Lightning Strike!

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

You’re sleeping soundly in the middle of the night. A bright flash of light makes your room look like daytime. Immediately, there is an earsplitting crack of thunder. That sounded like it was right overhead! Did you know that the chances of your house being struck by lightning is one in 200?

According to the National Weather Service, the average lightning strike can carry 300 million volts of electricity. If your house is not properly grounded, this can cause severe damage to electronics, to your electrical system, and, by fire, to everything you own. As bad as this can be, SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”  

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.

Disasters Don't Feel Natural

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can occur at any time. Whether it is flooding, fire or storm damage, it can be comforting to know that the restoration company you choose is up to the challenge. Our SERVPRO technicians are trained and ready to get to work 24 hours a day, every day of the year, 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 of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties; we have been in business for 22 years dealing with everything from hailstorms to hurricanes. We will help you from start to finish, working with your insurance company, and dealing with the aftermath of the storm to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

Our SERVPRO technicians are trained to handle a variety of situations, since storms can cause more than one type of damage to a home or a business. We are knowledgeable in 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. Keep our name and number handy, in case the next storm becomes the one you talk about for years to come. Remember, we are SERVPRO of Franklin, Vance and Granville Counties, and we can be reached at 252-433-0005 or 919-339-4848, 24 hours a day, every day of the year!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.”

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!

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.

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!

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 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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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. 

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

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.

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.