When The Water Hides

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

It’s the water you DON’T see that can cause mold, even rot to occur. Did you get water in your basement after a downpour? Maybe you used a shop-vac to get up the water, turned on a few fans and now it looks dry. But, as we all know, looks can be deceiving!

Water can become trapped under tile, vinyl, even hardwood or carpet. Mold loves to grow where it’s dark, damp and warm. And, surprisingly, it doesn’t take long for mold to grow, in some cases as little as 24-48 hours. What’s the solution?

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties! Give us a call at 252-433-0005 or at 919-339-4848 and our trusted SERVPRO technicians will be there in no time. Our specialized equipment will be able to detect if there is water, even when a surface seems dry. 

We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

While You Wait For Us To Arrive

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

A home in Castalia, NC experienced a large kitchen fire. The belongings & fixtures in the home were left in place ready for the SERVPRO team to clean!

What to do until we get there...

The fire is out, the firefighters have gone. You are now left with the daunting task of getting your family back to normal. While we may not be able to help with scary dreams, we can definitely help with making it “Like it never even happened.”

So, what should you do and NOT do until SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties arrives? Here are a few ideas. DO limit your movements, so you don’t spread soot around. DON’T touch the walls. This can “set” the soot and make it harder to clean. If carpet is wet, DO put pieces of foil under furniture legs to keep water from seeping in. DON’T turn on a ceiling fan or light if the ceiling is wet. DO remove rugs that are on top of carpet, to keep from being stained. DON’T eat food that has been close to the fire, water or heat. DO contact family, friends and neighbors. People want to help in a disaster, and that includes SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. Please call us at 252-433-0005 or at 919-339-4848 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Let us help you get your life back.

A Rainy Afternoon At Work

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Don't worry! Production won't be shut down for long! SERVPRO will help get your business back up and running soon!

Just picture it! You're at your desk, it's Tuesday afternoon, you're working on a big project at your computer. As you're working, the weather outside is pretty frightful! The rain is coming down...in buckets, it seems! Just when you thought it was time to close up shop for the day, that rain has shown you that your office has a leak in it's roof and the ceiling tiles are falling around you!

Everyone is scrambling to help get important documents out of the way, but what else can you do to make sure everything is taken care of at work?! Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, of course! Our crews are ready to help, any time, night or day, even at your commercial property.

Give us a call at 252-433-0005 or at 919-339-4848, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Wiping Away The Soot

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians are careful to go over every surface to remove harmful soot and smoke damage to your ceilings after a fire.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties production technicians are specially trained in the best way to clean up your home after a fire?

One technique is dry sponging areas like your ceiling to remove soot! Dry sponges, or "chemical sponges," are made from natural rubber. These sponges safely scoop up and absorb soot and dirt into their pores. Because of the soft surface, dry cleaning sponges are ideal for removing soot and smoke from walls, ceilings and acoustic tiles. The sponge is also ideal for picking up dust and dirt from areas that cannot be cleaned by water or solvents. 

Often, when cleaning up from a fire, we are removing soot and smoke residue in order to leave the area prepared for painting during the repairs phase. So, while it might seem like "washing everything" is the right thing to do, cleaning without water serves an important role in getting your home back "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties if you experience a fire or smoke damage in your home! We can be reached 24/7 at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848! We're always here to help.

Why SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties?

4/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a leader in restoration who serves our community.

Why SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties?  Because as a leader in the fire and water restoration industry we have set a standard of work which has been recognized by many insurance companies. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties believes we are only as good as our last fire and water damage. We continue to better our systems and our team in order to better serve our customers and clients. By feedback given to us by our customers, we make changes as needed and recognize our crew chiefs and productions technicians for all their hard work. We believe in the phrase " One Team"  as that is what SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counites is " One Team".  Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 and let our team happily serve you!

Why use SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties?

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

To keep calm and know that the you have made the right call.

What makes SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties different than other restoration companies nearby?  It is because we have been under the same management for the last 22 years, which has allowed us to develop systems and build our team in skills and knowledge in service lines of water damage, smoke, fire and odor damage, content inventory with pack out cleaning and move in. We understand the science behind what we do and what is happening at the jobsite. We treat everyone job individually without the "cookie cutter" approach. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is an IICRC, Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Cleaning, registered firm confirming our commitment to ethics and knowledge to our industry. We look forward to serving you when you need us most. Please call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 with your emergency water or fire damage needs, duct cleaning, mold remediation or biohazard clean up.

Storm Damage in Franklinton, NC

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Franklin County, NC tarp from wind damage. SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is here to help.

Roof damage is in most common storm damage. It can be from high winds, rain, hurricanes, tornadoes, and hail. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is a full service contractor for all types of storm damage. Our trained technicians can securely tarp the roof and then mitigate what is necessary for the inside damage following IICRC standards. We Make it "Like it never even happened." Trust SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a leading service provider with over 22 years of service to our communities of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. We are here to help. So if you have a storm damage need call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 we are available 24 hours a day all year.

Fire Damage and Odor

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

One area that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties makes sure to address when cleaning up from a fire damage is the odor. Once the area is thoroughly cleaned, our technicians can set up an Ozone Machine in the area.

The ozone generator is used to oxidize organic odors such as smoke, pet odors, mildew, organic pollutants, and more without chemicals. 

A transformer shoots several thousand volts of
electricity through a reactor, causing the atom of a water molecule to change from an O2 molecule to a very unstable O3 molecule. The extra O molecule then attaches itself to a contaminant, actually alternating its structure. The remaining O2 molecule becomes stable once again.

Once the area is fully dry, we remove living things from the containment area (humans, plants, and pets). Setting the unit as high as possible helps since ozone is heavier than air and will fall. When possible, an air mover can be set up to help circulate the ozone. The room/area is sealed off to prevent the ozone from dissipating into areas that do not need to be deodorized. 

Once the area has been deodorized, we ventilate the area thoroughly.

Keeping your family safe and your home cleaned and deodorized after a fire is very important to us! Every detail matters. 

If you have experienced a fire in your home, reach out to our office today to find out about cleaning and deodorization services we can provide. Call 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848. We're always here to help!

Large Water Damage Calls for Lots of Expertise

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Whether your office, church, or other commercial building has experienced a water damage, SERVPRO is always here to help!

When a water damage happens, bigger is almost always worse. The more water flowing through a space like an office building or church, the worse the damage will usually be. Water damage in commercial buildings has the potential to be far more disastrous than a residential home, because of how many more pipes there are in a commercial building. More bathrooms, appliances, and sprinkler systems mean there are a greater number of chances for a water loss, whether this is from a leaky pipe or a property that hasn't been well-maintained.

With a commercial loss, it also means more equipment will need to be used to dry out the area. More equipment means more manpower needed to move the equipment. This trend can keep compounding, meaning commercial jobs can have costs add up quickly.

The cost of not doing business can make a large water loss so damaging. Not being able to have a store/location open for days, weeks, or months at a time can mean a devastating loss of profit. This is why SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties uses every method to expedite the restoration process. Such as working directly with insurance providers, offering construction services, and using state-of-the-art equipment to get the restoration process completed fast!

Large commercial water losses can be scary, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties relies on our experience to get the damage under control and back to normal.

We're Always Here To Help

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

We know that disaster can strike without any notice. Whether it is natural disaster like a flood or tornado, or a residential or commercial fire damage, or even a general cleaning need like having your duct work cleaned of debris and allergens, we are here to walk you through the most difficult disasters. We understand that interruptions to your home and business can be frustrating, so our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

We pride ourselves on working to provide each  customer with the best service, fairness, and compassion throughout the clean-up. This commitment to service and our customers is backed by being available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. We're always here to help!

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 and online courses, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Even when it comes to your insurance claim and payment information, office staff at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties work alongside you and your insurance adjuster to help manage the insurance process and paperwork. We can help answer questions, provide clarity, and guide you through the process from beginning to end. 

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

Five Tips For Spring Storms

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Here in the south, wind and rain storms can do quite a bit of damage to our homes and businesses, disrupting our livelihood. Here are five tips to get you prepared for Spring Weather this year and keep your home safe.

1. Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage. Be sure that you're familiar with your homeowner's insurance and what the policy covers, or doesn't cover. You don't want any surprises in the event of storm damage. One example is that your swimming pool.
2. Assess. We recommend periodically walking around the entirety of your property to see if there is any damage to any part of the structure. Small areas of damage, possibly from winter storms, may only need small repairs in order to avoid a larger issue when a storm comes. Be sure to check your roof and chimney, as well, as those can be big headaches after severe storms. Clear your gutters and be sure they are draining properly away from your foundation.
3. Ensure sump pumps are working. Many crawlspace and basements have a sump pump for excess water. Be sure it's clear of debris and working properly. Large rainstorms can result in flooded basements.
4. Secure backyard items. Patio and back yard spaces can quickly become very dangerous in a storm if your items aren't secure. When you're following bad weather updates, be sure that storm warnings help remind you to move smaller items like grills, propane tanks, and even small furniture items, to a more a secure location like a garage or outdoor storage. Flags, poles, bird feeders and even potted plants should be brought indoors.
5. Trim and prune trees. Spring cleaning should also include tidying the yard! Be sure you remove dead branches that could end flying through the air in a storm and cause damage not covered by your homeowner’s insurance. Check that none of them are too close to the power source to your home. If you're unsure, check with a local arborist or lawn care specialist. The can help identify problem areas.

And as always, be sure you have SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties on your ready-to-call list! We are always here to help.

Proud Members of the Better Business Bureau

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

When you're looking for quality service professionals that you can trust in your home or business, where do you start your search? For more than 19 years, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been proudly associated with the Better Business Bureau!

Customers in Henderson, Oxford, Franklinton, Stem, Macon, Louisburg, and all the surrounding  communities can feel comfort knowing that we support the ethics and standards of the BBB.

We also serve on the Education Foundation Board of the BBB of Eastern North Carolina because SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties knows the importance of education and increasing knowledge within our community.

We invite you to check out our listing on the BBB site with the link below. https://www.bbb.org/us/nc/henderson/profile/fire-water-damage-restoration/SERVPRO-of-franklin-vance-granville-counties-0593-13000806

Where Does The Water Go

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

This home in Granville County sustained damage upstairs and downstairs! Making sure wet insulation is removed and your structure is dry is what we do!

Many homes and business have multiple levels. Upstairs bedrooms, bathrooms, storage areas, etc. When a water leak happens high up, sometimes, you've got more to worry about than what you see on the floors upstairs!

Water migrates to dry areas - and sometimes, that means it keeps dripping and pouring out until it lands - down below to the first floor! 

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties know just what to look for. If the levels are insulated, our technicians know to get inside of the structure to the hidden places water can run to. Wet insulation should be removed in order to prevent mold and mildew growth. When insulation that lays horizontally gets wet, it looses its R-Value, meaning its no longer doing its job to keep your home warm and sealed!

Like we always say, sometimes its the water you don't see that causes some of the worst damage! Give us a call to help save every level of your home when you've had a water damage occur!

Big Winds, Big Problems

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Even if the job is small, SERVPRO is always here to help keep your home from sustaining further damage after a storm.

Did you know SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties offers tarping services? If your home sustains wind and water damage due to a Spring Storm, give the experts a call at 252-433-0005. We'll help get your home secure and begin the process of making sure your property is safe!

Whether you've lost shingles and now have a roof leak, or your property is damaged by a falling tree or limbs, we're always here to help!

As the Spring arrives here in North Carolina, flowers are blooming, and the sun's warmth is enjoyed by families, we're gearing up for the Spring Storms! Having your insurance information ready for any emergencies will help you get help faster if your home sustains damages. Be prepared! And keep SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties in mind!

Mold May Be Lurking

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

This homeowner thought the area of their flooring was dried enough to lay a large area rug over the spot. It didn't take long for mold to grow!

We all know that mold damage can be a hazardous health issue. But, not all of us know how mold grows and how important a role water plays in mold growth. The truth is, when you discover water damage in your home or business, you are one step away from also having mold damage that can cause long-term harm to your structure.

Mold needs three things to grow;

• Water
• Food source - organic sources
• Oxygen

Mold can crow after finding water damage within 24-48 hours. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is fast to begin the water removal process. By responding quickly, SERVPRO minimizes the water damage while also reducing the chance of having mold damage in your home or office spaces! 

Perhaps you thought your water damage was small and that you took care of everything yourself. Its possible that you didn't, and now mold may be lurking in hidden spaces! Give us a call if you suspect this is happening. We can be reached at 252-433-0005.

We're always here to help!

Restoration For Your Business

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

A disaster can strike your property at any time. If your business or multifamily property has been damaged by fire, water or storm damage, smoke, or mold, you need a company you can trust to help you recover quickly.

As a trusted disaster restoration company, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has the expertise, skills and equipment to handle small and large restoration and reconstruction projects. We're right here in your hometown, Henderson! No matter what the damage, it's important to begin the restoration work as soon as possible to minimize further damage and related repair costs.

We Provides These Commercial Restoration Services - whether it's your office building, restaurant, church, or multi-unit apartment home:

• Cleaning of air ducts
• Document drying
• Pack-out, pack-in and content cleaning
• Bacteria and virus disinfection
• MSM and climate controlled storage
• National catastrophic response

We work with your insurance company, and we’ll gladly help you file paperwork, gather estimates and organize other necessary items for your claim. We are faster to any disaster. Give the experts at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a call at (252) 433-0005 or (919) 339-4848.

It's The Water You Don't See...

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

A pipe inside of your wall that leaks may not be found until extensive damage has already occurred!

Recently, a customer called about an issue with his home at Kerr Lake. He believed he had a roof leak due to water he found on the floor. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties inspected the property and with our highly trained technicians was able to determine that the water was coming from the sink supply line in the bathroom!

When our technician opened the wall, this leaking pipe is what he found: water spouting from a line concealed in the wall cavity! During construction, just 13 years prior, a nail had unknowingly been set into the line and eventually rusted out. A lot of the time, it is the water that you don't see that causes the damage.

This homeowner was grateful that SERVPRO came quickly to his home and was able to determine the water leak source. We are here to help! Call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Why SERVPRO? Because We Assist In Any Disaster!

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Why do families and businesses choose SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties? Because we can handle any type of disaster!

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we.  SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties 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.

Need Emergency Services like roof tarping from a storm, board up caused by vandalism, or water extracted from your flooded business? Call Us 24/7 – 252-433-0005!

In many cleaning and restoration situations,  immediate action is needed. With almost 2,000 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage as well as the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Don't wait! In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can be harmful to your health and can also cause significant damage to your home and personal items. We have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Ceilings, Walls, and Contents - Oh My!

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

A bathroom fire in Henderson, North Carolina caused damage throughout the room including the ceilings, trim, fixtures, and personal belongings.

Fire damage in your home or business needs to be addressed right away. Even a small fire can weaken your property’s structural integrity as well as leave hard-to-remove smoky odors and residue on surfaces. When you call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, the full extent of your damage will be examined by our highly trained technicians immediately upon arrival. Following this, we will perform all fire damage restoration tasks required, even including board-ups and structural repairs and support if needed.

We will work to clean and deodorize your premises. Our technicians are trained to pack your belongings with care and respect and to listen to your concerns. We office contents cleaning services for your belongings while you wait for your home to be restored.

Our technicians will arrive and hit the ground running by first assessing your property damage to the premises. Following this, the specialists will start removing items, cleaning what can be saved, and disposing of the unsalvageable items. Any soot or pollutants will then be abated from the air and surfaces. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can be trusted to respond as fast as possible to your fire damage restoration needs. We understand the devastation you’re going through caused by the damage to your home or business. Therefore we will be very careful while handling your personal belongings.

We’ll inspect and reinforce your structure if necessary and clean affected surfaces with our proprietary cleaning system. Your home or business will be smelling fresh in no time!

Commercial Building Restoration Services

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, our focus is to minimize business interruption and reduce liabilities of property loss. There is never a convenient time for fire or water damage to occur in your business. Quick action is critical to reduce lost revenue and productivity. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville counties has a team on call 24/7 for all commercial building restoration services. Our services have worked for many businesses across our community including:

• Hospitals
• Hotels
• Office Parks
• Educational Facilities
• Restaurants
• Banks, and More!

We're local to you, Henderson, Oxford, Louisburg and surrounding areas! We care about your business, whether small or large. We show up when disaster strikes and help you keep business running as smoothly as possible. 

Our on call staff can be reached at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848. We're always here to help!

Why Do Customers Choose SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians were able to move the customer's belongings to begin extracting water from a rusted water heater leak.

Water damages come in all sizes, shapes and causes. This home experienced a large water damage caused by a rusted out water heater in the basement. The homeowner was an elderly woman who lived alone. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville was able to move the furniture quickly out of the basement limiting the content damage and begin to extract the water. Her children were very grateful for the care and concern that our team demonstrated to their parent! Our highly trained technicians and office staff were able to guide our elderly client through the claim process to achieve the end result of a satisfied customer and a basement full of furniture restored "Like it never even happened." Your home is important to us, and we want to be sure that you get the help you need quickly!

Storm Damage in Oxford, NC

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Trees are pretty but not when they land on your roof!

Trees close to your house can bring welcome relief from the summer sun, and they certainly add a sense of privacy.  However, they can wreak havoc in high winds, with downed limbs, or even a downed tree on your roof.  Storm damage in Oxford, NC has been the result of all the wild weather in the last few weeks and with more storms in the forecast, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is available for all your storm damage needs from tarping roofs to water extraction to smoke damages. Our technicians are certified in water, fire and mold remediation. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.  We are always here to help.

Fire Damage in Franklin County, NC

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Who are you going to call for smoke and fire damage clean up needs? SERVPRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

A kitchen fire in Franklin County, NC is never a welcome end result when you are cooking dinner for the family. Kitchen fires are a leading cause of fires in North Carolina. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and/ or baking soda close when you are cooking. This fire in Franklin County got ahead of the homeowner and resulted in sending soot through out the entire home and resulted in extensive kitchen damage. Fortunately the adjuster recommended SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to assist in the clean up needs of this homeowner.  We were able to provide  pack out with inventory of the contents, storage and cleaning of the contents, demolition, structure cleaning, and repairs/ construction. If you have a fire and don't know who to call, call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 19-339-4848

How long does a water heater last?

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

How old is your water heater?

Do you know how old your water heater is?  The average water heater lasts between 8 and 12 years. A homeowner recently called us after a heavy rain and said his window had to be leaking a lot because he had A LOT of water. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was quick to the home to try to prevent any more damage.  We extracted the standing water and found no evidence of a leak around his window. So where was all this water coming from?  The production manager went into the crawlspace and found the problem. A 25 year old water heater!  So let this be a nudge in the right direction for you.  Check your water heater’s manufactured date.  If there is no clear date, check the serial number, then look up the manufacturer’s website on Google.  The date may be embedded in the serial number.  But should you have a water heater failure, give SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a call at either 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.  We are here 24 hours a day, all year long, to help get you back to your life.

Know your age!

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

We are all aging and it is important to remember... your water heater ages too!

How do you know when you need a new water heater? Well, On the side of your water heater you will find the manufacturer label. It should have an install date.  If it doesn't look at the serial number. The first two numbers are the month and the second two are the year. So in the picture example- the water heater was manufactured in Aug of 1994.  It is good to know how old your water heater is so you can make a proactive decision to replace it before the bottom rusts out!  In the unfortunate event that you don't and you have a flood all over your floors, call SERPVRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 for all you water damage needs. 

Water Removal & Restoration

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians are careful to extract standing water from your carpeted areas following a water line break.

Water removal and water restoration can be a daunting process, especially after a major storm or plumbing break. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties' expert technicians are used to this. We can help with every step of the water removal and restoration process. We use the latest techniques and equipment to detect moisture behind walls and under floorboards, remove all water from your property, restore your property and possessions, and clean up any mold and mildew.

Water removal and water restoration are two different processes. The water removal process involves pumping water out of your property and extracting water from floorboards. Water restoration is the process of cleaning all of your property and replacing any damaged structures. Both are essential parts of getting your life back to normal.

Locally owned and operated, we will be with you every step of the way. You are our neighbors! Give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 when your home or business is affected by water!

Finding Your Way After A Storm

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after a storm can be more dangerous than the storm itself. Hazards such as live electrical wires, broken glass and fumes from leaking pipes are common, meaning protective gear and safety measures may be required.

For over twenty years, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has been helping customers in Henderson, Oxford, Louisburg and the surrounding communities manage the risks and aftermath of devastating storms.

To help guide you, here are some tips if you've experienced damage from a storm:

1) Only return to the site once local authorities say it is safe to do so, remembering to bring identification to enter a secured disaster area.

2) Take personal protective equipment, including hard hats, heavy work gloves, dust masks, eye protection, and steel-toed safety boots. Bring additional supplies, such as flashlights with spare batteries, cameras, potable water, etc.

3) Do not switch on electrical power or begin clean-up until authorities and/or your local utilities service providers have checked your utilities and evaluated all risks. Flooding may cause toxic spills; while live electrical lines may energize flood waters and create an electrocution risk. Damaged areas of a building should be reviewed by a structural engineer.

4) Conduct a site assessment with qualified personnel, such as a SERVPRO Project Manager, to help assess where help is needed. SERVPRO will check for hazards such as broken glass, sharp metal and fumes from leaking pipes. Take care to check inside and outside the building, as well as around you and overhead.  SERVPRO will take photos to document damage and conditions. SERVPRO will also help you with your insurance claim and will mitigate on your behalf.

5) Retrieve your insurance policies from your secure location, and call your property insurance representative to begin the claims process. It is important to maintain contact with your agent/adjuster throughout the event. Working with you and your insurance company, SERVPRO will establish repair priorities, based on level of danger the damage poses.

We work alongside you to get you back into your home/business safely and as quickly as possible!

After The Fire

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Detailed cleaning is necessary to ensure that all areas of your home affected by fire/smoke/soot are cleaned and restored.

When SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties comes out to your property following a fire, you can be sure we understand the assignment!

Q: Does SERVPRO follows standard practices in the industry related to fire damage?

A: The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) has developed standards known as S740 Standard for Professional Restoration of Fire and Smoke Damaged Personal Items. This IICRC standard is the most widely used guideline for restoring fire and smoke damaged property to preloss condition. Our SERVPRO technicians are trained and take part in ongoing education to make sure that we continue to be the leader in the restoration industry, adhering to all guidelines.

Q: Can you help restore my belongings with contents restoration?

A: Yes! We can help with things like rugs, furniture, electronics, machinery, etc. If it has endured smoke or water damage, then there’s a chance that it can be restored to preloss condition. This is largely thanks to the advances in contents cleaning technologies today, as ultrasonic equipment, specialty dry cleaning, hand cleaning and electronics cleaning tools offer great potential to restore hard and soft goods alike. However, there is a chance that an item that has been engulfed in flames, will almost always need to be discarded during the contents pack out.

Q: Can you really get rid of it all? What’s the process for Clean Up & Smoke Removal

A: This is an intensive part of the fire damage restoration job: clean up. This step involves a lot of manual labor to properly clean smoke and soot from interior and exterior surfaces. In many cases, every inch of the affected area will need to be cleaned. Once proper clean up is complete, deodorizing agents are used to remove any lingering smoke odors. Off site, any contents that have been packed out are also likely being restored to preloss condition. Clean up also involves duct cleaning to remove any soot, smoke or debris that may have settled in ducts. We are with you from top to bottom, from beginning to end.

On The Road In No Time

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Let's meet up! SERVPRO is always here to help clean up your work space, even on the road!

One of the greatest assets to our economy are truck drivers. Drivers are out on the open road, delivering goods and services to businesses and homes all over the country. Most of us imagine our workday inside of a building, office, or even from our desk at home. Others in our community are serving their day in their vehicles, as well. Police Officers, Fire Men and Women, Animal Control Services, and more! SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers vehicle cleaning services!

You may be looking for a deep cleaning of  your upholstery or flooring, or perhaps an antimicrobial sanitizing treatment to keep your small workspace safe and healthy; we're here to help!

Our technicians can come out to do a full cleaning wipe-down including high-touch areas like doors, handles, the dash and steering wheel. Sometimes, our most comfortable spaces are the ones we overlook the most when it comes to sanitation needs. In some cases, you could even come to us!

Give us a call today to schedule services for your company vehicles! 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

Unavoidable Disasters

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Many disasters cannot be avoided. Natural disasters can occur at any time. Whether it is flooding, fire or storm damage it’s important to know that the restoration company you choose is up for the job. Our SERVPRO technicians are trained and ready to get to work 24-7 to help you with your damages. Our technicians are certified in the restoration industry including the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. (IICRC)

Storms are not new to SERVPRO. We will help you from start to finish, working with your insurance company as well as dealing with the aftermath of the storm to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is trained to handle a variety of  situations, knowing storms can cause more than one type of damage to a home or a business. We can handle different types of cleanup and restoration methods. You will receive first class, quality care from our family-owned business. We are committed to providing the best services to our neighbors in Henderson, Oxford, Louisburg, Franklinton, Butner, Manson, Stovall, and all around the surrounding communities!

We Can Handle It

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO? Because we can handle any type of disaster!

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties 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.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

WATER is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

In as little as 48 hours, MOLD can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting
• When you call SERVPRO, you are calling the best. This is what we do!

As FIRE restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

We're here in your communities!

Call 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

When Storms Come Your Way

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Springtime Storms lingering around the Henderson, Oxford, and Louisburg areas can cause small streams to overflow and ground water can quickly become a nuisance to your basement, often at a very swift rate. 

Homes damaged by flooding and other storm activity need a quick response! Mitigation and restoration is our game. SERVPRO restores both the structure and the belongings for members in our community, both businesses and homes.

There are things that you can do to help your family recover from storm damages, as well. These include simple and effective steps that can make life immediately after any disaster less stressful. Basic toiletries after a disaster are essential, but many places sheltering families have these items on hand.

• Keep a current record of special details for your loved ones and their lives. You might include a list of current medications and physician contact information. Also, contact information for family, school, work, and insurance contacts.
• Keep an emergency bag of vital but non-perishable essentials for your everyone in the family. This might include activity items for young children, extra baby bottles or sippy cups (complete with the ring and nipple), and even charging devices for any electronics. Changes of clothing including underwear, T-shirts, and sweatpants/shorts, and extra socks can make things easier, especially the first couple of days if your family moves to temporary housing. Already having a temporary housing plan in place for such events allows your family a bit of breathing room and comfort during a large loss situation. 

Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 so we can mitigate, restore, and rebuild your home “Like it never even happened.”

Hey, What's That Spot?

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

How To Spot Water Damage

There are many signs that can give you a clue if you have a water damage issue in your home or commercial office.

• Water Accumulation - one of the easiest ways to spot water damage is seeing standing or pooling water beginning to build up in an area of your home or office. This could be from a faulty appliance line, toilets, leaky pipe or flooding from a storm.
• Discoloration - when water begins accumulate to above your ceiling, you may not be able to see the water but you will begin to see the ceiling change color. The area may appear wet or dry and can be a yellow, brown or copper color. Walls may also have bubbling, cracking or peeling paint or wallpaper in addition to staining.
• Changes in texture - water if let unattended will begin to cause additional damages.
  • Buckling - your wood floors would begin having the edges rise up after the water seeps into the floor boards and the wood floor begins to soak in the water causing damage to the floor.
  • Sagging/Sinking - the water can get into the floor board and cause your your hardwood floors to 'feel soft' and 'sag'. If you notice this in your home, call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties right away so a professional can evaluate the affected area.
  • Expansion - as the humidity is too high and/or the building materials absorbs too much water they can begin to separate. Two areas to keep an eye out for this are your wood floor and the casing around your doors and baseboards. Those are early signs you might have water damage.

Mold can grow in your home or office after finding water damage within 24-48 hours. SERVPRO responds fast to begin the water removal process. By responding quickly, SERVPRO minimizes the water damage while also reducing the chance of having mold damage in your home. 

When dealing with water damage, the faster you can begin the restoration process, the better chance you have of insurance covering the damage and you mitigate the issue from becoming larger.

Business Restoration Services

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Building  Restoration Services

The key to proper building restoration is how quickly you act to mitigate the damage. SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year long, providing you with emergency restoration and professional cleaning and reconstruction services when you need them most. We have the expertise and equipment to handle any size disaster. We work with your insurance company to make the process easier for you and we will keep you informed every step of the way.

We provide restoration solutions for:

• Apartment and condominium buildings
• Office buildings
• Restaurants
• Retail stores
• Municipal buildings

Whether you need immediate service or you have questions about your restoration or reconstruction project, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. SERVPRO has the expertise and experience including restoration services for fire, water, storm, hurricane, and mold damage. 

As a proud member of the Granville County Chamber of Commerce, the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce, and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, we're here to help support other small businesses in our community! Contact us for an inspection and estimate for your restoration project. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

We're Always Here To Help

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers Water Damage Restorationto home and business owners. We offer 24/7 Emergency Response so you know you can get help when you need it most.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster

If your property requires professional Mold Remediation, SERVPRO has years of experience removing mold damaged material and restoring indoor air quality to acceptable levels. With our advanced technology and our highly trained professionals, SERVPRO can mitigate your mold problems for you and take care of them "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage Restoration is a very complex process that should only be handled by professionals. Learn more about the process and why SERVPRO is considered a leader in this industry. We are with you every step of the way

Our best asset is our employees. SERVPRO has an extensive Employee Certification Training, a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Locally Owned and Operated, which means that we live in your neighborhoods. You are our neighbors and we care about the condition of your home. Feel safe and secure when you call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties.

Right Away The Right Way

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

When your property is exposed to water damage , it is important that the area is dried out completely and quickly. Just because the leak  has been stopped and the area doesn’t seem very affected, doesn’t mean the water damage has stopped. Water damage spreads quickly and needs to be handled immediately to avoid bacteria and mold growth. SERVPRO professionals will identify the full extent of water damage and act quickly to get your property back to its previous condition.

It is important that a restoration company like SERVPRO gets involved right away. We use high velocity air movers, dehumidifiers, and more in order to get your commercial or residential property dried out quickly. Water damage is progressive, and even seemingly unharmed areas can soak in air humidity and can cause mold and mildew.

We are locally owned and operated. That means our staff members live right here in your town! You are our neighbors, and we will do everything we can to get you back in your home or business as quickly and safely as possible. We work with your insurance company to mitigate on your behalf. We do our best to make this as painless a process as possible. 

Once the water damage is taken care of, we get you and your life back "Like it never even happened."

Call the experts.....The Green behind the Clean! 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Commercial Cleaning Services

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties know what it is like to have a business , and we will do all that we can to help with any and all your commercial needs!

Whether it be air duct cleaning, general cleaning, carpet cleaning, post-construction cleaning, removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO to make your business look its very best.

We've got your covered when it comes to mold remediation, water damage, or smoke and fire damage, you can rest assured that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance, and Granville Counties will do all that we can to get the job done thoroughly, efficiently, and in a timely manner.

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

When the dirt, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. Our trained technicians use top-of-the-line equipment to make your business shine again.

Where Do We Even Begin?

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

From wooden furniture and precious antiques, to delicate fabrics, SERVPRO cares about your personal property following a fire.

CONFIRM THE HOME IS STABILIZED AND SAFE TO ENTER...

After we are on the scene when you've experienced a fire at your home, the first step SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties will take is to confirm that the property is safe to enter. We will check for signs of structural damage that compromises the home and carefully inspect the property from the outside before opening the door. 

If you are concerned, you should wait for a home inspector to deem the property safe before you enter.

NEXT UP, WE WILL MINIMIZE DAMAGE...

Smoke and soot will cause damage even after the fire has been extinguished. You and the professionals from SERVPRO working in your home should be cautious of soot staining, mold and mildew, rust and corrosion as well as the air quality in your home.

Soot staining occurs when the soot particles in the air adhere to surfaces and cause discoloration. Depending on the surface material and the time elapsed, the soot staining may still be completely removable. In other cases, it will leave behind a permanent discoloration. Some sensitive materials include metals, plastics, grout, carpeting, textiles and wood. SERVPRO will examine these materials in your home and properly clean them to reduce the damage.

Mold and mildew can be a problem and form quickly, so you should look for signs of water damage. If water damage is suspected, the proper restoration and mold and mildew removal processes should begin as soon as possible to minimize further damage.

Cleaning up smoke damage begins by using an air scrubber to clean the air. If there is any smoke-damaged furniture that might be saved or you hope to save, our technicians will begin the smoke-damage restoration process immediately to increase the chance for a complete restoration. 

REMOVE SOOT AND DEBRIS...

Before any water damage or fire damage restoration processes can begin, all debris and soot must be removed from the home. The soot can cause more damage the longer it remains on a surface, while the debris is only going to get in the way the restoration process.

Removing the soot and debris will also improve air quality and reduce airborne odors. A vacuum can remove some of the remaining soot — it can be swept up or wiped. 

BEGIN DEODORIZING, DEEP CLEANING AND REMOVING STAINS...

It’s important to consider what items should be deep cleaned and restored and what items are too damaged and need to be replaced instead. SERVPRO uses specific cleaning products depending on the product being cleaned or deodorized. We consider the type of material and how much mold, mildew or smoke has penetrated the surface when determining which cleaning product to use. 

Carpets, curtains and other fabrics usually need special attention because they are easily ruined. In some cases, carpets can be shampooed and restored, while fabrics can be washed or cleaned. 

Throughout the restoration process, you will be updated by the professionals at SERVPRO as they determine what is salvageable and as we mitigate with your insurance company on your behalf.

Do you know what to do for kitchen fires?

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can cause a lot of damage but in this case, the homeowner quickly extinguished it with baking soda and a lid.

Do you know how many fires start in the kitchen per year?  Approximately 44% of all residential fires begin in the kitchen or about 173,000 per year.  Kitchen fires can be caused by grease, cooking that is left unattended, items placed too close to the fire or even burning poultry in the microwave. At SERVPRO of Franklin Vance and Granville Counties we have seen many of these causes. When  a fire happens people panic- Do NOT attempt to carry a grease fire outside- instead put a lid on the pan, put salt or baking soda on it. In this photo the homeowner put baking soda and a lid on it.  The fire did cause damage inside the home from the cabinets, ceilings and walls and sent smoke throughout the main living space but nobody was hurt, SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was onsite quickly to begin the mitigation and cleaning process.

A Name You Can Trust

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers Water Damage Restoration to home and business owners. We offer 24/7 Emergency Response so you know you can get help when you need it most.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster

If your property requires professional Mold Remediation, SERVPRO has years of experience removing mold damaged material and restoring indoor air quality to acceptable levels. With our advanced technology and our highly trained professionals, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can mitigate your mold problems for you and take care of them "Like it never even happened." We are proud to be a trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry.

Fire Damage Restoration is a very complex process that should only be handled by professionals. Learn more about the process and why SERVPRO is considered a leader in this industry. We are with you every step of the way.

Our best asset is our employees. SERVPRO has an extensive Employee Certification Training, a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

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

We are locally owned and operated, which means that we live in your neighborhoods. You are our neighbors, and we care about the condition of your home. Feel safe and secure when you call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties.

Make The Call Quickly!

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

This commercial property in Henderson experienced more water in a basement than they could handle! SERVPRO was quick on the scene to extract and dry!

Water damage is a serious problem that needs to be addressed promptly. It can begin in a matter of seconds and become severe in minutes in some cases. If you are experiencing damaged plumbing, flooding or any other form of water damage, you should call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties as soon as you notice any significant damage or sitting water.

If you can remove the water with towels, a mop or a wet vacuum, it is probably okay to DIY your cleanup. However, any more than that, and you should give the experts at SERVPRO a call for help. The sooner you make the call, the better the results will be.

When you call SERVPRO to come and help with water damage in your home or business, you can expect a full-service treatment. We work hard to ensure that we return everything to as close to the way it was before the damage as possible.

Unlikely Causes

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes a home, the very first priority is to extinguish the flames and make sure that everyone is safe. However, once the fire is put out and everyone is accounted for, you could be left with a heavily damaged home that is unfit for living.  

Fire damage restoration is the act of cleaning and restoring property as well as personal belongings that have sustained smoke or fire damage. The goal of fire damage restoration services is to salvage damaged items and restore your home so that it can once again be inhabited.

No one plans to experience a house fire. Fires are among the most dangerous and destructive disasters that can happen to a home. Homeowners can reduce their risk of experiencing a fire with responsible behavior.  Cooking, candles, bad electronics, and malfunctioning appliances that generate heat such as dryers and furnaces are among the most common causes of house fires. Many homeowners take precautions to avoid home fires when cooking or using these objects. However, your fire prevention effort should not stop there. Here are five other causes of fire that are less likely but still deserve your attention.

Glass and Sunlight

Did you ever burn ants with a magnifying glass as a child? If so, you know that the heat from  sunlight intensifies as it passes through the glass. This same effect can occur in your home as sunlight passes through your windows. If sunlight passing through a window or glass object hits some flammable material on the other side such as paper or fabric, there is a possibility that this could lead to a fire. The best way to prevent fires from glass is to put glass objects in shaded areas and make sure that sunlight coming through your window does not hit anything flammable.

Dishwashers

Many homeowners are already aware of the potential for their appliances to start a fire. One appliance that may be overlooked is the dishwasher. The dishwasher does not generate heat like a furnace or hot water heater, but it does use water that can cause an electrical fire if it drips onto your internal components. You can prevent fires caused by the dishwasher by keeping it well maintained.

9-Volt Batteries

When you think of common causes of house fires, batteries are probably not the first thing that comes to your mind. However, 9-volt batteries in particular pose a fire hazard because the battery can become conductive if its posts touch a metal object. If a 9-volt battery comes into contact with something metal and then touches something flammable, this could result in a fire. Simply cover the battery posts with a piece of tape before disposing of them to reduce the risk of a fire.

Laptops

Laptops are another possible cause of house fires. Laptops generate a good amount of heat when operating. This heat can cause a fire if the laptop  cooling fan is smothered by a soft surface or if the laptop is resting on something flammable such as a couch or bed for an extended period of time. You can reduce the risk of a fire by keeping your laptop on a safe, flat and cool surface.

Dust

Dust is an unwelcome presence because it makes homes dirty and contributes to allergies and other health issues. Too much dust in certain areas is also a fire hazard. The heat from electrical outlets, electronics, and appliances can cause dust to start on fire, especially if there are sparks. You can decrease the risk of a fire from dust by cleaning your home and removing dust from areas near outlets and electronics on a regular basis.

Homeowners should always make fire prevention a point of emphasis and knowing these unlikely causes of house fires can help you better protect your home. It is very rare for these factors to trigger a house fire but because the possibility is there, you must take the right actions to reduce the risk of a fire. If you do experience any amount of fire damage in your home, you must call a fire damage restoration professional immediately. The professionals at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties have the right tools and equipment to stop the damage from spreading and restore your home.

Call us immediately to help limit the damage and salvage your home! We're always here to help - 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

Look For The Truck

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Look for the green truck! We're ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Is your roof leaking? Has a pipe burst or an appliance supply line broken? Maybe an overflowing toilet or bathtub? Has your home or business been hit by storm floods or severe weather? At SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, we are equipped to handle all water damage in your home or business.

As the largest network of water damage restoration professionals, SERVPRO will help you clean up your water! 

We’ll build the right action plan for your damages, and we will guide you through every part of the process as we work to restore your property. We work with your insurance company to mitigate the damages for you. 

You can have confidence that SERVPRO uses the latest technology, to remove the water and repair the damage quickly. Our technicians have hands-on, professional training and experience in a range of services. From photos, documents and contents, to the structure itself, we can restore your home or business and your cherished possessions.

You know you are in good hands when you see the bright green truck show up.

Call The Experts Right Away

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. When the storm hits, we're there! Our process emphasizes regular monitoring, and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end will give you the confidence that you have chosen the best.

Water Damage Timeline

Storm Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc, immediately. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance, and Granville counties arrives as fast as we can to start the water extraction process.

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Call 252-433-0005 if the storm moves from outside to inside! We're always here to help!

Fire Safety With Debris

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Spring Time feelings are upon us! While we all work together to reduce social gatherings and travel during the pandemic, lots of families are taking advantage of the “at-home free time” by doing their Spring cleaning. If you are doing any deep spring cleaning, you may now be stocked with piles of items for donations or even piles of items to be disposed of.

The donation piles perhaps can wait out in your garage or shed. But, what do you do with the trash pile? If you are considering burning anything, you better play it safe and check with local authorities for any burn bans that might be in effect.

If you're given the go ahead, be sure you keep things safe! Keep burning piles far away from structures on your property. Also, be mindful of your distance from any forestry or public roads. Make sure that you're monitoring the flames well.

We want our friends and neighbors in our local communities to be safe this Spring!

Commercial Cleaning and Restoration

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Whatever the job needs, we'll work to get it handled!

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Whether you need cleaning for a commercial office or require industrial cleaning services, your local SERVPRO can help. You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office or warehouse. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional.

Removing an odor problem, deep cleaning flooring or carpets, or even large duct cleaning, you can rely on SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to make your workspace or warehouse look its very best.

SERVPRO Professionals will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO Advantage includes these benefits:

• Award-winning training
• Over 40 years experience in the industry
• More than 100 exclusive cleaning products

24/7 we are always on the job. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848!

Be Prepared

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing what steps to take after storm damagecan make a big difference in what happens afterwards. 

As challenging as recovery can be, you can take comfort in the fact that many have gone through similar experiences. 

Steps to Take After Storm Damage

1. Check Your Home for Damage
2. Review and Assess the Damage
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider
4. Avoid Additional Damage Where Possible
5. Choose the Right Contractor to Restore Your Home

Choose the Right Contractor to Restore Your Home

It’s important to hire a professional and trustworthy contractor to help you recover your home. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties are the experts in restoration, whether it is commercial or residential. We will assist you every step of the way. 

Poor or incomplete restoration will leave you with an unhealthy home or business. Any time there is potential water damage, mold can begin growing immediately. It’s critical to address and remedy this as soon as possible to avoid additional damage and health risk. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties can help take that responsibility off of your shoulders.

We have seen it all when it comes to Storm Damage. Whatever your situation is, we will start the process of restoring your lives for you.

Trained Staff

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, we believe that our team of top-skilled technicians are the best in the business. We believe this because we believe in regular training and accumulated experience.

The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Because of our commitment to skilled technicians, we value the concepts and theories of restoration as well as the hard skills of accomplishing good work. Our aim is to accomplish quality work and have satisfied customers.

Our technicians are trained in a variety of restoration topics and skills. They receive their qualifications through IICRC certifications in Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration and Commercial Drying (among other topics).

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

To address water, fire, or mold damage in homes and businesses, you need trained people who know what they’re doing. Call the experts at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties!

Quick Tips While You Wait For Help!

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it’s a burst pipe, storm water or sewage back flowing into your basement, or eve a water heater mishap, few situations are more stressful than watching a massive amount of water pour into your home. Even a small leak is nothing to ignore.

So, you have flooding inside your home, you’ve made the call and the SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties team is on the way… but what do you do until help arrives? Here are some tips from the experts.

• Safety first. If you don’t feel safe in the house, get out! There could be a danger of slipping and falling, not to mention electrical hazards.
• Shut off the main water supply valve immediately. 
• If it’s safe to do so, turn off the electricity to flooded rooms. Do not walk or wade through water to reach the breaker box. You don't want to risk being shocked or worse.
• If it’s safe inside, start removing excess water by mopping and blotting the floors. Be sure to wipe water from wood furniture to keep it from getting damaged: Prop up wet upholstery and cushions for drying.
• Create a barrier between soaked carpet and furniture legs (aluminum foil, wood blocks, etc.). Make sure there are no books, magazines, rugs or other colored items that can “bleed” on the carpet.
• Do NOT use your household vacuum to remove water. Only use an approved wet/dry vacuum to extract water.
• Get the air circulating. Use ceiling fans (but not if the ceiling is wet) or A/C in the summer to begin the drying process.
• Put family heirlooms, art and other safekeepings in a safe, dry place.
• Hang wet fabrics and leather items out to dry.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this community too. When you have a flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of our community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be!

Small Damage, Big Issues

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

This home in Creedmoor, NC experienced roof damage from a large tree limb during a storm.

We have experienced quite the number of storms over the last year in our areas. Homes and business all over Granville County, Vance County, and Franklin County have seen trees down, roofs damaged, and basements flood more times that anyone would like to count!

Did you know that even a small roof puncture can cause multiple issues for your home? Not only do the shingles need repairing, but the wooden base of your roof. And if water makes it ways inside, you're dealing with insulation issues in your attic and possible ceiling damage to the room below! Water travels fast!

If you experience even the smallest of roof damage, its better to get it handled quickly. Getting your roof tarped to prevent further water damage is the first place to begin! Always stop the water first! SERVPRO is here to help!

Three Quick Tips

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage so we can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

We know there are so many emotions and so many questions following a house fire that it’s hard to know what to do next - who do you call, where do you begin, and when is it safe to re-enter your home? One simple call to SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, and we will be with you every step of the way.

Here are a few tips:

• Do not enter your home until you’re given permission that it is safe.
• Do not turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
• Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot damage yourself. Leave that to professionals at SERVPRO who have the proper safety equipment and experience. 

Minimize The Disruption

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

We worked quickly and effectively to restore this business after a sewage back-up.

When you're running a business, especially when customers are entering your space for transactions throughout the day, having a sewage back-up in your bathroom can really interrupt the flow of work!

At SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, we strive to minimize the disruption to your business as quickly as we can. Extracting water of all types, sanitizing the area appropriately, and getting your floors and walls dry are top priority. We want to keep your staff and your customers safe while work is happening, as well! 

Technicians were on the scene within the hour at a recent back-up in a Henderson, NC business. Even with limited traffic due to the restrictions in place caused by the pandemic, we worked quickly to make sure this business could open its doors the same day!

Every Step Of The Way

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

We know that disaster can strike without any notice. Whether it is natural disaster like a flood or tornado or residential or commercial water and fire damage, we are here to walk you through the most difficult disasters. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

Our focus is to provide each job and customer with the best service, fairness, and compassion throughout the clean-up. This commitment to service and our customers is backed by being available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

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.

Even when it comes to your insurance claim and payment information, office staff at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties work alongside you and your insurance adjuster to help manage the insurance process and paperwork.

Assisting You After A Fire

3/28/2021 (Permalink)

Even a small electrical fire can lead to lots of cleaning needs in a home!

The cold Winter weather is blending into the warmer afternoons of Spring here in North Carolina. We’re spending more time outdoors and less time sitting around the fireplace! However, staying safe around flames and fires is not seasonal. Here are some ways that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can help make it “Like it never even happened,” in your home or business if you experience a fire!

Taking Note of Damage

Once everyone is safe from the structure, firefighters work to ensure that the blaze is extinguished. Once we are on the scene, we work to survey to damage’s extent. Often, this can include board-up services to windows, doors, or affected walls to help seal the home and prevent looting or vandalism.

Repairing the Structure

If there are any safety concerns, those will be addressed first before any focus can be made on cleaning soot from walls. Fire-related water damage can cause floors to buckle and walls to sag, so when the structure is stable, SERVPRO will begin to focus on removing smoke odors and soot from the home or business.

Cleaning Personal Belongings

We know that your home is made up of more than walls and roof. Your belongings are important! Technicians from SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties take salvageable personal belongings off-site to clean. These are stored and cleaning takes places over time while your home or business is being repaired.

Removing Remaining Smoke

Odors from a fire can remain if restorers aren’t careful to remove them. We make sure to do a thorough duct cleaning to make sure that lingering soot and smoke is removed from your HVAC system and doesn’t recirculate through your home. Special filters and air cleaning machines are put to work to remove smoke and soot particles from the air.

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We always hope that our friends and neighbors in our communities are safe! However, if you experience damage from a fire or smoke, give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848. Vance County, Granville County, Franklin County, we are always here to help!

Water Damage In Your Office

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

While contents are protected during a roof repair, office carpets are being dried quickly!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties services all sizes of disasters from big or small from residential to commercial. In one recent commercial loss, SERVPRO technicians were called upon for a roof leak! That isn't what you want to walk in to on a Monday morning! 

Upon arrival the technicians were able to use weighted water extraction on the carpeting thereby saving the carpets and allowing SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties the ability to dry the carpeting in place. Placing dehumidifiers in out-of-the-way locations and ensuring that drying could take place quickly and efficiently was a priority! Supporting small businesses in the area, even in the face of an emergency situation, is something we are proud of at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties! Give us the opportunity to assist your business if you ever walk in to a water damage.

SERVPRO's Earned Trust

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

We invite you to watch this video from the Chief Marketing Officer, Mike Stahl, from the SERVPRO Headquarters in Tennessee. Mike explains why SERVPRO has earned the trust of the country with COVID cleanings and why we should be your first call if there's been exposure in your business.

Here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, we have been called on by many local businesses (small and large!) and homes all around our community to help fight the spread of dangerous virus germs. We are proud to come alongside our neighbors and friends in helping to stop the spread!

If your business is in need of an antimicrobial cleaning, give our office a call so we can walk you through our process! We are always here to help!

My Crawlspace Smells MUSTY!

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Increased moisture found in a crawlspace can lead to mildew and mold growth on insulation and wooden subfloors and joists.

We were recently contacted by a customer in Wake Forest, North Carolina who discovered mold in their crawlspace when working to get their insulation replaced. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties was happy to respond!

But, wait! How do you get mold in your crawlspace?!

Outside air coming through open vents is one culprit. The vents let in hot, damp air as well as water. When warm and humid air comes through vents into the crawlspace, it touches the walls, dirt floors, water pipes, floor joists and ducts. The condensation can form a musty smell and you can end up with mold and eventually even rot!

Next time you're checking things out under your house, be sure to look at the exposed dirt that’s in your crawlspace, as well as checking for plumbing leaks and groundwater leakage. If your ground isn't blocked by a plastic vapor barrier, moisture could be finding its way to your insulation and wooden subfloors or joists.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has the drying systems to get your crawlspace back to a healthy condition.

Equipment Matters

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Professional quality air movers are hard at work to get your home dry!

No one gets excited when they see water flooding their home. Carpets get soaked, often times our wood floors are damaged, and sometimes, flooring has to be removed completely! Something we see when we are called out to a home is that homeowners are using personal fans to try and dry up the moisture. These are great to use when you want a nice breeze in the Summer heat, but when you're trying to remove large amounts of water, leave it to the professionals.. and their professional equipment!

SERVPRO of Frankin, Vance & Granville Counties is equipped with professional drying equipment to help make your water damage "Like it never even happened." Our Air Movers and professional quality dehumidifiers are first on the scene with trained staff to get your house back in order! 

We are proud to have a crew of highly trained professional water technicians that are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help out on any loss. Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties the next time you experience a leak in your home!

Why do customers choose SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Rusted out water heater causes damage

Water damages come in all sizes, shapes and causes. This water damage was from a rusted out water heater in the basement of an elderly client. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville was able to move the furniture quickly out of the basement limiting the content damage and begin to extract the water.  Her children were very happy of the care that our team demonstrated to their parent! Our highly trained technicians were able to guide our elderly client through the claim process to achieve the end result of a satisfied customer! 

Pipe burst in crawlspace in Creedmoor, NC

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in Creedmoor, NC crawlspace

One of the most common causes of water damages is a burst pipe. Whether the burst pipe is in the crawlspace as this picture shows, in a wall or in the attic, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville arrives quickly on the scene to assess the damage, determine the water migration line and begin mitigation.  We were able to assess on this damage that the water only affected the crawlspace and there was no water damage or high moisture material readings on the inside of the home. The homeowner was very thankful that there wasn't any interior home damage and that we were able to determine the extent of damage.  Call us at 252-433-0005 for your water damage mitigation needs.

What does SERVPRO do with my contents?

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Scanned boxes returned to customer home after fire.

Did you know that SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties cleans contents after a fire?  SERVPRO has a 13,000 sq. ft. warehouse space where we assess, clean, and repack your contents. All contents are bar coded upon packing at your home and then brought back to our facility where they are scanned again into the system to begin the assessing and cleaning process. During cleaning the items are sorted and marked as cleaned, questionable, or replace.  Then a copy of the sorted boxed items will be given to the customer and insurance company for review.

Winter Storm Tips

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes cause headaches in the winter with freezing temperatures!

With below freezing temperatures in the winter, the risk of pipes bursting increases. But with some simple planning the risk can be decreased.

1. Unhook any garden hoses from outside spigots

2. Look in the attic and see if any plumbing is exposed.  It is common for unfinished attic space to be plumbed for a future bathroom which needs to be assessed closely

3. Look in the crawlspace and see if any pipes are exposed like the one in the picture. Insulate the pipes using batt insulation or with foam insulation made to pipe's diameter

 During freezing temperatures it is important to open the cabinet doors to the sinks and keep a trickle of water running on both the hot and cold side of the faucet, if able.

With some careful planning you can decrease the risk for having a unwanted water damage and frozen pipes in the winter

When You Work On The Road

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Sanitizing Vehicle Work Spaces Is Important!

When you think about going in to work every day, the majority of Americans imagine a day of walking inside of a building for their work week. Maybe it's an office, maybe a school or care facility, or perhaps even a hospital or other medical operations building. What about those employees in the work force that work inside of a small area all day - a vehicle!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers vehicle cleaning services! Whether you're looking for a deep clean of upholstery and flooring, or a simple sanitizing treatment to keep your employees safe and healthy, we're here to help!

Recently, we were able to offer sanitizing services inside of trucks used for transporting goods and services all around the country! Wipe down, antimicrobial misting, as well as cleaning high-touch areas like doors, handles, and the steering wheel. Sometimes, our most comfortable spaces are the ones we overlook the most when it comes to sanitation needs.

Give us a call today to schedule services for your company vehicles! 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

We Are Open!

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, we understand that Fire and Water Damage knows know "perfect timing," nor any "pathogen-related delays." We are open and always here to help.

During these times of uncertainty, we want to keep our customers safe. Our employees are assessed in the morning for any increase in temperature. We also have shoe coverings, Tyvek suits, gloves, masks and eye protection for our employees to use while they are in your home for your protection. All of our equipment is disinfected, with a hospital grade disinfectant, before it is placed in your house. For water damages, we are also placing an appropriately-sized air scrubber which will filter the indoor air down to .3 microns. We are taking every precaution necessary to keep our employees and our customer safe.

When Something Leaks, Lives Can Change

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

When the water leak on the floor is too much to handle, & turns into a much bigger issue than you expected, give us a call! We're always here to help!

Something that we often tell our customers, especially when they aren't sure they have called the right place regarding a leak in their home, is that it's the water you don't see that can often cause the most damage. When a pipe leaks, or a drain backs up, or even something larger like a water heater malfunction, just "drying up the water on the floor" often isn't enough.

This home located in Raleigh, NC, experienced a water damage that led to their neighbor in the duplex also being affected. Upon arrival, our technicians found multiple layers of flooring that was affected by the water and that it possibly contained asbestos. After having the flooring properly tested, along with the walls, the water damage turned into a much larger project - which involved two families being displaced from their homes.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties was there each step of the way, providing the Vance County homeowner answers to questions, connections to proper service providers, and assistance with the safe and complete gutting of the duplexes in order to begin the rebuild. Just drying up the water on the floors wouldn't have been enough!

Trust the professional technicians who are always here to help! Call today : 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

Green Thumb Tip

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers help to homeowners to get them through any disaster, including a fire in their home.

When you experience a fire in your home, the to-do list can seem insurmountable. Don't fret! When you call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, we'll work right alongside you to make it "Like it never even happened." Not only are our technicians trained to handle all the needs of your home, restoring your property to before-fire (or better!) conditions, but we'll be there to offer tips and tricks to help you!

If you experience a fire in your home, it's good to remember that your house plants need love, too! Soot and ash could be choking the leaves' natural function and growth. Wipe gently with a mild detergent (since soot is greasy) and water.

We're here for you! Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

What DON'T I Do: Fire Damage

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

When fires happen, and smoke billows around, soot settles on everything in your home - decorations, walls, furniture. SERVPRO is always here to help!

If you have experienced a fire in your home or office space, there are many steps you can take to restore the building and regain normalcy.  Actually, there are a few things to avoid so that you aren't causing yourself more worry and frustration in an already stressful situation, or even prolong fire cleanup efforts. Avoid such a scenario, and ensure that you leave most of the fire restoration to the professionals.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has properly certified and trained fire damage restoration experts available to come to your property who make fire cleanup a breeze. We have the proper tools and equipment to safely restore your property without the added worry and headache. 

Here are some of the 'DON'Ts':

Don't Salvage Food

Food costs a lot of money, and usually, tossing it out is the last thing you want to do. Under normal circumstances, it'd be easy to maintain your foods, but after fire damage, nothing is safe. Soot damage, smoke smell, and smoke damage can contaminate foods, and considerably change the taste. Don't preserve any food that was inside the home during the fire. It is far too risky to your well-being.

Don't Go Inside

Although fire department officials may have extinguished the flames, the building may still be unsafe. It is possible for a fire to reignite, and the smoke may linger for days, leaving an undeniably, unpleasant smoke smell in its path. The smoke smell is easily removed with a deodorizer when SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance * Granville Counties steps in for fire damage restoration. Smoke damage left behind on furniture, pictures, clothing, etc. is also a concern. Don't let smoke damage worry you! Soot damage is also of concern after a fire. This fine dusting of powder contains many toxins that cause health concerns, including an increased risk of heart problems. Soot damage is left behind on furniture, clothing, appliances, and even the floor. When you stay away, these dangers are invalid.

Don't Forget Board Up

Board up of windows and doors is important after a fire in home or fire in business. Board up minimizes dangers and keeps people from entering the building. It is dangerous to re-enter a building after commercial fire damage or a fire in home. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers board-up services to help minimize these risks. Whether you've experienced a fire in business or a fire in home, using this service is highly recommended.

Don't Panic

After commercial fire damage or a fire in home, you're left with many emotions and likely wonder what the future holds after such devastation has occurred. It is easy to panic and lose focus, but this is the worst thing that you can do. As the fire damage restoration pros at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties work on fire cleanup and getting the building back-to normal, you should be making calls to the insurance agency, choosing new paints and colors for the building, and planning other details of restoration.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to take the worry out of Fire Restoration. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

When The Storm Comes Rolling Through

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Each and every one of us has likely experienced, in some form or another, the force of Mother Nature. Whether it was during an even Summer thunderstorm or hail storm, the crash of a Winter ice storm, or even a scary tornado, those of us who work hard at being prepared can't always escape the damage that comes along with those storms.

These storms can often cause us trouble by putting our roofs in jeopardy, but the siding on our homes can be affected as well! When the siding gets damaged, this leaves the inside of your home at risk for water damage. The sooner you report the damage and get SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties on the scene, the better. We can start the cleanup and drying process immediately and alleviate a lot of the circumstances that come with water damage, such as mold.

We are available 24/7 so give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

When Spring Storms Surge

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that North Carolina is outside of the principle tornado area of the United States? While this certainly provides some relief to homeowners in our area, we are still at risk to receive 2-3 each year. These typically come around in the Springtime. 

Storm damage leaves you with different types of damages including water damages due to flooding, structure damages, roof leak, and roof damage. When you want to restore your home after a wind damage, it is important for you to seek services from companies that provide professional storm remediation.

Below are the steps that you could follow suffering a storm damage to ensure that you reduce the losses that result from flooding:

I. Emergency contact. The first step in professional storm restoration is contacting SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties - your premier restoration company! We provide services on a 24/7 basis, so you will be able to contact us anytime. We will walk with you through each step of the way.

II. Focus on your health and safety. Storm disasters come with water damages and it is necessary to ensure that you switch off all power sources in your home or business. It is also important to note that storm remediation process begins immediately when our personnel arrives on the site. Restoration should begin immediately after the storm or after the water levels have gone down. You should also use a flood pump to get rid of the flood water and ground water that may be the source of water damage to your property. Block broken water pipes to limit water inflow and minor roof leaks fixed.

III. Documentation of storm damage: Documentation of all damages is important whether you have experienced damage from a storm, water leak, wind, or even a tornado or hurricane. This will will help you in filing insurance claims. 

IV. Contact your insurance company. You should also make sure that you contact your insurance agent to allow him or her conduct any required inspection on your damaged property. Contacting your insurance company should be made as quickly as possible to initiate the compensation process.

V. Consider looking into Federal Disaster Assistance: The federal government always seeks to help victims of wind damage and river flooding afford proper storm remediation. If you live in an area that has been declared as a disaster area, you can seek low-cost loans that may be provided by the federal government to facilitate home restoration services of your home such as repairs for a minor roof leak, management of water damage, wind damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and roof damage.

VI. The home restoration process involves restoring your home to its initial state. It may involve window and door replacement, furniture and content replacement, home restoration of electric and water supplies, and debris removal. Hail damages often require a water restoration expert to help you carry out proper roof repairs where necessary. Water restoration processes also involve the use of air mover fans and dehumidifiers to get rid of moisture and possibly even water extraction to pump water out.

While storms often take us by surprise, having a plan in place to keep your family and belongings safe is a great way to be on top of things! 

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is proud to serve the area. Give us a call at 252-433-0005 when disaster strikes!

Don't Ignore The Smell!

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Even your outdoor spaces and porch areas are susceptible to heat, smoke, and soot damage!

One of the worst disasters we can ever face is a fire. With our fast paced lives today, things can happen in the blink of an eye. Always be mindful of things going on around you to avoid a tragedy like this.

It's happened to us all, we see it every day.  If this happens to you call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, and we'll come out and repair the damage. Not all smoke and soot are the same, and trained professionals like we have at SERVPRO know how to deal with each type that occurs.

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. 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. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is here to help - 252-433-0009 or 919-339-4848

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties, 252-433-0005.

Sources:

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

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

Emergency Response

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can help you prepare for emergencies and help reduce the headache of disasters in the office!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is also your reliable source for protecting your company! How do you protect a business? Did your business sustain an emergency such as a water or fire damage? What is the first thing to do? Where are those papers?

Business interruptions are never desired, but they happen and you can decrease your stress, frustrations and problems by allowing SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to help you prepare a program before a disaster strikes.

We offer a free Emergency Response Plan (ERP). It keeps all your information together, so even if you aren't at the site, you can instruct those at the loss site where the shut off valve is, where the key is, who is the contact person, and more! All of these things saves valuable time, money and resources. Best of all, an ERP is a free service that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties offers all commercial and residential customers.

Did we mention that it is saved electronically as an app? So even if you are on vacation, and your staff can't find the book, you can tell them over the phone. Call us today and get started 252-433-0005!

Something In My Office Smells BAD!

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

"Help! Something at our office smells terrible! How do I get rid of the smell?" This is a question we receive often at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties! While there is no fast easy answer to that question, there are a few things to do.

First, determine where the odor is coming from and remove the source of the odor. If the source can't be found or removed, then start by thoroughly cleaning the area with a mild detergent. Do not add masking agents to the area such as sprays or scented candles, etc. If the odor persists call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville to assist with deodorization.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties also has products for graffiti removal from painted surfaces from buildings, signs, and vehicles. Call today for all your cleanup needs at 252-433-0005- or 919-339-4848.

Help Is On The Way!

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Drying systems often help save your hardwood floors from having to be replaced. Give SERVPRO a call!

Hardwood floors are a beautiful option in the home. Many families fear that wood floors would be difficult to manage if a water damage ever happened in the home. 

Did you know that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is trained to handle water on your hardwoods and work to save them! We use drying systems to draw out the extra moisture in the wood and get them laying down flat again. This helps to restore your property "Like it never even happened." 

Before you feel like all hope is lost, call the professional team at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties here in beautiful Henderson, North Carolina to help you and your family. We're always here to help! Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848!

Fires Can Happen Anywhere!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire is pretty scary, and SERVPRO understands that. But, the reality is that fires happen everywhere including hospitals! SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was able to assist in the cleaning of an area hospital operating room. The fire was contained to the area and was caused by an instrument.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was able to get to this site within an hour and begin the clean up. We used air scrubbers to limit the airborne soot particles while cleaning the contents and structure. We were able to get the cleaning completed and the operating rooms back up working within 24 hours. We worked around the clock, but we made it happen. The administration was glad that we were able to help and was amazed at the level of professionalism and response from the SERPVRO team. We made the hospital a hero by preventing any surgeries from being postponed. When time is of the essence, call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005.

Apartment Complex Experiences Storm Woes

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties worked to prevent any further damage and restore property to this apartment community clubhouse.

Storms can be upsetting and cause anxiety and frustration. This can be especially true for multi-family homes like apartment complexes! Did you know that SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can help by extracting the water, cleaning up the damage and handle the drying process for you the tenants around you?

During a storm event we are ready to quickly assist with whatever the need, from helping to tarp your roof to prevent more water coming in to extracting, drying, and even assisting with any move-out of contents! Our team is able to assess exactly what is needed and how much the storm may have affected your building. By using a professional company like SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, you limit your interruptions and we make you look like a hero to your tenant and customers. We are always here to help you and you are our number one priority.

In this picture ground water gained entry into this apartment complex and caused damage to their clubhouse area. We were able to extract, limit the amount of tear out and restore the property back to normal within days. Call us today at 252-433-0005!

Come Visit Us On Facebook!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Stop by our Facebook page today! Let's be friends!

One of our favorite things about being part of the SERVPRO family is that we get to work in our community where we live! We love to engage with our friends and neighbors, as well as be apart of a community of businesses working to make Henderson, Oxford, Franklinton, and the surrounding communities a great place to be!

We'd love to be your friend, too! Stop by our Facebook page today! You can find us at www.facebook.com/SERVPROFVG - give us a like and join in on the fun! We post helpful tips, guides for you and your family to use in protecting your home during a potential loss, and engage with our community with stories, photos, and videos. Stop by our page and say hello!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is here to help! 252-433-0005

I Thought I Could Handle It!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

What appears small may cause big problems if they aren't addressed by a professional!

So you say, "It was only a little bit of water. I thought I could handle it!" Or maybe, "I just replaced my water heater a few weeks ago..." and "The toilet overflowed just a bit." These are only a few of the phrases that we at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties hear on a regular basis. Remember it is the water you don't see that usually causes problems.

After a water incident, the water is always seeking a state of equilibrium. Wet always goes to dry. So it's the water and moisture under you flooring, in the walls, in the duct work, in the crawlspace or into the adjoining room or closet that can cause issues with odor, mold, rot. What you thought was just a little problem has now turned into something big. A water damage that was possibly covered by your home owner's insurance might not be anymore!

Being proactive about any water damage at your home is a good thing, no matter how small you think it might be. It will save you time, money, and inconvenience. Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties today at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005 and we can help! Remember we service Kerr Lake, Youngsville, Franklinton, Louisburg, Creedmoor, Butner, Bunn, Lake Royale, Wilton, parts of Wake Forest as well as Henderson, Oxford and the surrounding communities.

Keeping Your Candle Burning

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Be sure you monitor your candles while they burn, and that you trim the wicks after each use to reduce residual soot.

Some of the most popular home decor items are candles. The calming flicker of light, the soft crackle of fire, the many scents you can select from to waft through your home... but did you know candle burning can leave soot on your walls, ceilings, furniture and belongings? It happens when black smoke billows from the wick either while lighting it, burning it, or when extinguishing it.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has cleaned up soot in several homes from candle soot. SERVPRO always recommends burning the candles only while someone is at home and staying in the same room while it burns. Many homeowners overlook this easy and simple step. Candles can leave a fragrant scent in your home, but you don't want residual soot.

Make sure you clip the wick after each use so you can enjoy the candles without the soot. Call SERVPRO at 252-433-0005 if you start to see dark areas on your ceiling, walls, or while you dust. The soot particle is very small and can travel throughout your home via you HVAC air ducts. Be wise and give us a call! We're always here to help!

Help! Someone in My Family is a Hoarder!

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Help someone in my family is a hoarder! SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can help in hoarder homes. Hoarding can become a serious health issue as a family member may become less able to take care of themselves.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has experience first hand  in many homes in our surround areas where water and fire damages have taken over personal belongings. We have been diligent to organize all the items. We have the capabilities to take pictures of all contents, inventory it, and place them in labeled boxes.

Using our organized system, we are then able to hand the detailed content list to the customer so they know exactly where all the items are. This has can help allow your family member to feel like they still have their belongings, but have it in an organized way.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville can think out the box to come with a mutual solution with you, as our customer, and the family member or loved one that you're extending a helping hand to. Call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848! We are happy to assist you!

Proud BBB Member!

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Proud to be A+ Accredited with the BBB of Eastern North Carolina!

When you're looking for quality service professionals that you can trust in your home or business, where do you start your search? For more than 17 years, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been proudly associated with the Better Business Bureau!

Knowing that we support the ethics and standards of the BBB brings a great deal of comfort to our customers. We also serve on the Education Foundation Board of the BBB of Eastern North Carolina because SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties knows the importance of education and increasing knowledge within our community.

We invite you to check out our listing on the BBB site with the link below. https://www.bbb.org/us/nc/henderson/profile/fire-water-damage-restoration/SERVPRO-of-franklin-vance-granville-counties-0593-13000806

Water Damage Woes

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

When water invades, we're here to help keep you and your belongs safe and dry!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties services all types of water damage clean-up needs! From any kind of small water heater loss to water from an upstairs pipe in the wall that affects your first floor ceilings, and even the crawlspace of your home. We always say, "It is the water that you don't see that causes the problems!"

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties also provides clean-up after flooding which is the most common natural disaster in the United States. Whether flooding is caused by thunderstorms or hurricanes, SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster!

Our technicians are IICRC certified to handle any size disaster. Check out our YouTube channel for other ways we can assist you and your family today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAy2HP0XD2XiJoyzYOPoy_Q

Call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

We Clean Ducts

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

We are always here to help keep the air you breathe clean and safe!

We clean ducts! With Spring on its way to us here in beautiful Vance County, North Carolina, your indoor air ducts may need a good Spring Cleaning. Whether its your office or your home,  you can call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville at 252-433-0005 to schedule an air duct inspection to determine if your duct work needs cleaning. Keep those dust particles and other possible contaminants out of your fresh air!

Bringing in SERVPRO for your air duct cleaning can extend the life of your units, allow you to breathe easier in your home, and help to decrease the amount of dust and odor particles circulating in your home.

Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848. We are happy to help! 

High Humidity, You Say?

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

High humidity is conducive for mold growth. Let SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties assess your home or office for mold. Do you see mold? Do you have musty odors? Mold loves to grow indoors with humidity above 60%.

There are a few easy DIY things you can do yourself:
1. Keep bathroom exhaust fan running while taking a shower and for 20 minutes after getting out.
2. Buy an indoor thermometer that also monitors the humidity to be sure your indoors stay below 60%.
3. Take a walk around the outside of your home and look for clogged gutters, standing water around the foundation of your home, downspouts that aren't connected.
4. Buy an indoor dehumidifier that can self drain into a sink or drain.
5. Make sure you have a vapor barrier in your crawlspace covering at least 95% of the space.

These are some easy things you can check to decrease the indoor humidity and prevent potential mold growth. Always remember we are always here to help so give us a call at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005.

Keeping You Safe

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

If you've heard anything in the news recently, you've likely heard the term "PPE" or Personal Protective Equipment. It is certainly getting a lot of interest these days with all the viruses and bacteria around. Here is a short video with some good information from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification regarding the importance of PPE. https://www.IICRC.org/page/IICRCResources

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is an IICRC Certified Firm! We use hospital-grade, EPA-registered disinfectants and cleaners for all types of viruses and bacteria!

So whether you are questioning your indoor air quality because of what may be lurking in your duct work to what could be trapped in sofa fibers or cleaning up various types of hard surfaces,  clean up give us a call at 252-433-0005. We are always here to help, and you can trust our products and protection!

When You Find Mold At Work

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Owners of commercial buildings everywhere need to take steps to prevent the growth of black mold and other forms of fungus. Without the proper protection plan, your business may have to shut down to thoroughly clean affected areas. Find out how to protect your commercial property and prevent mold buildup today.

Proper Ventilation

Mold occurs naturally, and it requires moisture, food and sometimes heat to grow. A poorly ventilated area quickly collects moisture and heat, so any natural food source is likely to grow mold - that can be wood, leather, drywall, carpet, and even caulk or grout! Installation and use of proper ventilation systems will help to prevent these high-moisture areas from becoming mold breeding grounds. This will help you solve any moisture problem in your building.

Complete HVAC Servicing

Whether you use a furnace, air conditioner or both throughout the year, HVAC systems themselves can also harbor mold growth. Ductwork is often coated in dust and exposed to warm, damp air. Commercial air conditioners typically use condensation pans. Standing water in these pans is likely to grow mold, even black mold. Even worse, your HVAC system can spread those growing mold spores throughout your building!

Inspect Plumbing

Leaking pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in a commercial building. Routinely inspect your sinks, toilets and water lines to avoid any dripping or condensing pipes that may be growing mold in your basement, utility room or wall cavities. This will point you toward the critical areas of mold cleanup.

Choose A Professional Remediation Company

The best line of defense is an expert mold removal company that is faster to any size disaster. Whether you’ve already found mold in your commercial building or you’re looking for ways to prevent this costly experience, an expert company can assess any black mold damage, cleanup your interior air and restore your professional building for a safe and friendly work environment. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is the company you can trust! Call us today at 252-433-0005!

The Storm Approaches

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Get prepared before the storm hits!

When the warmth and comfort of Summer and Fall fades, many of us move into prep mode for the Winter weather. Being as ready as we can is the best way to avoid many dangers that the bitter cold can bring with it.

When prioritizing your preparedness checklist, we suggest you start with the following:

Winterize your home by installing weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows if you do not already have these. If you do have them, make sure to re-caulk your storm windows, and replace aged weather stripping. Clean out your homes gutters and repair roof leaks to prevent further damage throughout the cold months. Inside your home, you can add heavier drapes and rugs to your rooms as additional layers of insulation.

When it comes to your pipes, be sure to insulate water lines that run along exterior walls to help prevent them from freezing. Check out your local hardware or home improvement stores for water heater blankets. They're an affordable way to help your water heater from losing heat, especially if it's in an unconditioned space in your home.

Regarding your HVAC system, be sure you're checking your system regularly to keep it free from debris and that it's well ventilated. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties offers estimates on having your ductwork cleaned. Be sure to clean or replace furnace filters to avoid build-up of dust and allergens. Additionally, you can request an energy audit from your power company.

Be sure that you are checking and testing your smoke detector often. Involving your children can help them understand safety precautions so that they're ready if a real emergency arises.

In the event that you lose power for an extended period of time, it's wise to have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available. 

Finally, work with your family to prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you’re forced to evacuate your home. Some helpful items for the kit include: cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries; blankets; food and water; booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction); compass and maps; flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries; and first-aid kit.

Being prepared before the storm hits is your first line of defense!

Smoke: When It Lingers

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Even a small kitchen fire can feel devastating!

As the fall temperatures blend into the chill of winter weather in our area, it's time for campfires! If you have ever sat around a campfire, you know how annoying smoke can be. Not only can it cause your eyes and lungs to burn, but lingering smoke odor can feel impossible to eliminate. Especially on clothing and fabrics. While no one wants to experience a house fire in Henderson or Oxford, everyone should be prepared for what is often the worst part of a residential house fire: having a smoke-damaged home. Whether your home is damaged from a candle, space heater, cooking or even an electrical fire, our fire restoration service professionals have the expertise to combat smoke using the following four steps:

1. Taking Note of Damage

The minutes, hours, and days following a home fire can be very stressful. First, firefighters must ensure that no one remains inside the house. Then, they often must use extraordinary measures to extinguish blazes. When restorers arrive to survey the extent of fire damage, they often must board up windows and seal doors to prevent looting, vandalism, and other criminal acts.

2. Repairing the Structure

Before restorers can focus on cleaning soot from walls, they usually must repair the structure. Since fire-related water damage can cause floors to buckle and walls to sag, initial repairs are often costly and time consuming. When the structure is safe to enter, the fire restoration service can focus on removing smoke odors from your smoke-damaged home.

3. Cleaning Personal Belongings

Your home is more than just a roof and walls. Rather, it is important to you because of the things inside it. Since fire restorers take salvageable personal belongings off-site to clean, they often can work on restoring your keepsakes while your house is being repaired. This can include furniture, fabrics, electronics, and even family photos!

4. Removing Remaining Smoke

Smoke odors can linger forever if restorers aren’t careful to completely remove them. Using deep-cleaning methods, the restoration service clears soot from HVAC systems. Then, they use special filters to remove smoke and soot particles from the air. Smoke is often the worst part of a residential house fire. Generally, though, by working with a fire restoration service in Henderson, NC, you can restore your smoke-damaged home to normal.

The Right Kind of Drying Equipment

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Protect your home interior investments by drying them completely.

One thing we often hear when someone contacts SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties regarding a new water loss is that they "have a fan going to help get it dry." Small oscillating fans and box fans are a good way to stay cool in the summer, but when it comes to large amount of water and water damage in your home, something more powerful is required to put a residence or commercial building back "Like it never even happened." 

The same thing goes for dehumidifiers! Homeowners often find that using small dehumidifiers in the basement or crawlspace can be helpful for general maintenance throughout the damp parts of the year, but when there is more than just moisture in the air, something stronger is helpful.

SERVPRO of Frankin, Vance & Granville Counties is fully stocked with large, strong, professional equipment to help with your next water damage. We use specialty fans, called Air Movers, and dehumidifiers (of all sizes, depending on the need for your space) to bring down humidity, conduct air, and help prevent any secondary damage later on in your home! 

We are proud to have a crew of highly trained professional water technicians that are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help out on any loss. 

Water Damage in Commercial Building

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial water extraction

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties services all sizes of disasters from big or small from residential to commercial. In the most recent commercial loss. The owner called SERVPRO for emergency water extraction due to water from a pipe burst and  it had been running for two days. Upon arrival the technicians were able to use weighted water extraction on the carpeting thereby saving the carpets and allowing SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties the ability to dry the carpeting in place. The techs then removed some base boards to allow for drying of the framing and studs, they placed dehumidifiers and air movers to facilitate the drying.  The owner was beyond thrilled that we were able to minimize the interruption of his facility. Let SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties the opportunity to assist in your water damage. Call us at 252-433-0005.

Emergency Water Extraction in Semora, NC

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

water in Semora, NC basement needing emergency water extraction

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties was called during the evening hours for emergency water extraction. Upon arrival to the job site we were able to extract the water throughout the basement from the main floor ice maker line malfunction which had been releasing water for an unknown amount of time. After the extraction we were able to assess the extent of damages on the main floor as well as the basement. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties was able to dry the structure within 3 days preventing any secondary damages and potential of mold growth. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties strives to provide excellent customer service with individual attention and quality work. We are an IICRC certified firm so we have the knowledge and experience to mitigate your water damage properly and quickly. If we can help you during a time of uncertainty with a water or fire damage please call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848. We are here to help!

Why use SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties?

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

For 19 Years, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been a service industry leader!

I am so glad you asked because this is an excellent question. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been in business under the same leadership for the past 19 years.  You might ask, "So what?" This is significant because this means we have been a trusted leader in the fire and water restoration industry being trusted by many of your friends and families. We are an IICRC certified firm which gives you confidence by a non-biased third party to adhere to business ethics, industry knowledge and adhering to those standards. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties may not be the largest restoration company in the area, but we are the mightiest. We pride ourselves on completing the job accurately and taking the overwhelming feeling you have in the beginning of your fire or water incident and walking you through uncharted territories. So if you have a choice, choose SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. 252-433-0005

What makes SERPVRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Different?

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

BBB and SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is a member of the BBB of Eastern North Carolina for the 17 years with an A+ rating. This means that we have been a trusted company with in the community. We value our community involvement whether sponsoring kids basketball teams, volunteering as coaches, serving on BBB Educational Foundation Board, or many chamber of commerce committees. We value people in our community where we work, play and live. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties strives not only to be another business that provides fire and water damage restoration in the community, we strive to be community leaders. We encourage all of our employees to volunteer in the community to make a difference because it is our responsibility to serve this community to make it a better place to work, play and live. Let us partner with you during your time of need from a water/ fire damage situation, mold remediation, bio-hazard clean up or carpet cleaning. 

Why do customers choose SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves in providing our customers with excellent care and work!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has serviced Youngsville, parts of Wake Forest, Creedmoor, Oxford and Henderson since 2000.  Each customer is given a customer satisfaction form and the end of the job to rate the technicians that serviced their claim. The office staff at SERVPRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties takes the scores on the satisfaction forms seriously. We use them to grow and learn from the comments that are written. This is then shared with the staff during team meetings for personal growth and development. We encourage growth both personal and business within each of our technicians and staff. We are a team. Our philosophy is that  our team is a team that grows together by valuing each member of our team with the firm belief of being better able to then service our customers. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville is a team of professionals that prides themselves on a job well done.

Why is SERPVRO Franklin,Vance & Granville Counties Different ?

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Another reason why SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is different is due to our employees. The employees are the front lines of the business. We have one employee that has been with the company for 17 years. Crockett aka "Crock" began employment after moving to North Carolina from Maryland. He had retired from Michelin Tires before beginning to work with SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties. All of the customers love "Crock"  because he is very detailed in the work and customers love his attitude. We have repeat carpet cleaning customers that request only him for their service. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has been able to have Crockett train other team members. He has been a great asset to the company. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has other great team members as well and we are so thankful for all of them. If you want a true team to assist you with your fire or water damage restoration, carpet, upholstery or duct cleaning then call us today at 252-433-0005.

Commercial Duct Cleaning

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Your commercial duct systems may need attention, whether you can see the evidence on the outside or not!

Did you know that SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties provides duct cleaning services to both residential and commercial customers. Not all restoration companies specialize in the cleaning of air ducts. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties completes yearly cleanings of duct work to area industrial facilities, government buildings and hospitals. We are able to clean the duct work with a negative air system blocking interior duct into sections if needed. After cleaning the systems we are able to spray a disinfectant to rid the insides of any residual bacteria. We also clean all the register covers, air handler and cold air return cover. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties handles all your cleaning needs whether big or small we handle it all. Call 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 for your free air duct cleaning estimate.    

How to get rid of unwanted odors?

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Odor removal is arguably one of the trickiest elements of the restoration process. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties specializes in odor removal. Most damage is visible to the eye, and when it’s properly re-mediated, there is no argument the job is done. Odors, however, are very psychological in nature. As humans, we often associate smells with memories. That means before someone even enters their grandparents’ home, they may have the sweet smell of pipe tobacco embedded in their memory, and the moment they step into that home, they smell pipe tobacco, whether the smell is there or not. Smells can be good, bad or problematic. When problematic smells occur- call SERVPRO. We have the knowledge to locate the source of the odor and then know exactly how to remove the unwanted odor.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties to remove those unwanted odors in your home or business.

What to do to prevent pipes to burst?

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Don't come home to broken pipes Youngsville, NC

Nobody wants to hear the sound of running water when you come home from work. You can prevent this scenario by implementing some of these ideas:

OUTSIDE

1. Wrap Outside Faucets

2. Caulk around pipes where they enter the house

3. Disconnect Garden Hoses

4. Drain in-ground sprinkler systems

INSIDE

5. Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing

6. open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathroom

7. Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving for several days

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties care about your safety and hope these tips are helpful. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time for assistance with your water damage needs.

I have a musty smell in my house what is it?

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can lead to odors and mold.

This is a question we answer a lot. Mold is everywhere. The concern is when there is high levels of mold with your home. There are some precautionary steps you can follow.

1. Do you have a vapor barrier installed in your crawlspace? Are your basement wall leaking?  Install a 6 mil plastic in at least 90% of your crawlspace and keep the foundation vents open for air flow. If water is intruding from your basement walls, consider a French drain, or waterproofing the exterior walls.

2. Inspect the perimeter of your home for clogged gutters, put PVC tube extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the foundation, remove  dead leaves and yard debris from the homes foundation

3. Bathroom exhaust fan should be ran while taking a shower and then at least 20 minutes after to help decrease the humidity.

4. Buy a thermometer with a humidity reading to monitor the indoor humidity level . Mold likes to grow with humidity above 60%

5. Run the AC or heat  when you are not at home

These are just a few things to consider to aid the prevention of mold. Call us and we will glad to answer any of your questions! Call SERVPRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties at 252-433-0005.

Roof leak from recent storms in Roxboro, NC

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Storms can be powerful and cause a lot of damage Roxboro, NC

I am sure that we have all experienced the force of nature during a long rain event, flood,  thunderstorm or hail storm, but sometimes, even the best of us can't escape the damage that comes along with those storms. After a storm event you should inspect your property by walking the perimeter look for signs of water intrusion, look in the crawlspace for standing water or damage.  The sooner you report the damage and get SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties on the scene, the better. We assess the situation and then can start the cleanup and drying process immediately and alleviate a lot of the circumstances that come with water damage, such as mold.  This roof leak happened after recent hail and high winds and they were glad SERVPRO was able to assist! Call the professionals. We are available 24/7 so give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

SERVPRO handles all kinds of fire damage

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Sifting through charred debris to find items that can't be replaced

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties handles fire damages both big and small. When the call comes in, we quickly dispatch our trained project managers to the site to meet with the homeowners.  We listen to  the homeowners, many who are so overwhelmed with emotions. If the fire is bad enough, we will actually sift through the debris to find anything that can be salvaged. The items that the homeowners request in this situation are photo albums, collectibles - from stamp collections, coin collections to antique spoon collections. All the sentimental items. The  homeowners are astonished that we will take the time and  be thorough in looking for as many  items that we can. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties  takes a terrible fire damage situation and tries to ease the mind of the homeowner that all is not lost and there is hope.  If you want a caring restoration company at your disaster- call SERVPRO at 252-433-0005.

FIRE Clean up Damage

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Sifting thorough fire debris to find sentimental customer items!

According to the National Fire Protection Association, one out of 320 homeowners may experience a fire in their home. Commercial fire damage is also very common in the United States, averaging around 80,000 yearly due to kitchen fires, electrical problems, or even arson.

Experiencing fire damage can be devastating for homeowners or business owners. Whether you have experienced commercial fire damage or a fire in your home, not knowing what to do next can add to your frustration.

After a fire, it is essential to start fire damage restoration immediately to avoid the skyrocketing costs associated with delayed repair. Below are some tips to help you with the process fire cleanup, typical services of a restoration company and problems to expect after fire damage.

If you have a fire in your home or if you have commercial fire damage, some common issues that you likely face will be:

Soot damage: It is best to hire a restoration company to do fire cleanup for ash residue. Soot is highly acid. Therefore, expect discoloration and deterioration of anything within the vicinity of the fire.

Smoke damage and smoke smells: Unfortunately, getting rid of smoke damage can be a pain, especially after commercial fire damage. If not fixed immediately with appropriate fire damage restoration techniques, smoke smells can potentially reappear later, which can potentially turn off customers. Also, smoke damage will leave a film over any materials in the area. Also, furniture may rust or the paint may stain your carpet after a prolonged period of time.

Broken windows and collapsed walls: After a fire, it's possible that you will need to board up your walls or windows. If you delay in boarding up after a fire in your business or home, however, you run a risk of potential theft or vandalization inside your property.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can help in all your fire damage needs call us at 252-433-0005

Commercial fire near Buggs Island, VA

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Clean up at Buggs Island Restaurant

Fire damage can happen anytime to anybody and that is why SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is always on standby to be faster to any size disaster.  We assisted this commercial restaurant in the clean up needs quickly and efficiently to minimize business interruptions. Our crews are trained and certified in the clean ups in any situations. We have trade partners to assist if needed from dumpsters to scaffolding.  Our team  knows time is money and SERVPRO needs to get the business back open quickly. So whether the damage is caused by smoke, soot or fire, we are the restoration company to call. Let us show you our caring team from the office staff to the production to marketing. SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties  knows when it is your business affected you want the best and fastest team to help you, so call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 now.

Soot damage in South Hill, VA

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Soot damage at commercial property in South Hill, VA

If you business ever suffers a fire damage at your facility and it requires soot removal then SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties is the restoration company of choice. We provide quick response time, trained professional staff and insurance billing to take some of the stress and headache away from you so you can deal with the areas of the business. We strive to provide quality work and excellent customer service to help you return to the normal daily functions of your business. SERVPRO Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties has been in business for 19 years and has the knowledge and resources to help you during your disaster. Nobody knows when they are going to have a disaster, but you can call the team that specializes in disasters to get you up and running. That is what we are here for. We are here to help. Call us anytime at 252-433-0005.

Big Commercial Fire Job

2/23/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage at commercial property in South Hill, VA

If you business ever suffers a fire damage at your facility and it requires soot removal then SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is the restoration company of choice. We provide quick response time, trained professional staff and insurance billing to take some of the stress and headache away from you so you can deal with the areas of the business. We strive to provide quality work and excellent customer service to help you return to the normal daily functions of your business. SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been in business for 19 years and has the knowledge and resources to help you during your disaster. Nobody knows when they are going to have a disaster, but you can call the team that specializes in disasters to get you up and running. That is what we are here for. We are here to help. Call us anytime at 252-433-0005

Plumbing Leak in Oxford, NC

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Pipe burst in Oxford, NC

A pipe burst was the cause of loss for this water damage in Oxford, NC. Fortunately the homeowner came home for lunch and saw the damage versus coming home at the end of the day when the damage would have been a lot worse. The homeowner not knowing what to do called a neighbor who is a contractor and he referred SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties. We immediately dispatched our crew who was able to get to the site within 30 minutes to begin the mitigation process. Carpet was salvaged and the pad and baseboard was detached to allow for drying and the homeowner was thrilled because with rising deductibles SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville was  able to get to the site quickly and the drying was well below her deductible. Let us save you money too call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Water clean up in a government building

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Water damages can happen anywhere to anyone this includes the government. So who does the government call?   They called SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville to assist in water extraction and drying their local building.  We were onsite within  sixty minutes and had the building dry in three days. The repairs to  the building were able to be completed in a day. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville was able to diminish business interruptions which pleased both the tenants and the management.  SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville has been serving and invested in our community for over 18 years.  We hire people that have a true desire to help and serve others and the training is ongoing to stay up to date with the skills needed to properly mitigate any size disaster! 

Fire Damage to both commercial and residential properties

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties have had the opportunity to work with so many wonderful people in our community during some of their worst times in their lives. A fire can take such a long time to recover from. We are with them from the beginning until the end and work closely with our customers to make sure that we are successful in restoring their property and make them happy with the results. Our technicians spend many hours in training in order to clean and reconstruct your home or business and once everything was done, the end results were incredible. If you need help with Fire Restoration, damage, smoke, odor or contents, give SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

Recent snow, wind and rain Storms in the Tri County area

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has been busy with the recent storm events hitting our area.  The weather has been crazy lately from snow, ice, winds and record breaking rain totals.  We have tarped roofs, extracted water from sump pump malfunctions to roof leaks, mitigated the building to preloss condition by quickly assessing which items in the affected area could be salvaged  and which items would need to be replaced. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is faster to any size disaster and our trained employees are thorough in the assessment of your home. When your home or business is affected by weather related emergencies call us we are always open to help! Call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

Water Damage in Youngsville

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

TWO little holes is all it takes to floor your home!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties recently assisted a sweet family in Youngsville, NC when they came home from work and found their home under water. Once we received the call our technicians were on the job site within forty five minutes to assess the situation.  Water damages are overwhelming especially when it is your home after a long day at work. SERVPRO located the source which was a pipe with two small holes. Something so small can cause extensive damage with little warning.  The family in Youngsville was so glad they called SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville  Counties for our quick service and professionalism. We were referred to them by a friend who we did some work.  Word of mouth is the type of compliment that a customer can give a company!

Winter Weather Glitches

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

Here in the South, Winter Weather often brings the weight of ice! This can cause power outages in our homes and businesses that affect our day-to-day operations, and can even affect our belongings!

You may often think of the "obvious" interruptions like the lights in your home, your heating system, and even your kitchen appliances, but larger outages can affect so much more!

Water service (for those that run on a well), communication systems, retail locations like grocery stores, banks (and ATMs), gas stations, and even medical facilities. 

You can protect yourself and help preserve your belongings by doing a few of these things:

• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed!
• When using a generator, keep it outdoors and away from windows!
• Do NOT use a gas stove to heat your home!
• Disconnect appliances and other electronics to help avoid any damage from possible electrical surges!
• Be prepared with an alternate plan for refrigerating medications or using medical devices that require electricity!
• If it's safe to travel the roads, consider an alternate location for keeping your family warm!
• Remember to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly, or those with varying physical and mental capabilities.

How can you prepare now for the next Winter storm in your area?

• Have an inventory list of the things you need that require electricity.
• Speak with your doctors and medical providers about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medications. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Stock up on batteries for flashlights and other items needed for your family.
• Be prepared to monitor weather systems through local alert systems or battery-powered weather radio systems. 
• Double-Check your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors to be sure batteries are in working order! This goes for every level of your home! 
• If you have a home phone, test whether or not it will work when the power goes out, and how long the battery will last.
• Keep a fresh supply of non-perishable food and water supply for each member of your home.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

Here are some more Winter Weather tips and aids for you: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Help! My Basement Is Flooded!

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

A shocking site when you approach your basement door! This family reached out to us right away!

If can be a devastating feeling to walk to the door of your basement and have your eyes meet an enormous amount of water! Especially if you use that space for storage. Water will always seek a dry place to go, and small cracks and holes in basement walls are the perfect way to allow water its favorite path - the one with least resistance. Broken pipes, large storm surges, and even a home's drainage system, including faulty sump pumps, can also be a factor. 

So, what do you do when you find yourself in this kind of predicament? Give us a call! We have the experience and expertise to first remove the excess water as quickly as possible, and then help you get your things clean and dry again! Dehumidifiers and Air Movers are often used to decrease chances of mold growth and help you get things back to normal in your home. 

We provide 24-Hour Emergency Services and are locally owned and operated.

I found mold growing in my home

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

This picuture shows the high humidity coming from the HVAC vents.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has seen an increase this year with malfunction AC units. Please get your AC units inspected by HVAC contractor each year. Why you might ask? It is easy to prevent this scenario. This picture shows the humidity level being pumped into the home. This level of humidity can cause mold growth inside your duct work, on your walls, furniture and contents.  It is much cheaper to prevent by being proactive. In this home the mold was growing on cabinets, walls, woodwork and contents. The price to clean this mold is more expensive and the inconvenience is much more cumbersome than a simple HVAC inspection. But if it to o late and mold is growing give SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville a call and we can help! call us at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005

Sewage into commercial building

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Sewage clean up in Warrenton, NC

We all love and are grateful for indoor plumbing until there is a problem. When sewage starts spilling into your building.  Who do you call? How will this effect my business?  Call SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to extract the sewage, apply an anti microbial and begin the mitigation and drying of the structure. We have a highly trained staff who can handle all sizes of disasters and can quickly mitigate it to get back to the normal daily business functions. In this building the sewage was coming up through the toilets and floor drains in the floor. this building owner was overwhelmed to say the least when she noticed it happening, but she quickly call SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-005  and we were able to mitigate quickly and prevent her business from losing revenue. Remember we are here to help both business and residential customers so call us today! This business owner is very happy she called!

Fire at Apartment building

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

This fire was caused by a tenant smoking in the bed, It affected 6 apartments. in this apartment light amounts of soot was throughout the apartment

Fires happen ever second of the day and can cause a lot of life interruptions and stress. Let SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties help alleviate some of your stress by being faster to any size of disaster and mitigate the fire damage and begin the clean up. Our courteous technicians will arrive quickly to your site and assess the damage and put to together a plan to minimize the disruption for your tenants. We will work with you on submitting the claim to the insurance company and assist your tenants with their contents. We strive to provide quality work and excellent customer service for one and all.  We value for customers both residential and commercial because want you to get back to the more important things in your life.  Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.  We service Youngsville, Creedmoor, Franklinton, Henderson and Oxford. Call us today

Storm affects apartments in Oxford, NC

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

The water intrusion was from another room affecting the carpet and cabinets, because SERVPRO was called quickly we were able to save the cabinets.

Storms can be upsetting and cause anxiety and frustration.  Did you know that SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can help by extracting the water, cleaning up the damage and drying process.  During a storm event we are ready to quickly assist with whatever the need, from roof tarping, to water extraction, to setting up drying equipment to begin move out process. Our team is able to assess exactly what is needed and how much did the storm effect your building. By using a professional company like SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville, you limit your interruptions and we make you look like a hero to your tenant and customers. We are always here to help you and you are our number one priority. In this picture ground water gained entry into this apartment complex and caused damage to their clubhouse area. We were able to extract, limit the amount of tear out and restore the property back to normal within days.  Call us today at 252-433-0005

Ground water in a commercial building in Louisburg, NC

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was able to assist this commercial building owner with the intrusion of muddy ground water. Storms come in all sizes and SERVPRO is able to assist in any size disaster, so we are a great fit. Storms may be small in size but no matter the size, if the disaster is at your business - it is not small to you! We at SERPVRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was able to assist this business owner before other areas of the building were affected. He was pleased that we moved the contents from the affected area and we were proactive in limiting the damages. we truly care for our customers and are glad we can help in a time of need. If your business sustains damage from a storm, who are you going to call?  Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Fire at hospital

10/20/2018 (Permalink)

Fires happen everywhere including at hospitals. SERVPRO was able to assist in the cleaning of this hospital operating room areas. The fire was contained to the area and was caused by an instrument. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties was able to get to this site within an hour and begin the clean up. We used air scrubbers to limit the airborne soot particles while cleaning the contents and structure. We were able to get the cleaning completed and the operating rooms back up working with 24 hours. We worked around the clock, but we made it happen. The administration was glad that we were able to help and was amazed at the level of professionalism and response from the SERPVRO team. We made the hospital a hero by preventing any surgeries from being postponed. When time is key call SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005.

National Fire Prevention Week

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire in Oxford, NC

National Fire Prevention Week

October 8th - 14th is National Fire Prevention Week.

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:

• Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

 Source: National Fire Protection Association,  http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week

Professional Water Mitigation

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage caused from a broken line to toilet on top floor of house.

A flood can happen anywhere around the home or business and can occur for any number of reasons. Some are old pipes which have finally given up the ghost or have been ruptured by frozen water, faulty seals on a dishwasher or shower unit or external damage to a building during a storm are just a few of the ways a flood can occur.

Water damage to property, whether business or residential premises, can be a disaster if you don't know how to handle it. We are your local professional water damage specialists in Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, and we will be on hand just when you need us. 
 
Being knee deep in water in the middle of the night is something that few of us are prepared for, but our professional technicians are ready. If you find the worst has happened then stay calm. Take some simple preventative measures to minimize damage to your premises. 
 
Firstly check for any obvious dangers such as electrical equipment or instruments that may cause injuries such as machinery or tools; it may be necessary to isolate the electricity supply. DO NOT handle any electrical equipment. 
 
Secondly take anything that can be quickly moved away from the flood area. Be aware that some things can get heavier when waterlogged such as fabrics, papers, and containers which may collect liquid. 
 
Thirdly contact our trained SERVPRO professionals. When the worst happens, you need to know that the technicians are coming to help you are fully prepared, IICRC certified, with the right equipment and we will arrive as quickly as possible. Since we are locally owned, you can rest assured that in your moment of need, we will offer reliable advice to help you tackle any problems as our technicians rush to the scene.
 
Water damage can be a stressful issue to grapple with but having a friendly and knowledgeable face available around the clock can mean you have one less thing to worry about. We can stop the flow, extract standing water, dry and remove moisture and restore your home "Like it never even happened." 
 
For any flood, storm and water problems, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties will be there to help with our water damage experts. Make sure you're prepared and save the number: (252) 433-0005 or (919) 339-4848

Preparing Your Business for a Storm

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Rearrange Your Equipment and Furniture

If there's a potential for storm damage involving high waters in your area, you want to do what you can to move your important furniture and equipment up high. You can rearrange in a variety of ways, including the following:

* Move as much as possible to upper floors of the building.
* Create stacks of furniture with water-resistant items at the bottom on lower levels of the building.
* Use watertight totes to protect files and equipment.

Moving around office furniture could help you save as much as possible. As you get ready to rearrange your space, think about the items will you be able to easily dry out and clean after a flood. Keep those at the bottom and move other, less water-resistant furniture and equipment first.

Get Sandbags

You can also try to make your building impermeable to flooding. Stacking sandbags near the doors and windows can help keep water from entering your commercial space. You can even build up a wall of sandbags around the perimeter of your building to help keep water away from the foundation.

Flooding can leave your building unrecognizable. That's why commercial building owners want to do what they can to stop water from damaging their building. If you were unable to prepare for flood damage, you can still call in a flood cleanup team to help you fix the problems caused by the high waters.

If you experience damage from a storm, call the experts at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties any time day or night at (252) 433-0005 or (919) 339-4848

What you can't see Can hurt you!

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth in laundry closet

If you can see visible Signs of Mold Growing there's a good chance that there is more Mold that you can't see.  Our Home Structures not only have Walls and Ceilings, but also have Cavities where Insulation is usually placed.  Mold Loves Dark, Damp and No Air Flow Places. Usually, Mold would first start in the Cavities and would slowly start to spread to the outer surfaces. When the Mold is Found it should be taken care of right away by a Professional! 

Control and Prevent Mold Growth by:

• Monitoring Humidity Levels in the Home
• Ventilating after the use of Showers, Laundry Dryers and the Cooking Areas
• Fixing any Leaks from Pipelines, Supply Lines, Windows and Roofs
• Properly Cleaning and Performing Professional Restoration Drying after any Water Damage

Commercial Water Damage

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage at a commercial property in Henderson, NC

What do you do when your Place of Business or Commercial Property has an unexpected Water Loss?  Do you know who to call?

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties for your commercial water mitigation needs!  Why?

When your Place of Business or Commercial Property has a Water Loss it is best to start the Drying Process as soon as possible to avoid Secondary Damages.  Secondary damages include mold, moisture into the walls and water migration into other areas of the building. The longer you wait to Mitigate the Water Loss the Damages becomes more severe and will interrupt your Business. We will come out to your site anytime of the day or night to assess the damage and begin the mitigation as quickly as possible to limit business interruptions. 

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to come to the rescue. Our trained, qualified technicians will be there in an instant and begin the restoration process. We are available 24/7 at (252) 433-0005 or (919) 339-4848

DON'T IGNORE THE SMELL

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire. The entire apartment affected. Don't ignore the smell of a fire or what is going on in your kitchen!

One of the worst disasters we can ever face is a fire. With our fast paced lives today, things can happen in the blink of an eye. Always be mindful of things going on around you to avoid a tragedy like this.

It's happened to us all, we see it every day.  If this happens to you call SERVPRO and we'll come out and repair the damage.  Not all smoke and soot are the same, and trained professionals like we have at SERVPRO know how to deal with each type that occurs.

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 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.

WATER DAMAGE TIMELINE

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth from a water damage 2 weeks prior that was left unattended.

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week--including all holidays.

FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture and more. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

NEED EMERGENCY SERVICE? CALL US 24/7 252-433-0005 OR 919-339-4848

WATER DAMAGE TIMELINE

Within Minutes

* Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

* Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.

* Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.

* Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

HOURS 1-24:

* Drywall begins to swell and break down.

* Metal surfaces begin to tarnish

* Furniture begins to swell and crack.

* Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

* A musty odor appears.

48 HOURS TO 1 WEEK:

* Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

* Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

* Metal begins to rust and corrode.

* Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

* Paint begins to blister.

* Wood flooring swells and warps.

* Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

MORE THAN 1 WEEK:

* Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive

* Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

WHAT IS EFFLORESCENCE

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Efflorescence on cinder block wall in basement.

Have you ever been down in a basement or crawlspace and saw white spots on the cinder blocks? I bet you immediately thought, oh that's mold. Well, probably not. What you are probably seeing is called Efflorescence. Efflorescence is a common problem in concrete and masonry block foundations. The white fuzzy stuff you see along the inside and outside of your basement wall is efflorescence. Don't worry, this annoying build up isn't hazardous; efflorescence is simply salt and can be easily removed with efflorescence removers and other cleaning techniques. More than anything, if you see efflorescence it means you have a moisture problem and if gone untreated can cause deterioration.

Three conditions must exist before efflorescence will occur:

• First: There must be water-soluble salts present somewhere in the wall.
  
  
• Second: There must be sufficient moisture in the wall to render the salts into a soluble solution.
  
  
• Third: There must be a path for the soluble salts to migrate through to the surface where the moisture can evaporate, thus depositing the salts which then crystallize and cause efflorescence.
  
  

All three conditions must exist. If any one of these conditions is not present, then efflorescence cannot occur.

If you think you might have a problem with Efflorescence or mold in your crawlspace or basement, give us a call at 252-433-0005 and let the experts take care of it for you.

CAN MOLD GROW ON WALLPAPER?

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Here is some very interesting information that I wanted to share with you concerning you wall coverings and mold.

Many fungi can develop on building material in indoor environments if the moisture level is high enough. Among species that are frequently observed, some are known to be potent mycotoxin producers. This presence of toxinogenic fungi in indoor environments raises the question of the possible exposure of occupants to these toxic compounds by inhalation after aerosolization. This study investigated mycotoxin production by Penicillium brevicompactum, Aspergillus versicolor, and Stachybotrys chartarum during their growth on wallpaper and the possible subsequent aerosolization of produced mycotoxins from contaminated substrates. We demonstrated that mycophenolic acid, sterigmatocystin, and macrocyclic trichothecenes (sum of 4 major compounds) could be produced at levels of 1.8, 112.1, and 27.8 mg/m², respectively, on wallpaper. Moreover, part of the produced toxins could be aerosolized from the substrate. The propensity for aerosolization differed according to the fungal species. Thus, particles were aerosolized from wallpaper contaminated with P. brevicompactum when an air velocity of just 0.3 m/s was applied, whereas S. chartarum required an air velocity of 5.9 m/s. A. versicolor was intermediate, since aerosolization occurred under an air velocity of 2 m/s. Quantification of the toxic content revealed that toxic load was mostly associated with particles of size ≥3 μm, which may correspond to spores. However, some macrocyclic trichothecenes (especially satratoxin H and verrucarin J) can also be found on smaller particles that can deeply penetrate the respiratory tract upon inhalation. These elements are important for risk assessment related to moldy environments.

IMPORTANCE The possible colonization of building material by toxinogenic fungi in cases of moistening raises the question of the subsequent exposure of occupants to aerosolized mycotoxins. In this study, we demonstrated that three different toxinogenic species produce mycotoxins during their development on wallpaper. These toxins can subsequently be aerosolized, at least partly, from moldy material. This transfer to air requires air velocities that can be encountered under real-life conditions in buildings. Most of the aerosolized toxic load is found in particles whose size corresponds to spores or mycelium fragments. However, some toxins were also found on particles smaller than spores that are easily respirable and can deeply penetrate the human respiratory tract. All of these data are important for risk assessment related to fungal contamination of indoor environments.

Reference:
Aerosolization of Mycotoxins after Growth of Toxinogenic Fungi on Wallpaper
Brankica Aleksic, Marjorie Draghi, Sebastien Ritoux, Sylviane Bailly, Marlene Lacroix, Isabella P. Oswald, Jean-Denis Bailly, and Enric Robine
Appl. Eviron. Microbiol. August 2017 83:e01001-17; Accepted manuscript posted online 23 June 2017 ,

WHAT IS BLACK MOLD?

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact a SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties immediately.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today 1-252-433-0005

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

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

How do I clean up mold?

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

I found mold, can I clean it up?

Mold is everywhere in the environment and depending on how bad it is and where the mold is located will determine the next steps.  Mold can cause issues when it is concentrated in an area, like inside a house.  In this house in Franklinton, NC the mold was heaviest in the bedroom which was affecting the living conditions of the home. Mold that is bad requires professional remediation from SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counites.  We recommended to remove all the affected soft goods, clean the hard contents, and to remove all the affected structural issues.  In this house further investigation was needed as to cause of the mold due to the molded areas were also reading wet with our moisture meters. Mold optimal growing conditions are 68-80 degrees and humidity above 55%- which in this house was the case. It is interesting to note that there wasn't any active plumbing leaks or roof leaks. However, when SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties technician opened the crawlspace door the cause was discovered- 3 feet of standing water in the crawlspace. Moisture always seeks a state of equilibrium between wet to dry. The best example that I have is think about  is when you are doing laundry and a wet sock falls into the laundry basket full of dry clothes- does the sock dry or does the dry clothes become wet and damp?  The wet is seeking a state of equilibrium to the dry.  So if the moisture is going from wet to dry and the humidity is high- it is a perfect opportunity for mold to grow.  Call us if mold strikes your home or business at 252-433-0005

Fungus at Gaston Lake

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Unwanted mold in lake house

This mold fungus is beautiful to look at, but not in the wood floor at your lake home.  Due to high moisture in the wood floors as a result of a leaky backdoor, this beautiful mushroom grew. As I talked about in an earlier post about moisture always seeking a state of equilibrium, here is another example. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can't stress hard enough about keeping your gutters clear of debris, downspouts and drainage pointed away from the foundation walls, keeping fallen leaves and pine straw away from the foundation, and having  a good vapor barrier in the crawlspace.  All of these will help in decreasing the chance of something like this happening to your home.  In this home, we had to repair the back door to prevent water infiltration, remove a section of hardwood floors, hepa vac and clean a good portion of the house, and run negative air and then air scrubbers to remove an airbourne particles. Call us today at 252-433-0005, we are always here to help! 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUETS

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is very proud of the communities we serve and we had an opportunity to be a part of the 3 counties Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Banquets this year. The first Banquet we attended was the Granville County Chamber of Commerce which was held on January 29, 2018 at the Vance Granville Community College Civic Center. As always, there was a huge crowd that enjoyed food and fellowship, guest speakers and music. It was a night of celebration and renewed determination to see Granville County grow. Our next celebration was for the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Banquet which was held on February 1, 2018, also at the Vance Granville Community College Civic Center. One of the highlights of the evening was the guest speaker, Joseph Dittmar, Sr, a World Trade Center bombing survivor. Hearing how he survived such a tragic ordeal and how being a part of something like that has changed his perception on life and human kind was incredible. The food and fellowship was fantastic and again renewed friendships and determination to see Vance County grow was the centerpiece of the evening. Our final banquet was for the Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Banquet which was held on February 15, 2018 at the Green Hill Country Club in Louisburg, NC. A wonderful evening of food, fellowship, music and speakers was the highlight of the year for this Chamber. Our guest speaker for the evening was Henderson, NC native, Jason Brown. He is a former player for both the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Rams. He gave all that up in order to do what he felt he was called to do and that was to serve his community and his Savior. He bought a 1000 acre farm and named it First Fruits Farm and supplies needy communities with wholesome fruits and vegetables as he shares the Gospel. This was a wonderful evening of celebration and we are so appreciative to have been able to celebrate with all 3 of our communities. We would like to congratulate all of the winners from all 3 Chambers and say, Good Job, for all the leadership that you bring to our communities. We are very fortunate to be working closely with all 3 organizations in the communities we serve and we will continue to support the efforts of each of you!!!

Oxford, NC Park and Recreation and SERVPRO

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

We are so excited about this seasons Oxford Park and Rec Basketball!  It is a great way to watch the kids in the Oxford community play basketball and have a ton of fun!  SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is a proud sponsor of a team in the Might Mites league. What a great league name! The Might Mite SERVPRO team has had a strong beginning season and the bright green shirts can be seen dominating the court.  All of us here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties are glad  that we can give back to the community in which we serve and live. We value the partnership with the Oxford Park and Recreation  Department and look forward to many years of helping the kids in the community.  SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties services all of Granville County including Butner/Stem, Creedmoor, Oxford, Wilton, Stovall and other great communities within the county for Fire, water wind, storm, flood, mold, duct cleaning needs. Call us today at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005

7 TIPS TO AVOID BURSTING PIPES

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

Burst Water Pipe

It is that time of year when we need to start thinking about weatherproofing our homes for the winter. Here are 7 valuable tips that can help you avoid bursting water pipes.

OUTSIDE 

1. Wrap Outside Faucets

2. Caulk around pipes where they enter the house

3. Disconnect Garden Hoses

4. Drain in-ground sprinkler systems

INSIDE

5. Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing

6. open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathroom

7. Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving for several days

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties care about your safety and hope these tips are helpful. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time for assistance with your water damage needs.

BBB Torch Scholarships

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

$20,000 in scholarships through the BBB of Eastern North Carolina

As a member of the BBB Educational Foundation of Eastern North Carolina, we proudly announce the 2018 BBB Torch Scholarships.  Check out the flyer about the scholarships or you can find out more information through the BBBscholarship.org . The application is easy and it is all online. It is a great way to get extra money for college and get recognized at our annual luncheon!  There is over $20,000 in scholarships available.

WHAT IS THE INTERNET OF THINGS?

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

What Is the Internet of Things?

The internet of things (IoT) is the technology that allows objects -- like home appliances and fixtures, cars, or devices -- to send and receive data via the internet.

For me, it helps to visualize it. When I think of the word "internet," for example, I think of a giant center of content, resources, and cute dog photos -- and the people who can share and obtain this information, all while communicating with each other, via a massive network that keeps us connected.

When it comes to the IoT, then, imagine adding inanimate objects to the situation, exchanging information and communicating with each other (and their end users) via the internet. It allows these objects to execute different commands and actions, making them "smart" or "connected."

For that reason, IoT typically has to be comprised of devices with power -- things that can be turned on or off, like lights or a refrigerator. But that's not always the case, which we'll get into later.

And that's just on the household level. On a much larger scale, IoT is used to connect and power entire transportation or manufacturing systems. It's referred to many as an "ecosystem," in that it's essentially an interconnected community of interacting people and objects, and the environments in which they operate.

So, Why Should You Care?

Consumers everywhere -- many of whom could very well be your customers or within your target audience -- are becoming more and more connected. As of January, about 4.917 billion of us are connected via mobile alone (up 5% from the previous year).

And as we, as humans, become more connected -- so do our surrounding lives and routines. How easy would it be for you to get through an average workday without your mobile device, for example? Personally, it almost seems impossible. It's all I use to make calls, get directions, and hail a car through a ride-sharing app when I need to get somewhere quickly. Plus, it's how I keep an eye on my pet, by way of a handy dog cam app. 

Chances are, I'm not alone in my dependence on connectivity. Many of your customers probably are, too. So, where does your brand fit in?

You might not think you have a product or service that, say, can be connected to the internet or to users via a digital network in the ways we described above. But when you consider that 30.7 billion devices are expected to be connected by 2020 (there were 15.4 billion in 2015), you may not be thinking ambitiously enough.

f you're not sure where to begin, here are three steps to get started.

1) Pay attention to the technology available to you.

Recently, at its annual Developer Conference, Samsung introduced Project Ambience: a small dongle that can be plugged into home objects and devices -- like an everyday speaker, for example -- and turn them into "smart," connected devices.

Now, bear in mind that this technology is equipped only to work with Bixby, Samsung's voice assistant. But it's a start. In my humble opinion, Project Ambiance is one small step at the start of a long, productive road toward smart technology's full capabilities. Other manufacturers are working on similar initiatives (such as Baidu DuerOS and Amazon Alexa, which have created tools for developers to build these AI assistants into applications and products) -- eventually, and hopefully, we'll reach a point where technology is developed that can work with any number of voice assistants. 

For that reason, it's a good idea for marketers to keep their fingers on the pulse of resources like these and how they're evolving, so that when they become available for use within your field, you can be one of the first to utilize them.

2) Anticipate the problems you'll run into.

When you kick off any new campaign or initiative, there's always chance that you'll run into a challenge. Sometimes, they're unanticipated -- but whenever you can plan for contingencies, do it.

That's one reason why I love the data in the image below. Although it's from 2015, because IoT is still an evolving piece of technology for many marketers and brands, it's good to keep in mind as you embark on incorporating it into your own strategies. Have a look, and think about the ways you can preemptively solve these challenges.

3) Start brainstorming, and look for inspiration in history.

One of the most important elements of staying ahead of the curve in marketing is -- if you'll excuse the cliche -- maintaining an open mind. Let's revisit the words I opened with: "Those of us who ignored [new technology] quickly fell behind the curve."

So, don't ignore it. Embrace it. Start thinking about the ways it can apply to what your business offers.

And if you're seeking inspiration, the Diageo example I used above is just one instance of how marketers have successfully used IoT. There's the ceiling fan company that use IoT to help customize its users' experiences with products. Or, have a look at the manufacturing automation company that uses connected, smart devices to reduce inventory cycles in plants.

In other words: There's still time to figure out where your brand fits in. But don't let it go to waste.

This information came from HubSpot.com, a great source of information about Technology.

WHAT'S THAT SMELL?

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Odor removal is arguably one of the trickiest elements of the restoration process. Most damage is visible to the eye, and when it’s properly remediated, there is no argument the job is done. Odors, however, are very psychological in nature. As humans, we often associate smells with memories. That means before someone even enters their grandparents’ home, they may have the sweet smell of pipe tobacco embedded in their memory, and the moment they step into that home, they smell pipe tobacco, whether the smell is there or not.

When dealing with odors, there are 3 things that should always be remembered.

Do minimize the influence of psychological odors, there are a few things you can do:

1. Ask them questions about the loss – and use that to help determine what odors they likely consider bad odors. Remember, odor is subjective. What might smell wonderful for some people might smell terrible to another. House fire victims may have at one point loved the smell of a bonfire, but may find that same smell nauseating after the loss.
2. Minimize exposure – start the odor removal process right away, and keep the owners out of the home as much as possible to help keep that smell from becoming embedded in their brain when they look at their living room.
3. Be kind – this can be hard when they smell something you don’t. But you need to trust them, and do what you can to eliminate even “phantom” odors.

Remember, communication is key in any restoration job, whether odor is involved or not. The more you communicate with the customer from the beginning about the restoration process, including what you do to thoroughly remove odors, the more they will trust that the job is getting done right from the very start.

A WALK TO REMEMBER

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

The Shore Grief Center

The Shore Grief Center is holding its annual Fundraiser walk “A Walk to Remember” on 11/11/17 at Southeastern Seminary. Registration opens at 12:00 pm and the walk starts at 1:00 pm. 

We start at the back of Patterson Hall which is across from the main campus. 

There is no charge to walk but donations are requested so we can continue to provide free grief support groups for kids, teens and adults. 

Register at bitly.com/shorewalk2017

For more information on The Shore Grief Center and the walk, visit theshoregriefcenter.org. 

P.S. we are still accepting sponsors as well as raffle items! 

 SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties are proud to be a part of the YABA organization (Youngsville Area Business Association) who assists local businesses in the area with fund raisers, networking and fellowship. If you are a business owner in the area, I urge you to become a part of this great organization.

FOOD AND WATER SAFETY AFTER A STORM

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires. Food and water safety may not be the first things people think about when they’re trying to put their lives and homes back together after a disaster, but the two should be near the top of their priority list.

The CDC has a wealth of information available on the subject.

After A Disaster:

Food: Throw away food that may have come in contact with flood or storm water; perishable foods that have not been refrigerated properly due to power outages; and those with an unusual odor, color, or texture. Unsafe food can make you sick even if it looks, smells, and tastes normal. When in doubt, throw it out.

Water: Do not use water you suspect or have been told is contaminated to wash dishes, brush your teeth, wash and prepare food, wash your hands, make ice, or make baby formula. Safe water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene includes bottled, boiled, or treated water. Your state, local, or tribal health department can make specific recommendations for boiling or treating water in your area.

In greater detail:

Throw away the following foods:

• Food that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Perishable foods (including meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers) in your refrigerator when the power has been off for 4 hours or more.
• Food not in packages or cans.
• Canned foods or food containers that are bulging, opened, or damaged. Throw away the food if the container spurts liquid or foam when you open it or the food inside is discolored, is moldy, or smells bad.
• Packaged food: Throw away food containers with screw-caps, snap-lids, crimped caps, twist caps, flip tops, and snap-open, and home-canned foods because they cannot be disinfected. Throw away food in cardboard containers, including juice/milk/baby formula boxes.

How to reuse commercially prepared cans and retort pouches (like flexible, shelf-stable juice and seafood packages):

• Remove labels if they are removable.
• Brush or wipe away dirt or silt.
• Wash cans and pouches with soap and water, using hot water if available.
• Rinse cans and pouches with water that is safe for drinking, if available.
• Sanitize cans and pouches in one of two ways. 1.) Place them in a solution of 1 cup (8 oz/240 mL) of unscented household bleach in 5 gallons of water for 15 minutes. OR 2.) Submerge in a pot of water, bring to a boil, and continue boiling for 2 minutes.
• Re-label cans or pouches with a marker. Include the expiration date.
• Use food in reconditioned cans or pouches as soon as possible.

thawed food that contains ice crystals can be refrozen or cooked. Freezers, if left unopened and full during a power outage, will keep food safe for 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

Store food safely

• While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

Feeding infants and young children when your tap water is unsafe

• Breastfed infants should continue breastfeeding(https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/food-safety-for-infants-after-a-disaster.html). For formula-fed infants, use ready-to-feed formula if possible. If using ready-to-feed formula is not possible, it is best to use bottled water to prepare powdered or concentrated formula when your tap water is unsafe. If bottled water is not available, check with local authorities to learn the status of your drinking water to see if boiling it will make it safe to drink. Use treated water (see water treatment instructions below) to prepare formula only if you do not have bottled or boiled water.
• If water is contaminated with a chemical, boiling it will not remove the chemical or make it safe to consume.
• If you prepare infant formula with boiled water, let the formula cool sufficiently before giving it to an infant. Put a couple drops of formula on the back of your hand to see if it is too hot.
• Clean feeding bottles with bottled, boiled, or treated water before each use. Throw away baby bottle nipples or pacifiers that have been in contact with flood waters; they cannot be sanitized.
• Wash your hands before preparing formula and before feeding an infant. You can use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water is limited or unsafe.

Clean and sanitize food-contact surfaces that have been flooded

Throw out wooden cutting boards, baby bottle nipples, and pacifiers if they have come into contact with flood waters because they cannot be properly sanitized. Clean and sanitize food-contact surfaces in a four-step process:

• Wash with soap and hot, clean water.
• Rinse with clean water.
• Sanitize by immersing for 1 minute in a solution of 1 cup (8 oz/240 mL) of unscented household chlorine bleach in 5 gallons of clean water.
• Allow to air dry.

Note: Do not use your fireplace for cooking until the chimney has been inspected for cracks and damage. Sparks may escape into your attic through an undetected crack and start a fire.

Safe drinking water

• After an emergency, especially after flooding, drinking water may not be available or safe to drink.
• Do not use water you suspect or have been told is unsafe to wash dishes, brush teeth, wash and prepare food, make ice, or make baby formula.
• Alcohol dehydrates the body, which increases the need for drinking water.
• Floods and other disasters can damage drinking water wells(https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/safe_water/wells/#after) and lead to aquifer and well contamination. Flood waters can contaminate well water with livestock waste, human sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants which can lead to illness when used for drinking, bathing, and other hygiene activities.
• If your water comes from a private well that has been flooded(https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/drinking/private-drinking-wells.html), consider the following guidance for making water safe and for emergency water sources until you are certain your water is free of contaminants and safe to drink(https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/private/wells/testing.html).

Make water safe

Water often can be made safe to drink by boiling, adding disinfectants, or filtering.

IMPORTANT: Water contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals will not be made safe by boiling or disinfection. Use a different source of water if you know or suspect that water might be contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals.

Boil water:

If you don’t have safe bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe. Boiling is the surest method to make water safer to drink by killing disease-causing organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

You can improve the flat taste of boiled water by pouring it from one clean, disinfected container to another and then allowing it to stand for a few hours, OR by adding a pinch of salt for each quart or liter of boiled water.

If the water is cloudy:

• Filter it through a clean cloth, paper towel, or coffee filter OR allow it to settle.
• Draw off the clear water.
• Bring the clear water to a rolling boil for one minute (at elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for three minutes).
• Let the boiled water cool.
• Store the boiled water in clean sanitized containers with tight covers.

If the water is clear:

• Bring the clear water to a rolling boil for 1 minute (at elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 3 minutes).
• Let the boiled water cool.

Store the boiled water in  clean, sanitized containers(https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/drinking/cleaning-preparing-storage-containers.html) with tight covers.

WATER DAMAGE DUE TO BROKEN PIPES

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

Addressing A Water Damage Crisis Due To Broken Pipes

The average home and business owner doesn't have even a working knowledge of the sophisticated pipe systems that make for a smoothly functioning environment. Water Damage professionals certainly know these systems well, though. They are often to blame for accumulating water in the home. Over time, these pipes can corrode, leading to a pipe break that eventually results in a flooded home. The pipe break may be confined to a single room, such as the kitchen and bathroom, where water pipes reside.

Water damage from a pipe break is a common reason to call restoration professionals. A restoration company can assess water in the home or water in the business and determine if it is a result of a pipe break. When pipes break, it's natural to not immediately know the cause of the leak. All the home or business owner might know is that water is leaking out into the floor and the flooded home is a cause of distress.

Even more distressing, water cleanup after a broken pipe can result in a messy cleanup. Sometimes these pipes are corroded and just plain old, leading to dirty water accumulating on floors and the bottoms of other surfaces. There's no reason to panic and let water damage invade a kitchen or bathroom. A restoration professional can quickly be on the scene to assess the situation and begin mitigation.

In the case of broken pipes, the water is likely to be confined to a single room. If the break is big enough, though the water can quickly accumulate on the floor and begin to spill over into other rooms, making it vital to get speedy water cleanup professionals on the scene. Having experience in these situation, restoration professionals will either know how to stop the leak altogether or they will know exactly what other professionals to bring on the scene to halt the accumulation of water in the home or water in the business.

Mitigation involves several steps that the restoration company will be able to take on first thing upon arrival. They will inspect the area and determine the cause of the water accumulation. Sometimes it's coming from flood damage, sometimes from a supply line break, and sometimes from other sources of water in the home or water in the business. When it's from a broken pipe, it's vital to have the leak stopped before water cleanup.

Once they've inspected and stopped the leak, mitigation continues to prevent further damage. The restoration company will begin by inspecting the scene, extracting water from the area, drying and humidifying the area, cleaning and sanitizing the area, and then restoring anything that was damaged in the break. A supply line break, flooding, or leaking appliance will differ from a pipe problem. Experienced mitigation experts generally know when to skip a step or more fully concentrate on a particular step.

Water damage from a broken pipe can damage flooring very quickly, spilling over onto carpeting, and quickly getting on furniture. Restoration will be necessary if the leak continues for long enough. Water cleanup steps like drying will be an essential part of the water cleanup efforts. If you're wondering why you can't do the drying yourself, keep in mind that deep water is going to quickly begin to damage the structure of flooring. Time is of the essence and only a restoration company is going to have the drying equipment that makes a speedy cleanup possible. The same goes for when pipes leak water in a business. The professionals are the only people with the necessary equipment.

Mitigation experts are capable of extracting and cleaning water due to broken pipes, but they're also capable of helping people who have flood damage from a flooded home, or people who have water due to a supply line break. Flood damage can be an especially tricky cleanup matter, due to the amount of mud and chemicals often found in flood water. No matter what the reason - a supply line break or a flooded home that causes flood damage - you can always call on restoration professionals to get the job done.

FIRE DAMAGE RESTORATION

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, one out of 320 homeowners may experience a fire in their home. Commercial fire damage is also very common in the United States, averaging around 80,000 yearly due to kitchen fires, electrical problems, or even arson.

Experiencing fire damage can be devastating for homeowners or business owners. Whether you have experienced commercial fire damage or a fire in your home, not knowing what to do next can add to your frustration.

After a fire, it is essential to start fire damage restoration immediately to avoid the skyrocketing costs associated with delayed repair. Below are some tips to help you with the process fire cleanup, typical services of a restoration company and problems to expect after fire damage.

If you have a fire in your home or if you have commercial fire damage, some common issues that you likely face will be:

Soot damage: It is best to hire a restoration company to do fire cleanup for ash residue. Soot is highly acid. Therefore, expect discoloration and deterioration of anything within the vicinity of the fire.

Smoke damage and smoke smells: Unfortunately, getting rid of smoke damage can be a pain, especially after commercial fire damage. If not fixed immediately with appropriate fire damage restoration techniques, smoke smells can potentially reappear later, which can potentially turn off customers. Also, smoke damage will leave a film over any materials in the area. Also, furniture may rust or the paint may stain your carpet after a prolonged period of time.

Broken windows and collapsed walls: After a fire, it's possible that you will need to board up your walls or windows. If you delay in boarding up after a fire in your business or home, however, you run a risk of potential theft or vandalization inside your property.

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance & Granville Counties can help in all your fire damage needs so call us at 252-433-0005.

HOW DO YOU RECOVER FROM A COMMERCIAL FIRE DAMAGE

10/26/2017 (Permalink)

After the fire suppression process is over and the fire truck pulls away, you're responsible for the fire restoration. Here are the steps that you need to follow after the firefighters leave:

1. Finance The Fire Restoration:


The best way to finance fire restoration is to contact your insurance company immediately. It might be possible to contact the company immediately even if the fire damage occurred outside of business hours. Look to see if they have a separate number for off hours emergencies. If they don't have an emergency line, it may be possible to contact them using an online chat. Also, check to see if your insurance company covers fire damage board up services.

Your insurance company is likely to have information about the fire restoration companies in your area. They also may be able to recommend a fire damage board up company.

2. Hire A Board Up Service As Quickly As Possible:


Once the fire truck is gone, your business is extremely vulnerable to burglary and graffiti. Additionally, firefighters don't remove soot from surfaces. If soot settles over a period of several weeks, it can become nearly impossible to repair soot damage. A board up service can secure the building and remove soot from surfaces, including materials that were damaged in a utility room fire.

3. Pick The Right Company To Repair The Commercial Fire Damage:


The company that you choose should be experienced with commercial fire damage, including recovery from electrical fires and utility room fires. Attempt to find a company that has been certified by the IIRC, and look for a Better Business Bureau accreditation.

It's important to see what customers have said about the fire damage restoration company. These are some of the best websites to look for reviews:

Google
Angie's List
Yelp
The Better Business Bureau Website

Soot Damage And Smoke Damage:


In many cases of commercial fire damage, soot damage and smoke damage is most destructive. Therefore, it's extremely important to pick a company that specializes in fixing soot damage and smoke damage. It's also essential that the company offers smoke damage deodorization.

Damage Caused By The Fire Truck And Fire Sprinkler System:


The fire hoses that most firefighters use cause water damage. A fire truck has multiple fire hoses capable of spraying more than 1,000 gallons of water per minute, and this is more than enough to cause mold growth. The fire sprinkler system often makes the water damage even more severe. The high pressure of the fire hose also increases the severity of the water damage. Therefore, it's important to make sure that the restoration company you choose specializes in repairing the damage caused by the fire hose and fire sprinkler system.

Damage Caused By Other Fire Suppression Techniques:


Many dry chemical fire suppression techniques can be as damaging as water. Make sure that the restoration company you choose specializes in repairing damage caused by all fire suppression techniques, including dry chemical fire sprinkler systems.

4. The Cause Of The Fire Must Be Determined:


If the firefighters didn't determine the cause of the fire, make sure that the restoration company will investigate the cause of your commercial fire damage and repair it. Make sure that the company considers the following potential causes during the investigation:

Electrical Fire
Utility Room Fire (can be caused in multiple ways, including by electrical fires)
The Heating System (sometimes an electrical fire and a common cause of utility room fires)
Cigarettes
Cooking

JOIN YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce promoting our Local Police Department

Being a member of your Local Chamber of Commerce can give you many advantages in marketing your business. They are very supportive of all the local businesses and you will be put on their company directory, that way, if someone new moves in to the area and are looking for a specific kind of business or industry, they can go to the Chamber Directory and you will be listed there. Not only that, the Chamber sponsors many networking events throughout the year that gives you an opportunity to mingle and meet the other businesses in your community and they will then be able to recommend your business to someone who is looking for your specific type of business or product. Not only is this a benefit for your business, but it also promotes buying at home.

ATTENDING LOCAL EVENTS

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

6th Annual Business Summit

There are so many helpful events that are held during the year for small businesses that can give you insight to what is happening in the Business World in your area. I will be attending the 6th Annual Business Summit sponsored by CenturyLink at the Lake Gaston Lions Club in Henrico, NC on Tuesday, October 24, 2017. This even is an all day Summit that incorporates Networking between local businesses as well as speakers that have wonderful tips on growing your business in a local community like ours. Everything from Shopping local to how to boost your business during the Holidays will be covered. Come on out and join us for this fun and educational day that can help you boost your business not only during the busy times of the year, but the entire year and meet some of your business colleagues at the same time. 

FIRE DAMAGE RESTORATION

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Bedroom of a home that had to be completely gutted after an electrical fire started.

What is Fire Damage Restoration?  It is a multi-step process that minimizes the extenT of a fire loss and ultimately saves the Homeowner money through restoration vs. replacement.  This is a brief overview of our Emergency Fire Damage Process:

1. One Hour: Within one hour of notice of loss, through the Homeowner or an Insurance Agent, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
2. Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.  The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

*A fire damage consists of several kinds of damages.  Materials suffer burning, charring, heat damage, smoke damage, and even water damage.

3. Detailed Explanation: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

*Not all fires result in the same level of damage (Minor, Medium, and Major).

• Minor - Smoke residues affect only certain rooms or areas. The amount of smoke residues is light to moderate.  Restoration may involve dry cleaning and/or wet cleaning of ceilings, walls, floors and contents.  Few areas need to be repainted and only minor items require replacement.
• Medium - Smoke residue is moderate, and more materials require wet cleaning to remove residues. The number of areas requiring repainting and items requiring replacement increase.  Floors may need to be refinished.  Heat damage to drywall, cabinets, and contents requires more materials to be replaced.  Contents might be cleaned at the jobsite.  Smoke odors are noticeable, possibly requiring additional deodorization procedures after cleaning.
• Major - Structural framing and finishes may be charred, requiring structural repairs. Smoke residues are distributed through a large portion of the building, and strong smoke odors.  Emergency services are needed, such as Board-up, establishing a source of electricity, winterizing the building in cold weather and removing smoke-filled and charred debris.  Restoration will involve extensive cleaning of the structure and probably require restorers to pack and move out all salvageable contents for off-site cleaning.  Multiple methods of deodorization are needed to remove smoke odors.

4. Pretesting: A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
5. Eight Hours: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
6. Cleaning, Restoration & Deodorization: SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damage event has taken over. Depending on how severe the fire damage is will determine how long & how much work is required. However, we will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
7. Final Walk-Through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

As you have read, sometimes a damage requires more than just cleaning soot or removing debris.  Some damages require replacement of drywall, paint, flooring or even electrical and plumbing services.  Here at SERVPRO® of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, we can provide many general contractor services to help return your home or business to preloss condition.

In some cases, Mitigation, Restoration or Replacement may not be the best option.  If a home or buildings structural integrity is compromised beyond repair it may be considered a TOTAL LOSS & often becomes a much bigger project than one can handle.  Most often than not, these homes become condemned.  At this point it is important to secure openings to prevent children, wild animals or squatters from trespassing on the property.  Also it is important to relocate salvageable contents for cleaning and storage.  This is why SERVPRO® of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties also provides Board-up Services and Move-Outs.

Contact us today for more information on our wide variety of services or stop by our Office.  We would love to discuss our FREE Emergency Ready Profile and how it would benefit you during a disaster.

MOLD REMEDIATION IN HENDERSON NC

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Mold on doorways in a house that has been vacant for some time.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.

• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

• Contact SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties for mold remediation services.

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.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

IF A STORM HITS, WILL YOU BE PREPARED?

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Our FREE Emergency Ready Profile is a great reminder that we are only a phone call away, especially during a disaster. Call and ask about it today!

Let me ask you something, imagine if you're at lunch and suddenly you get a panicked call from the office because there is a gas leak, or maybe water is pouring out of a broken pipe under the sink. Would you be able to direct them how to shut-off the gas or water? Whether you are away for lunch, on vacation, or if it's after hours, wouldn't it be nice to have access to your vital building data and emergency contact information directly from your smart phone, 24/7?  SERVPRO has developed a convenient application that organizes this information for you...all at your fingertips!  

SERVPRO is a national sponsor of the American Red Cross' Ready Rating program, and as part of our community service, we are helping local businesses prepare for disasters.  The application is also available for residents, call today for more information!

We are having an active Hurricane season this year, will you be ready?

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties for Storm Damage assistance. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Why you should leave Mold Remediation to the Professionals

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in a house in Warren County, NC that had mold growth behind a fireplace mantle.

There are over 1,000 types mold found in North America. Did you know mold will eat just about anything? This includes metals, concrete, fabric and wood. 

People spend about 90% of our time indoors. This makes mold and it’s destructive nature a major concern for many of us. Search DIY mold removal on the internet and you will find tons of articles suggesting different ways to rid your home of mold yourself. One of the most common suggestions is spraying the mold with bleach or some other concoction aimed and killing it. Mold cleanup is not that simple.

The EPA ( United States Environmental Protection Agency) has come up with a rigid set of guidelines for mold removal. The Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings document recommends that you should only attempt to remove mold yourself if the area impacted is less than roughly a 3ft. by 3 ft. patch. Even in this instance you should first wear protective gear and fix any leaky pipes or issues that caused the mold damage. IICRC ( Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) does not recommend spraying but promotes removal of mold and proper air filtration. Major steps in a proper mold remediation process includes  analysis of the impacted area, thorough drying, fixing any causes of water and wetness as well as wearing  proper protective gear during the process.

Before you take the health and monetary risk of improper mold remediation review the EPA guidelines and contact your local Henderson, NC mold remediation and abatement professionals to have an analysis of the area. This will give you a better idea if your mold problem is a do it yourself project or not.

 As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never happened." Contact us for more information. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

The Process of Professional Storm Damage Restoration

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let a storm destroy your dreams, Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to rebuild your dream.

As human activities continue to interfere with the natural stability of ecosystems, natural disasters continue to affect people. The impacts of natural disasters can be catastrophic since they lead to many losses. Natural disasters such as storms may cause flooding, hurricane damage, tornadoes, river flooding, snowstorms, and ice damming or ice damage from ice dams. Storm damage leaves you with different types of damages including water damages due to flooding, structure damages, roof leak, and roof damage. When you want to restore your home after a wind damage, it is important for you to seek services from companies that provide professional storm remediation. A flood pump will ensure ground water is pumped out quickly since frozen pipes will not allow water out.

Below are the steps that you could follow suffering a storm damage to ensure that you reduce the losses that result from flooding:
i. Emergency contact. The first step in professional storm restoration is contacting your water restoration company to inform them of the damages and levels of ground water due to flood water. Most storm restoration companies provide services on a 24/7 basis and you will be able to contact them anytime. If there is roof damage due to roof leak and require immediate roof repair, you should inform the storm restoration company.

ii. Focus on your health and safety first. Storm disasters come with water damages and it is necessary to ensure that you switch off all power sources in your home or business. It is also important to note that storm remediation process begins immediately your water restoration company personnel arrives on the site. The level of river flooding, wind damage, flood water, ice damming, hail damage, ice damage, and river flooding in your property will determine the number of frozen pipes. Restoration should begin immediately after the storm or after the water levels have gone down. You should also use a flood pump to get rid of the flood water and ground water that may be the source of water damage to your property. Block broken water pipes to limit water inflow and minor roof leaks fixed.

iii. Documentation of storm damage: Documentation of all damages be it storm damage, water damage, wind damage, hurricane damage, ice damage from ice dams, hail damage, and roof damage is necessary, as they will help you in filling insurance claims. In there is ground water that has found its way into your house, use flood pump to get rid of it. This should be carried out as soon as you are able to access your property safely and you can do it through taking photographs and recording videos. Ice damming resulting from ice dams lead to frozen pipes that affects the water supply.

iv. Contact your insurance company. You should also make sure that you contact your insurance agent to allow him or her conduct any required inspection on your damaged property. Contacting your insurance company should be made as quick as possible to initiate the compensation process.

v. Consider looking into Federal Disaster Assistance: The federal government always seeks to help victims of wind damage and river flooding afford proper storm remediation. If you live in an area that has been declared as a disaster area, you can seek low-cost loans that may be provided by the federal government to facilitate home restoration services of your home such as repairs for a minor roof leak, management of water damage, wind damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, and roof damage

vi. The home restoration process involves restoring your home to its initial state. It will involve window and door replacement, furniture and content replacement, home restoration of electric and water supplies, and debris removal. Hail damages require a water restoration expert to help you carry out proper roof repairs where necessary. Frozen dams and frozen pipes caused by ice damming from ice dams should be heated up to restore the normal supply of water. Water restoration processes also involve the use of dehumidifiers to get rid of moisture and water suckers to pump water out. Roof repair will also be necessary to fix minor roof leaks.

To reduce the damages of flooding, flood water should be pumped first through the use of a flood pump. Other types of damages such as wind damage, water damage, hurricane damage, hail damage, ice damage, and roof damage could be mitigated through roof repair and other forms of storm remediation. The urgency through which the home restoration company shall respond to your emergency call and the steps they will take toward storm restoration will determine the success of the storm remediation.

What to Consider When Looking for Water Damage Restoration Services

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Water in home or water in business is nowadays a common occurrence. The majority of these situations are caused by things that can be prevented while a number of them are natural calamity such as storms. Regardless of the cause of a flooded home, it is imperative for the owner to take immediate steps towards restoration. Flood damage is critical because it could cause more loss of property and derail business operations.

If you have a flooded home, the most important thing is to take immediate actions to ensure that this situation is brought under control immediately. However, many homeowners do not know what they could do instead they panic and take actions that deteriorate the situation or cause more damages.

What are the causes a flooded home or business?
There are different causes of water in home or water in business. Some of the most common causes include toilet overflows, supply line break, water pipe break, faulty plumbing system and other natural incidences such as storms. Whatever leads to an influx of water in your home or business premises, the most important thing is to ensure that a water cleanup is done to prevent water damage.

Excessive water can cause damages to your wooden floor, destroy your belongings and furniture among many other. This costly damage caused by supply line break or pipe break could create a hazardous environment. You need to treat the situation as an emergency because further delay would lead to advanced flood damage.

When faced with this kind of situation in your home or business, it is imperative that you contact a local damage restoration company. Water in home or water in business can be restored by professionals. A flooded home would undergo clean up and subsequent restoration or mitigation.

It is essential that homeowners have emergency contacts to be able to call a professional water damage restoration company in the event of a flooded home. You never know when water in home situation could occur; hence, you ought to be ready. The supply line break or the pipe break is some of the things that have to be restored immediately.

The advantages of using a professional restoration company

Immediate response: The water in home or water in business is a situation that requires an immediate response because of the danger it poses to the property. Hiring professionals, you can be assured that they would come to your aid immediately. They would first repair the pipe break or supply line break. The main aim is to minimize the loss hence they could also provide you with some guidance on what to do before their arrival.

Effective inspection: The first thing before the process for water damage restoration and mitigation begins is to create a plan. It indicates that professionals have defined steps that would make sure that the situation is brought under control. The assessment process involves the determination of the most effective approach to the situation. They also do documentation of the damages, which you can also use to file for insurance claims.

Expert water cleanup and drying process: A good restoration company would have all the necessary equipment to begin the extraction process. They use modern techniques to remove all the water damage, moisture and debris. The wet belongings are taken to a safe custody for drying.

The experts are knowledgeable on the best water cleanup methods using the modern equipment that include moisture detection cameras among other which enable effective and efficient restoration. After the removal of moisture, the drying process begins immediately after disinfection and sanitization. The drying process is achieved through tools such as the dehumidifier. The importance of ensuring sufficient drying is to prevent fungal growth.

Professionals are equipped with skills, tools, and knowledge: The flood damage mitigation and restoration is done using state of the art equipment. This process usually begins within 48 hours. The mitigation process ensures thorough water cleanup, repair of pipe break or supply line break among other. Flood damage can have cost implication in home or business if not taken care quickly.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to assist you. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

The 'Don'ts' of Fire Damage Restoration

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

If you've experienced a fire in home or fire in business, there's many steps you can take to restore the building and regain normalcy after such a catastrophic event. There's also a few steps that you can take that cause more worry and frustration to an already stressful situation, and even prolong fire cleanup efforts. Avoid such a scenario, and ensure that you leave most of the fire restoration to the professionals.

A restoration company has properly certified and trained fire damage restoration experts at your building who make fire cleanup a breeze, whether it is a fire in business or at your home. They have the proper tools and equipment to safely restore your property without the added worry and headache.

Don't Salvage Food

Food costs a lot of money, and tossing it out is the last thing you want to do. Under normal circumstances, it'd be easy to maintain your foods, but after fire damage, nothing is safe. Soot damage, smoke smell, and smoke damage can contaminate foods, and usually considerably change the taste. Don't preserve any food that was inside the home during the fire. It is far too risky to your well-being.

Don't Go Inside

Although fire department officials may have extinguished the flames, the building may still be unsafe. It is possible for a fire to reignite, and the smoke may linger for days, leaving an undeniably, unpleasant smoke smell in its path. The smoke smell is easily removed with a deodorizer when the restoration company comes in for fire damage restoration. Smoke damage left behind on furniture, pictures, clothing, etc. is also a concern. Don't let smoke damage worry you! Soot damage is also of concern after a fire. This fine dusting of powder contains many toxins that cause health concerns, including an increased risk of heart problems. Soot damage is left behind on furniture, clothing, appliances, and even the floor. When you stay away, these dangers are invalid.

Don't Forget Board Up

Board up of windows and doors is important after a fire in home or fire in business. Board up minimizes dangers and keeps people from entering the building. It is dangerous to re-enter a building after commercial fire damage or a fire in home. Board up is offered from the restoration company and minimizes these risks. Whether you've experienced a fire in business or a fire in home, using this service is highly recommended.

Don't Panic

After commercial fire damage or a fire in home, you're left with many emotions and likely wonder what the future holds after such devastation has occurred. It is easy to panic and lose focus, but this is the worst thing that you can do. As the fire damage restoration pros work on fire cleanup and getting the building back-to normal, you should be making calls to the insurance agency, choosing new paints and colors for the building, and planning other details of restoration.

Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties to take the worry out of Fire Restoration. 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Tips when leaving house unattended for a long time

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage that was caused from a washing machine supply line that went several weeks before being discovered.

With the Holiday time of year fast approaching, many of us will have the opportunity to take some time off and spend that time away from home. If you are going to be going away for an extended time, some things that you might want to think about are making sure your house is secure and safe from harm. Most of us never think about checking our water lines or our appliances to make sure that they are functioning correctly and that all the parts are in good working order. This can lead to water damage that can be very costly to repair. You might consider checking ice machine supply lines, washing machine supply lines and water heater supply lines as a precautionary measure to keep your house safe and sound while you are away enjoying your time with family and friends.

How to Prepare for a Storm

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

plaster ceiling coming off after storm damaged church roof

We were called out to a church that was damaged pretty bad when a storm came thru. It tore off part of the roof, leaving the ceiling in the main areas of the church affected. Plaster was falling, causing damage to the carpet and other areas. When you hear on the weather that these storms are coming, it can be a good idea to take a walk around your property and look for hazards that might occur if you are hit by one of these storms. You can cover your furniture, make sure that your windows and doors are secure, have roof tarping available if needed, and prepare for power outages by having flash lights available, bottled water, canned foods, first aid supplies and a batter operated radio on hand. 

HOSPITAL IN CRISIS IN HENDERSON

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Extraction of Water in progress at local Hospital following large water loss

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties were called out to our local Hospital after they suffered a very large water loss to help extract the water and begin the drying process. When we arrived we discovered that most all of the offices were involved as well as supply rooms and such. Fortunately, the damage didn't affect the central hub of the Hospital, so we were able to get the extraction done and get our equipment set up without interfering with their business. It doesn't matter how large or small the job is, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties are here to assist you with your Water, Fire or general cleaning needs. Give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

WATER DAMAGE AT LOCAL 911 OFFICE

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Local 911 Backup call center after extraction of water with our drying equipment at work.

We were recently called out to our Local 911 Backup office where they had suffered a water damage from a leaking HVAC line. Our technicians were on the scene quickly and began the extraction process. Once they removed the standing water, they began to assess the damage. The call center floor along with private office and storage warehouse were all affected. We set up our equipment and began the drying process. The director was so glad that we were able to get there quickly and get the drying process started right away and luckily, all the computers and equipment were unharmed. We are very happy that we are able to be a part of assisting our community and take pride in helping out those that are always here helping our community.

THE JOURNEY OF A FIRE

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire that affected entire house.

We here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties have had the opportunity to work with so many wonderful people in our community during some of their worst times in their lives. A fire can take such a long time to recover from. We are with them from the beginning until the end and work closely with our customers to make sure that we are successful in restoring their property and make them happy with the results. We spend many hours cleaning and reconstructing this residence and once everything was done, the end results were incredible. If you need help with Fire Restoration, give SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

WATER AND MOLD, THEY CAN GO HAND IN HAND

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

mold growth in bathroom drawers from a water damage that was not discovered for several weeks.

When you suffer a water damage, not only do you have to be concerned about the affect the water has on your floors, walls, ceilings, contents in general, but you also need to concern yourself about what can happen if the water damage goes undiscovered for a lengthy time. When dampness is present for an extended length of time, it is a breeding ground for mold. The longer the water damage is present, the better chance that you will have to deal with the mold as well. This can cause an extended drying time due to the fact that we have to remove the mold that is present before we can begin the drying efforts. If you discover a water damage, get help immediately to avoid having to deal with the mold as well.

DAMAGED CRAWLSPACE IN LOUISBURG, NC

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Standing water in a crawlspace that went undetected for approximately 3 weeks.

Sometimes a water damage is very difficult to discover, especially if it doesn't affect the interior of your home or business. We recently assisted a home owner with a water damage that only affected their crawlspace. This pipe leak apparently had been going on for approximately 3 weeks and was only discovered when someone came to mow the yard and noticed a large amount of water in the back yard coming from under the house. Once it was checked, we discovered over 5 inches of standing water in the crawlspace. We extracted the water and then began the drying process. This is a great example of why it would be a great idea to periodically check the areas that are usually never thought about unless something does happen. 

STORMS CAN CATCH YOU OFF GUARD

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

cracked wall at local business after strong thunderstorm and winds and rain hit.

We experience Storms of all kinds. Winter snow storms, Summer Thunderstorms, Fall Hurricanes, Spring Rains and Winds. We were called to a business after one of those horrible Summer storms that shook the foundation of this business. It cracked the walls, caused significant water damage and shut them down for several days. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties are proud to serve our community in any way that we can and being able to assist this business get back on their feet and their doors back open was very rewarding. Make sure that you stay informed when it comes to bad weather so you aren't caught unaware when storms come to town. Call SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Life Saving Holiday Tips

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

House Fire in Henderson, NC caused by unattended appliance.

With the Holiday Season quickly approaching, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties would like to provide you with some tips this holiday season:

First, Supervise all items on the stove top as 58% of kitchen fires involve ranges with electric ranges having a higher risk than homes with gas cook tops. Fires can spread quickly. make sure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen!

Never leave a candle unattended... 32 candle fires are reported daily in the month of December!  That is 992 preventable fires!

Be Safe and Supervise! These people weren't so fortunate and this is what can happened. This was a candle left unattended in the bathroom.

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties - are here to help! Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

STORM DAMAGE IN OXFORD

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Uprooted tree in Oxford, NC during a recent storm.

SERVPRO Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties was proud to service our community of Oxford, NC in cleaning up after the recent STORM. What a terrifying experience these storms can be and the cleanup afterwards can be very stressful for all of those involved. We here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties are very glad to be here and make a positive impact on the cleanup efforts after this storm.  IF you have cleanup needs from the recent storms SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is here to help you in any way possible. We are only a phone call away. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night and we will be there to help you in any way we can.

High Humidity Levels can lead to Mold

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

High Humidity that started in the basement and carried upward to the main level.

Due to the amount of rain we have been recieving the last few weeks, we at SERVPRO of FRANKLIN, VANCE and GRANVILLE have had increased mold related calls. Mold loves to grow in humidity above 60%, so please monitor your home and DO NOT turn off the heat or air conditioning! Some of the areas that you will typically find mold will be in your crawlspace or attic, in an unventilated bathroom, in cabinets near the floor or in a closet that doesn't get a lot of air movement. Older homes also seem to have a lot of mold growth due to the fact that they generally don't have central heat and air. If you have high humidity, we are here to help! Call us  at 252-433-0005 !

Restoring Commercial Property in Littleton, NC

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial property flooded by heavy rains

Flooding and water damage events at  commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties 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.

A Storms Rage

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Damage to siding as a result of a hail storm.

I am sure that we have all experienced the force of Mother Nature during a summer thunderstorm or hail storm, but sometimes, even the best of us can't escape the damage that comes along with those storms. In the picture below, you can see that during a hail storm, not only are our roofs in jeapordy, but the siding on our homes are also. When the siding gets damaged, this leaves the inside of your home at risk for water damage as well. The sooner you report the damage and get SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties on the scene, the better. We can start the cleanup and drying process immediately and aleviate a lot of the circumstances that come with water damage, such as mold. We are available 24/7 so give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night.

Supervise and be Safe

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

House Fire in Vance County, NC

With the summer months quickly drawing to a close, we will be spending a lot more time indoors, which means more cooking and more fire safety knowledge to share. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties would like to provide you with some tips to remember:

First, Supervise all items on the stove top as 58% of kitchen fires involve ranges with electric ranges having a higher risk than homes with gas cook tops. Fires can spread quickly. make sure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen!

Never leave a candle unattended... 32 candle fires are reported daily in the month of December!  That is 992 preventable fires!

Be Safe and Supervise! These people weren't so fortunate and this is what can happened. 

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties - are here to help! Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

HELPFUL EMERGENCY TIPS

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Do's and Don'ts

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties wants to inform our neighbors of some very important Safety tips. Call us when disaster strikes! 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 We are always here to help!! We have been in business in the Franklin, Vance and Granville and surrounding areas for over 17 years. We have grown from being just Fire and Water service to a company that can handle any cleaning job Commercial or Residential. We pride ourselves in being a one-stop cleaning company. Whether you have a fire or water damage or if you are interested in duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, stripping and waxing floors or just a general cleaning of a rental property prior to a new tenant moving in, give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

A Big Thank You!

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

THANK YOU!

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties would like to thank all of our past and present customers  for choosing and trusting SERVPRO for your cleaning needs, whether it is a carpet cleaning, duct cleaning or a water, fire or mold damage.  We know that when disaster strikes there is an overwhelming sense of frustration, confusion and disruption in your daily life.

We are truly grateful for each customer for trusting us in your time of need- in today's society sometimes it is difficult to discern who you can trust with your home and personal items and  we are  extremely humbled that you chose SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties. We also look forward to serving you in the future.

Remember we are always here to help!  We strive to make it "Like it never even happened."

DIY water damage on Lake Gaston

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

Mold damage caused by DIY attempt to repair a water damage at Lake Gaston, NC

A homeowner had a water damage which they decided to mitigate themselves. By not having the technology of moisture meters and hydrometers, the customer thought it was dry, until they started seeing mold in various locations throughout the area. They even tried to clean up the mold with bleach several times, but it kept coming back. They finally called SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties to get remediation done correctly. 
The moral of this story is  that "it is the water that you don't see that causes the problem." If you are questioning whether or not it is important to seek professional help when a water damage occurs, let this remind you that it is not always best to take care of things yourself. Give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 so that we can alleviate your worries. 

WHERE IS TOM NOW?

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

Tom is our Truck Driver searching all the states for SERVPRO Vehicles. Where is here now?????

Tom Aubin is hard at work driving transfer trucks throughout the United States. He loves finding SERPVRO vehicles on the road.  If anybody is wondering Tom always  takes a picture while in traffic or stopped along the road.  Tom has driven through all the lower 48 states. He is a great ambassador for SERVPRO and we at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties love trying to figure out what state he is in by the pictures he takes.  The SERVPRO vehicle in  spotted in the state of Kansas.  Keep trucking Tom and searching out SERVPRO vehicles and large loss trucks. Tom is married to the wonderful and talented office manager, Kim, at SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counites.  Call her today and let her knowledge and southern ascent lift your day. 

TOM IS ON THE MOVE AGAIN

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

Here is another picture for our friends to guess. Where is Tom in this picture???? Tom is still cruising around the United States looking for those SERVPRO trucks and vans! He generally travels in the central states, however, he stretches his legs from time to tome and heads out west to California or Oregon and then sometimes he can be found in Texas or other Southern States. He doesn't go into New England very often, he is originally from Rhode Island, so I think he has been in that area long enough. Let's see if we can get any winners out of this picture! You can comment on our Facebook page for SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties or you can even call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

WHERE IS TOM?????

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

This is Tom. Tom is married to our Office Manager, Kim, and he is an owner operator truck driver. Tom travels around all 48 lower states, and in his journeys, he is always looking for SERVPRO vehicles. We thought it would be fun to post pictures of the SERVPRO vehicles that he finds and see if YOU can figure out where Tom is. If you think you know where he is, let us know. We will update pictures as they are available. Tom has been in the trucking business for over 20 years now. He originally started trucking when he was in the Army National Guard where he served our country proudly for 20 years. He loves being on the open road and seeing his Country. While he is exploring the area, he will be looking for as many SERVPRO vehicles as possible and we will post his pictures here so you can try to figure out where he is.

Youngsville, NC: Does your home or business have a mold issue?

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties cleaning up mold in a Youngsville, NC business

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 – 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005

Youngsville, NC: Does your home or business have a mold issue?

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties cleaning up mold in a Youngsville, NC business

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 – 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Coloring Contest

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Coloring contest for all kids in Henderson, Oxford, Louisburg and anyone else who lives in Franklin,Vance or Granville Counties, NC.

Spring has sprung at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties and we are looking to decorate our lobby with coloring pages. By having your kids color the page, we will enter you to win a free carpet cleaning of one room. What a great way to freshen your house and start new in spring. All you have to do is to send in your best coloring page and bring it  by our office at 260 Industry Dr., Henderson, NC, or call us at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005 with any questions. Contest ends April 21. So get coloring!! These kinds of contests are so much fun for us and getting our little ones involved is exciting. If any of our followers have suggestions for other contests, please let us know.

Need Immediate Service in Oxford, NC Call SERVPRO

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

Residents and Business Owners: SERVPRO provides immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Youngsville, Louisburg, Creedmoor, Henderson, Oxford, Littleton, Franklinton, and Butner/Stem. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service


• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster


• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians


• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry


• Locally Owned and Operated


• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848

Residential Services

Whether your lake home or main home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  SERVPRO technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration


• Fire Damage Restoration


• Mold Remediation


• Storm Damage Restoration


• Cleaning Services


• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Oxford, Henderson, Louisburg or Youngsville commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROfranklinvancegranvillecounties.com/commercial-mold-removal

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration


• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Fire in Youngsville, NC

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

kerosene heaters need to be supervised is used indoors! One homeowner learned the hard way.

WITH COLD WEATHER APPROACHING, A FIRE DAMAGE IS NOT WANTED. FIRE DAMAGE IN YOUNGSVILLE WAS CAUSE BY USING A KEROSENE HEATER INSIDE. THE HEATER CAUSED EXTENSIVE SMOKE AND SOOT DAMAGE THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE. KEROSENE HEATERS SHOULD BE SUPERVISED TO ENSURE THAT IT IS FUCNTIONING PROPERLY. 

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties successfully and quickly cleaned the smoke damage. The homeowners were delighted to return to their normal routine so quickly! This damage could have easily occurred in any one of our communities of Henderson, Oxford, Louisburg, Littleton, Franklinton, or Creedmoor/ Butner areas.

Please don't let this happen to you, but in the event you have a similar situation know that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can restore your property "Like it never even happened!" Call us today at 252-433-0005.

Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

This Franklin County home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Franklin, Vance or Granville County basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 252-433-0005

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 252-433-0005

Residents in Henderson, Louisburg, Franklinton and Creedmoor

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

Biohazard clean up in Henderson, NC

A need for Biohazard cleanup can come with a lot of surrounding emotions from crime scene clean up to sewer back ups SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties can assist with any situation. Please call us at 252-433-0005.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties

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

Restoring Littleton Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at  commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties 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.

New Truck seen in Youngsville,NC

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

EYE CATCHING! It has been spotted in Youngsville, Creedmoor/Stem, and Oxford. Keep a look out!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has a new eye catching marketing vehicle! When see it in the communities of Youngsville, Bunn, Creedmoor, Pocomoke, Oxford, Stem, Louisburg or Henderson you will know that we are working hard within our community! Wave at us or beep your horn to let us know what you think about the graphic concept. We love being a part of our community and getting feedback from our community.Call us today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 for all your fire, water, smoke, mold or air duct cleaning today needs today! If you know of someone that has gone through one of these damages and they are looking for help. Tell them that SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties is here to help them!

Do I have mold?

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

Yes, you have mold!

This is a question we answer a lot. Mold is everywhere. The concern is when there is high levels of mold with your home. There are some precautionary steps you can follow.

1. Do you have a vapor barrier installed in your crawlspace? Are your basement wall leaking?  Install a 6 mil plastic in at least 90% of your crawlspace and keep the foundation vents open for air flow. If water is intruding from your basement walls, consider a French drain, or waterproofing the exterior walls.

2. Inspect the perimeter of your home for clogged gutters, put PVC tube extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the foundation, remove  dead leaves and yard debris from the homes foundation

3. Bathroom exhaust fan should be ran while taking a shower and then at least 20 minutes after to help decrease the humidity.

4. Buy a thermometer with a humidity reading to monitor the indoor humidity level . Mold likes to grow with humidity above 60%

5. Run the AC or heat  when you are not at home

These are just a few things to consider to aid the prevention of mold. Call us and we will glad to answer any of your questions! Call SERVPRO Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties at 252-433-0005

Join SERVPRO at Meet me in the Street !

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Mark your calendars now!! Start kick your summer and come on out on May 20th  at 5:30 pm to hear THE KONNECTION in Downtown Henderson, NC !  SERVPRO Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties is a proud contributing Partner of this event. There is something very unique about our meet in the street events and that is coming together as a community for fun and fellowship is something that is not common for a lot of communities away from the South. We are very blessed to live in an area where family, friends and community are the centerpiece of our culture. Bring someone with you and let's Meet in the Street for some summer fun and fellowship and support our community and those that put these events together!

Greater Franklin County Chamber Member

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties is excited about our membership and ability to support  the  Franklin County Chamber of Commerce.  We look forward to becoming involved with the communities in Franklin County of Youngsville, Franklinton, Louisburg and Bunn areas.  Call us at 919-339-4848 for all your fire, water, mold or storm damage restoration, duct cleaning and carpet cleaning. We are always here to help. We love to service the communities that we live and play in.  Call us today and see why SERPVRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is making water, fire, mold damages "like it never even happened." The Franklin County Chamber building is located conveniently in Louisburg, NC on Nash Street. Go by and visit their office and pick up our brochures.

Tornado in Oxford, NC

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Uprooted tree, at the jobsite, from the recent tornado in Oxford, NC.

SERVPRO Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties was proud to service our community of Oxford, NC in cleaning up after the recent tornado. What a terrifying experience these storms can be and the cleanup afterwards can be very stressful for all of those involved. We here at SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville counties are very glad to be here and make a positive impact on the cleanup efforts after this storm.  IF you have cleanup needs from the recent storms SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is here to help you in any way possible. We are only a phone call away. Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 any time day or night and we will be there to help you in any way we can.

High indoor humidity in Henderson and Oxford

1/11/2016 (Permalink)

High Humidity started in the basement and began to affect the first floor hardwood floors!

Due to the amount of rain we have been recieving the last few weeks, we at SERVPRO of FRANKLIN, VANCE and GRANVILLE have had increased mold related calls. Mold loves to grow in humidity above 60%, so please monitor your home and DO NOT turn off the heat or air conditioning! Some of the areas that you will typically find mold will be in your crawlspace or attic, in an unventilated bathroom, in cabinets near the floor or in a closet that doesn't get a lot of air movement. Older homes also seem to have a lot of mold growth due to the fact that they generally don't have central heat and air. If you have high humidity, we are here to help! Call us  at 252-433-0005 !

Porch Team

1/11/2016 (Permalink)

We are proud to be a part of the Porch Team servicing Youngsville, parts of Wake Forest, Franklinton,Louisburg, Henderson and the Lake Gaston Area.  The porch team is made up of qualifying businesses that desire to service and make a difference in their communities. SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is excited to serve in this way. All of our technicians are trained to provide prompt and precise service and attention. So if you are in need of content management, cleaning, fire or water damage or duct cleaning- call our trained team of professionals at 919-339-4848 or 252-433-0005.  We are always here to help. We are able to make it "like it never even happened. " Call us today we are opened 24 hours a day!

EMERGENCY TIPS

9/4/2014 (Permalink)

QUICK SAFTEY TIPS!

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties wants to inform our neighbors in Henderson, Oxford, Youngsville, Franklinton, Creedmoor, Butner/Stem and Louisburg of some very important Safety tips. Call us when disaster strikes! 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 We are always here to help!! We have been in business in the Franklin, Vance and Granville and surrounding areas for over 17 years. We have grown from being just Fire and Water service to a company that can handle any cleaning job Commercial or Residential. We pride ourselves in being a one-stop cleaning company. Whether you have a fire or water damage or if you are interested in duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, stripping and waxing floors or just a general cleaning of a rental property prior to a new tenant moving in, give us a call at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848.

NEW BUILDING

9/4/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO OF FRANKLIN,VANCE AND GRANVILLE COUNTIES NEW LOCATION AT 260 INDUSTRY DR .,HENDERSON,NC

SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties has a new home. After several years of searching throughout our service area, we finally found a building that services all of our needs. We have a 10,000 sf bay that we utilize for our vehicles, all of our water mitigation equipment along with our duct cleaning equipment and everything that we need in order to take care of any water or fire damage you might have. We also have a cleaning room where we can clean your smoke damaged contents and clean your upholstery and rugs efficiently and quickly. We have several offices and a conference room. We are pleased to have a facility that we now can call home. Come by and visit us at 260 Industry Drive or give us a call today at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848 if we can help you with any of your cleaning needs.

HOLIDAY TIPS

11/22/2013 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Youngsville, NC. Result of an Unattended candle- don't let this happen to you!

With the Holiday Season quickly approaching SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties would like to provide you with some tips this holiday season:

First, Supervise all items on the stove top as 58% of kitchen fires involve ranges with electric ranges having a higher risk than homes with gas cook tops. Fires can spread quickly. make sure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen!

Never leave a candle unattended... 32 candle fires are reported daily in the month of December!  That is 992 preventable fires!

Be Safe and Supervise! These people weren't so fortunate and this is what can happened. This was a candle left unattended in the bathroom.

SERVPRO of Franklin,Vance and Granville Counties - are here to help! Call us at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848