Water Damage Restoration, Paradise Valley, AZ

Preventative steps are necessary, especially when it comes to storms. In case you aren’t aware, storm season starts every year in March and goes through the end of June. During this three-month period, you want to be prepared at all times.

The heroes at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley want you to always be prepared for any storm damage. Preparation is always key. Here are 5 tips to prepare your home for storms.

Seal Your Roof

Storms can be highly unpredictable. You never know the severity of damage it can cause to your home, your belongings, your roof. It’s critical that you hire a professional to reinforce your roof well before strong winds hit. A professional can seal your roof to help protect it from those strong storms. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), “seal your roof deck using “peel and stick” tape along your roof seams, or a “peel and stick” membrane over the entire roof deck, or apply polyurethane foam.” If you invest in this now, this can save you hundreds, perhaps thousands, in the future.

Secure Your Windows & Doors

Your windows and doors of your home can be damaged when high winds from storms hit. Ensure you secure your windows and doors. When it comes to your doors, here are some things to check for:

• Hinges
• Screws missing
• Door threshold

According to Nationwide Insurance, “be sure the door threshold is tightly screwed into your house and not just the door frame. You may want to consider installing new wind-resistant doors with a high design pressure (DP) rating. The DP rating is a measure of the level of wind force a door system can withstand without failing.” Do you know if you live in a region that’s prone to hurricanes and storms? It’s encouraged that you know this information, especially for preparation purposes. Here are the top five cities most vulnerable to hurricanes. If you live in one of those areas, or an area that is prone to these types of storms, you should heavily consider installing impact-resistant windows. These windows are specifically designed for these very purposes: to withstand forceful windows.   

Secure Fences

When strong winds strike your home, it can strike down fences and other objects that can cause more damage to your residential property. Before this happens, you want to ensure you secure fences to minimize the risk of further damage to other things or worse -- people. When investing in a home -- or if you’re replacing a fence -- factor in the strength and resilience of your fence. Weigh all your options, and make an educated decision. Don’t base your decision to buy a fence on how inexpensive it is. Because that factor alone can be much more expensive for you in the long-term, especially if a storm damages it and your home.      

Create a Family Emergency Plan

With any storm, preparation is key. Now -- not then -- is the time for you to create a family emergency plan so you, your family members and fur babies are well-equipped when a storm strikes. A family emergency plan can help save lives. Here are just a few items to include:

• Water
• Food
• Batteries
• Communication plan
• Phone and/or walkie talkies (some form of communication device)
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency supplies
• Important phone numbers

Anchor Loose Objects

If objects, such as grills, bikes, deck furniture, trash cans, etc., are loose when a storm hits your residential property, it can cause windows to break, damage to your vehicles, your home or a human being. It’s vital to anchor loose objects to help minimize the risk of outdoor threats. By adding shrubs of varying lengths, fences, trees in a row are ways to help block high winds. Utilizing landscaping and yard objects can be beneficial in this case.   

We hope you found these 5 tips to prepare your home for storms to be highly beneficial. Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and apparatus.

When a storm hits your home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. When a storm emergency occurs, we’re here for you 24 hours of the day, 365 days of the year. Just contact us at 602-341-6737.

Protect Your Business & Stores From Water Damage In Phoenix, AZ

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Phoenix, AZ

Do you know that 50% of businesses that experience a catastrophic loss don't ever recover and reopen? There are many ways in which a business can be impacted, but one main culprit is water. Water can come into your place of business in many different ways. A pipe that bursts in your shop or an adjacent storefront can be the culprit, or a leaky window allows rain to come inside and seep into your walls and carpet. Regardless of the source, controlling the damage is crucial in preventing loss of revenue.

Can't I Just Let my Dehumidifier do the Work?

Dehumidifiers greatly help in evaporating the water in your Paradise Valley store, but it may not be sufficient. On the one hand, your household dehumidifier may not be strong enough to extract water at speed necessary to avoid an escalation of damages. Along the same lines, it may not reach all the cavities in which water may collect. Failure to restore moisture levels can set the stage for complications later, including mold and other bacteria growth. When our SERVPRO team comes into your business, we bring industry-grade equipment to extract water, including the following:

• Truck-mounted pumps- we choose to use this type of equipment for large volumes of water. We can connect with municipal sewers by local rules and regulations as needed.
• Submersible pumps- this type of pump handles less volume than truck-mounted but is still a powerful extractor.
• Extractor wands- the wands help us reach corners and crevices that are otherwise out of reach for other pumps.

Air movers also aid the evaporation process, as do dehumidifiers. Having a choice of water extraction techniques at our disposal makes the process more efficient for you, translating into mitigating the time in which closes your business to customers.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is your partner when water comes into your commercial establishment. Contact us at 602-341-6737 and let us show you how we can leave your shop, "Like it never even happened."

One Call And That's All! Why Should You Choose SERVPRO of Paradise Valley?

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for your Restoration Needs.

If you have Clients / Customers in the Paradise Valley, AZ, area who are dealing with storm or flood damage, a storm restoration specialist can help, especially one as qualified as SERVPRO of Paradise Valley. Many of your clients may require restoration services following a disaster, and it is important to deal with a company that delivers not only on quick response times but also corporate assistance with the claims process. However, response time and claims assistance are only a fraction of the services provided.

1. Mitigation

Fundamental storm response must include mitigation practices to ensure that your client’s claim is not hung up on a technicality. Through board up, fencing and tarping services, your client’s property is protected from worsening existing damage as well as trespassers, animals and weather, ensuring a successful claim.

2. Cleanout

Before storm restoration and loss assessments can begin, it is necessary to clean out the home, ensuring that all damage is visible and known. It is not enough to remove excess water from flooding; debris must be removed and separated into actual rubbish and damaged insured items so that loss can be documented properly.

3. Restoration

Once proof of loss has been documented and all assessments and estimates approved, then it is time to move forward with the restoration work. This work may be extensive, requiring demolition and reconstruction, but in the end, your clients can return to their repaired home.

4. Claims Information Center

Beyond the services offered to your client, it is essential that you have access to the progress of the work and the claim. For you to understand fully the work being proposed, you can access the Claims Information Center and review similar claims as well as the progress on your own.

Storm restoration is a necessary solution to the misfortune severe weather can bring, and while it is your job as an insurance agent to help your clients rebuild through funding, it is the job of restoration companies, like SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, to restore the physical structure and help make the claims process as speedy as possible.

For more information please call our offices at 602-341-6737 or drop us an email at office@SERVPROparadisevalley.com. 

Are You Unsure? Undecided? Why SERVPRO of Paradise Valley Should Be Your Choice For Water & Fire Damage Restoration Needs In Scottsdale, AZ.

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, We Care For All Your Water & Fire Damage Restoration Needs, Scottsdale, AZ

Simply put, we care. We care about you, our potential Customer. We care about the stress any damage to your residence can bring. We care about your family, friends, fur babies and loved ones that are impacted from any disruption that you encounter. We are human like you, and we are here to serve you and help in any way we can.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is a small local business, family owned & operated, that has one focus on our mind, Customer satisfaction. Most companies have a “canned” response to each disaster, but we know and believe EACH Customer has specific needs, and we want to be there to help fulfill them.

You are more than just a number or job, you become family. We are here for you when others claim to be. Our business has been built on Customer referrals, word of mouth marketing and good old fashioned hard work. We do not shy aware from small jobs or large jobs, we tackle them all the same, treating each one as our first and last.

To get a better understanding of our core values and principles, we want to share and make public our VISION and MISSION Statements:

Vision Statement

“TO SET THE STANDARD IN THE CLEANING & RESTORATION INDUSTRY BY PROVIDING UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER SERVICE - ANYWHERE, ANYTIME.”

Our Mission Statement

“OUR MISSION IS TO GLORIFY GOD THROUGH ACTS OF SERVICE FOCUSING ON COMPASSION, KINDNESS, HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND RESPECT.”

These are our founding principles. This is what guides us. This is our culture.

If you need an estimate, second opinion, reassurance, or an honest professional opinion, give us a call… We are always here to help.

If you need assistance with Mold Remediation, Water Damage Restoration, Fire Damage Restoration, Tile or Carpet Cleaning. We are here, ready, willing and eager to have you join the family.

We hope to hear from you.

Sincerely,

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

Office: (602) 341-6737

Email: office@SERVPROparadisevalley.com

Hear That Chirp? Do Not Ignore it! SERVPRO of Paradise Valley’s Fire Safety Tips.

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire & Smoke Alarm, Fire Damage & Safety, Phoenix, AZ

Recently, many of us have been asked to work from home… Some of us have even had the pleasure of having to “self-quarantine”. On the surface, that is not much fun and could be very boring… But looking at the bright side of things, this could be the perfect time to perform some of those often overlooked “tasks” we always say we will get to eventually.

One commonly overlooked task is to inspect and test your fire/smoke alarms. That annoying “beep” or “chirp” your smoke detector emits is not a good thing and should not be ignored. Typically, that noise is letting you know the battery is dangerously low and needs to be changed soon. Being proactive in fire safety is a must and here is a simple exercise to perform to make sure you are ready if there is ever an emergency.

First, close your eyes and try to imagine any room in your house that you know the best. Is it the kitchen? Bedroom? Living Room? Think about the placement of each item in that room. How many steps between that room and the closest exit? Are there usually objects left by family members that might make it difficult to evacuate the room in a hurry?

When learning to drive a racecar, one of the first lessons is to harness yourself into the seat wearing full race gear, close your eyes and hold your breath and try to climb out in under 10 seconds. (This is because racing suits can hold fire off your body for approximately that amount of time.)

Now, do you think that you could escape your favorite room in your house in less time than that and be able to make it outside to a safe place, while holding your breath and not being able to see?

If you are thinking that is not enough time, especially if you consider that you need to make sure animals or other family members get out as well, you are probably right.

How do you buy more time? Easy, one of the most overlooked items in your favorite room but one of the most important, the fire alarm. Having a working fire alarm can be the difference between catastrophe and an unfortunate loss of property.

Here are some tips to maintaining and testing your fire alarm:

1. The U.S. Fire Administration & FEMA recommends testing your fire alarm monthly, try to do it on the same day every month so you don’t forget. A good idea is to check the fire alarms when you already have your ladder out to change air filters.
2. The U.S. Fire Administration also recommends changing the batteries in your fire alarms twice a year. Opening day of the MLB and NFL are great days to remember to add that task to your calendar.
3. Remember if the device goes off frequently due to kitchen smoke or emits short quiet beeps it might need to be replaced.

Sources: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/media/pictographs/smoke_alarms.html

If you have any additional questions about fire safety for your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737

A Little Backed Up? We Can Help! SERVPRO of Paradise Valley Handles Toilet & Sewage Backup that Occurs in Scottsdale, AZ

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Toilet & Sewage Backup, Cleanup & Restoration in Scottsdale, AZ

Sewer backup is an unfortunate incident that can cause a lot of stress and disruption to your daily life… It may not be as destructive as a fire or a flood, but it presents a variety of health hazards and sanitation issues that can result in considerable property damage and serious personal injury. 

Depending on the severity of the backup, you may be able to take some steps to mitigate the damage, save your belongings, or even handle the problem yourself. Keep in mind that sewage cleanup is a “gross” and “dangerous” job and is not for the faint of heart… But somebody’s got to do it!

Steps To Take After A Sewage Backup

Regardless of whether you intend to hire a professional or attempt to clean it up yourself, there are some important precautionary measures to take as soon as you notice the problem:

• Evacuate children, seniors, and pets. Stay out of the affected area(s) until they have been thoroughly cleaned. Close doors or limit access to affected areas.
• Open windows to ventilate the area.
• Move & transport uncontaminated items out of the affected area.
• If the affected areas OR items are bigger than what you feel you could comfortably handle by yourself, notify your insurance company. Take several pictures of the spill, as well as the water damaged items and structural materials before the cleanup begins (you could use them as proof for your insurance claim).
• If the clog is still present, contact a licensed plumber to clear your plumbing lines.

How to Clean Up Sewage Backup

As discussed above, cleaning up sewer backup is a difficult, unpleasant, and comes as a risk to your health. Calling a professional like SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is highly recommended. Outlined below are a few basic tips we recommend you follow to assist you through this process:

• Wear personal protection equipment (PPE) – rubber gloves, boots, protective eyewear, and a facemask. Make sure your skin doesn’t come in direct contact with the wastewater as sewage spills contain contaminants that can cause serious infections.
• Close the doors between the contaminated area and the other rooms in your home to prevent tracking sewage water and debris into clean areas and to ensure that airborne sewage-contaminated matter won’t be blown into other spaces.
• Remove the sewage water as soon as possible.
• Shovel dirt, soil, and debris into strong plastic bags and dispose of them immediately.
• Take all items from the affected area to an isolated space with a concrete or tiled floor that can be easily sanitized afterward and keep them there until the plumbing problem is fixed. Discard anything that has been soaked with contaminated water right away; (documenting with photos if filing and insurance claim.)
• Remove any saturated carpeting, flooring, insulation, wall paneling, drywall, baseboards, etc. and dispose of them in a safe and appropriate manner.
• Wash & wipe down all the stud walls, floors, and surfaces in the affected area. Use appropriate bactericidal disinfectants.
• Remove any excess water and let the area air-dry (open the windows if the weather is dry and sunny or run dehumidifiers in the room if it’s cold or rainy outside). Keep in mind that it’s very important to dry out the wet area within 24-48 hours after the accident in order to reduce the risk of mold growth.
• Take care of the contaminated items.
• Discard any consumable goods (foods, drinks, spices, etc.) and porous materials (rugs, curtains, upholstery, mattresses, clothes, stuffed toys, books and other paper products, etc.) that have been in direct contact with sewage water.
• Have contaminated items of high sentimental or monetary value professionally inspected – the experts have advanced equipment, specialized cleaning products, and rich experience in dealing with contaminated content, so they will be able to sanitize and restore any salvageable belongings of yours.
• Have upholstered furniture and carpets that have been only slightly affected by the wastewater professionally cleaned.
• Wash all affected items (including furniture and appliances) with antibacterial cleaning products, rinse them well, and take them outside to dry in the sunlight.
• Place all items from the affected area outside to air out.

These steps are only listed as a high-level outline of how-to cleanup after a sewage backup.

For ANY questions, comments, or concern, please don’t hesitate to call or email us at office@SERVPROparadisevalley.com or (602) 341-6737.

For more information on handling waste for you, family or workers, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/sanitation-wastewater/workers_handlingwaste.html

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley's 365 Day Dedication in Phoenix

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for COVID cleaning in Phoenix or Scottsdale.

Why SERVPRO you may ask? Well for starters, SERVPRO offers 365 day dedication. Yes, that means SERVPRO is available on any day of the year, including holidays. The SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is fast to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley utilizes highly trained technicians and advanced technology to ensure a quality restoration process. SERVPRO offers mold removal, fire repair, water damage restoration, roof damage repair, and storm damage repair along with many other various services. SERVPRO also offers a professional COVID cleaning service, perfect to ensure safety within your residential or commercial buildings. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley's COVID cleaning strives to provide a higher standard of clean. If any of the services that SERVPRO of Paradise Valley offers are needed do not hesitate to give us a call @ 602-341-6737

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley - The Refrigerator Educator to Avoid Water Damage in Phoenix

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley in the event of a refrigerator flood. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley provides high quality water damage restoration.

You may have never thought that your refrigerator could be the cause of a catastrophic flood in your Phoenix home. SERVPRO is here to make sure you know the dangers of refrigerator floods and what causes them before it is too late.

#1 - Too Much Condensation

The drain pan at the bottom of your refrigerator is there to catch condensation where it can then evaporate. However, there are cases where too much condensation can build up causing an overflow of water out of your fridge. Make sure to check your drain pan and make sure the water level is not too high.

#2 - Drain Line Clogs

Your refrigerators' drain lines are susceptible to clogs. This means little pieces of food can work their way into your fridges' drain pipes causing a build up of water. Make sure to check the fridges drain lines for clogs to avoid a potential flood.

#3 - Ice Machine Supply Line

The water supply line that connects to the ice machine has the capability of coming loose and wreaking havoc in your home. If the supply line comes loose it will let water out in inappropriate areas of the fridge causing a flood. Check to make sure the supply line that feeds the ice machine is properly connected.

Now you may know the possible dangers associated with refrigerators and how they can cause an unwanted leakage or flood of water in your home.

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley @ 602-341-6737 for water damage restoration.

SERVPRO's Three Signs of Faulty Smoke Alarms in Commercial Phoenix Buildings

2/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for any fire-related damage or fire repair in Phoenix or Scottsdale.

Smoke alarms are crucial in any commercial building as they can very well be the difference between surviving or not. Here are three signs of faulty smoke alarms that commercial buildings should take note of.

#1 - False Alarms

If the smoke alarms in your commercial building have been triggered by the presence of humidity or dust, consider giving them a change. False alarms are a major red flag when it comes to having safe smoke alarms in your commercial building.

#2 - Chirping After Battery Replacement

Smoke alarms emit a chirping sound when they are low on battery. However, if you replace the battery in a smoke alarm with a fresh one and it continues to chirp, replace it. It is not healthy for smoke alarms to chirp when they are not low on power.

#3 - 10 Year Shelf Life

Smoke alarms, like most things, do not last forever. It is recommended that smoke alarms be changed every 10 years to ensure that they are working properly. Check when your smoke alarm was made to ensure that it is less than 10 years old.

Those were three signs of a faulty smoke alarm that plague commercial buildings. It is important that the tips listed in this article be followed to ensure the best quality of smoke alarms in your commercial building.

For any fire related damage call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley @ 602-341-6737.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley's Tips on Abiding by Fire Regulations for Commercial Buildings

2/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley offers the highest quality fire damage repair in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Arizona's fire regulations are in place for a purpose. They serve to provide guidelines on what is most effective and necessary to keep people safe in case of a fire. Commercial buildings should be especially aware of Arizona's fire regulations and should make sure they are following them accordingly. The following three points are regulations that are commonly looked over in commercial buildings. However, it is crucial to look within your own commercial building and make sure that these three things are adequate so that all residents of the building may be safe.

#1 - Window Opening Mechanisms

Many older models of windows did not include window opening mechanisms. It is crucial that windows can open so that they can be used as exit points in case of a fire. Make sure every window installed in the commercial building is equipped with opening mechanisms.

#2 - Exit Signs/Exit Lights

Exit signs/exit lights are very important in the event of a fire. When the alarms sound and the panic sets in, people will look for the exit signs to find their way out. It is especially important that multi-floored buildings have signs pointing to the nearest stairwell, as well as notices to not use the elevator in the event of a fire.

#3 - Decluttering Walls and Doorways

Clutter directly fuels the fire. It also prevents easy passage through halls, rooms and doorways. It is absolutely crucial that walls and doorways remain absent of clutter to allow for the smooth evacuation of a building.

These were tips on the importance of abiding by fire regulations in commercial buildings. For more information on Phoenix fire regulations refer to this website.

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for any fire damage/fire repair in Phoenix or Scottsdale @ 602-341-6737

SERVPRO Helps With Storm Damage From Flash Floods In Scottsdale

2/20/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for storm damage repair, water damage restoration or roof damage repair in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Flash floods are a very dangerous and unpredictable act of god. They come quickly and are quite unrelenting. Flash floods are especially dangerous in deserts such as Arizona and the cities of Scottsdale, Phoenix and Paradise Valley. Arizona falls victim to monsoon season yearly. Monsoons are a big leading cause of flash flood within the state. The barren desert sands are not able to soak up water fast enough, causing for intense flash flooding. Flash floods sweep away rocks and sediments that rush along with the current, damaging everything in their path. Fun fact, cars can be taken away with just a mere 2 ft of flowing flash flood water. The severity of flash flooding and the storm related damage they cause can not be overlooked, especially in the state of Arizona. If you have experienced flash flooding or similar storm damage contact SERVPRO of Paradise Valley @ 602-341-6737 for quick and quality storm damage repair.

For more resources on flash floods visit: this website

SERVPRO Commercial Building Water Restoration in Phoenix

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fans being used to dry water located within the floor and ceiling of one of the luxury high rise's condominiums in Phoenix.

Recently, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley helped a luxury high rise located within Phoenix, Arizona. Within the luxury high rise's 14 stories and 56 units, tragedy struck that was less than luxurious. Rumors of water damage were being heard around the building. A leak was found towards the top of the structure and was working its way down to the other units. Residents of the condominiums were noticing leaks coming from their ceilings. Water was seen causing paint blisters on the walls throughout many floors in the building's stairwell. Many luxurious units were being flooded or were seeing signs of water damage. Something had to be done to prevent further damage and restore the damage that was already done. SERVPRO has much expertise with both water restoration and commercial work and was called for the job. The luxury high rise was able to be restored in part by SERVPRO’s water cleanup and restoration services.

SERVPRO Tips On Electrical Fire Prevention in Scottsdale

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley wants you to remember these tips to prevent electric fires: Do not overload wall outlets. Insert plugs fully into sockets.

The following information was reported by the U.S. Fire Administration.

Between 2014-2016 an estimated 24,000 residential building electrical fires were reported by the U.S. fire departments annually. Electrical fires have the potential to spread farther and cause more damage and injuries. In addition, electrical fires can be particularly problematic to extinguish. Using water to put out the fire can cause electrocution unless power is reliably disconnected.

Electrical Fire Safety

To help keep your home fire safe, make sure all electrical work in your home is done by a qualified electrician and follow these electrical safety tips:

Appliances:

Always plug appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers, directly into a wall outlet.

Never use an extension cord with a major appliance — it can easily overheat and start a fire.

Always plug small appliances directly into a wall outlet.

Unplug small appliances when you are not using them.

Keep lamps, light fixtures and light bulbs away from anything that can burn.

Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture.

Check electrical cords on appliances often. Replace cracked, damaged and loose electrical cords. Do not try to repair them.

Outlets:

Do not overload wall outlets.

Insert plugs fully into sockets.

Never force a three-prong cord into a two-slot outlet.

Install tamper-resistant electrical outlets if you have young children.

Extension cords, power strips and surge protectors:

Replace worn, old or damaged extension cords right away.

Use extension cords for temporary purposes only.  

Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched, like under a carpet or rug.

Do not overload power strips.

Use power strips that have internal overload protection.

For additional electrical home fire prevention tips and information, please visit the USFA’s electrical fire safety outreach materials webpage at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/electrical.html

You can also find information on home electrical safety and workplace electrical safety, as well as resources to educate communities, at the Electrical Safety Foundation International, www.esfi.org.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley wants everyone to stay as safe as possible. If you experience any fire damage, our team can help restore your home. Give us a call at (602) 341-6737

Why Choose SERVPRO For COVID-19 Cleaning Services in Paradise Valley

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Give your customers a new level of security by calling SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for a "Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned" COVID-19 service. (602) 341-6737

When you choose SERVPRO for your COVID-19 cleaning services, you will be receiving a higher level of clean. Whether it’s a home or business, SERVPRO has you covered. Our team of experienced professionals will meet your specific needs.

"Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned" is our specialized viral pathogen cleaning program that prevents the spread of COVID-19. We will perform an expert deep clean using our proprietary EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions, always adhering to the CDC standards.

SERVPRO offers "Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned" decals that can be posted on the front windows of businesses, along with digital emblems and other collateral to represent their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

Choose the #1 choice in clean up restoration!

Please call us at (602) 341-6737 for more information or to get a free quote.

Click below for CDC cleaning and disinfecting guidelines.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/clean-disinfect/index.html

Mold VS Mildew - Know The Difference To Protect Your Phoenix Home

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley was called out to a Phoenix home after a dishwasher leak caused mold to grow behind the unit.

Mold and mildew are two different types of fungi that can be dangerous and destructive. They have some similarities, which can make them hard to differentiate between the two. However, in order to properly treat affected areas, it's important to identify the type of fungi. So, let's take a look at what they have in common and what sets them apart.

Similarities

- Thrive in moist environments

- Grow rapidly

- Can have a musty smell

- Live on a variety of surfaces

- Can cause structural damage

- Can cause health effects

Differences

- Size and color

- Pose different health effects

- Respond to different treatment

What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that grows from microscopic spores. It can have a fuzzy appearance. Mold is typically green or black; however, it can also be brown, yellow, white, blue, or gray. Mold can penetrate beneath the surface of the affected material. 

How to Treat Mold

Due to health effects, it's best to leave it to the professionals. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley have the proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), cleaning equipment, supplies, skills, and experience to get the job done. We will have mold samples taken and tested by a certified hygienist. Once the job is completed, a hygienist will return to test the air quality. If any structural damage from the mold or water has occurred, our in-house reconstruction team is available for repairs. From the beginning to the end, we will be there to assist you.

What is Mildew?

Mildew is a surface fungus. It's often found on damp surfaces. Humid areas are most commonly affected by mildew, including bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, and attics. Mildew has a powdery or downy texture. The color starts off white, but can turn yellow, brown, or black. 

How to Treat Mildew

Mildew can be treated by scrubbing the surface with a mildew cleaner. Make sure to follow all of the instructions on the product's label. It is advised to work in a well-ventilated area. Wearing a mask may help to avoid breathing in fumes and spores. Protect your hands with rubber gloves. Once you have removed the mildew, rinse the area well with water.

Mold and Mildew Prevention

Prevent future occurrences by keeping areas clean and dry. Fix any leaks. A dehumidifier or exhaust fan will help to maintain proper indoor humidity levels. Keep you air ducts clean. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley offers duct cleaning services. 

Resources:

https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/mold-vs-mildew

https://www.goldeagle.com/tips-tools/mold-vs-mildew-what's-difference/

https://molekule.science/mildew-vs-mold-difference/

https://aerindustries.com/blog/2019/05/08/mold-vs-mildew/

SERVPRO Tips To Prevent Your Scottsdale Home From Flooding While You're On Vacation

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO tips can help prevent your Scottsdale home from water damage and from looking like this while you are on vacation.

How devastating would it be to come home from vacation and find out that your Scottsdale home has flooded? It happens more often than you would think. Thankfully, there are actions that you can take to help prevent this common disaster. Here are some tips from USA Today.

https://traveltips.usatoday.com/prevent-water-damage-vacation-1660.htm

STEP 1

Check your home for leaks before you leave. Look at the pipes under all sinks, and check your water heater for cracks and rust. The seals around your windows must be in good condition, and check that there are no dislodged or damaged shingles on your roof. Re-caulk seals and replace shingles if needed.

STEP 2

Inspect the hoses that connect to major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerator ice-makers. Make sure there are no kinks; replace any old or damaged hoses.

STEP 3

Clear all the debris out of your rain gutters, and check the downspouts for any blockages.

STEP 4

Examine your sump pump and check that it is in good condition and clear of debris by filling the sump pit and running the pump. Listen to the motor for strange sounds and watch that the water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup source in case there is a power outage while you are gone.

STEP 5

Insulate exposed pipes to keep them from freezing in the winter. Hardware stores sell foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves that fit right over the pipes. Protect outdoor spigots by removing any hoses and covering the spigots with bib protectors. Leave the heat on low while you are gone to also prevent freezing pipes.

STEP 6

Ask someone to check your house periodically while you are gone. Show him where the thermostat is so he can ensure the heat is always on in the winter. He should also know where the water main is located in case a pipe leaks or bursts. The water main shut-off valve is usually in a home's basement, garage or outdoors near the foundation.

STEP 7

Turn off the water at the main if there is no one to check your house. Drain the pipes to keep them from bursting in freezing weather by running the water and flushing the toilets after you shut off the water. Leave the cupboards under sinks open while you are gone to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

It's always good to plan ahead. However, if you do experience the unfortunate circumstance of a flood in your home, you can count on our team at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley to restore your home and your belongings.

More information and resources at:

https://traveltips.usatoday.com/prevent-water-damage-vacation-1660.html

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-ways-prevent-water-damage-your-home-while-you-are-away.htm

SERVPRO Tips On Water Damage And Insurance Coverage In Paradise Valley

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause major destruction to your home. It's important to respond to the issue ASAP. Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley @ (602) 341-6737

SERVPRO OF Paradise Valley

wants to make sure that you are covered if your home floods or suffers from water damage. Here's some useful information from the Insurance Information Institute. 

httphttps://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damages://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

Water damage and insurance

Different types of water damage are insured by different types of policies.

Homeowners and renters insurance provides coverage for burst pipes, wind driven rain and damage resulting from ice dams on your roof. Generally speaking, water that comes from the top down—such as rainfall and burst sprinklers—is covered by a standard homeowners policy.

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not; however, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters coverage.

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up—such as an overflowing river—is covered by a separate flood insurance policy, which can be purchased from the federal government’s  National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and from some private insurers. 

Properly maintaining a home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage from water disasters.                                                            

Prevent basement water seepage

• Reseal your basement. Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in building foundations or floor slabs. If you notice water seepage after heavy rain when you've never had a problem, it may mean that your once-waterproof cement floors and basement walls have deteriorated. Painting vulnerable areas with water sealant can prevent seepage.
• Make sure water drains away from the building. Seepage is exacerbated by soil that has settled in a way to make water flow toward the building. After a storm, and especially if the ground is already saturated, rainwater that flows towards the building goes down the outside of the foundation wall potentially through any cracks.
• Install a backwater valve. Though less common than other causes of basement water, sewer backups are messy. Learn more about your sewer responsibilities and install and maintain a backwater valve, which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

Maintain and understand your indoor plumbing systems

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. Make it a practice every year to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerator ice makers. You may also want to invest in a water leak monitoring and shut-off system that can alert you to any leakage issues. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks, and replace them all every five to seven years.
• Inspect showers and tubs. Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money and time.
• Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and can help prevent your pipes from bursting.
• Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

Repair and protect your home's exterior

• Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage.
• Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs.
• Check your downspouts. Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters. Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house.
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house. Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
• Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house instead of accumulating on the roof.

Protect your possessions

• Store off-season and other bulk belongings in waterproof bins, especially in areas where there are plumbing pipes or that are prone to dampness, such as basements and attics.
• Never store valuables or memorabilia where there is risk of destruction from water. Water and damp also brings with it the threat of mold damage.
• Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in basements. In case of water seepage or sewer backup, they're less likely to get damaged.
• Keep an up-to-date home inventory. Having a comprehensive list of your possessions will save time, trouble and stress in case of loss from water damage.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is available 24 hours/day to help restore your property to its preloss condition. We also offer reconstruction services.

SERVPRO Holiday Fire Safety Tips For Your Phoenix Home

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Here's to a safe and happy holiday season from SERVPRO of Paradise Valley! Home fire damage can be prevented by using caution / acting responsibly.

The holiday season is a great time to create beautiful memories with family and friends. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley wants to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe, healthy, and happy. Here are some ways to avoid accidents and disasters in your home this time of year.

Fires: 

• Check that all fire alarms are working properly.
• Check the date on you fire extinguishers. 
• Water Christmas Trees daily.
• Make sure your stovetop and oven are clean.
• Check that ovens and broilers are clear of any stored items before preheating.
• Wear short or rolled sleeves and close-fitting clothing while cooking.
• Be sure to stay home and preferably in the kitchen when you have food cooking.
• Set timers to ensure food is checked regularly.
• Stay alert! It is extremely easy to get distracted when you have multiple dishes to prepare and family to visit with. Avoid drinking too much alcohol or taking medications that cause drowsiness.
• Avoid using extension cords for cooking appliances. Plug them directly into an outlet.
• Make sure to turn off stoves and ovens when no longer in use.
• Do not set flammable items on or near hot surfaces.
• Grease fires should never be put out with water. For small grease fires, turn off the stove and cover the fire with a pot lid until cool.
• Be careful not to let oil overheat.
• Turkey fryers can be extremely dangerous. If you choose to use one, make sure to find a quality brand and follow ALL of the manufacturers’ instructions. Only use outdoors and away from decks, buildings, trees, and any other flammable objects. Wear safety goggles and gloves. Make sure turkey is completely thawed. Do not overfill with cooking oil. 

Children:

• Young children should always be supervised.
• Watch children around water to prevent drowning.
• Keep matches, lighters, knives, candles, alcoholic beverages, and other dangerous items out of children's reach.
• Watch children around electrical outlets.
• Keep hot foods and liquids away from children.

Pets:

• Keep pets out of the kitchen.
• Make sure candles are carefully placed out of paws reach.
• Securely anchor you Christmas Tree.
• Keep wires, batteries, glass, or plastic ornaments out of pets reach.
• Place alcoholic beverages away from where your pets can get them.
• Give pets their own quiet space to retreat to.
• Keep people food out of paws reach and ask your guests to do the same.
• Skip the table scraps snacks. Many foods can be dangerous to pets (e.g., bones, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, citrus, fruit pits and seeds, coffee grounds and beans, raw eggs, grapes and raisins, vegetable leaves and stems, nuts, onions, and salt.
• Keep holiday plants (especially mistletoe, holly, and lilies) out of pets reach.
• Make sure all trash is kept in a secure trash can or bin.

Please take these proper precautions to keep you and those dearest to you safe. Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of Paradise Valley.  Remember, “we are always here to help”. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Maintaining Infectious Disease Control In Scottsdale With SERVPRO

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants to remind Scottsdale citizens to stay safe from infectious diseases by washing your hands and staying clean.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAINTAIN INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTROL IN YOUR WORKPLACE

The entire world is currently battling a global pandemic, and while it is mostly down to the individual to protect himself by practicing social distancing and following quarantine procedures, employers have a big responsibility in ensuring that their workspace remains safe amidst the crisis.

What is infectious disease control, anyway? According to the World Health Organization, infection prevention and control, also known as IPC, is a method of cleaning and minimizing the spread of contagious disease.

Now you might be wondering, how is infection spread? A quite common way for a contagious disease to spread, especially one that’s caused by a virus, is by cross-contamination through expelled bodily fluids such as the respiratory droplets we release when we cough or sneeze.

You can see now how fast an infection can spread especially in crowded places like a busy office space. That is why infection control is critical in keeping your workspace a safe and healthy environment.

Please see below for workplace infection control procedures:

1. Plan Accordingly – The first thing you should do is come up with an infection control plan. Involve your management team since they will be the ones working more closely with your employees and enforce your established workplace policies and procedures for infection control.
2. Remove Common-Use Items – In relation to the previous tip, an infection can also spread by touching items that have been contaminated by other people. Hence, remove common-use items such as magazines and pens from your common rooms.
3. Encourage Basic Etiquette – Another way of preventing the spread of infection is to encourage your employees to practice the basic etiquette of covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze by providing boxes of tissues and disinfectant wipes especially in common rooms where they interact with more people. At the same time, discourage them from sharing personal items like cups, glasses, and cutleries where they can easily transfer their respiratory droplets to others.
4. Basic Sanitation – The way to prevent the spread of infection is to provide ways for your employees to rid themselves of germs by putting clean handwashing facilities and sanitation stations equipped with alcohol or alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
5. Basic Health Checks - Everyone must have their temperature checked before entering your facility. Anyone who is not feeling well, or doesn’t look well should be immediately sent home or to a health care facility depending on his state. Brownie points if you can provide your employees with vitamin supplements as well in order to strengthen their immune system.
6. Work Remotely – But, in the end, the most effective way to control the spread of infectious disease is to still let them all go home and simply let them work from there. If you really must require the attendance of a skeletal workforce to continue operations, then at least provide them with a mode of transportation instead of forcing them to take public transit where they’ll be exposed to other people that might be infected already.

If your employees are working from home, this gives you the opportunity to clean your work facility and disinfect it so that it’s clean and ready to receive your employees once regular operations resume. There are two ways to go about this and that’s when SERVPRO of Paradise Valley comes in!

1. Handle it yourself – First, you can let your existing maintenance staff perform the virus cleaning given that you’ll provide them with the necessary personal protective equipment and tools. You should focus on cleaning surfaces that have been the most exposed to contamination such as doorknobs, stair railings, elevator buttons, and the like.
2. Seek professional help – Or second, you can seek the help of professional cleaning services equipped with handling infectious disease control instead. This is honestly what we recommend, especially for workplaces like hospitals and health care facilities that are significantly more exposed to diseases, contagious or not.

We are offering a professional viral pathogen cleaning service called Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning, it’s a higher standard of clean. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses and public spaces in the communities we all call home. Our 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.

If you’re interested in a free quote for our commercial services or are a consumer who wants to learn more about the program, then call us today at (602)-341-6737!

Lastly, why is all of this so important? Because employees and customers now have heightened concern for their healthy and safety. 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*.

By keeping the tips we shared with you in mind, we are confident that you will be able to keep your employees safe from the novel coronavirus and other infectious diseases. Stay healthy and keep being safe!

And remember, if your business needs cleaning services then call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley today! Operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more information on maintaining infectious disease control in your workplace, please visit –

• https://aerindustries.com/blog/2020/04/15/workplace-infectious-disease-control/
• https://www.cdc.gov/
• (*The Harris Poll conducted online on behalf of Fast, between April 28 and April 30, 2020. About 2,048 U.S. adults aged 18 or older participated.) https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/350922/89-of-consumers-concerned-about-returning-to-bric.html

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Monsoon Season Missing in Paradise Valley? The Cause and Effects by SERVPRO

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Monsoon season caused drought conditions in 82% of Arizona including Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Phoenix. SERVPRO says to be wary of storm damage.

The monsoon has been generally inactive so far this year, which has led to an expansion of drought and record heat in the region. August 2020 took the title for the hottest month on record in Phoenix since tracking temperatures began in 1896 beating out July, which is typically a hotter month than August in Arizona. The average temperature in August was 99.1 degrees with the highest temperature reaching 110.7 degrees. As of September 27^th,  this year had the second most days at or over 100 degrees in Phoenix and was the fifth hottest year on record so far. The lack of precipitation has resulted in growing and worsening drought. As of August 4^th, 82% of Arizona state is experiencing drought conditions. July and August are typically the wettest time of year for much of Arizona so it can be worrisome to see dry conditions at this time of year. Additionally, Arizona receives over half of their annual precipitation from the monsoon season, so when the monsoon is a no-show it can really impact reservoir replenishment, vegetation, and wildfires. Less rain has contributed to these high temperatures and with less water vapor to heat up, the sun’s energy heats up the air instead. The vast areas of concrete and asphalt soak up heat from the sun during the day and radiate it at night, pushing temperatures higher than in other undeveloped areas.

Over the past 30 years, heat has been the cause of more deaths on average than any other natural disaster in the U.S. according to the National Weather Service. This year alone, 55 heat-related deaths have occurred in Maricopa County and 266 are under investigation, according to the Maricopa County Public Health Department data. In 2019, the county saw 197 heat related deaths. These heat waves are no joke and should be taken seriously. Temperatures this hot can be dangerous and result in heat illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Signs of heat illness include confusion, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, heat rash, and headache. Additional symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, change in sweating, rapid breathing, and a racing heart rate. If these symptoms begin, it is imperative that you practice heat safety and get out of the hotness, stay hydrated, and rest as much as possible. Seek medical help if heat stroke is suspected.

Please also keep in mind that drought conditions increase usage of water, which could lead to unwanted water damages. On top of that, there is potential of leakage from AC units because the system has been running more often and for longer periods of time during these extreme temperatures. We recommend checking and servicing the AC unit regularly as well as checking plumbing fixtures as a proactive measure to avoid any sudden and undesirable water damages. Regardless, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is here to help you 24/7 and can be reached at (602)-341-6737.

For more information as well as tips to navigate the heat wave, please visit the following links:

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix-weather/2020/09/05/phoenix-august-summer-2020-hottest-history/5729955002/

https://weather.com/forecast/regional/news/2020-08-10-southwest-monsoon-missing-no-show-drought-expands-record-heat

Does your Paradise Valley home insurance cover ALL water damage? Ask the SERVPRO experts

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley if you experience a washing machine supply line failure or water damage such as the one shown above @ 602-341-6737.

The answer is – It depends! Most homeowners insurance policies help cover water damage if the cause is sudden and accidental. For example, you’d probably be protected if an upper level pipe bursts, soaking the basement ceiling below or if the washing machine water supply hose fails, damaging the flooring. However, please be aware that most policies won’t cover the source of the damage, meaning your insurance carrier wouldn’t pay to repair or replace the washing machine or the water heater pipe that had burst. Please note that your standard homeowners insurance most likely will not cover water backup from an OUTSIDE sewer/drain or flood damage but according to allstate.com, you have the option of adding water backup coverage to your policy as well as flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. This is especially a good idea if you live in a flood prone area but it’s not required to include this type of insurance. Another thing to keep in mind is that your insurance will pay for covered damages less your deductible and will only pay for covered claims up to the limit (maximum amount your insurance will pay toward a covered claim) for each type of coverage. Depending on the water damage, the two types of coverage within a homeowners insurance policy that typically apply to water damage claims are dwelling coverage and personal property coverage. Dwelling coverage refers to damage to the structure of the home and personal property coverage refers to damage to personal belongings inside the home.

To recap –
Homeowners insurance does not cover certain types of water damage, such as:

1. Damage from Unresolved Maintenance Issues
2. Replacing or Repairing the Source of Water Damage
3. Water Backup from an Outside Sewer or Drain
4. Flood

All in all, we recommend discussing your insurance policy in depth with your agent so that when disaster strikes, you are prepared and fully aware of your coverage limits. Regardless, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our IICRC certified technicians are fully equipped to make it "Like it never even happened," and our team is willing to work with you despite any coverage denials.

For more information, please visit your insurance carrier's website.

Why choose SERVPRO of Paradise Valley?

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

The owners of SERVPRO of Paradise Valley - Josh and Kristen Alcorn.

Because the customer is our number one priority. We pride ourselves on the customer service we provide our clients. How can we SERVE you? A question we ask ourselves on every job that comes through our doors. Our team is passionate about helping customers in a time of need and work hard to restore your structure as soon as possible to make it seem "Like it never even happened." Not only do we provide mitigation services, but also reconstruction services so that you are all good to go once we are finished. We aim to provide exceptional customer service while keeping you informed throughout the entire process. We stand behind SERVPRO’s vision statement, “to be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.” This vision challenges us to continually improve in the pursuit of excellence. This provides us an opportunity to grow, stay ahead of the competition, and not become stagnant. We get to work in an environment that is never dull and full of challenge. Our mission is, "To glorify God through acts of service focusing on compassion, kindness, honesty, integrity, and respect." We do so by providing unparalleled customer service – Anywhere, anytime. SERPVRO of Paradise Valley is always here to help 24/7 and can be reached at (602)-341-6737.

Please follow us on social media to learn more about our franchise and all we do!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROofPV/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SERVPROofpv
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/SERVPRO-of-paradise-valley
Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org/us/az/phoenix/profile/fire-clean-up/SERVPRO-of-paradise-valley-1126-1000036777

SERVPRO On Causes of Commercial Water Damage + How to Handle Them in Scottsdale

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley will get your flooded Scottsdale commercial space back to pre-existing condition ASAP, just "Like it never even happened."

Here at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, we understand that dealing with water damage is not fun especially when it affects your business. Not only are you losing money each second your business is unable to be fully opened, but you could also be putting the health and safety of your employees at risk. The moment you spot signs of commercial water damage, it's important to take action immediately.

Commercial water damage restoration is often more complex than residential water damage restoration and usually requires an intensive approach. The following variables contribute to the scope of the restoration process - The size and structure of commercial buildings, the extent of damage, the varying use of space, and the number of occupants. Aside from these, time is of the essence because business has to continue as soon as possible and we fully understand that at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley.

Any amount of water damage that stops work or decreases customer foot traffic indicates a loss in profit. We know that no business professional wants water damage to occur in the first place so please see below as we list the most common causes of water damage in commercial properties and how to deal with them.

1. Damaged Windows -
   Check windows often and identify any leaks/cracks where the window might not be sealed properly. There could be excess moisture causing condensation if windows are not properly ventilated or unknown small cracks and/or leaks present. Checking windows can aide in detecting these cracks and/or leaks. Resealing windows regularly is important so you can seal the leaks you can't visibly see and because caulk can break down overtime.
2. Broken or Damaged Pipes -
   This is especially important if you own a publicly accessible structure, such as a hotel, assisted living facility, apartment complex, etc. due to the large amount of water being used from sinks, toilets, showers. It's inevitable that the pipes will be clogged at some point and it's very hard to know when a pipe is clogged or damaged since there is not an effective way to check for this. However, you can look for these signs that could indicate potential water damage - Musty smells, bulging drywall, water stains on walls or floors, or buckled flooring/cracked & loose tiles.
3. Building Foundation/Roof Leaks -
   The repercussions of a leaky roof consist but are not limited to ceiling damage, mold or mildew issues, fire hazards from shortened wires, and compromised structural integrity. Moreover, if gutters are not cleaned regularly, they can get clogged and cause water to leak into the property through the roof or foundation. One of the most common signs of leaks in building foundations are puddles nearby or framing that has become wet. Poor drainage systems can also lead to water damage.
4. HVAC Failures -
   Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is the technology of indoor environmental comfort. As the system ages, leaks or cracks can occur and will ultimately cause water damage to your structure. Additionally, excess water from condensation builds up over time and will lead to damage. To avoid this issue, the HVAC system needs to be cleaned regularly and the excess water from the condensation reservoirs has to be removed to prevent water damage.
5. Sprinkler System Leaks -
   Other causes of water damage in commercial buildings are leaks in sprinkler systems. Signs of sprinkler leaks include wet surfaces like drywall and carpets, presence of mold and mildew, and standing water. To avoid these issues, simply regularly inspect your sprinkler systems for leaks and moisture.
6. Sewer Clogs -
   Sewer water classifies as category 3 meaning the water contains bacteria and other viral pathogens that can cause illnesses and infections. It's important to call a water damage restoration professional immediately if you see signs of sewage damage, such as gurgling sounds or water backing up out of the drain or toilet.

Thankfully, water damage can be prevented by creating a flood monitoring system, getting an insurance plan that covers flood damage, and conducting regular property inspection and facility maintenance.

The causes for water damage and preventable tips listed above can save you a lot of money in the long run! Commercial water damage can be very expensive so take the necessary precautions and save yourself from the ramifications water damage can cause to your business.

In the unfortunate event that water damage does occur at your business, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is here to help and make it "Like it never even happened," 24/7 and can be reached at (602) 341-6737. We're always here to help!

For more information, please visit the following links: 

https://icchelps.com/2020/04/29/commercial-water-damage-st-paul-3/

https://aerindustries.com/blog/2019/11/18/commercial-water-damage-causes/

SERVPRO To Paradise Valley Residents - Are You Prepared For Monsoon Season & Potential Storm Damage?

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage, Flooding, Monsoon Season, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley. Water Extraction & Restoration

Monsoon season is officially here and we need to be ready and prepared now more than ever. Here are some basic safety tips to ensure you and your family stay safe BEFORE disaster strikes!

PLANNING AHEAD

The best way to stay safe, avoid lightning, flash floods, and other dangerous conditions is by not being in danger in the first place. Take a minute to research the weather before heading out, this may include:

• Scan the skies overhead before leaving a safe location
• Watching current weather forecasts on TV or the internet
• Listening to weather reports on the radio 

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KITS

Every family should prepare a family emergency supply kit in the event of severe weather conditions. The emergency supply kit should contain essential items such as food, water, and sturdy clothing, to sustain a family for up to three days since electric power, gas and water services may be interrupted. Some items we recommend in your kit can include:

• Three gallons of water in clean, closed containers for each person and pet
• First aid kit
• A stock of food that requires no cooking or refrigeration
• Portable and working battery-operated radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
  (Candles and oil lamps are fire hazards)
• Necessary medications
• Back-up power source for life support or other medical equipment that requires electricity to function

FLASH FLOOD SAFETY

More deaths each year occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard because people underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in automobiles that are swept downstream. Some basic safety tips for flash floods are:

• If you live in a flood prone area have an evacuation plan.
• Store materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber for protection from floodwaters and to make quick repairs after a severe storm.
• Store materials above flood levels.
• Secure wanted objects to prevent them from floating away.
• Learn where to find high ground, which is safe from flooding. In a flash flood seek high ground quickly.
• Contact an insurance agent to discuss flood insurance coverage. Flood losses are not covered under normal homeowners' insurance policies. Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. Get coverage early-there is a waiting period before it takes effect.

TURN AROUND & DONT DROWN!

• Driving around barricades is illegal and dangerous.
• Do not let children play near storm drains or washes after a heavy rain.
• Avoid low-water crossings.
• Avoid camping in a wash or in the bottom of a canyon with steep side slopes.
• Be especially cautious at night. Flood dangers are much more difficult to see in the dark.
• Even a less serious urban flood can be dangerous. Driving too fast through standing water can cause a car to hydroplane. The best defense is to slow down or pull well off the road (with the lights off) for a few minutes to wait out heavy rains.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• Do not camp or park a vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
• If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
• Roadbeds may be washed out under floodwaters. Never drive through flooded roadways.
• If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
• If a traffic signal is out, treat the intersection as a 4-way stop.
• As little as ten inches of water can float average-sized cars, mini-vans, SUVs and trucks. Strength of the flow is the critical force.

If you only take away ONE thing, please remember:

When in doubt, wait it out, or find a safer route! 

For more information on Monsoon Season, safety tips/tricks and preparedness, please visit:

https://www.monsoonsafety.org/safety-prep/index.htm

Think we only do residential, think again! SERVPRO Commercial Work in Phoenix!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can handle any sized commercial disaster with our community of trained technicians and project managers in Phoenix.

While the image in your mind of SERVPRO might be the house logo that our company has proudly displayed for years, don't let it fool you, we are also trained experts in commercial restoration. 

Why choose SERVPRO for your commercial restoration needs? Simply, we have the resources for any sized disaster. With over 1800 franchises in the United States, there is always someone to call if a situation presents itself that our crew has not seen before. The franchises can also work together to make sure that there are always enough crew members and equipment for any project. 

It's why SERVPRO was the choice to help in the Pentagon after the September 11th attacks. It's why we are always the best choice, any time of day or night, 365 days a year. 

If you have questions or find yourself with a problem, please call 602-341-6737 or SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

Arizona Fire Season is here - SERVPRO Fire Repair in Scottsdale

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless of if your home or business is affected by flames, it might have secondary damage from wildfire. SERVPRO Fire Repair helps in Scottsdale.

Arizona had a bit more rain than normal through the winter this year, while it made the desert and forest up north beautiful with green trees and plants, it also is helping fuel the fire season this summer. 

While we here at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley hope that the fire season comes and goes without any more damage to the flora, fauna, and property, know that we are always here to help. 

Driving around the valley right now you can see the Bush fire from almost any freeway overpass, burning just outside of the metro area, it is now in the top 5 largest wildfires in Arizona and is still only 75% contained. 

Even if your home or business doesn't get damaged by the flames, we are here to help clean after soot and ash makes its way into your property. If you need assistance please call 602-341-6737

Toilet Supply Lines, how to minimize your risk of water damage with SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Leaky supply lines can cause water damage. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley specializes in water damage restoration.

Most everyone in the Phoenix metro area has never had to use an outhouse. Unless you are out hiking on one of our wilderness trails or visiting a ghost town, most places have indoor plumbing.

While we may now take the luxury of never having to go outside for granted, it still has it disadvantages. The chance that bringing that water inside can cause damage to your home or business is the biggest drawback.

First, think of how fast the water flows back into your toilet after each flush. Now, think about how much water would come out of that hose if it wasn't attached to the toilet tank. In under an hour, it could possibly flood your entire house.

To help this, have a qualified professional check your supply lines every few years. Replace them as necessary and remember to not over torque the connection between the hose and the toilet. 

However, even with quality parts and a qualified professional maintaining them, there is still an opportunity for failure. If that does happen please call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737. 

3 great reasons to love the SERVPRO model if you live in Phoenix!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is always there to help in Scottsdale and Phoenix as well. SERVPRO specializes in mold removal, fire repair, and much more.

As the top disaster recovery and restoration and 27th overall best franchise on the 2020 Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list, there are a lot of positives to owning a SERVPRO franchise. If you are thinking about becoming a franchise owner, consider these three benefits of the SERVPRO model.

1. Locally Owned With Corporate Reach
All SERVPRO franchises are locally owned. As a local franchise owner, you will be positioned to respond quickly to the needs of customers in Paradise Valley, Arizona. By being available to your customers 24 hours, 7 days a week, you will be able to help them get their homes and businesses restored to preloss condition as rapidly as possible. However, because you will have the power of the SERVPRO brand at your disposal, you will not be going it alone. SERVPRO's corporate resources, marketing, training, and name recognition will help position you as a leader in the industry.

2. Industry Leader
SERVPRO was founded in 1967 and has consistently ranked among the leaders in the industry for decades. SERVPRO's network of certified technicians, at more than 1700 locations nationwide, are trusted to be experts in their field. This has helped to make SERVPRO a preferred vendor for many major insurance companies. Clients trust SERVPRO to be Faster to Any Size Disaster, whether it is a small, individual job or a multi-million dollar project. As a SERVPRO franchise owner, customers will know they can trust you in their time of need.

3. Always in Demand
In a world fraught with uncertainty, one thing you can count on is that there will always be fires, storms, and other disasters. As a franchise owner, your services will always be in demand to help customers get back on their feet.
Owning a SERVPRO franchise will put you in a position to help your local community, while also running a thriving, in-demand, industry-leading business. SERVPRO has all the components you need to be a successful franchise owner.

How does the fire repair process work? Ask SERVPRO for help in Paradise Valley NOW!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call the pro's at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for any size fire. SERVPRO can also do fire repairs in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Leave Fire Damage Restoration To The Paradise Valley Pros For Best Results

What Happens During A Fire Damage Restoration?

 Once you realize that your home has been subjected to a fire in Paradise Valley, you may be inclined to start the cleanup process on your own. However, this is never the ideal course of action to take. In fact, fire damage restoration professionals will be able to do a much more thorough, effective job than most residential property owners. Learn more about how a team of professionals can expedite and optimize the fire damage restoration process by reviewing the outline that appears below:

 The Assessment

 When a team of Paradise Valley fire damage restoration contractors come to your home, they will complete a thorough assessment of your property. The assessment is designed to give the professionals a clear understanding of how much damage has transpired on your property. To attain this information, the contractors will examine both the interior and exterior of your living space. After the assessment is complete, the contractors will be able to devise a clear, concise strategic plan that outlines how the restoration process will be exacted.

 Water Removal

 In many cases, Paradise Valley fire damage results in excess standing water on your property as a result of the extinguishing work completed by the fire department. As such, the remediation specialists will work with skill and speed to remove this excess water. To accomplish the objective quickly and correctly, contractors will utilize specialized equipment like power pumps and vacuums. This process is imperative for several reasons, one of them being that water removal prevents the onset of a mold invasion.

 Drying And Dehumidifying

 After removing excess water from your property, the remediation specialists will complete the drying and dehumidifying work. This step is important because the floors and walls of your property will typically retain excess water. This excess water will result in warping, swelling, and even the complete breakdown of the property. This is why contractors will utilize advanced methodologies and specialized equipment to ensure that all remaining moisture is removed from your household structures.

 Cleaning

 The last step of the restoration process is cleaning. The remediation crew will typically offer a wide range of cleaning services, some of which include antimicrobial, antibacterial, and disinfectant treatments.

Although dealing with fire damage can be difficult, hiring a team of professional contractors can make the restoration process simple and seamless. The team to call for precise, detail-oriented services that work is SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your property back in excellent condition.

If you need assistance please call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737, we'll be "faster to any disaster"

Choose SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, help your clients restore and rebuild!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage that can be fixed by SERVPRO of Paradise Valley. Services available in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

If you have clients in the Paradise Valley, AZ, area who are dealing with storm or flood damage, a storm restoration specialist can help, especially one as qualified as SERVPRO. Many of your clients may require restoration services following a disaster, and it is important to deal with a company that delivers not only on quick response times but also corporate assistance with the claims process. However, response time and claims assistance are only a fraction of the services provided.

1. Mitigation

Fundamental storm response must include mitigation practices to ensure that your client’s claim is not hung up on a technicality. Through board up, fencing and tarping services, your client’s property is protected from worsening existing damage as well as trespassers, animals and weather, ensuring a successful claim.

2. Cleanout

Before storm restoration and loss assessments can begin, it is necessary to clean out the home, ensuring that all damage is visible and known. It is not enough to remove excess water from flooding; debris must be removed and separated into actual rubbish and damaged insured items so that loss can be documented properly.

3. Restoration

Once proof of loss has been documented and all assessments and estimates approved, then it is time to move forward with the restoration work. This work may be extensive, requiring demolition and reconstruction, but in the end, your clients can return to their repaired home.

4. Claims Information Center

Beyond the services offered to your client, it is essential that you have access to the progress of the work and the claim. For you to understand fully the work being proposed, you can access the Claims Information Center and review similar claims as well as the progress on your own.

Storm restoration is a necessary solution to the misfortune severe weather can bring, and while it is your job as an insurance agent to help your clients rebuild through funding, it is the job of restoration companies, like SERVPRO, to restore the physical structure and help make the claims process as speedy as possible.

For more information please call 602-341-6737

SERVPRO Has the Answers for Flood Damage Cleanup and Disinfection in Paradise Valley

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Paradise Valley, AZ. SERVPRO services also available in Phoenix and Scottsdale for mold removal, fire repair, water damage restoration and more.

Storm Damage to Your Paradise Valley Home May Require Professional Flood Restoration

The end of winter and the onset of spring often brings storms in the Paradise Valley area that leave a lot of precipitation and damage. If your home is subjected to high winds, snow, sleet, and rain, you may have to call the professionals for restoration. Our team at SERVPRO understands how unpredictable the weather can be, which is why we have specialized processes in place to tackle all your flood mitigation needs.

Should you have flood damage in Paradise Valley, taking quick action to mitigate appropriately is critical. Even though the floodwaters recede, they leave behind sludge filled with bacteria and other contaminants. Known as black water, floodwater must be addressed carefully so that you and your family can get back to life as usual without potential health hazards. With a simple phone call, we deploy a team that comes out to your home, perform an assessment, and put cleanup measures into motion to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Initial Restoration Measures

Any carpeting throughout your home impacted by floodwater is usually discarded if it is unable to be cleaned thoroughly and restored. Our skilled technicians know how to quickly perform pack-out services that help remove electronics, furnishings, and other belongings from areas near moisture. Items must be relocated to dry, safe places so that moisture does not take hold. Any damaged items that can be restored are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, followed by deodorization. Items that are not salvageable can be replaced.

Controlled Demolition

Our trained technicians go through your home to determine the best places for flood cuts in the drywall. Floodwater gets behind baseboards and starts to wick up the drywall, so cutting away enough drywall several inches above the area of saturation helps to prevent mold infestation. Flood cuts allow SERVPRO technicians to speed up the drying process by setting up air movers to get into the wall cavities. We also use dehumidifiers to help further removal of vapors from the air.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is available whenever you need assistance with flood damage restoration. Give our team a call at 602-341-6737, and we send out a team to begin the assessment process. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency service.

Who can I call for water damage restoration in my Paradise Valley commercial business? SERVPRO!

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

We might not always dress like Storm Troopers but we always get the job done. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley water damage restoration in Phoenix.

Water can come into your shop for many different reasons. A pipe that bursts in your shop or an adjacent storefront can be the culprit, or a leaky window allows rain to come inside and seep into your walls and carpet. Regardless of the source, controlling the damage is crucial in preventing loss of revenue.

Can't I Just Let my Dehumidifier do the Work?

Dehumidifiers greatly help in evaporating the water in your Paradise Valley store, but it may not be sufficient. On the one hand, your household dehumidifier may not be strong enough to extract water at speed necessary to avoid an escalation of damages. Along the same lines, it may not reach all the cavities in which water may collect. Failure to restore moisture levels can set the stage for complications later, including mold and other bacteria growth. When our SERVPRO team comes into your store, we bring industry-grade equipment to extract water, including the following:

• Truck-mounted pumps- we choose to use this type of equipment for large volumes of water. We can connect with municipal sewers by local rules and regulations as needed.
• Submersible pumps- this type of pump handles less volume than truck-mounted but is still a powerful extractor.
• Extractor wands- the wands help us reach corners and crevices that are otherwise out of reach for other pumps.

Air movers also aid the evaporation process, as do dehumidifiers. Having a choice of water extraction techniques at our disposal makes the process more efficient for you, translating into mitigating the time in which closes your business to customers.

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is your ally when water comes into your commercial establishment. Contact us at 602-341-6737 and let us show you how we can leave your shop, "Like it never even happened."

5 Tips to Prepare Your Phoenix Home From Storm Damage According to SERVPRO

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Damage can be devastating in Phoenix AZ. Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for water damage restoration and roof damage repair.

Preventative measures are necessary, especially when it comes to storms. In case you aren’t aware, storm season is March through June. During this three-month period, you want to be prepared at all times. The heroes at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley want you to always be prepared for any storm damage. Preparation is always key. Here are 5 tips to prepare your home for storms.

Seal Your Roof

Storms can be highly unpredictable. You never know the severity of damage it can cause to your home, your belongings, your roof. It’s critical that you hire a professional to reinforce your roof well before strong winds hit. A professional can seal your roof to help protect it from those strong storms. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), “seal your roof deck using “peel and stick” tape along your roof seams, or a “peel and stick” membrane over the entire roof deck, or apply polyurethane foam.” If you invest in this now, this can save you hundreds, perhaps thousands, in the future.

Secure Your Windows & Doors

Your windows and doors of your home can be damaged when high winds from storms hit. Ensure you secure your windows and doors. When it comes to your doors, here are some things to check for:

• Hinges
• Screws missing
• Door threshold

According to Nationwide, “be sure the door threshold is tightly screwed into your house and not just the door frame. You may want to consider installing new wind-resistant doors with a high design pressure (DP) rating. The DP rating is a measure of the level of wind force a door system can withstand without failing.” Do you know if you live in a region that’s prone to hurricanes and storms? It’s encouraged that you know this information, especially for preparation purposes. Here are the top five cities most vulnerable to hurricanes. If you live in one of those areas, or an area that is prone to these types of storms, you should heavily consider installing impact-resistant windows. These windows are specifically designed for these very purposes: to withstand forceful windows.   

Secure Fences

When strong winds strike your home, it can strike down fences and other objects that can cause more damage to your residential property. Before this happens, you want to ensure you secure fences to minimize the risk of further damage to other things or worse -- people. When investing in a home -- or if you’re replacing a fence -- factor in the strength and resilience of your fence. Weigh all your options, and make an educated decision. Don’t base your decision to buy a fence on how inexpensive it is. Because that factor alone can be much more expensive for you in the long-term, especially if a storm damages it and your home.      

Create a Family Emergency Plan

With any storm, preparation is key. Now -- not then -- is the time for you to create a family emergency plan so you, your family members and fur babies are well-equipped when a storm strikes. A family emergency plan can help save lives. Here are just a few items to include:

• Water
• Food
• Batteries
• Communication plan
• Phone and/or walkie talkies (some form of communication device)
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency supplies
• Important phone numbers

Anchor Loose Objects

If objects, such as grills, bikes, deck furniture, trash cans, etc., are loose when a storm hits your residential property, it can cause windows to break, damage to your vehicles, your home or a human being. It’s vital to anchor loose objects to help minimize the risk of outdoor threats. By adding shrubs of varying lengths, fences, trees in a row are ways to help block high winds. Utilizing landscaping and yard objects can be beneficial in this case.   

We hope you found these 5 tips to prepare your home for storms to be highly beneficial. Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and apparatus. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. When a storm emergency occurs, we’re here for you 24 hours of the day, 365 days of the year. Just contact us at 602-341-6737.

History of the Monsoon! Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for storm damage repair in Phoenix

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Arizona monsoons are sights to be seen, however, they can cause damage to your home or business. Call SERVPRO for Phoenix water damage restoration.

In Arizona we now celebrate (or dread) the Monsoon season starting on June 15th, every year the news channels start the monsoon watch and daily rainfall totals on this date. Commercials for the news channel apps talk about how to get warnings for heavy downpours, flash floods and haboobs (or dust storms if you remember the news pre 2008). 

We look outside though and see beautiful sunny days, no clouds in the sky and surely don't see any monsoon storms coming. So what really is the deal with the "monsoon season"?

In 2008 the National Weather Service changed the season to have specific dates from June 15th to through September 30th. Pre-2008 the monsoon season started when there were three consecutive days with an average dew point temperature of 55 degrees and ended when the storms stopped. 

Why the sudden change? 

It made keeping track of monsoon data easier and more consistent. 

No matter what date the monsoon starts or ends, you can always count on SERVPRO of Paradise Valley to be there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year. If one of our beautiful but powerful storms makes its way into your home or business call and we'll show you why we are "faster to any disaster" 

For immediate help call 602-341-6737

Fire Repair Happens Thanks to SERVPRO of Paradise Valley!

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

A garage fire caused by a battery charger in Ahwatukee. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley also responds to fire repair in Scottsdale and Phoenix AZ.

A charger for a drill battery caused this fire in Ahwatukee. While the majority of the burnt materials were limited to the garage, the entire home was damaged due to smoke and soot spreading. 

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley responded after hours within 2 hours to make sure that the customers felt at ease and were able to salvage heirloom items from the garage and removed valuables from inside the house to clean them as soon as possible to minimize secondary damage. Quick response is the most important action to save heirloom items.

If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737 so our trained professionals can get not only your possessions back to pre fire conditions but also your life. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

Summer brings the monsoon season and storm damage - Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for Phoenix water damage restoration

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes a sudden downpour of rain can overwhelm the water resistance of a home. SERVPRO does water damage restoration in Phoenix AZ.

At SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, we love living in the desert, warm winters, golf courses open year round, cactus blossoms, Spring Training baseball. What's not to love? Sure it gets a bit hot during the summer months but there is always a pool or a lake nearby for a bit of refreshment. 

We even love the thunder and rolling rain of the monsoon, they can be magical storms that end just as soon as they roll into the valley. 

What happens though if there is a sudden micro-burst and your neighborhood gets flooded, or your roof can't handle the sudden downpour of rain that is common with a summer monsoon storm?

We are ready to help, on any size disaster that a storm might bring. If your pool takes on too much water that floods your entire bottom level or if you have a small roof leak that damages one room in the house, our trained professionals have the knowledge and experience to make it "Like it never even happened."

If you do find yourself in a situation where the storm has been too much, call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737, we are faster to any size disaster!

Fire Alarm Safety in Scottsdale From SERVPRO of Paradise Valley.

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

If a fire repair is needed call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for pro services in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

With everyone inside the house for the time being, there are some simple projects that can be performed to ensure the safety of your home and most importantly your family. First, close your eyes and try to imagine the room in your house that you know the best. Is it the kitchen? Bedroom? Living Room? Think about the placement of each item in that room. How many steps between that room and the closest exit? Are there usually objects left by family members that might make it difficult to evacuate the room in a hurry? When learning to drive a racecar, one of the first lessons is to harness yourself into the seat wearing full race gear, close your eyes and hold your breath and try to climb out in under 10 seconds. Because racing suits can hold fire off your body for approximately that amount of time.

Now, do you think that you could escape your favorite room in your house in less time than that and be able to make it outside to a safe place, while holding your breath and not being able to see?

If you are thinking that isn’t enough time, especially if you consider that you need to make sure animals or other family members get out as well, you’re probably right.

How do you buy more time? Easy, one of the most overlooked items in your favorite room but one of the most important, the fire alarm. Having a working fire alarm can be the difference between catastrophe and an unfortunate loss of property.

Here are some tips to maintaining and testing your fire alarm:

1. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing your fire alarm each month, try to do it on the same day so you don’t forget. A good idea is to check the fire alarms when you already have your ladder out to change air filters.
2. The U.S. Fire Administration also recommends changing the batteries in your fire alarms twice a year. Opening day of the MLB and NFL are great days to remember to add that task to your calendar.
3. Remember if the device goes off frequently due to kitchen smoke or emits short quiet beeps it might need to be replaced.

If you have any additional questions about fire safety for your home or business please call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley at 602-341-6737

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is Here to Help in Phoenix! Water, Mold and Fire? Give SERVPRO a Hire!

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley wants to help Phoenix and Scottsdale residents get rid of mold, fire, water and storm damage!

We know these are scary times for everyone, there is uncertainty over what we do in our everyday lives right now. Are you safe to go to the grocery store? Are you safe leaving the house and coming back to your family?

While we understand your fears at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, we want to make sure you never fear having to call us for any emergency. Time does matter when it comes to disaster mitigation services!

If you suddenly find water on your carpet or wood floors, the time to call is now, if you find mold growing while you clean your cabinets, the time to call is now! If you start a small (or large) kitchen fire teaching yourself a new quarantine recipe, please do not wait to get help.

At SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, we are experienced with disaster, our crews are all trained in the proper methods to wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) not only for their safety but also for the safety of you and your family.

We also have the experience and only use EPA registered disinfectants and will sanitize the surfaces we work on and can fog the area when we finish to make sure that anything we brought in, or anything that was there before we got there is properly eliminated.

Remember, time is of the essence in any emergency situation, so if you find yourself with a problem that needs a professional, call the disaster experts at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 602-341-6737 or schedule via Facebook at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

SERVPRO Tips On How To Help Protect Yourself from COVID-19 (Corona Virus) In Phoenix

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, Cleaning & Disinfecting in Phoenix and Scottsdale Arizona.

This is a general guideline for the proactive cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces to help minimize the transmission of emergent viral pathogens including coronavirus disease 2019 (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

The CDC encourages the cleaning of high touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum.

These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDCs guidance for commercial spaces as well.

Cleaning removes the soil and dirt that harbors the infectious agents, while disinfecting kills the remaining environmental pathogens.

Cleaning is a necessary first step in disinfecting a surface. Both cleaning and disinfecting must be a part of your scope of work and plan.

In addition to keeping and implementing a good cleaning regime, it is encouraged to:

- Wash your hands regularly, keeping your hands out of and away from your mouth/face. 

- Implement social distancing & staying home when possible.

- When you have to be in public or attend meetings, try to keep the gatherings to 10 people OR less and keep at least 6 feet of distance between each other.

When in doubt, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for all of your cleaning and disinfecting needs!

#SERVPROofParadiseValley #WeAreAlwaysHereToHelp

Water Damage Mitigation From SERVPRO Of Paradise Valley in Phoenix

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley offers water damage restoration in Phoenix and Scottsdale!

Overview of Water Damage Mitigation

A residential or commercial property owner must have reliable, reputable professional assistance in the aftermath of water damage. When seeking a reputable water damage mitigation specialist, there are a number of key factors that a home or business owner must keep in mind. In addition, a home or business owner is best served by considering these factors, and identifying appropriate service providers before the need for emergency water mediation services exist.

Remediation  in Home

When a person faces water damage in a home because of a flood, or some other reason, it is best to remediate  the situation by immediately calling upon a professional. The reality is that there are experts who have specific experience in addressing water damage, mitigation, and restoration in a residential environment. These professionals understand the unique needs of addressing water in home issues.

A key element to consider when seeking a water in home recovery specialist is emergency response. A home owner must be able to access a water and flood damage specialist that can be at a residence immediately.

Remediating Water in Business

The reality is that dealing with water in business differs significantly from addressing water in home. A business owner manager must have access to a water clean up professional with specific expertise in water cleanup, restoration, and mitigation in a commercial setting.

Not only does water in business present truly unique challenges, time truly is of the essence. As is the case with residential water damage restoration, a business must be able to get immediate emergency response when flooding, or some other type of water damage, occurs. However, a business oftentimes is unable to operate in the aftermath of a flood until the aftermath is remedied. Therefore, a business must have professional assistance with a proven track record for rapid drying, water cleanup, mitigation, and restoration.

Comprehensive Drying

A key to limiting the extent of water-related damage is comprehensive and thorough drying. With this in mind, not only must the premises themselves be thoroughly dried but so do the contents and personal belongings that were affected by the water event.

When seeking a water recovery specialist, attention must be paid to the type of equipment a professional service provider utilizes in the drying process. In addition, a consideration must be made of the experience and background of the water damage specialist that will oversee the drying process.

Restoration Services

Not all water damage recovery specialists are created equally. For example, there are professionals that are well-equipped to address water cleanup and mitigation. However, they may not have the background necessary to appropriate address restorative efforts.

Ideally, a water recovery professional can provide comprehensive services, that include full-scale recovery efforts. By engaging a professional that can provide comprehensive services, a home or business owner is in the best position to ensure an effective and efficient water recovery effort.



A key consideration when seeking professional assistance for everything from water cleanup to restoration is the background and experience of the team of professionals assigned to a project. A home or business owner needs to select a service provider with a team of specialists that are duly licensed, certified, insured and bonded.

If you are need of a professional restoration company SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is a full service company that is family owned and operated. 

How To Deal With A Sewage Backup And Water Damage In Your Home According To SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

If your home in Arizona has suffered a water loss, consider calling SERVPRO of Paradise Valley. SERVPRO specializes in water damage restoration.

If your home in Paradise Valley is your castle – a place of safety and comfort where you can spend time with your family in learning, loving and relaxing – the last thing you want to think about is a backed-up sewer. The contamination and odor are bad enough, but resolving the problem can be complicated and cleaning a sewer-flooded basement can be a nightmare.

What Causes a Sewer Backup?

There are several things that could cause a sewer back up – some reasons are due to people’s actions, some are due to natural causes. Continue reading to learn about some of the possible reasons. 

Someone nearby flushed something that created a major clog, such as a diaper or a toy, for example
Roots have grown into the main line, constricting the flow
Water has backed up into the sewer lines due to storms  causing a flooding
A line may have broken 

What Should You Do?

If you see water coming up out of a floor drain or backing up in your toilet, call for help immediately, as it could be something serious requiring special equipment. Try to barricade the flooding if possible with rolled up towels or even sand bags in order to contain the contamination. Sewage contains not only human waste, but can also carry chemicals and toxins, so special care should be taken to keep it from spreading.

Proper Cleanup

Get help from a sewage and water restoration company in  Paradise Valley, AZ to use appropriate disinfectants, dispose of contaminated materials and make sure that things are safely clean. Any carpet, rugs or upholstered furnishings that were exposed to sewage water will likely need to be disposed of. Non-porous surfaces may be cleaned and disinfected.
A backed up sewer is no laughing matter, but understanding how to safely clean catastrophic. Act quickly and get help as needed to minimize the damage.

Where To Begin After a Fire

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Knowing Where To Begin After A Fire

A fire in your business or in your  home can lead to serious damage. The damage is due to flames, heat, smoke as well as water. The things that were not impacted by fire damage may get ruined by smoke or water that was used to put out the flames.  Therefore anything that you wish to save or reuse after a fire will have to be cleaned after the fire.

Fires may require the firefighters to cut holes in the walls of the premises. This is done to ensure there are no flames or hot spots that can erupt later and lead to additional fire damage. To minimize smoke and soot damage, holes may have been cut in the roof to let the heat out. Fire cleanup requires time and patience as the fire loss gets assessed. It is best to take the advice of the fire department before touching any object that has been damaged by fire.

 A fire cleanup requires understanding the risks to safety and health even after the fire has been put out. There can be soot and smoke damage that can affect your health. The air quality can make a person sick and aggravate fire damage. Proper restoration ensures there will not be any health risks in the future due to air quality or mold.

A professional restoration company should be consulted before doing any fire cleanup.  SERVPRO of Paradise Valley has certified technicians who will ensure the mitigation and restoration is completed properly and quickly. 

Before the fire cleanup, the fire report is required to provide information to the insurance company. Your insurance agent or adjuster can help you select a reputable restoration company.  The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another great resource to find an ethical restoration company. 

Call SERVPRO of Paraidse Valley at 602-341-6737 for more information on fire damage.

RESTORING YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AFTER WATER DAMAGE

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether you are dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, SERVPRO of Paradise Valley works quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while your facility is being restored.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals at SERVPRO are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns during the restoration process. We work with your insurance company to minimize the financial impact to your business.  Being an independently owned franchise and small business, we understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost productivity and revenue

What To Expect From A Restoration Specialist?

Checking Out the Damage

The water cleanup process will start with an assessment of the water damage. It is likely that everything will need to be removed from your business to allow for a complete water damage restoration.

Mitigation

The mitigation process includes a proper water cleanup followed by a thorough drying if needed.  A water pump can be used to get the largest amount of water out. After that, a wet or dry vacuum can help remove even more of the liquid.  Once finished with the vacuum high-powered fans are used to produce air movement that aids in the drying process.  A dehumidifier is used to help remove moisture from the air.  A complete drying is the only way to combat water damage.

Moving Back In

Items that were affected by the water or flood event will also need dried during the mitigation process.  Once the space and the items are completely dry you can move back into the premises.   

So, when an emergency arises in your Paradise Valley business, give us a call at 602-341-6737 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need!

How To Recover From Commercial Fire Damage

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

How To Recover From Commercial Fire Damage

If your business is affected by fire damage, the restoration process must begin as soon as the fire truck pulls away. Here are the steps you must take to recover from commercial fire damage:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company:


A fire damage claim should be placed as soon as the firefighters leave the house and the fire truck pulls away. Your insurance company also may be able to give you advice on what fire damage restoration company you should choose.

2. Find A Board Up Service:


Buildings that have been affected by commercial fire damage are vulnerable to vandalism and theft as soon as the fire truck pulls away and the firefighters leave. A board up service can prevent this from occurring. The board up service will take initial steps to prevent further soot damage and smoke damage from continuing to occur after the firefighters left. Choose a board up service that is reputable and is located as close to you as possible.

3. Choose A Company For Fire Restoration Services:


Choose fire restoration professionals that are experienced in the field. Also, try to find a company that is certified through the IIRC. Make sure that the fire restoration company meets local requirements for licensing.

Also, it's important to read reviews of a fire restoration company that you're considering. Google, Facebook and Yelp are good websites to find reviews. Also, check to see that the fire damage restoration company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). While accreditation with the Better Business Bureau is a strong sign that a company is reputable, there are many reputable commercial fire damage restoration companies that aren't accredited by the BBB.

The company that you choose to repair your commercial fire damage should also provide restoration services for smoke damage and soot damage. In many cases, smoke damage and soot damage are more serious than the damage caused by the fire itself.

The fire hose used to put out the fire and a fire sprinkler system may have caused damage. Therefore, try to find a company that can repair the water damage that's caused by the fire hose used by firefighters and your fire sprinkler system. The water from the fire hose and the fire sprinkler system can cause mold growth. Keep in mind that the fire hose on a fire truck can spray as much as 1500 gallons of water per minute.

Soot damage and smoke damage can cause a very strong odor that may deter customers. Make sure that the company you choose offers deodorization.

4. Investigation Of The Cause:


Always make sure the cause of the fire is precisely determined and repair the problem. Here are some common origins of fires that should be considered:

The Electric System
Utility Room Fires (often caused by electrical fires, by dryer lint, or flammable materials)
Kitchens
Heaters And Boilers (electrical fires are commonly caused by heaters)
Employees Smoking Indoors

5. Repair Of The Structure:


In addition to repairing parts of the structure that have been damaged by the fire, you may have to make other changes to the building during the restoration process. If you suffered an electrical fire, it's possible that some aspects of your electrical system don't meet code. As a result, you'll have to update your electrical system to prevent future electrical fires. If you suffered a utility room fire, it's possible that some parts of your utility room will need to be changed to prevent future utility room fires. Many utility room fires are caused by flammable materials being stored in areas where there could be a spark.

If your fire suppression system didn't meet code, it may have to be replaced with a newer fire suppression system. If a fire sprinkler system caused a lot of water damage, experts may recommend that you switch to a different type of fire suppression system, such as a dry chemical fire suppression system.
Visit www.SERVPROofparadisevalley.com  for more information on fire damage.

WHY SERVPRO? 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

24 Hour Water and Fire Restoration 

When a water or fire disaster happens, it can be a devastating event. Water damage and structural or smoke damage are all huge worries,  As soon as it is discovered, a fire or flooding situation should be reported and SERVPRO should be notified. Their 24 hour service is available any time day or night to help you make your way through a difficult and worrisome time.

1. Always Open

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley, AZ is open on a 24 hour, 7 days a week basis to serve their local community of Paradise Valley, AZ. This means national or bank holidays, weekends, any time they are needed. There is no waiting overnight for morning. When someone needs to make a frantic call because a disastrous event occurs in the middle of the night, they are ready.

2. Fast Response

When you put in a call a service technician will respond within just 1 hour and will arrive on site in 4 hours or less. These professionals will perform a thorough assessment of the damage and let you know within 8 hours what needs to be done. They understand that extensive damage can be sustained even after the fire is put out or a water main is shut off, and will be there within a few hours to begin assessing the damage.

3. Preferred Provider

Because of their ready availability and best practices, SERVPRO is the preferred provider in Paradise Valley, AZ  and is the choice of many insurance companies and their adjusters. They can handle any phase from cleanup to repair and understand the need for speed and transparency needed to gain and maintains trust.

Always open day or night, on a 24-hour basis these water and fire remediation professionals are there to meet your needs and can help provide a voice of calm and direction at a very difficult time. They can point you and your business in the right direction and help restore your peace of mind.

Water Damage And Your Commercial HVAC System

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

A water leak or flood is any business owner’s worst nightmare. Many owners of commercial properties often forget that they are responsible for the maintenance and repairs of on-property pipes and appliances. This often contributes to a lack of preventative maintenance on the owner’s part, such as detection of leaks and other precursors to water damage.

Commercial water damage in Paradise Valley is distressful when it means closing down business, even for a day. From leaks to more extensive water damage, you can be confident that SERVPRO is here to help you during your water event.

What Causes Commercial HVAC SystemsTo Leak

Leaking of the heating and air conditioning unit in your commercial structure can be prevented or resolved about 80% of the time by performing maintenance before the real damage occurs. Here is a listing of the reasons why your commercial AC unit leaks.

First, your air conditioning (HVAC) system may be draining because your drain line is backing up. Dirt can clog up the line, and the water has nowhere to go but into the pan. This causes the drain pan to overflow into your structure, such as the wall or ceiling, depending on where your HVAC indoor system is located. You can prevent this from occurring with regular maintenance. Have a professional blow out the drain line so that dirt does not accumulate.

Another reason for leaking is your HVAC system may be low on refrigerant charge. Often, an AC unit will start to freeze up when running because it is low on refrigerant. The pipe to the refrigerant may ice over or be extremely cool to the touch, even on the hottest days in Paradise Valley. Once this ice begins to melt, the water will drip onto the ceiling. If this repeatedly occurs over time, water can start seeping through your ceiling and require water damage  professionals such as SERVPRO to come and restore the damage.

Preventative maintenance is the key. It is not worth risking your place of business to ignore possible warning signs or neglect easily preventable issues.

Contact Us
Contact SERVPRO of Paradise Valley (602) 341-6737. Our water damage specialists can get your business back on your feet, and your doors back open as soon as possible.

Why SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

We Understand That Emergencies Happen.  That's Why We're Committed To Make it "Like It Never Even Happened." 

Here at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley we are dedicated to being number one in customer satisfaction through high quality repair and service.  When you are faced with the unfortunate challenge of a residential or commercial water or fire loss SERVPRO works hard to put you back in your home or business as a satisfied customer. 

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

Why should you trust SERVPRO of Paradise Valley with your most expensive asset or business?  

All our professionals are IICRC Certified.  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.

We use the most advanced technology and techniques available in the industry to restore your property back to pre loss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

We consistently exceed our customer’s expectations with our commitment to customer service.  Our customers become repeat and lifetime customers.  Josh Alcorn, our franchise owner is hands on in the business and has a passion for customer service.  He is available for any questions or concerns that may arise during the entire process.  He has built the business on customer service. 

We have our own reconstruction team to do the rebuild after the mitigation services are complete. Having our own reconstruction professionals in house guarantees the same level of service and satisfaction throughout the entire process.  

We work with all major insurance companies, agents and adjusters to expedite the process and mitigate the loss.  Insurance professionals trust SERVPRO to do the job the right way!

Trust SERVPRO of Paradise with your home or business mitigation and reconstruction and we will take the hassle out of an unfortunate event. 

FIRE PREVENTION AND CANDLES

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

Who doesn't love the aroma of a candle in their Paradise Valley AZ home.  There’s a special beauty to candles, but a lighted candle is also an open flame, and a potential fire hazard if not carefully monitored.

The majority of candle fires can be avoided if you follow basic safety rules:

1. Never leave a burning candle unattended.

2. Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.

3. Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.

How to Burn a Candle Safely

Before Lighting:

1. Before burning, always trim the wick to ¼ inch. You can use a wick trimmer, nail clippers, or scissors. 

2. Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candle use. It should be heat resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax.

3. Burn candles in a well-ventilated room:  Avoid drafts, vents or air currents. 

4. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on burn time and proper use. In general, it is recommended that candles do not burn for longer than four hours and cool for at least two hours before relighting.

While Burning:

1. Never leave a candle unattended.

2.Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.

3. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.

4. Do not place lighted candles where they can be knocked over by children, pets or anyone else.

Always contact emergency personnel in the event of a fire.  Once the fire is extinguished contact a professional restoration company to take care of smoke, fire or water damage. 

YOU FOUND A WATER LEAK! NOW WHAT?

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Unexpected water leaks can cause thousands of dollars of damage to your home in a short time. Be prepared if an unformante event happens.  When you notice a water leak call a professional immediately to mitigate the loss. 

What can you do to minimize water damage in your home while waiting for the restoration company to arrive?

1.  Look for the water source

2.  Shut of the water supply at the source

3.  If you can't find the source shut off mail water supply

3.  Place containers where there are active leaks

4.  Shut of electricity

5.  Move valuables to a safe place

6.  Place a piece of plastic between legs of wooded furniture and water to protect wood.

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 

https://www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com/

When Is It Time To Replace A Toilet?

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet in your Paradise Valley home doesn’t necessarily mean its time to head to the hardware store for a replacement. If it is newer, a simple toilet repair may do the trick. When it comes to aging toilets, besides their inefficiency, they are more prone to problems that could result in needed repairs beyond the bathroom that require a specialist.

Signs a Replacement Is Needed

An old toilet has been used a lot through the years. All that work it has done eventually leads to issues that are sure signs that it’s time for something new.

Clogging – While some clogging is normal, consistent clogging may indicate a hidden issue. If it needs to be unclogged weekly or it abnormally backs up, it is probably time to replace.
Cracks – These are the main culprits of a leaking toilet both on the interior and exterior of the toilet. If the crack spreads, it can quickly lead to water  and mold growth.
Constant Repairs – If seals, gaskets, flappers and other elements seem to always need to be fixed or tweaked, it can begin to make a more noticeable dent in your wallet than buying a new one.
Instability – Wobbling may indicate a loose screw. If tightening a bolt doesn’t do the trick, there could be damage to the flooring under the toilet.
Flushing Issues – High water bills are an indicator that the toilet isn’t functioning properly.
Surface Damage – Cleaning the toilet is not usually the most enjoyable a task. If your toilet is older, it can seem like a never-ending battle. Surface scratches can begin to deteriorate the porcelain, allowing for more buildup.
Mineral Deposits – If you have hard water issues, minerals eventually buildup in a toilet’s components, as well as in the pipes. Once there is too much, getting rid of it is difficult.

If you have a leaking toilet, quick action is the key to keeping further problems at bay. When addressing the issue, consider the above factors to determine if it’s time for a fix or a replacement.

When it Rains, It Pours... Literally - Scottsdale 85255

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water Heater Closet In Scottsdale, AZ 85255 with Mold Contamination

An apartment complex in Scottsdale, Arizona experienced a strange phenomenon of water heaters leaking one right after the other. The water heater closets at this apartment complex couple as extra storage space for the tenants, often times not being accessed for long periods of time. 

When multiple tenants started to complain their water was not heating up as quickly or not at all, the Property Manager knew something was awry.

In each of the rooms inspected, the drywall was wet and mold (pictured) had begun to form.

We (SERVPRO of Paradise Valley) jumped into action, performed Mold Remediation by removing the drywall and inspecting the studs/inside of the walls to make sure there wasn’t a hidden mold issue behind the drywall.

Thankfully the mold stayed on the exterior of the wall (mold spores could have been throughout, so we hepa vaccuumed the studs and the interior of the drywall on the other side to make the area as clean as possible). The Property Manager was extremely happy with our work and even called us out the very next week for a separate issue!

Where is Arizona's Monsoons?

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Photo of a Haboob in Southern Arizona.

9/13/2019

Can you believe it is already July 8th and there still hasn't been a monsoon? Do you know why there has not been a monsoon yet? It is understandable if you do not know the reasoning behind a monsoon as it is not often talked about. So how is it truly decided when monsoon season "starts?" When 3 consecutive days reach a dew point of 55 degrees or higher. This is the main reason why we have not had a monsoon this year.

There are also two different types of monsoons, wet and dry. "Dry monsoons" occur during the months of April, May, and June. While "wet monsoons" occur during the months of July, August and September. What is the difference between the two? During the dry monsoon months we receive about 6% of our yearly rainfall. Wet monsoon months usually bring around 32% of our yearly rainfall.

Here are some interesting facts!

Did you know if someone is struck by lightning they do not carry any additional electrical charge? This means you can perform CPR or touch the person right away without worrying if you will become electrocuted.

The most consecutive days of having a Monsoon in Arizona is 72 which happened in 1984.

The average number of monsoon days is 56.

Why can't things be easy?

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Remodel Mess Cleanup

Almost every home remodel has its set backs. Whether it be from the age of the home, the contractors (making simple mistakes like stepping on a water supply line that wasn't disconnected), or the discovery of mold behind cabinets. This home in Paradise Valley was recently renovated but it had one minor problem before the flooring could be installed. The problem was a dirty floor. There was dust, overspray (from installing the drywall, you can see the overspray near the base of the drywall), and very minor mold in one of the bedrooms. The homeowner requested we cleaned as much overspray and dust that we possibly could in the rooms not containing mold. In the room containing mold she wanted it long gone! We took care of all her needs and wants quickly, effectively, and what the homeowner thought was a fair price. If your home needs a quick clean or in need of mold remediation we are equipped with knowledgeable staff and the tools to get any size job done right!

Re-Flood In Paradise Valley

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Extracted, Set Equipment and Next day unit Re-Flooded!

One of the most common water loss occurrences is because of the toilet supply line. That is why we recommend replacing them every few years and to get an excellent quality one rather than the cheapest you can find. Spending the extra 15 dollars is well worth spending (in my mind) to prevent a water loss in your home. Although, a water loss certainly isn’t the end of the world, but it can cause a lot of stress, sadness (if something gets ruined), and sometimes maybe even anger. In the picture you are looking at our portable water extractor. This job was an emergency call that came in around 8 pm on a Saturday night. We extracted as much water as we could, removed the carpet pad, placed equipment, and removed toe kicks. These are all necessary steps to limit the damage the water can do and prevent the growth of mold. There are multiple types of ways to extract water. There are extractors to extract the standing water in carpet, tile, wood surfaces and etc. While dehumidifiers are used to reduce the excess moisture from the air.

Commercial Emergency Readiness Plan

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research? Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. What are the main points of an ERP? Knowing where the correct shut offs are which include the main water supply line, electric, sprinkler shut offs and more! If your employees do not know where the water shut off valve is how can they prevent excessive damage to your business caused by water. If you ask your employees right now would they know where that valve was, would they know where the nearest fire extinguisher was? These are some of the many questions that an ERP(Emergency Ready Profile) will cover.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.  
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.  
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.  
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. You can approve work based on cost, whether it is fire, mold, water, biohazard, vandalism, etc. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.  
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."
• Phone App OR a printed portfolio. For your convenience you can have your profile printed and/or you can install our ERP App on your phone!

Best of all, it is of NO cost to you and you can finally take that dream vacation!

Where are the Arizona Monsoons?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Can you believe it is already July 8th and there still hasn't been a monsoon? Do you know why there has not been a monsoon yet? It is understandable if you do not know the reasoning behind a monsoon as it is not often talked about. So how is it truly decided when monsoon season "starts?" When 3 consecutive days reach a dew point of 55 degrees or higher. This is the main reason why we have not had a monsoon this year.

There are also two different types of monsoons, wet and dry. "Dry monsoons" occur during the months of April, May, and June. While "wet monsoons" occur during the months of July, August and September. What is the difference between the two? During the dry monsoon months we receive about 6% of our yearly rainfall. Wet monsoon months usually bring around 32% of our yearly rainfall.

Here are some interesting facts!

Did you know if someone is struck by lightning they do not carry any additional electrical charge? This means you can perform CPR or touch the person right away without worrying if you will become electrocuted.

The most consecutive days of having a Monsoon in Arizona is 72 which happened in 1984.

The average number of monsoon days is 56.

How Can We Help With Wildfires?

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know about 84% of wildfires are human caused? There are many ways humans can cause fires including arson, improper camping techniques, vehicles (trailer chains, flat tire sparks, oil drips etc.), fireworks, and more. How can we help prevent these fires? Pay attention to posted signs about fire hazard when going to light fireworks, target shooting, off-roading, camping or other potential fire causing activities. When you are leaving your campsite you should be able to grab the coals without being burned; The coals should be cool to the touch. If you smoke cigarettes/cigars/other smokable substances be sure to not liter and to be 100% positive that it is put out. This may have been information you have heard a 100x times before but it really can prevent fires.

How do you help first responders/those affected by the fire during and after a fire? There are many "go-fund me" pages to help not only the first responders who lost their homes but also the civilians who lost their home. If you do not feel comfortable with go-fund me there are many foundations including the Red Cross that accept donations. You can also go to a fire station and donate blankets, food, water, clothing, toiletries, etc. for not only the firefighters but the families displaced by the fires. If you ever have questions about how to help during a wildfire give local fire departments a call and ask them what they need or what the best way to help them is!

Dry Heat Vs Humid Heat Arizona topics

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

In a previous post about summer weather I discussed some tips on being prepared for the summer weather. The Arizona heat is often not taken into high regard from states that have heat and high humidity. This blog is going to discuss why many claim dry heat is more bearable than humid heat.

Dry Heat:

Our bodies have adapted to try and regulate body temperature in a few different ways. The most important way being sweat. Once you step outside after sitting in air conditioning all day you begin to sweat to try and cool your body temperature down. The sweat is often evaporated very quickly (depending on how much you are sweating). Even though this does cool our bodies down it also brings a major issue if you're not staying properly hydrated. Because the hot air is taking moisture from your body it is a lot easier to become dehydrated in the desert.

Humid Heat

We discussed dry heat being able to cool down our bodies by sweating so how do our bodies react to humidity? The same way, but because the air is already full of humidity/moisture it does not take the excess moisture from the sweat on our skin. Therefore, you may feel slightly more miserable in a humid environment because your body cannot regulate your temperature as effectively in a humid environment than a dry environment.

Of course, there are many other reasons/details that can go into this blog but sweat is one of the key points. If you have been in both a humid environment and a dry environment, you know both are equally as horrible.

Commercial Biohazard

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

A biohazard loss just like floods, fires, and mold losses happens. It is usually when you least expect it but sometimes you see it coming. They happen at your home, place of business, and even sometimes in your vehicle. Biohazard does not just mean the loss of a life. We deem biohazard as anything hazardous to the health and safety of others. For example, dirty needles in a drug addicts home/car, human/animal feces/other bodily fluids, chemical spills and anything along those lines. How can we help your business with these types of losses? We have the knowledge, equipment, license and insurance to correctly/legally get the job done. If you have feces on a table, wall, or chairs outside your business we can remove the feces and use a power washer to remove any unwanted particles/stains while using our all-natural chemicals to clean the affected areas. This is just one example of the many ways we can help your business recover from a biohazard loss.

How to Prepare for Summer in Arizona

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is here, and the heat is back. This means swimming, water parks, fishing, and many other fun activities. With the heat also comes the not so fun side of Arizona. Snakes, heat stroke, and monsoons all begin to make their appearance potentially wreaking havoc on our bodies and homes. All three we can take proper steps to prevent or minimize the damage. First, snakes, keeping debris like dead leaves, tree limbs, left over wood and trash can be a place for snakes to hide. Limiting how much is lying around outside can help prevent snakes from appearing in your backyard. Second, heat stroke, drinking plenty of water, being indoors, or finding shade to take a break from the suns rays are all ways to prevent heat stroke. Finally, monsoons. Monsoons, along with the heat, can damage your roof causing your home to now have water or potentially mold.

How to prepare for 110 degree heat:

1. Knowing the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. In the summer you should try to avoid the feeling of being thirsty. How do you do that? Drinking 2.7L to 3.7L will ensure your body is staying hydrated and will help your body not feel as thirsty. REMEBER: If you feel nausea, dizzy, having trouble breathing, weak pulse, or any similar symptoms you need to get in an air controlled environment immediately and call 9-1-1 (or have someone drive you to the nearest hospital).

2. Do not leave animals, people(especially babies), or any other living thing in the vehicle with it shut off. Temperatures can easily reach 150+ degrees inside a vehicle.

3. Be ready for extra car maintenance due to the heat.

4. As stated with the Monsoon season blog be prepared for flash floods. If there is rain in any part of the valley riverbeds and low ground should be avoided if at all possible. If you already see water on a street and you are unsure of how deep the water is and there are signs stating do not cross while there is water... do not cross it. "The Stupid Motorist Law" will not treat you kindly if you do enter one of the flooded areas.

5. More tips to come later!

Simple Remodel.... Right?

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Before we began cleaning

Almost every home remodel has its set backs. Whether it be from the age of the home, the contractors (making simple mistakes like stepping on a water supply line that wasn't disconnected), or the discovery of mold behind cabinets. This home in Paradise Valley was recently renovated but it had one minor problem before the flooring could be installed. The problem was a dirty floor. There was dust, overspray (from installing the drywall, you can see the overspray near the base of the drywall), and very minor mold in one of the bedrooms. The homeowner requested we cleaned as much overspray and dust that we possibly could in the rooms not containing mold. In the room containing mold she wanted it long gone! We took care of all her needs and wants quickly, effectively, and what the homeowner thought was a fair price. If your home needs a quick clean or in need of mold remediation we are equipped with knowledgeable staff and the tools to get any size job done right!

Are you Prepared for a Fire?

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants to think a fire could happen to their home/family. The shocking reality is a fire can happen to everyone especially during monsoon season! In fact last monsoon season my fathers home was struck by lightning. Thankfully the lightning did not spark a fire but it did leave burn marks on the roofing tiles. If the lightning caused a fire would my dad and the kids have been ready? The answer is YES! In every room of the house their is a smoke detector (aside from the kitchen of course) and the kids are constantly being asked "If there is a fire what do you do?" This clearly annoys them after the 100th day in a row of asking but the more you talk about it the more confident you can feel that your children know what to do.

Some quick tips :

1. Always provide your children with a Plan A, Plan B, Plan C, and even a Plan D. You never know where I fire could originate so depending on the source of the fire you may have to take another route out of the home. Our Plan A is to exit the home through the garage door (if the fire is happening in the kitchen or living room areas). The garage door is the closest door to all the bed rooms and will also allow us to safely get our animals out as well. If the fire originates in the garage either the front door or their windows is the next option.

2. Always feel door knobs with the back of your hand! You do not want to burn the palm of your hand while trying to escape from a fire.

3. If you have animals in your home try to give them at least one way to escape. Whether that be an open door, open window, doggy door, etc.

4. It may seem repetitive to go over the fire plan at least once a week but in a real situation you wont have to stop and think about what to do. Every second counts when getting out of your home during a fire!

If you have anymore questions about fire safety give us a call at 602-341-6737

Why Us?

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley has the knowledge for even the worse of the worse! We have the most advanced technology in detecting water, removing moisture in the air/behind the walls, cleaning/removing damaged drywall or other materials from mold and anything in between. We are licensed and certified in Water removal, mold mitigation, document drying, smoke/soot removal, biohazard, vandalism and more! In Arizona the only required certification is water removal and dehumidification. With that being said we are certified in all the services we provide. In order to get most certifications, the company will need to take a 3 to 5-day course to how to best treat each situation. In most cases there is a “dummy” house that is used to show different techniques. If you have any more questions about our license and certifications do not hesitate to call today at 602-341-6737.

Water Extraction in Paradise Valley

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most common water loss occurrences is because of the toilet supply line. That is why we recommend replacing them every few years and to get an excellent quality one rather than the cheapest you can find. Spending the extra 15 dollars is well worth spending (in my mind) to prevent a water loss in your home. Although, a water loss certainly isn’t the end of the world, but it can cause a lot of stress, sadness (if something gets ruined), and sometimes maybe even anger. In the picture you are looking at our portable water extractor. This job was an emergency call that came in around 8 pm on a Saturday night. We extracted as much water as we could, removed the carpet pad, placed equipment, and removed toe kicks. These are all necessary steps to limit the damage the water can do and prevent the growth of mold. There are multiple types of ways to extract water. There are extractors to extract the standing water in carpet, tile, wood surfaces and etc. While dehumidifiers are used to reduce the excess moisture from the air.

Potential Flooding

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

With monsoon season just 5 days away it is time to start prepping for potential flooding now. Flooding is the covering or submerging of normally dry land with a large amount of water. More importantly the way most if not all insurance carriers see flooding is water coming into your house on the ground level. This is why in most policy's you will need to get an addition flood coverage.

How can you prepare yourself?

Know your coverage! If for one reason or another your home floods you need to know if it is insured or not (or you will be paying out of pocket to remove any damage). If your home has had a flood in the past from the monsoons taking extra precautions could avoid some if not all damage. Some of those precautions are getting sandbags, digging trenches to catch water/pull the water away from your home, and sealing all doors/windows with proper sealant.

If you need more tips on how to protect your home call us today and ask us about our Emergency Ready Plan (ERP).

Monsoon Season is Coming!

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is slowly creeping up on us here in the valley. To be exact monsoon season officially begins on June 15^th. Have you ever wondered why Arizona has monsoons? Or what monsoon season means? Well, monsoon seasons can be defined as high temperatures, high winds, and high moisture. So why do we get monsoons in Arizona? There is a shift in wind patterns which causes the moist ocean air to now flow into dry lands such as Arizona. This is also why there is a potential to have funnel clouds/tornadoes during monsoon season in Arizona (warm moist air, cool dry air). It is important to note that during a monsoon if you can stay indoors to avoid the potential haboobs, lightning, and flooding you should! It has been reported that since 2009 26 were killed due to flooding, an unknown amount of car accidents due to dust storms/haboobs and 14 were killed due to lightning. We have the tools and knowledge to assist you if your home is damaged by the ruthless Monsoon weather. The biggest weather killer in Arizona is the heat. Check out our new blog coming in a week discussing heat safety!

Fire Sprinkler Systems in Paradise Valley

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Lately a lot of our water loses have been from a fire sprinkler system. Fortunately, it is not because a fire was started but instead someone either bumped into it to break the sprinkler head, or some sort of other malfunction. These systems even with their flaws/malfunctions can be extremely helpful to avoid serious fire damage or injuries from fire. The only difference in having a fire system installed in your home is you will need to be mindful of them when installing a new fan/light, working in the attic (do not want to step on the supply lines), or if you have kids whom love to play ball in the house no matter how many times you tell them no. Of course, they could naturally wear down and cause a leak but majority of the time we find the leaks from theses sprinkler systems are from accidents. If your fire sprinkler system has sprung a leak we are here to help!

Rain in Paradise Valley

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

After dealing with the hot Arizona sun over the weekend and Monday it was nice to wake up in the morning to a cool breeze with a light drizzle. At the office today we kept the doors open to allow that cool breeze to flow throughout the office. Even with the lightest of drizzles the rain could wreak havoc on your home. If you notice even a tiny leak it is best to get it repaired ASAP and have a professional access the amount of water in your attic/home. Why? Even the smallest amount of water could lead to mold. You are probably thinking why does mold in my attic matter? Increased mold spores in your attic can potentially go into your air conditioning unit (If it is in your attic) or it can get in your vents and then into your home. Remember it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Document deodorization in Paradise Valley

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO does document drying? Did you also know we do document deodorization? We have not been doing it long but SERVPRO corporate has built a state-of-the-art drying chamber. It is massive and uses gamma radiation to freeze dry the documents. Where else have you heard gamma radiation, think comics. Hint: He is an avenger whom throws gods around like they are pillows. If you have not guessed it yet the super hero we are talking about is The Incredible Hulk. Do not worry though the gamma radiation we do prevents your documents from further damage instead of turning them green and mean. Within this chamber we can also do document deodorization. If documents were damaged by smoke in a fire we can completely take the smell out of them. In turn we can also sanitize the documents after the drying process and/or deodorization process. If your home or business important documents are damaged know SERVPRO can help!

Mold in your Paradise Valley home

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

There are many common misconceptions when it comes to mold in a living space. Arguably the biggest one being that you can completely rid your living space of mold. Mold spores travel through the air attaching to your shoes, clothes, hair, or they simply blow into the house if you have the windows open or by opening the door. Some leaks you just simply cannot see. If the leaks go on long enough and depending on where the leak is, you can have mold in the parts of your home you cannot see. With that being said, there will always be some amount of mold inside your home.

            The second biggest misconception is using bleach to clean an affected area. I have spoken slightly about the issue with bleach in a previous post, but I will reiterate why you should not use bleach. First, using bleach does not kill all the mold spores in porous areas like drywall and/or wood. In fact, if you do not have proper air flow in the area you could put an even bigger risk on your health with the protentional of producing toxic gas (mixing bleach and ammonia). What do we recommend? For small DIY mold problems, we recommend putting antimicrobial dish soap on a wet rag and wiping the affected area.

            The last misconception I will speak about is that all Black Mold is the worst mold to have. There are thousands of different molds! Some molds are green, purple, red, blue, white and the dreaded black. The name of the mold that is feared to be the one and only Black Mold is called Stachybotrys. Therefore, it is important to have a professional come out and do mold testing, so we know, and you know what mold is present in the home.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call! We would be more than willing to answer your questions or concerns!

Power Strip Fire in Glendale Arizona

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Power strips are one of the best things you can have in your home. They also can be potential hazards. A home in Glendale fell victim to a power strip fire. Thankfully the homeowner was home and was able to put out the small fire on their own (fire extinguishers are amazing for small fires). The homeowner then turned the power off to that side of the home. Eventually, the power strip was unplugged to discover why the fire started in the first place. When the homeowner was doing a water change for their fish tank, they did not realize some water spilled and made its way towards the power strip (that was some distance away). The homeowner stated that they have had that fish tank in that exact spot for close to 5 years and never had an issue until now. Sometimes freak accidents happen, are you prepared? If you do not feel you are prepared, we can help!

Slab Leaks in Paradise Valley

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

If your water bill spikes for no apparent reason you should probably call a plumber out before the damage becomes worse. If there is no probable cause like a dripping faucet, running toilet, or a teenager who took an hour-long shower, you might have a leak that is underground, behind a wall, or anywhere you cannot detect. Not only will a leak spike your water bill it can also do severe damage to your home. If the leak is being a wall you are guaranteed to have mold, if it is under your home you will most likely have foundation issues if the leak persists. Either way having peace of mind is always better. Would you rather pay a plumber to tell you nothing is wrong, or wait until something becomes a major problem and pay then? I am not saying if your bill goes up 5 dollars to call a plumber out every time but if it goes up a substantially noticeable amount. The picture shown is one of the many times we have worked on a "slab leak." Slab leak in everyday terms is a leak under the house that is coming through the concrete causing damage to the home. We are here for you 24/7 and we are always willing to answer any/all questions.

Fire Damage Restoration in Paradise Valley

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is equipped with the tools and skills to help you successfully recover from fire damage to your home or business. We understand the amount of stress any loss (water damage, mold mitigation, fire damage, etc.) can have. That is why we are more than willing to answer any of your questions you may have about our services. Pictured is a residential home garage fire. Unfortunately, this loss happened as a result of a single firework that wasn't fully put out. This caused the bucket it was sitting in to catch fire. Thankfully no one was injured in this fire and it was contained to the garage only. With that being said there were a lot of items being stored in the garage that were impossible to restore. Some examples are childhood pictures, children's clothes, old electronics, and important documents. Although a lot was destroyed a lot was also saved like pictures, clothing and important documents. We removed everything affected like the drywall, insulation, and contents as you can see in the picture. If your home or commercial property is affected by fire damage we are here for you 24/7/365

Commercial Restoration

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

We are often asked, "What is the difference between Residential and Commercial restoration?" Although there are a lot of difference, there are also a lot of similarities. The biggest difference is the size of the properties. Commercial buildings can be the same size of a decent size home or they could be thousands of square feet. The bigger the size the more equipment/materials required. Another major difference is the requirements. One of the requirements is being asbestos tested. If a building is deemed "commercial" it is required to have asbestos testing (apartment complexes with 5 or more units, office buildings, condos, warehouses, etc.). While in a residential home if it is older than 1981 it is required to be asbestos tested. We treat every job like it is our home, or our office and treat every customer with respect and care. If you have any questions about our commercial services do not hesitate to call!

Asbestos in Commercial

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Restoring a commercial property has different standards than restoring a residential home. The quality of the work does not change we just simply need to do more work. What sort of work? The biggest difference is that it is mandatory to do asbestos testing. For a residential home we only have to do asbestos testing if the home was built before 1980. While commercial needs to be asbestos tested no matter what year the complex was built. Why? Commercial materials can be stored in warehouses for who knows how long until they are finally used. This poses a risk not only for us but for everyone in the office/apartments/condos. What is asbestos? Asbestos is a natural material (rock) that is used with materials such as cloth, paper, cement, and plastic that is great for insulation. Asbestos became popular in the 1940’s and was used heavily in buildings until the 1980’s. Now it is required that products in the United States contain less than 1% of asbestos. Why is asbestos so dangerous? It causes Mesothelioma. That is why it is taken so seriously by restoration companies and reconstruction companies.

Conflict of Interest Regarding Mold

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

I have been recently asked why we do not do our own mold testing. Well, by reading the title you can assume that it is a conflict of interest. If we did our own mold testing why would our customer 100% trust us with the results? Would we get greedy and just say the house was positive for mold or even asbestos? I truly believe we would not lie about the results of a test (if we were to do our own testing) but to ensure our customers have 100% trust in us it is easier to have a third party do the testing. If you believe you have mold in your home do not hesitate to call! Why? SERVPRO of Paradise Valley provides NO-cost estimates for your home or business. We are one call away to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Apartment Fire in Paradise Valley 85253

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

To start this blog off I will say that no one was seriously injured in this fire. The only damage done was to this single apartment which everyone one involved is lucky and thankful.

Now let us get into what happened and how we helped with the cleanup of the apartment. The source was believed to be from an electrical wire that sparked for on reason or another causing the fire. The first responders did an amazing job (as usual) of putting the fire out and making sure no one was injured. How did we help? We removed all the effected content and sorted it between salvageable or unsalvageable. Unfortunately, almost everything in the apartment was unsalvageable but thankfully the tenant had insurance to cover their belongings. By no means does that mean it is easier going through any loss, but it can give you a slight relief knowing you are covered. With the contents that were salvageable we will be cleaning them and getting them back to preloss conditions.

Commercial loss

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley has done work for numerous amounts of commercial buildings. We have done carpet cleanings, water removal, mold removal, fire restoration, biohazard, and anything we would do at a residential property. No matter how big or small we are always prepared.

One of the ways we are always prepared is having SERVPRO Storm. This division of SERVPRO is made up of highly experienced personal in case of a natural disaster, or a large loss that franchises normally do not see. One example would be if there was a fire in a hotel or apartment that damaged more than 300 rooms. SERVPRO Storm gives SERVPRO franchises peace of mind knowing if they ever need help, it is just one phone call away. If you are currently watching the news you have probably seen SERVPRO Storm in states affected by Hurricane Michael.

Some of the commercial properties we have done work for are retail facilities, education, property management, hospitality and healthcare facilities. Pictured is a Doctor’s office that was flooded by our heavy storms last week. We extracted the water/mud and placed fans to ensure there would not be severe mold growth. If something happens to your commercial property SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is here for you 24/7 making it “Like it never even happened.”

The Speed of Mold

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

The general "rule of thumb" for mold beginning to grow is 24-48 hours. With that being said there are a lot of other factors that can play into this. One of which being how humid the area is. If the area that is affected has a small amount humidity it most likely will have less mold growth than a place that has a lot of humidity. Just because you cannot see it does not mean it isn't there, but if you see it here are some tips on what to do.

If you see visible signs of mold in your home in most cases, you can easily clean it off. Some of those few cases would be if it is on tile/grout, on metal or plastic tubing (toilet supply lines), and on concrete. However, bleach should NOT be used. Your safer bet would to be used dawn dish soap. Note, you should only wipe the mold away it is a small amount, if it is large scale you are going to have an even bigger problem on your hands. You should always find the source of the problem when discovering mold, if you cannot find the problem you should hire a professional, so you do not have a reoccurring problem. Mold is not a major problem at small quantities, however, not knowing the source and having a reoccurring problem can be a major problem in the long run.

        What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Paradise Valley for mold remediation services.
• Don’t stress!

        What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Costco 85260

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

Costco is one of the best places to shop, why? They have everything that usually comes at an amazing price! That is why when we received a call from Costco we were glad we could finally help them instead of them helping us! Unfortunately for them they had a sewage over flow that was causing problems in the tire shop and break room. We removed all the standing water and began removing the affected drywall. Why did we have to remove the drywall instead of dry? Whenever there is a sewage issue it is always considered CAT 3 water no matter how “clear” the water is. What is CAT 3? CAT 3 is how we describe water that contains chemical, physical, or biological contaminates. For example, think about your toilet. We must use the restroom, in order to keep our toilets clean we use bleach or other chemicals, does that sound like water you want flowing through your home? Of course not! All those pollutants can easily lodge themselves on drywall, carpet, wood flooring and any porous material. That is why we recommend removal instead of drying. If you have been to the Costco off Hayden, you can probably see where we were/are working. We removed anything that may have had Cat 3 water on it and are now in the process of rebuilding.

Open 24/7 to better serve YOU!

9/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 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 are available 24 hours on weekends, holidays, Super Bowl, and every other day of the year. We are truly 24/7/365!

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today (602) 341-6737

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 Paradise Valley 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 like:

• 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 Paradise Valley

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 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.

Mold Under a Microscope

9/1/2018 (Permalink)

We often post pictures of what mold can look like in your home. What you do not see is how tiny mold spores can be and how they can be such a hassle to clean up. The picture is at a 100X magnification under a microscope if that gives you an idea of how small mold spores are. This is one of the many reasons why it is safer to remove drywall and other affected materials from a home then replacing our cleaning. Although it is impossible to remove every mold spore in a home we can remove enough to make your home safe and healthy!

Some health problems mold can cause or irritate are wheezing, rash, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, can trigger asthma symptoms, can weaken your autoimmune system. Getting your ducts cleaned can help prevent the spread of mold and can also give you warning signs. If there is visual signs of mold that can mean multiple different things. 1) You may have a water issue (leaky pipe, or had a flood that wasn’t properly dried, etc.), your home is too humid, carpet in bathrooms, and so on. If you see visual signs of mold it is better to act sooner rather than later! If you think you have symptoms of mold exposure visit your doctor and give us a call.

One After Another in Paradise Valley 85253

8/25/2018 (Permalink)

A City of Scottsdale apartment complex went through an odd stretch of water heaters leaking forone reason or another. The water heater rooms at this apartment complex couple as extra storage space for the tenants, often not being accessed for long periods of time. 

When multiple tenants started to complain their water was not heating up as quickly or not at all, the Property Manager knew something was awry.

In each of the rooms inspected, the drywall was wet and mold (pictured) had begun to form.

We (SERVPRO of Paradise Valley) jumped into action, performed Mold Remediation by removing the drywall and inspecting the studs/inside of the walls to make sure there wasn’t a hidden mold issue behind the drywall.

Thankfully the mold stayed on the exterior of the wall (mold spores could have been throughout, so we hepa vaccuumed the studs and the interior of the drywall on the other side to make the area as clean as possible). The Property Manager was extremely happy with our work and even called us out the very next week for a separate issue!

Don't Let Storms Bring you Down!

8/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley are the experts in storm and flood damage restoration! Our dedicated teams are highly trained and use specialized equipment to restore your property (Commercial OR Residential) to its pre-storm condition; Therefore, making it "Like it never even happened."

Faster Response  

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is locally owned and operated and therefore 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. Another bonus is we are 24/7/365. What does that mean for you? You do not need to wait until a weekday or during office hours to get a fast response from us! Monsoons can strike at anytime, we are ready, are you?

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms 

When storms hit Paradise Valley, 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. 

http://www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com/disaster-recovery

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 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; Therefore, making it "Like it never even happened."

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. Another bonus is we are 24/7/365. What does that mean for you? You do not need to wait until a weekday or during office hours to get a fast response from us! Monsoons can strike at anytime, we are ready, are you?

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms 

When storms hit Paradise Valley, 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. 

http://www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com/disaster-recovery

Accidents happen, will you be prepared? Ask us about our Emergency Response Plan so you, your business, and your loved ones can be just as prepared as we are!

AZ Monsoons

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Can anyone guess what is on this roof? I will give you a hint, it is a type of solar. In this case the solar energy is used to heat a pool. This is one of the many common ways to heat your pool and one can argue it being the most effective way. I only know this information because 1. I worked at a pool store for awhile 2. At said pool store we had a vendor come in and explain the system to us. To get to the real problem at hand this roof had a leak. With monsoons tearing through the valley all last week water began pooling on the roof with nowhere to go (drains were clogged with debris). Be sure to check your gutters, drains, and your roof for anything you see out of the ordinary (missing tiles, cracks, etc.). If you feel something is wrong or just doesn’t feel right, trust your gut feeling! No matter how big or small we are here for you 24/7/365!

Emergency Ready Plan (ERP)

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Have you ever been on vacation, yet you receive 20 calls a day from work? We understand your pain/frustration and we are here to help! Here is how;

Did you know as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research? Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. If your employees do not know where the water shut off valve is how can they prevent excessive damage to your business. If you ask your employees right now would they know where that valve was, would they know where the nearest fire extinguisher was? These are some of the many questions that an ERP(Emergency Ready Profile) will cover.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.  
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.  
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.  
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. You can approve work based on cost, whether it is fire, mold, water, biohazard, vandalism, etc. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.  
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."
• Phone App OR a printed portfolio. For your convenience you can have your profile printed and/or you can install our ERP App on your phone!

Best of all, it is of NO cost to you and you can finally take that dream vacation!

Importance of Smoke Detectors

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Have you ever had a smoke detector go off when you have been cooking, or randomly in the middle of the night causing everyone to wake up? A smoke detector that is not functionally properly can be extremely annoying. This can cause someone to take the battery out, not have a smoke detector to begin with, or (hopefully) replace the battery. If the smoke detector randomly goes off without being prompted by smoke, it is probably time to replace the batteries. With a working smoke detector, it not only can save lives, but it can also reduce the damage done to a home/business. The faster you catch a fire, the faster it can be put out.

To find more information about the importance of a smoke detector you can visit:

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms

            The link provided gives eye opening facts about fire related deaths, injuries, and smoke detector neglect.

In addition to a working smoke detector, be sure you have an escape plan that everyone in the household knows. For tips on making an escape plan please visit the National Fire Protection Association with the link listed below.

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/safety-in-the-home/escape-planning/basic-fire-escape-planning

Whether the damage is big or small SERVPRO of Paradise Valley can help!

Mold & Containment in Paradise Valley

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

Remember our light to medium rain (depending on where you are in the valley) we had on June 16^th? Unfortunately, this family remembers as they are currently having their kitchen rebuilt because of mold. Water found a hole and began wreaking havoc without the family’s knowledge. The affected area was behind the kitchen appliances, cabinets, and was only discovered when a child’s toy went under the oven. Naturally to retrieve their beloved toy they moved the oven only to find a lot more than a toy. We setup containment and got asbestos testing done before we began removing anything in the kitchen. We will be posting a before and after shortly so stay tuned! The picture shown isn’t even the worst of it so be prepared! We are here for all your remediation needs but hope you will never need us!

Biohazard in Paradise Valley 85253

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard just like floods, fires, and mold losses happens. It is usually when you least expect it but sometimes you see it coming. That is the case for one specific business we have worked with on various occasions. As you can see in the picture it is the clean version of what happened on the table, bench, and wall. Don’t worry this biohazard loss did not happen because of the loss of a life. I will simply say it was gross for a place that someone eats at. How did we clean? Power washer and chemicals! We removed the hazard from the premise then we sprayed our chemicals and lastly repower washed the area. Think of what we did and compare it to when you spill something on your floor. First you remove whatever was spilled, then you get your choice in cleaning supplies spray affected area, so it is not sticky, and lastly remove the cleaning supplies so your floor looks new! SERVPRO of Paradise Valley can help your business with biohazard inside and out.

Fresenius Desert Valley Care Center 85032

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

It is always an honor to be trusted by someone in a time of need especially a health center. We had received a call from the Fresenius Desert Valley Care Center and we were told that they had a bit of a water issue. We rushed over and began extracting the water on the floor. Note: While we worked there were nurses, doctors and patients needing to get from point A to point B. This made us try and work faster than even our fastest speed to get out of their way. We were told by the Care Center to prioritize the patients room and the server room(pictured). Once the water was extracted we began placing fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers strategically to avoid tripping, infringing movement, and to properly dry the rest of the space. We are proud of the services we can provide to help others in need!

Peak 16 Fire

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Having a fire is something you always hope and pray will never happen to you or anyone you love. We hope and pray whenever we go to a fire loss everyone is okay. Thankfully out of all our fire loses no one has been hurt aside from being slightly stressed about the situation they are now in. The loss pictured was at an apartment complex and that room was currently being remodeled. There were plumbers there to fix the plumbing issues which caused them to be using a torch. I am sure you can guess what happened next. The wood caught fire and damaged the outer drywall, the support, and smoked spread throughout the apartment. Accidents happen, we witness car accidents daily, send a text to the wrong person, pipes break and so on. Although we can not help with every accident in the world we can help you with the ones with your home.

Mold in the Attic of a Paradise Valley Home

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes what may look like a roof leak turns out to be an A/C condenser line leak. This was the case for this Paradise Valley home. There was staining on the ceiling in their home, so they requested our help in finding the problem, that meant going into the attic. Upon first inspection while using the FLIR we saw colder temperatures on the ceiling and then we found the mold(pictured) in the attic. We placed one dehumidifier in the room that had the water staining to eliminate the chance of mold growth in the living space. Then, we removed the insulation, wet drywall, hepa vac affected area (including studs, drywall(that wasn't removed), and the A/C itself), and upon homeowners request we sprayed antimicrobial. If you have a suspected a problem with your roof or in your attic, we are here for you 24/7/365 to find the problem and take steps to properly fix it!

Average Rainfall in Phoenix

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Having a roof leak, if you were to have one, is better now rather than later when monsoon season hits. That is what happened to this Paradise Valley home. They were understandably upset but were also thankful that they knew they had a problem before the damage could be worse. On average during the month of July we receive just over an inch of rain. The most rainfall we have had in a 24-hour period was September 8, 2014 which we received 3.29 inches of rain! If you lived in Arizona at the time that was an unforgettable storm in the Phoenix area. The 3.29 inches dropped in that one day is close to Washington’s month of May average. Arizona has the potential to have a lot of rainfall in such a brief amount of time. If you are in a flood zone or are unsure about the strength of your roof start preparing now.

A/C leak in Paradise Valley 85253

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes what may look like a roof leak turns out to be an A/C condenser line leak. This was the case for this Paradise Valley home. There was staining on the ceiling in their home, so they requested our help in finding the problem. That meant going into the attic. Upon first inspection while using the FLIR we saw colder temperatures on the ceiling(pictured with the FLIR). We placed one dehumidifier in the room that had the water staining to try and eliminate the growth of mold because we were waiting for approval to remove the wet drywall. Why were we waiting to remove the drywall? This home was built before 1980 so we had to have asbestos testing done to the home. If you have a suspected roof leak, we are here for you 24/7/365 to find the problem and fix it!

Paradise Valley Business 85253

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Renovating is a stressful joyous process in any home or business. You feel joy because well who doesn’t like new? You may feel stress because it does come at a price, sometimes an unexpected price. That is what happened at the business pictured. They began renovation and shortly after things took a turn for the worst when the toilet supply line broke which started leaking water throughout the building. We were called out and our production crew extracted as much water as they possibly could before setting up air movers and dehumidifiers. With the equipment running we were able to remove excess moisture and avoid any mold problems that could have occurred if not treated. If your Paradise Valley Business has more water inside than what Arizona has outside, give us a call!

Leaky ceiling in Paradise Valley 85253

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Now is the time to inspect your roof/ceiling for any signs of leaking. Some of the biggest warning signs on the ceiling/walls in your home are discoloration, wall being droopy or sagging, cracking and mold. If you have any of these signs, we recommend calling a roof specialist to your home and having it thoroughly inspected before our monsoon season hits. We also recommend having us come out to allow us to take “readings.” When we use the term readings we are referring to how much moisture is in the air or in your walls. Why SERVPRO of Paradise Valley? We strive to have excellent customer satisfaction, have a trustworthy staff, and we give no cost estimates! If you have any signs of mold or discoloration in your home, you may have a continuing moisture issue that can be easily assessed.

Always remember Fire Safety

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

If you have been keeping up with up-to-date news you probably already know the newest information about the "Tinder Fire." If you have not seen the most up-to-date news the fire was caused by an illegal campfire. The fire so far has burnt through over 11,000 acres. Whenever you are camping or having a fire in your backyard always make sure you are as safe as you possibly can be. How can you be safe? Keeping a fire at the very least 4 feet away (this is for a very small fire that you would roast marshmallows with), having a hose or fire extinguisher near by as a just in case, if there are high wind speeds either bury or do not have the fire at all, and the last major point I will discuss is making sure it is not a no burn day. Having a fire can mean survival if you are stranded but it can also mean a catastrophe if you are careless and do not take necessary steps to prevent danger. With the recent weather we sure hope our firefighters can control this fire sooner rather than later.

Misconceptions of Mold

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

There are many common misconceptions when it comes to mold in a living space. Arguably the biggest one being that you can completely rid your living space of mold. Mold spores travel through the air attaching to your shoes, clothes, hair, or they simply blow into the house if you have the windows open or by opening the door. Some leaks you just simply cannot see. If the leaks go on long enough and depending on where the leak is, you can have mold in the parts of your home you cannot see. With that being said, there will always be some amount of mold inside your home.

            The second biggest misconception is using bleach to clean an affected area. I have spoken slightly about the issue with bleach in a previous post, but I will reiterate why you should not use bleach. First, using bleach does not kill all the mold spores in porous areas like drywall and/or wood. In fact, if you do not have proper air flow in the area you could put an even bigger risk on your health with the protentional of producing toxic gas (mixing bleach and ammonia). What do we recommend? For small DIY mold problems, we recommend putting antimicrobial dish soap on a wet rag and wiping the affected area.

            The last misconception I will speak about is that Black Mold is the worst mold to have. There are thousands of different molds! Some molds are green, purple, red, blue, white and the dreaded black. The name of the mold that is feared to be the Black Mold is called Stachybotrys. Therefore, it is important to have a professional come out and do mold testing, so we know, and you know what mold is present in the home.

            To lighten the mood here are some of my favorite mold jokes:

• What did the mold say when he had his picture taken?
  • Cheese!
• Why did the Mushroom get invited to all the parties?
  • 'Cuz he's a fungi!

• What would a mushroom car say?
  • Shroom shroom!

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call! We would be more than willing to answer your questions or concerns!

Car fire in Scottsdale 85253

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Who wants to make bets on how hot the fire had to be to burn through the steal/aluminum? My guess is 1,221 degrees Fahrenheit…. Okay it wasn’t much of a guess since I cheated and looked up the answer. Now who can guess the average temperature of a house fire? Surprisingly it is not too much of a difference, an average house fire is 1,100 degrees according to the Livesafe Foundation. Thankfully everyone in the home was okay! The fire could have very easily gone uncontrollable causing more damage to the home and/or occupants. It is still unknown why the fire started in the car to begin with but as you can see it totaled the car and damaged the garage, other car, and part of the home.

Slab Leaks in Paradise Valley 85253

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

The loss pictured may look like it was a leak from the water heater however, it was a slab leak. What is a slab leak? It is a leak that occurs under the foundation of your home. How do you detect a slab leak? There has been a blog already on how to detect leaky pipes throughout your home (not just under your home) which is a similar process. Some of the key detections are huge water bill spike, have water in your home and you cannot find where it is coming from, and limited water pressure. Detecting a slab leak sooner rather than later can save you money and a headache. If you have any questions or concerns about your home potentially having a slab leak we are available 24/7!

Fire extinguisher and Soy Sauce

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you are on any of our social media platforms you probably have seen this picture before. Now ill explain the background of the picture. We were called early in the morning by a Sushi restaurant in Scottsdale Arizona and they had said a fire extinguisher went off in the kitchen. We quickly hurried over and discovered it went EVERYWHERE! A delivery man had accidently bumped the fire extinguisher which damaged it causing it to spew everywhere. We began cleaning what we could (floor, shelves, dishwasher, enclosed food, etc.) and in turn removing/throwing away items/food that could not be clean. One of those items was a soy sauce bucket. As we went to remove it the bucket snapped and then the soy sauce went everywhere! Which brought us back to square one, recleaning the floors, shelves, dishwasher. In then end, we still were able to have the restaurant up and running before opening at 11. If your commercial business has an emergency, we are here to help!

Continued Education

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Picture was taken during our break. We also played movie quote trivia during our breaks!

For the first time we have been open we hosted a CE (Continued Education) class. I wasn’t sure what to expect with the class, seeing as I had never needed CE credits, so I had never taken a class for it. The class that we hosted was on Ethics and it was for three credit hours. Some of the key points we discussed in the course was the Sarbanes-Oxley act of 2002, defining ethics, and various other acts/definitions and exercises. The best part about this CE class is that it comes at no cost to you! If you need the hours anyways why not take them in person? If you would like to be put in the loop about the next class or would like more information we are a quick email/call away!

Being a Restoration Company in Arizona

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Arizona has hundreds of restoration companies statewide. Did you know that in Arizona you do not have to have a license(s) to restore or remediate a home/business? Even though it is not required why should a restoration company be licensed even when you do not necessarily have to be? Would you let a surgeon operate on you who has never done any training and has never been to college? No of course not, you do your research to see who has the most experience, who has the best reviews, who has the newest technology, etc. A license just shows you have been trained and have been tested on a specific subject (pass or fail no in-betweens). This shows insurance agents, a homeowner or a business owner that you do have experience and you have the results to prove it. When “shopping” for a restoration company always do your research. We recommend answering these four questions before you make your decision,

• Are they licensed?
• Are they insured?
• When you speak to them over the phone do they sound like they know what they are talking about? Or are they just trying to pressure you into deciding?
• What do their reviews look like?
  • Are they 5-star reviews
  • Are there some 1-star reviews?
    • If so what is being said?

Volunteering for a Cause

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

Saturday October 14th, I planned to install smoke detectors. What I didn't plan for is how many people truly needed them and wanted them. Almost every door we knocked on they needed one or they wanted us to check if theirs worked because they didn't know how. A major issue that we noticed was a household that had the smoke detector, but it did not have the battery. Which makes it a wall decoration rather than something that could save your life. When we saw this, we tried to really explain why that should never be done again. We have all been awoken by the false alarm that it gives when the battery is dying. I think we can all say that we left the battery out for the night, maybe even nights until a new detector was purchased or a replacement battery. I have been guilty of this before. To this day I tell myself how lucky I was that nothing happened because you never know. The smoke detectors we installed had a non-removable battery and is claimed to last 10 years. I highly recommend everyone to any “Sound the Alarm Campaign.” The volunteers were genuine, the people were thankful, and the Firefighters, Red Cross, and Arizona Burn were educational.

Leaking Lofts

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Repairing a roof for your house can be a pain, expensive, and overwhelming. Now imagine trying to repair an apartment complex, condo, and any other building along those lines. A lot more money, a lot more pain, and even more overwhelming. Unfortunately, this means repairs and replacement may not be done when they should be or by the time you realize a repair needs to be done it is too late. For the Lofts on Thomas they realized they needed to repair their roof, but it was far too late. After a heavy monsoon water began running down the walls, soaking the carpets, and “rippling” of paint. When we arrived on scene we began by making sure the roof was getting repaired so there wouldn’t be the same issue again. After we were ensured the roof was getting fixed we began extracting the water and removing all the wet installation. After the installation was removed we set up equipment to dry the remainder of the drywall/carpet.

Common occurrences with Mold Remediation

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

When water goes undetected for an extended period mold wreaks havoc on your walls (both inside and out). So, what should you expect? Sometimes mold can be "wiped" away if your home is not "hot" for asbestos, does not have harmful molds, or if there are very small amounts. How do you “wipe” it away? Take a warm wash cloth with some soap and simply scrub the affected area until you no longer see the mold. I have done this both out in the field and at my own home (toilet line leak).

What happens when you can’t wipe it away? Often drywall will need to be removed. The reasons vary on why it should/needs to be removed. For example, if you have mold on every inch of the interior part of your drywall, that will need to be removed. Before we start “demo” we cut small holes in your wall to see where the mold is (if there are not obvious signs beforehand). This will help us determine where to start cutting, how much to remove, or what areas do not need to be treated. If there is only one room that has mold we will “seal” that room off so mold spores do not travel through your vents or by opening and closing the door.

Once the drywall is removed we will HEPA Vac the exterior wall, studs, floors to remove all the dust, dirt, and some mold spores (not all will ever be removed, just as much as we can). What else can you expect? Lots and lots of termite trails and grass! Sometimes if you are lucky beehives and wasp nests. The only lucky part about beehives and wasp nests is if there hives/nest is abandoned! No one wants to scream and run out of a room because a little bug is chasing them (been there done that). Talk about embarrassing! In the grand scheme of things this is not ALL of what takes place but these are some key points.

Save the Fishies

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Owning a fish can be relaxing, enjoyable, and entertaining (depending on what fish you have and if you have cats who try to get to the fish). What is not relaxing about it is when your tank begins to leak! What is even worse, not knowing your tank is leaking! We recently had a call about someone discovering their tank had been leaking and they requested that we come have a look of the extent. It ended up being something they could handle on their own as there were no signs of mold/carpet was simply damped not soaked. I personally have a fish tank with many different fish and I am actively checking for leaks. Checking it often is mainly since I bought my tank used. I have no idea how it was taken care of prior to owning it. Be sure to check your fish tank often for even the tiniest of leaks. You do not want to put your fish at harm, turtles, or your living space.

Don't Pop the Bubble!

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

I know it may look tempting to see what is happening on the inside of the bubble but most the time you do not want to starting messing with it. Usually it is/was just water buildup that started pooling and making the paint start to sag. Not every time is someone lucky like that! I have personally seen someone tear open a bubble like that causing rats, rat feces, and dead rats start falling to the ground. It is safe to say the rats won that battle until we could get an exterminator out. Maybe this was just an extreme situation but I have learned my lesson. The lesson learned would be to find the source of the problem first and then move on from there! If you do not want to do it call someone out to assist you. It is always better to be safe than sorry (in my opinion at least)! If you discover one or multiple of these “bubbles” chances are it is just a water issue that can easily be fixed. If you need someone to fix/find the problem we are here to help!

Fun Fact

9/8/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know that moldy bread was used by the Ancient Egyptians to put on their wounds? This is a fact I just learned recently about mold. After learning about it, it completely makes sense! The Egyptians did in fact use moldy bread to treat their wounds to get rid of any bacteria that could cause infection. Why does this make so much sense? Well if you know where penicillin comes from then you can understand why it makes so much sense. However, this practice was used long before the drug penicillin came about and the discovery of penicillin was kind of accidental! There are so many more questions that will go unanswered after I read about this. Like why didn't we test mold further for its benefits, or did we test further? I think I know what the rest of my day is going to consist of... Doing extensive research about mold and the many benefits it has. As well as looking at the timeline between The Egyptians using moldy bread and then the discovery of penicillin to see if there is any correlation. Or perhaps did we think they were crazy for doing that but didn't realize the benefits until after we discovered them ourselves? So many unanswered questions. Time to do some research to answer all these questions! I would not recommend testing this fact at home! There are so many different kinds of mold! We are here for you 24/7 if you encounter mold in your home/business

Restoring your Commercial Property in Paradise Valley

9/1/2017 (Permalink)

FEDEX water damage

Flooding and water damage events at Paradise Valley 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. As you can see this FEDEX had some severe water issues. The whole front of the store had water in all the "nooks and crannies." We were notified as soon as the manager opened the store (happened overnight) and we assisted them quickly and effectively. We began by setting up equipment in areas that would allow the store to stay open during the day but would also dry the store properly.

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 arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Paradise Valley

SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 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. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is dedicated to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Supporting from afar

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Living in Arizona has its many benefits:

1. Do not have to worry about tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes (major tornadoes at least), earthquakes (although we have them occasionally), or really any major disaster.
2. Doesn’t often get below 20 degrees in the winter (Phoenix area)
3. Heat really isn’t too bad (considering we have A/C’s in every building)

Living in Arizona has some cons as well:

1. Fires
2. Flash Floods
3. Heat (at times)

I pray for everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey and cannot imagine what Texans are going through now. What I do know is how much support, help, prayers and love they will receive from everyone living in America. I am following JJ Watt on twitter and he has said that he has raised 10 million dollars to help those in Texas! Absolutely incredible if you ask me! I don’t think that number will stop there either! While Arizona has its benefits, we should not be blind to the world and help when/if we can. Many SERVPRO’s across the nation including those in Texas will be helping families in need with restoring their home and providing assistance with water, food, or wherever they can. "United we stand, Divided we fall." Stay strong Texas!

Solar Eclipse

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Experiencing a solar eclipse in the United States is a once in a lifetime occurrence. Here in Arizona we will not see “totality” but we will still be able to see a partial solar eclipse. It is estimated that we will be able to see about 66% of the eclipse which still sounds cool to me! With that being said, make sure you use protective sun glasses! Basic cheap sunglasses will not prevent your eyes from getting damaged! There are solar eclipse glasses that can be pricey but there are also some that cost only a few dollars. NASA has given some tips on why you should get solar glasses and how to spot fake glasses, I have provided that information in the link https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety for your viewing! You do not have to spend a lot of money to see something educational and awesome when viewing the solar eclipse!

Red Cross

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

In a previous blog I have stressed the importance of smoke detectors. Well now instead of just speaking about it we can act on it. The Red Cross has launched the "Home Fire Campaign." The goal for this campaign is to reduce home fire death/injury by 25%! How can you help? Or do you need help? If you visit http://www.redcross.org/local/az-nm-el-paso/home-fire-safety you can volunteer to help install smoke detectors, request a detector be installed in your home, or you can donate. Instead of just "talking" let us all do something about it! "Actions speak louder than words" in almost all cases (that is what I believe at least). SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is acting on October 14th to help those in need. If you can/want to volunteer please do not hesitate.

Church Carpet Cleaning in Ahwatukee

6/8/2017 (Permalink)

We received a call from Mountain View Lutheran Church requesting a carpet cleaning. We happily obliged and scheduled to get the service done the next day (when they requested to get the service done). We cleaned the four rooms in the office area which included the carpet/tile and the furniture. In the picture shown you can see the crew chief cleaning the carpet. What you do not see is how much effort it took them to get out one pesky little stain out. Unfortunately, that is the way it goes sometimes, some stains are harder to get out than others. Some stains that are the hardest to get out are red Kool-Aid and cat urine. One stain that may surprise some of being the easiest to get out would be blood stains. If you need your commercial carpets cleaned give us a call today and we can schedule a time and day to get it done!

Toilet Disaster

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

Broken toilet lines are easily our most common water loss source. The picture shown shows how much water can spew out of the line even with the tiniest of cracks. This picture was taken only 45 minutes after it happened but you can still see about a centimeter of water on the tile. That was even after it traveled everywhere it could in the house. In this case the water had traveled to every room except the kitchen because the kitchen was higher up compared to the other rooms. After we took necessary photos of the damage and the source we got to work extracting the water. Once we were done with that we set up fans and a dehumidifier to help prevent mold growth. Be sure to check your toilet supply line consistently especially if it hasn’t been replaced for a number of years.

Sweet Candle Smell

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Who can resist relaxing, reading a book, and having your favorite candle lit? I know its hard resisting the temptation to drive home right now and do that myself. Have you ever caught yourself falling asleep or leaving the house when you never blew out that candle? I have done this myself and nothing happened. This was not the case for this house. The daughter accidently left a candle in her room lit while she went to school. It didn't take long for a fire to start and even though it wasn't lit for long it damaged the whole house. Obviously, the house didn't get burnt down in flames but the smoke traveled throughout leaving its burning smell and residue on the walls. When we talked to the family members they were obviously upset but were thankful that everyone was safe and only material "things" were damaged. In the end, always be safe around fires and appreciate life! We are here for you 24/7, always trying to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Leak Outside Mold Inside

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

Sometimes when things (especially leaks) are out of sight they are out of mind. When it comes to water, this should never be the case. If you see even the tiniest of leaks fix it or have someone fix it for you unless you want a new kitchen. Just know that new kitchen is coming out of your pocket because most insurance companies do not cover mold. In the picture shown you can see that there was some sort of leak because of the ground being muddy, the wall being discolored, and the wall having moss. The moss/moisture then went to the inside of the home undetected for who knows how long. Roughly half of the kitchen cabinets, flooring, and some appliances were removed. Moral of this job is do not put something off if you notice something is wrong. If you fix it now you won’t be paying for it later.

Electrical Fire in Paradise Valley

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical fire at a Paradise Valley home

Electrical fires are the leading cause of house fires in the United States. Often, we are forgetful when it comes to unplugging cords or we are simply too lazy to. I am guilty of this with both being forgetful and lazy. But, how do we know which cords to unplug? The saying “Better safe than sorry” would be a great one to use in the situation of unplugging something or not. There are many reasons why you should unplug an electric cord. Whether that be because of saving money, flooding/any water damage, wires are exposed, or because you no longer need to use what was being plugged in. Also, be sure to know the correct wattage that appliances need so you can plug them in to appropriate outlets. Although you cannot control what is behind the wall you can control what is in front of the wall. With cords plugged in you are at a higher chance of inadvertently starting an electrical fire. For more information please visit firerecruit.com or NFPA.org

Moldy Bread

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Who has cut mold off bread and continued to eat the "non-moldy" part? I'll admit I have done this before. Sometimes money is tight and you have to do what you have to do. I mean come on! You just bought the bread what feels like yesterday! It is only on one slice too! This is where many of us have had the misconception that if mold is only on one slice of bread you’re okay. Mold in bread can spread very easily compared to other foods like cheese. With that being said that means just because you cut off what you can see; that does not mean the roots of the mold have not spread to other parts of the bread.

Why should you worry about it?

Well you do not have to “worry” but you certainly do not want to eat bread after it has been moldy. Many will say “Well penicillin comes from mold so it is okay.” While that is true, you do not know what mold is on your bread. There are hundreds of thousands of molds in the world, that is not very good odds. In the end, trying to save yourself a couple dollars could cost you more if you get sick.

Storm Damage in Paradise Valley

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

A monsoon storm can be unpredictable and scary. This storm was both of those. As you can see in the picture the water reached roughly 16 inches high around the front entrance of the house. The water eventually started making its way throughout the home effecting every room with muddy water. We began by extracting the muddy water. Next, we began removing furniture, belongings, carpet, etc. Once most the water was removed and the furniture was out of the way, we started cutting/removing the drywall/installation. When I stated the whole house was affected it truly was. Every room had water extracted, carpet padding removed, and some cutting even if it was minor. We even had to pressure wash the garage, patio, and the front walkway to make it good as new! The homeowner enjoyed our work so much that he called us again when something went wrong with his home!

Monsoon Season

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

Monsoon storm in Arizona

Even though monsoon season is over a month away you should start preparing now. Why? The more you prepare the less stress you have would be the easiest answer. There is so much to get done inside and outside of the house.

First, we will talk about everything you can/should get done outside. The most obvious would be a roof inspection. Even if you just replaced your roof last year there can still be hazards that can damage your roof/home. If tree branches are stuck on top of your roof that can affect the natural flow of water your roof is designed to make. That then can cause leaks because water is “standing” causing deuteration. Leaky roofs can mean you might have to call us. When it comes to your roof you would rather be safe than sorry.

Next, what can you do on the inside? You should always be prepared for the power going out. How? By having bottled water, packaged/canned food that does not need to be cooked to eat, sand bags (to keep the water out), and a safety plan you will be better prepared. This is a very brief list but if you would like more information you can visit: http://www.monsoonsafety.org/safety-prep/

Lastly, have a restoration company in mind if water/fire were to damage your home. Make sure you have their phone number written down and/or saved into your phone. Being prepared can save you money and from feeling stressed.

Checking your water heater

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Unfortunately our most prized possession for taking an enjoyable bath or shower gives out on us. The water heater is something that is often times overlooked and not well maintained. If something is out of sight, it can definitely be out of mind. A leaking water heater can cause serious damage to your home/office. It is recommended that someone checks it at least once a month. If you detect a leak early enough the only services that need to be done is fixing the water heater and having SERVPRO of Paradise Valley set up fans to prevent mold. Even the smallest amount of water can wreck havoc on your home or office if it is left untreated. We are here for you 24/7, do not hesitate to call as it is always "better safe than sorry."

Cold Air Funnels

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

(Source: azfamily)

As I was watching the news Sunday night they began talking about cold air funnels and my immediate thought was "I'm glad that is not where I live;" That's when I realized I was watching a local news station. I knew very little about what the cold air funnels were and what they could potentially do. So I decided to google what cold air funnels are and how they develop, which I'm sure many others did as well. I went to many different websites and all of them stated one very specific fact; Cold air funnels rarely touch the ground to become a tornado. However, even if they never become a tornado, the storm they are apart of can still cause damage to a home. With a proper working roof rain isn't a problem at all, but if a leak goes unnoticed that is when the damage can begin. Overtime the small leak can turn into a much bigger leak which can eventually lead to mold. Be sure to check your ceiling after a heavy rainstorm to see if there is a possible leak.

Biohazard Restoration

2/10/2017 (Permalink)

Although SERVPRO of Paradise Valley is most commonly used for water and mold restoration, we also do Biohazard. With that being said we are truly a "one stop shop." Instead of looking for one company for water damage, another one for fire damage, and another one for Biohazard you have someone you can trust to do all three! Some of the many different Biohazard accidents we can restore/cleanup are: 

• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide/crime scene cleanups
• Blood/Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Meth lab cleanup
• Sewage

Why should you use a professional to clean these accidents?

If you do not properly cleanup these hazardous materials it can cause serious health concerns for you and those around you. SERVPRO of Paradise Valley follows federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces, disinfect, and deodorize. We constantly strive to make it "Like it never even happened."

Paradise Valley Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Paradise Valley 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 Paradise Valley 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 Any Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (602) 341-6737

Does Your Paradise Valley Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

In Paradise Valley, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours. Don't hesitate to call!

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or 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 home or 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 – (602) 341-6737

YOU FOUND A WATER LEAK! NOW WHAT?

11/10/2013 (Permalink)

Unexpected water leaks can cause thousands of dollars of damage to your home in a short time.  When you notice a water leak call a professional immediately to mitigate the loss. 

What can you do to minimize water damage in your home while waiting for the restoration company to arrive?

1.  Look for the water source

2.  Shut of the water supply

3.  Place containers where there are active leaks

4.  Shut of electricity

5.  Move valuables to a safe place

Call SERVPRO of Paradise Valley 

https://www.SERVPROparadisevalleyaz.com/