Fire Damage In Your Matthews Home

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

House with fire damage

Experiencing fire-damage in your Matthews, NC home can be quite traumatic. Once you come to terms with the loss of valuable possessions, you also need to think about cleaning up and restoring your house. Here are some steps to follow when dealing with a fire. 

Do Not Enter a Home Damaged by Fire 

After a house fire, a professional need to inspect the home and make sure it is safe. The structure could be damaged or there may be dangerous chemicals in the air that could cause respiratory problems. The electrical systems in the home could also be affected and cause electrocution. Although you may be tempted to go back into your home to access the damage, you need to wait until a professional gives you approval 

Contact an Insurance Agent 

Your insurance agent will assess the damage and determine what type of coverage should be included in your claim. An adjuster will come out to your home to provide an estimate of the damage and can recommend a fire restoration company. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews can clean, repair damage, and restore your home as quickly as possible. 

Call a Fire Restoration Company 

Professional fire restoration companies have technicians who are trained to identify problem areas and determine what can be saved, what can be cleaned, and what should be disposed of. An experienced company will also inspect your home to determine if mold is an issue, and if so, begin working to remove it from the home.

Although dealing with a fire can be emotionally draining, working with a fire damage restoration experts can make the process easier. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is locally owned and operated. We are already nearby and ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Steps You Should Take As Soon As the Storm Has Passed | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

After a storm, make sure you document any damage to your property. Then make sure you reach out to SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an extreme level of destruction to your beloved home. Heavy rains can cause flooding, and powerful winds can rip off parts of your roof. Powerful storms also have the potential to pull trees out of the ground and topple them onto your home.

Some post-storm damage that occurs can also cause safety or health hazards, so having a strategy to deal with the damage immediately is the best way to stay safe.

Beyond having a strategy to handle the aftermath, it’s important for you to determine the most common risks we see here in Mecklenburg County so that you can plan accordingly. We see approximately 20% more precipitation than the national average, which means that water damage is going to be a secondary factor when it comes to storms.

You can plan accordingly for the disasters we experience most and utilize special landscaping techniques that direct water away from the home. You could also replace the seals around your doors and windows, and inspect your roof for leaks to make sure you can outlast the next storm.

Team Bowen Expands SERVPRO® Franchise Territory into Charlotte and Surrounding Communities

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

“Here we GROW again! Team Bowen is ready to make it “Like it never even happened®.”

Team Bowen is excited to announce our expansion in Charlotte, North Carolina, which will add to the existing SERVPRO franchise in East Mecklenburg/Matthews. East Charlotte, Northeast Mecklenburg County, and South Mecklenburg County are now a part of the Team Bowen franchise. This means over 250,000 additional households and 8,000 businesses will receive support when in need of emergency response due to fire, water, or mold damage.

These additions are part of our commitment to helping our local communities flourish. We are available 24/7, 365, and are ready to take your call. Although we can’t prevent a disaster, we are ready for whatever happens!

“We are humbled yet excited to continue to grow and expand our market presence in the Charlotte community,” Bruce Bowen, CEO of Team Bowen, commented. “Our team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness, and mutual respect, have allowed us to expand our footprint and still provide that same quality service throughout the southeast. These locations are key to our regional coverage. Whether it is a storm event or a complex commercial/industrial loss, quick response time is critical. Our team has the resources, manpower, and equipment necessary to respond to these specific situations. We are the National Disaster Recovery Team.”

About SERVPRO®

For more than 50 years, SERVPRO® has been a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, mold mitigation, and biohazard and pathogen remediation. SERVPRO’s professional service network of more than 2,000 individually owned and operated franchises spans the United States and Canada, responding to property damage emergencies large and small – from million-square-foot commercial facilities to individual homes. When disaster strikes, homeowners, business owners, and major insurance companies alike rely on SERVPRO® to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® Team Bowen

In 1977, Barry and Beth Bowen decided to follow their passion for service to others with their careers and set out on a mission to build a reputable and respected property damage restoration company in Tuscaloosa, AL. Having grown up entrenched in the family business, it was no surprise when the current owners, Bruce and Brian Bowen, took over in 2004. Now based in Montgomery, AL., the Bowen Team has franchise locations in Montgomery, AL., Norcross, GA., Charleston, SC., and Charlotte, NC. Today, due to their continued dedication and hard work, we are a leader and trusted name in mitigation, remediation, restoration, reconstruction, and premier cleaning throughout Southeast and U.S.

Our team has more than a century of combined restoration experience. Each team member is equipped with unique and practical skills to excel in every project and exceed the expectations of our customers. Furthermore, we have an extensive inventory of restoration equipment designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of every facet of mitigation and reconstruction for damaged homes and businesses that we serve, no matter how big or how small.

Click below to find more information on our expansion:

SERVPROeastcharlotte.com

SERVPROsouthmecklenburgcounty.com

Is Lightning Really Dangerous?

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

How dangerous is lightning really?

During a storm, there are many factors that have the potential to cause serious damage to your house. Besides wind, rain, and falling trees - one big one …

Lightning!

You may have heard the phrase lightning never strikes the same place twice. However this statement isn’t always true, it often strikes in the same place if there is a tall pointed object. The Empire State Building has been said to be struck an average of 25 times a year!

Some people also believe that lightning is only dangerous during cloudy or rainy conditions, the truth is, it can reach more than three miles outside of a storm. Lightning has even traveled as far as 15 miles before it strikes the ground. Even if the storm is a few miles away, it is smart to seek shelter and prepare for the coming storm.

Lightning is more than a loud noise during a storm, and a lightning strike to your Matthews, NC home, or business can cause fire and other serious damage. So what happens when lightning strikes your home?

• Shock Waves: When lightning strikes your home, it can send a shock through the walls. Lightning can leave cracks in the walls, brick, stone, concrete, and your fireplace. In some cases, there may even be cracks in your foundation after a lightning strike. 

• Power Surges: One of the most commonly talked about damages caused by lightning is power surges. When lightning strikes your home it sends a large amount of power through the wiring in your home, often blowing fuses and causing damage to electronics. That power surge could cause a fault somewhere and start a fire right away, or later. 

• Fire Damage: Not only can a fire start from wiring damaged during a surge, but it can also start from the lightning coming into contact with flammable objects. Your home is made from flammable objects like wood which can ignite when lightning travels through it.

So what does the damage to your home look like after a lightning strike? Your home could be completely fine with no damage at all, but not every situation is so lucky. Fires can start and spread in a matter of moments after the lightning strike. When the Matthews Fire & EMS come to help put out the fire you could be left with even more damage from the water. 

If your home or business is struck by lightning and is left with fire or water damage make sure to call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

Why We Are Faster to Any Size Disaster™

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster™

No matter the type of damage, whether water, fire, or natural disaster, one thing is certain; the longer you wait, the costlier the repair. 

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is a firm believer in timely mitigation to manage any damage to your property. Many other restoration services have you wait to be put on their schedule, leaving you out of luck when your property is in jeopardy. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg County isn’t like that, here is our policy that sets us apart from other restoration companies. 

• 1 hour - Within one hour of notice of a loss, our admins will contact you to arrange for service that works with YOUR schedule and addresses the loss right away.

• 4 hours - Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews will be on-site to inspect and start services. 

• 8 hours - Within eight hours, customers will receive a briefing on the scope of damage and what mitigation efforts are needed. 

These guidelines are what every SERVPRO franchise expects to meet, including your local SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews. Whether water, fire, or storm damage strikes your East Charlotte, NC, home, or business, our team of experienced technicians will be there to make it "Like it never even happened.”

Are There Different Types of Fire Extinguishers?

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know there are multiple types of fire extinguishers?

You probably have a fire extinguisher in your home, but do you have the right kind? There are five classes of fire extinguishers and they each put out a different type of fire.

The five types:

• A: These are used on things like cloth, wood and paper and are most commonly in homes and businesses.

• B: This class is used on combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gas and oil. These are also common in homes and businesses.

• C: Electrical equipment such as appliances and tool fires are best put out with a C fire extinguisher. C class is common in homes and businesses.

• D: Class D is for use on flammable metals and is found in factories. 

• K: Commercial kitchens such as restaurants use K extinguishers as they are best used on vegetable oils, animal oils and fats used for cooking. 

While these are the most common types of extinguishers there are also multipurpose fire extinguishers that can be labeled as “B-C” or “A-B-C.” Class A through C are commonly carried at home improvement stores.

When a fire is burning through your home is not the time to learn how to use a extinguisher. If a fire in your Matthews, NC, home caused damage before you could put it out, be sure to call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

For more fire extinguisher safety visit the FEMA website.

Planning Your Household’s Fire Escape Route | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is Here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

A house fire is a frightening and traumatic thing for anyone to experience. Fires can start and spread rapidly, resulting in a panicked state that can disarm even the most level-headed family member—this is why it is so important to create a fire escape route in advance that everyone in your household is familiar with.

While we all hope we never have to experience a house fire, having an escape route in place and practicing your evacuation drills often can ensure that if a fire does occur in your home, everyone will know exactly what to do.

Here are our top tips for getting your plan together and keeping everyone safer:

Identify all of your home’s exits. Every area of your home should have at least two exits to account for all possibilities for where a fire could start and how it could spread. If you have rooms upstairs that are too high to jump from, consider purchasing emergency ladders to ensure someone could climb down to safety if the door to these rooms becomes blocked by smoke or flames. It is also good to be sure that doorways and windows are not ever blocked, as this could hinder an escape.

Have a plan that works for everyone. If you have young children, elderly adults or someone in the home whose mobility levels may make it difficult for them to escape quickly, make sure they are accounted for in your fire escape plan. Using the buddy system is a great way to ensure that everyone can watch out for one another and make sure all members of the household are rushed to safety. If you have pets in the home, be sure you assign them a buddy as well.

Designate a meeting area. Designating a meeting area for your household members will ensure that everyone can check in after they get to safety—a neighbor’s mailbox is often a good choice. Make sure everyone knows where to head after they escape from the home so you can be sure everyone is accounted for.

If you have damage to your home due to a fire, we are here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our fire restoration services.

No Disaster Is Too Big for Our Team to Handle | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Having a team on your side after a disaster can help relieve stress. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help no matter the reason.

When it comes to taking care of a property, both homeowners and business owners bear a great deal of responsibility. You never know when an emergency will occur and cause substantial damage to your property.

The East Mecklenburg/Matthews area faces disasters in homes and businesses alike. Weather, or even an unintentional fire in the home, is to blame for some of these tragedies.

It’s essential to have a team like SERVPRO on standby to repair any residential or commercial damage left behind after a disaster. Here are some of the services we can offer your home or business in your time of need:

Fire Restoration

After a fire, your property and the belongings inside could be left ruined with smoke and soot damage. Flames can rip through your building, causing structural damage and foundation damage.

Even water damage can become a problem after a fire due to a fire sprinkler system or the firehose used by firefighters, which can harm your walls, ceilings, floors and anything else inside your property.

Water Restoration

Residential and commercial water damage never has simply one source, and you might be surprised by the potential causes.

Fires, leaks within the home and weather can all create a water emergency within your property. Water can seep into many areas of your property, creating mold, infrastructure damage and aesthetic issues on both the inside and outside.

Mold Remediation

Mold can develop in the most unassuming areas, and once it starts to grow, it doesn’t waste any time! Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours and eat away at your property’s ceilings, walls and floors.

Mold can pop up after severe storms, or over time due to roof or appliance leaks within the home or business.

Storm Damage Restoration

In East Mecklenburg/Matthews, weather like tornadoes, floods and thunderstorms can be devastating. This severe weather has the potential to rip through, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses that will need to be restored, and in some cases, entirely rebuilt.

Why You Should Turn to SERVPRO

When disaster strikes, we’re here to help! Our team is available to you 24/7, ensuring all emergencies are dealt with in a timely manner.

We can develop a repair plan for any damage your house or business has sustained and keep you updated on the status of your property every step of the way. We are trained in every area of damage and can use advanced technology to take your property back to preloss condition again!

When your home or business is struck by a sudden catastrophe, call our team at SERVPRO. We are more than ready to take on whatever damage your property has suffered!

Common Causes of Commercial Roof Damage | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews help your business take measures to reduce the time that your company is closed after a disaster

What may seem like a minor leak on the ceiling from the attic or roof, may actually be a much larger problem waiting to sprout up. Water damage can cause rotting and make your roof more susceptible to leaks and damage in the future.

Other signs of roof water damage can include cracking, gutters clogged with insulation, and more. Because of this, it’s important to know how to tell if your building has roof damage and how to find its true extent.

Here in North Carolina, we see all kinds of natural disasters from flooding to hurricanes to the general thunderstorm that can still do hefty amounts of damage. Being closer to sea level also means that we are at a greater risk of flood damage than a lot of Americans.

According to data gathered by FEMA, on any given day, over 14,000 people will be affected by a water damage emergency in the United States. In addition, the cost of flood damage has quadrupled since the year 2000, showing that our risk of damage is greater than ever.

This information will hopefully help you solve and prevent the causes of roof and water damage in your business:

Simple Ways to Help You Plan and Prepare for Fires | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Having a team on your side after a disaster can help relieve stress. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help when a fire strikes.

The amount of home fires that we see in our country continues to rise year after year. Even though wildfires are becoming increasingly common in new regions, houses are being built with materials that are more flammable than ever before. Things like carpet, fabric furniture and insulation all add fuel to the fire.

As mentioned before, wildfires continue to expand their reach around the country, but the highest risks in North Carolina are actually in our homes. Cooking is the most common cause, but other appliances like dryers and water heaters can also spark flames when you least expect it.

Fires also spread the damage faster than most other disasters, with the ability to double in size every 60 seconds, so you may only have two minutes to escape when your home is ablaze.

How You Can Be Ready

Understanding that some areas of your home are more at risk than others can give you a good place to begin your preparations. Any room with heating elements or major appliances should be kept clear, allowing for proper airflow for when things heat up.

Additionally, make sure that you never leave the oven, stove or any candles/incense lit or turned on, as these cause nearly one-fifth of home fires.

Fire Detection

As is the case with all disasters, recognizing when and where they’re taking place can help you stop them in their tracks or escape if needed. With the average cost of home repairs after a fire being over $17,000, it’s important to act fast when they happen.

By utilizing fire detection devices, you can have an early warning before the problems escalate.

Smoke alarms are proven to prevent further damage and loss of life from fires, so having proper coverage in your home is crucial. Make sure there are detectors on every floor, including the attic, and in every bedroom and kitchen to have complete home coverage.

Fires can also release carbon monoxide, which is an invisible and odorless gas that can be extremely dangerous for humans and animals. Installing carbon monoxide alarms in various parts of your home can alert you when you may be in danger.

Escaping a House Fire

When fires do sprout, leaving your home and calling the fire department is the only safe option. We often find ourselves panicking during a fire, so it’s important to establish a fire escape plan for you and your family

The first step in developing an emergency plan is to gather the members of your household and draw the layout of your home on a piece of paper. Then decide on the best and most easily accessible exits, looking at all of the potential fire hazards in your home.

If you have a multi-story home, investing in fire escape ladders for the upstairs bedrooms can be a real lifesaver if people were unable to use the stairs.

The best exits will be on the ground level, either through a window or door that isn’t close to a major fire risk, as these can be blocked during an emergency. The plan should account for everyone that may need assistance escaping, and have everyone outside within two minutes.

Once your plan is ready for action, run through a few tests with your family members to ensure that things flow smoothly. Taking these steps and following the right safety precautions can help you reduce your home’s risk, and know the next move for when fires break out.

If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, ²⁴⁄₇.

Ready Your Business for a Fire Emergency | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Having a team on your side after a disaster is a big relief. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is your local commercial restoration expert.

When it comes to commercial emergencies, it is important for all employees of a company to be on the same page. Not only does a lack of preparation endanger your employees, but it also jeopardizes your entire business. The consequences of not being prepared for an emergency can be detrimental to your East Mecklenburg/Matthews business.

According to FEMA, 40% of businesses do not reopen following a disaster. Preparing your company for disasters such as fires before they occur can reduce your risk of damage. (Having a partner like SERVPRO on standby to repair your property if a fire breaks out can also help your business stay on track!)

Here’s how you can ready your business for a fire:

Install smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are one of the most effective investments in fire prevention. And yet smoke alarms were not present in 52% of major business fires, according to one study. Having functional smoke alarms throughout your business could alert your employees to a fire before it wreaks havoc.

Watch out for fire hazards. Inspect your workplace for potential fire hazards such as cables, flammable objects such as paper, overloaded extension cords and electric appliances. Communicate these hazards to your staff and establish rules to ensure that all appliances and other devices are used as intended. A property clear of fire hazards can lower the chance of accidental fires within your company.

Preserve important documents. Be sure to back up data like customer information, financial records and registration data. Keep your data in a secure location like a fireproof box or digitize your documents and store them safely online. Businesses that have a backup plan are more likely to recover after an emergency.

Who Do I Turn to if My Business Suffers Fire Damage? SERVPRO understands that not all crises can be avoided and that damage can occur even when precautions are taken. If fire damage ruins your business, we can repair any damage caused by the flames and the efforts to extinguish them. When it comes to running a business, time is money, which is why we offer 24-hour emergency services to begin restoration as soon as possible.

Our team works with advanced equipment to repair, rebuild and deodorize your business property after a fire emergency. We have the tools to effectively restore your business and have it back up and running in no time.

There is never a convenient time for a fire damage emergency in the workplace. If your business experiences a fire, count on your local SERVPRO to restore it to pre-fire condition.

How SERVPRO® Can Help You Through Any Disaster | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how severe the disaster, SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews can supply you with a top-notch disaster plan.

Each year, natural disasters destroy homes and businesses all across the world, costing countries millions of dollars to repair. Weather disaster incidents cost the United States alone more than $1 billion in economic losses in 2021.

Weather disasters can leave you in the dark, wondering where to begin and who to turn to. When a disaster strikes the community, it’s critical to know who you can rely on for home or business restoration if you’ve suffered a loss. We can help you overcome any form of loss, no matter when you require our services.

Wondering what sets us apart from competitors? Discover the SERVPRO difference:

Experience in Every Area of Restoration

 Tragedy can strike your property when you least expect it, so you should prepare for any unforeseen disaster in your Matthews home. SERVPRO has experience with all types of property damages, whether it’s flood damage, mold growth or the aftermath of a house fire. We’ll evaluate the damage and devise a strategy to restore your house or business to preloss condition.

A Team of Highly Qualified Technicians

When it comes to restoration, you’ll want a skilled staff on the job. Our crew undergoes initial and continuing training through certification programs and education classes to equip them with the knowledge and skills required to remediate homes and businesses.

No matter how severe the disaster, our SERVPRO staff can supply you with top-notch disaster repair. This is even the case when you need a combination of restoration types, such as both fire damage restoration and water damage restoration after a fire.

Advanced Restoration Technology & Techniques

As technology advances, so does SERVPRO! We are always perfecting our equipment and techniques in order to provide you with rapid and dependable cleanup services.

Our specialized equipment can clean up the aftermath of a house fire by removing any remaining smoke or soot. When dealing with water damage, we can extract and dry your property promptly with our equipment to prevent further damage. We can deodorize, sterilize and disinfect your goods and property after a tragedy to make it as good as new!

24-Hour Emergency Services

When your home or business requires restoration, you should act fast! Mold can grow quickly after water damage or a leak, for example, so disasters demand a quick response. We are available to you 24/7, guaranteeing that your emergency is resolved as soon as possible.

When disaster leaves you questioning who to turn to, the answer is simple: SERVPRO is the company to call. No matter the size of the disaster, we have the technology, team and time to perform the restoration services you require.

When disaster strikes, quick action is essential for proper restoration. Contact SERVPRO for help navigating the aftermath of any damage!

Your Next Steps After Spotting Mold in the Workplace | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let mold slow your business down. Contact SERVPRO® for all your mold remediation needs.

You were looking for something in the storage closet at your office when you smelled something that was just “off.” Then you looked down and saw the tell-tale green hue of a patch of mold. What now?

While there’s no existing OSHA standard related to mold in the workplace, it’s still important to get it cleared out as soon as possible. If you spot it—or smell it—get in touch with our team of experts. We’ll immediately get to work.

The Difference Between Mold Removal & Remediation

When you see mold, you might naturally think it needs to be removed. But the reality is that “mold removal” is a bit of a misnomer. Mold spores are found nearly everywhere, both indoors and out, so it’s not possible to fully eradicate them.

That’s why SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews offers mold remediation. Our remediation process is guided by expertise in how mold and mold growth work—eliminating the causes of mold infestation and containing the mold that’s present.

What Happens When You Call Us About Mold

The first step in our mold remediation process is for you to get in touch with us! We’re available 24/7, 365 days of the year for a reason—prompt action is important.

Once you’ve gotten in touch with us, a technician will come out to inspect your business and conduct a mold damage assessment. This step helps us determine the steps that follow.

Step 3 is to contain the existing mold. This minimizes the risk of mold spreading into other parts of the room or beyond, and it also limits the amount of time people are exposed to mold.

From there, we’ll filter the air in the space, remove mold and mold-infested materials, and focus on cleaning the contents of your office space.

If mold growth in your business was spurred by water damage, we’ll also work with you to determine water damage restoration needs. This comes first in many cases, since the presence of any amount of water, including invisible moisture, can keep mold growing.

Ready to put our mold remediation process into action? Get in touch today to get help from a team of experts.

We Act Fast, Because Minutes Matter | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a disaster, every second counts. Call SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews for all your water, fire, and storm damage needs.

When disaster strikes, it can be overwhelming. Whether you’re faced with the effects of a storm, a fire or a plumbing leak, you may struggle to determine what to do next.

But we can tell you what your next move after a disaster should be—get in touch with SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews via our 24/7 Emergency Line.

When we say that we’re available 24/7, 365 days a year, it’s more than a catchphrase. It’s a promise. We know that damage left sitting for any length of time can lead to more damage. Prompt action is essential.

Our ability to quickly jump into action and start your restoration project is a big part of what sets us apart from our competitors. We don’t delay. Here’s why:

When Water Damage Lingers…

Standing water in a home is a no-go. When water starts to infiltrate your property, whether due to a leak in the roof, a hole in a plumbing hose or storm damage opening up a window, it needs to be removed quickly.

As water hangs around, excess moisture does, too. This moisture, even though it may not be visible, creates an ideal breeding ground for mold. Your water damage could quickly lead to mold damage and additional costs.

It doesn’t take long for this to happen, either. Within 24 to 48 hours after water goes where it doesn’t belong, mold can pop up.

When Fire Damage Isn’t Cleaned Up…

You might think the aftereffects of a fire wouldn’t worsen after the flames are put out. But when it comes to a fire, the flames can sometimes be the least of your worries.

After a fire, you’ll not only see visible scorching and damage from the fire itself, but in many cases, you’ll have multiple kinds of damage. Fires leave behind lingering smoke that can permeate into the walls, noxious odors from the fire itself and chemicals used to fight it, soot that coats walls and belongings, and even water damage from the firefighting effort.

The faster you act, the less impact those damages can have. It’s easier to clear out odors, smoke and soot residue, and water when you start the process quickly.

When Storm Damage Isn’t Repaired…

What about when storms strike? You might think the potential for damage is over after a storm moves through, but that isn’t always true.

If your house is damaged in some way by a storm like these that passed through just southeast of Charlotte in April 2022, you may have things like broken windows, doors off their hinges, nonfunctional gutters or roof tears. All of these have the potential to lead to additional damage, because the normal job of those items is to keep the outdoors outside.

When they’re broken in some way, the outdoors can quickly creep inside. This can allow rain or puddling water inside, and it can also allow for creepy critters to infiltrate the home.

Waiting to repair storm damage can also put you at increased danger if another storm comes through our area.

When you need us, we’re here to help. That’s the SERVPRO difference. Get in touch today to get help from a team of experts, day or night.

What Actions Should You Take After a Major Storm? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

In the unfortunate event that your home has sustained damage, you can count on SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to help.

While it’s always important to prepare yourself and your home before a storm arrives, that option sometimes gets forgotten or neglected, so knowing what to do afterward is crucial. A lot of homeowners feel helpless after a natural disaster, but you can avoid that by having a good plan.

In North Carolina, we are no strangers to extreme weather. Between hurricanes, thunderstorms, flooding and the occasional snowstorm, we see our fair share of disasters around here. However, extreme weather is putting people all over our region at risk, with over 30 million people at risk of storms every day across the southeastern United States.

The procedure of handling storm aftermath will depend primarily on if you were forced to evacuate or if you sheltered in place. Regardless of your specific situation, here are some basic steps to take after you face extreme storms.

The Types of Damage a Fire Can Cause | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you have any smoke/fire damage as a result of a house fire, SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg is here to help.

When you think about a fire occurring in the home, you probably think about damage caused by the actual flames. That’s totally logical—those bright red/orange flames are a visible indicator of fire and quite scary to see.

But in many cases, the damage incurred by houses due to a fire is multifaceted. What do we mean by that? Read on as our team at SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews offers an explainer.

Not All Fire Damage Is Directly Flame-Related

When a fire occurs, the flames can quickly eat up surrounding materials. After all, nearly everything in the home is flammable. When a fire sparks due to a combustion of high temperature, oxygen and a fuel source (like plastic or wood), it keeps burning until one of those factors is missing.

That means it can use many of the materials in your house, including things like curtains, wallpaper, clothing, blankets and even the structure of your walls, as fuel. That fire damage to a home is quite obvious.

But there are other types of fire-related damage, too. They can be equally destructive and require prompt restoration.

If a fire occurs in your home, your home may also be damaged by:

- Smoke. Anytime a fire occurs, smoke is a byproduct. When fire sparks inside your home, smoke can pervade all areas of the house, leaving behind a strong and persistent odor. It can also stick to surfaces in the home, causing certain materials to discolor.

- Soot. When a fire is extinguished, soot is a natural byproduct. If you’ve ever built a campfire or used your fireplace, you’re familiar with this substance. It’s a fine black powder that seemingly sticks to everything. After a fire, soot can bind to your walls and other structures in your home, as well as your possessions.

- Water. Why on earth would there be water damage after a fire? Well, just think about it! When a fire is extinguished, large amounts of water are usually involved. After a fire, especially a major fire, standing water may be left all around your home. Water has to be cleaned up quickly, because standing water can cultivate mold within 48 hours.

- Chemicals. Extinguishing a fire may also involve some type of chemical, especially if a fire extinguisher is used. These chemicals can cling to the surfaces in your home and cause resulting damage.

When fire strikes, the SERVPRO team has all the bases covered. Get in touch today to get help from a team of experts for all types of fire-related damage.

How Cleaning Your Gutters Can Help Prevent Storm Damage | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur when you least expect it. SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is available 24/7 to assist you with any repairs.

Spring has sprung, and the time for spring-cleaning is here! Yes, we know—it’s something many homeowners don’t look forward to.

But we aren’t here to talk about dusting your living room or deep-cleaning the curtains. Instead, we’d like to talk about a way that you can do some spring-cleaning and home maintenance all at once.

That’s right, you can kill two birds with one stone. In fact, with this particular spring-cleaning to-do, you can actually knock out three birds! We’re talking about cleaning the gutters.

By taking some time to clean the gutters this spring, you’ll not only improve the appearance of your home, but you’ll also help protect it from wear and tear and may even prevent storm damage.

What to Know About the Gutters
You might not think about your gutters much. But when it comes to storms, the gutters can be one of your home’s biggest defense mechanisms.

That’s because gutters are designed to take rain and storm water off the roof and away from the structure of the house. Even if there’s only a trickle of rainfall (not the downpours we’re accustomed to here in the Charlotte area), as the rain falls onto the roof, it merges together and can create a surge.

This surge of water can have disastrous consequences for your roof and for the structure of the house, planting (and leaving) water in places it doesn’t need to be.

Gutters take that water and redistribute it, carrying it out into the yard and away from the house foundation.

Why You Need to Clean the Gutters
If you never clean out your gutters (or rarely do, anyhow), you’re setting your house and property up for damage. You may not notice the effects of clogged gutters when it’s only lightly sprinkling, but when we’re under a flood watch or when a storm occurs, that gutter clutter can wreak havoc.

As leaves, sticks and other debris get trapped in the gutters, it narrows the path for water to travel to escape from the roof. Over time, it can entirely cut off the flow of water, causing that water to sit where it is—resulting in roof leaks, other roof damage and structural damage as the water seeps down in the soil along the home’s foundation.

That’s an insidious kind of storm damage, one that you have the power to stop before it starts! Regularly clearing out the gutters can help give even excessive rainfall a safe passage down to the ground, protecting your home and your possessions.

Despite our best precautions, sometimes storm damage still strikes. If your home was damaged by a storm, we’re here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

What to Do After a Fire | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage in your home, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Contact SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

When a fire strikes, it can quickly feel overwhelming. Whether your fire was small—affecting only the stove, for example—or large, you may have many thoughts going through your head and concerns in your mind.

That’s why it’s a good idea to brush up ahead of time on what to do if a fire ever occurs. Knowing the steps to take after a fire help you take quick action in a calmer manner than you might otherwise.

Here’s a checklist of what to do if a fire occurs in your home:

1. Get out and stay out. This might seem self-explanatory, but it’s so important. When a fire sparks and can’t be quickly extinguished with a fire extinguisher or other mechanism, you need to escape from the building. Once you’re outside, don’t go back inside until the fire has been put out by professionals and it’s deemed safe to do so.

2. Don’t turn the power on. The electrical system can be easily damaged during a fire, so it’s important to have it assessed by an electrician or other expert before using it again. The same goes for gas if any appliances are gas-powered.

3. Get in touch with your insurance provider. In your initial contact, you’ll simply alert them that a fire has occurred and they can outline next steps for you. This will likely include carefully documenting fire damage.

4. Photograph and make notes about damage. As noted above, this will be important for insurance purposes. Carefully document all damage related to the fire, including damage due to the actual flames, as well as damage related to other factors, such as soot, smoke or even the water used to extinguish the fire.

5. Find a safe place to stay. In many cases, your home may be uninhabitable after a fire. You’ll want to find a place to stay for a few days or even longer. Consider the needs of all your family members, including your pets.

6. Get in touch with a restoration provider. It’s a good idea to establish a relationship with a restoration provider, like SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews, before disaster strikes. When a fire occurs, you can reach out to us immediately—we’re available 24/7 to get your restoration project started. We can help you out with many of the items listed above, including assessing your home, documenting damage and even working with your insurance provider.

Dealing with the after-effects of a fire in your house? We’ve got you covered! Get in touch today to get help from a team of experts.

Early Indicators of Water Damage in Your Home or Business | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to get started.

The most obvious sign of water damage is the abrupt noise of flowing water, but the damage at that point is already extensive. Leading up to that explosion of water, leaks go undetected for days, weeks or months.

Minor leaks and water damage that go unattended slowly cause damage that compounds over time. Water damage can occur at any time and has the potential to cause irreversible, permanent damage to your home. In fact, household leaks can waste over 900 billion gallons of water annually in the United States alone.

Some areas are more at risk of suffering water damage than others, but it’s a good decision to inspect your home from time to time.

Early Warning Signs of Water Damage

Water damage shows itself through discoloration, the apparent odor and more depending on where it happens. Here are some of the things you should look for to determine if you have sustained water damage:

Accumulation

One major sign that water damage is present and could become a serious problem soon is the collection of water in an area. This often happens from the leaking of an appliance like dishwashers, faucets, toilets, water heaters and air conditioning units.

It’s not only caused by appliances, though. If water is pooling in an area and you aren’t able to determine the cause, it might mean that you have a leaky roof or problems with your piping systems.

Discoloration

Unaddressed water damage can cause your home to appear much dirtier than it realy is. Standing water will often cause stains, wall spots, moldy and ruined carpets/rugs, and rusty pipes or water heaters.

It’s common to see the affected areas turning yellow, brown or dark copper color. Depending on your paint and wallpaper, moisture may cause bubbling, cracking and peeling, forcing you to redo the whole room or home.

Texture

Floors and ceilings may show signs of discoloration, but the telltale sign of major damage is from witnessing a change in texture. As your floor/ceiling absorbs water and the deeper layers soak through, they may warp and become deformed beyond repair.

Dangerous texture indicators are warping, buckling, sagging and expansion. These problems are not only unappealing to look at, they are dangerous and are at serious risk of collapsing if left for an extended time.

Odor

The last major sign that water damage has developed in your home is the obvious smell of mold or mildew. Producing a musty odor from the absorption of water into your walls and floors.

Many home construction materials take a sponge-like effect where they will soak through and create a prime environment for mold to grow. Acting fast when you smell the distinct scent of mold can help you avoid high costs and an extreme level of restoration.

Mold isn’t just an unpleasant smell, it can tack on expensive costs to your already high restoration price. The average cost of mold remediation is over $2,300. However, mold left for an extended period of time can cost $5,000+ depending on the extent and where it’s located inside your home.

Regardless of the type of water damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover. Contact us ²⁴⁄₇ when you need a dependable team to help you recover.

The Importance of Commercial Emergency Lighting Systems | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews has an emergency team available at all times. Call to begin the restoration process immediately.

The primary objective of emergency lights is to ensure that building occupants have a safe escape in the case of a power loss. That being said, exit signs and emergency lighting are often overlooked when it comes to commercial fire safety.

Without routine maintenance and inspections of your emergency lighting systems, you could be putting your employees and tenants at risk of serious injury—or worse.

By law, emergency lighting systems must be capable of running for a minimum of 90 minutes in the event that your building’s power goes out. It’s important to ensure that your emergency lighting system is ready and functioning when it needs to by completing monthly and annual inspections, tests, and maintenance in accordance with legal requirements.

Emergency lighting is supplied in two major methods. One is to install an emergency generator and automatic transfer switch in the building, which will power a section of lights in the event of a power outage.

Monthly

Conduct a 30-second test of your emergency lighting every month. This is also known as a “fast check,” and it ensures that the system transfers from your electrical infrastructure over to battery power and ensures that the lights function properly when in battery mode.

Annual

Testing your emergency lights annually is an excellent technique to keep the battery in good condition. The test will require fully discharging the batteries for 90 minutes and then fully recharging them, which strengthens the batteries.

Therefore, if your building’s power goes out, your system will light up and direct you to the closest escape to safety. It is critical to ensure that your systems are tested on a monthly and annual basis as part of your company’s safety protocol.

When doing your monthly 30-second test and inspection as well as verifying that the entire 90-minute test was done within the previous 12 months, ensure sufficient documentation was kept for these tests to confirm that all required testing was performed.

If your commercial property takes on fire damage, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help. We have emergency teams on deck at all times ready to take your call and begin the restoration process immediately.

Water Damage in Your Crawl Space | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews has the tools and team to help your home or business recover from any water damage.

Your crawl space is one of the most critical areas of your property as it acts as a protective layer underneath the home. When the many different elements of your crawl space are subject to conditions that allow moisture and water to enter in and overstay its welcome, problems can arise such as molding, warping of your flooring and, in the worst cases, structural foundation issues.

It’s essential as a property owner to ensure that your crawl space is protected from moisture and prevent costly, yet preventable, damage.

When your crawl space is exposed to excessive moisture it results in three major issues:

Mold and Musty Odors

Regardless of the source of moisture in your crawl space, whether it is a leaking pipe or foundation flaws that enable rain water to enter, moisture is never a desirable element in your crawl space. As the water attempts to leave, the vapor rises and can cause condensation on the floor beams and insulation just above the crawl space.

Puddles can develop on the liner if it doesn’t have a vapor barrier. In fact, this is the primary reason behind musty smells and mildew in a home.

Sagging Floors

If your crawl space is prone to flooding, the soil under and around your house may become compromised leading to sagging, or uneven, floors. It’s as if a chain reaction occurs: When the soil weakens as a result of excessive and persistent moisture, the existing floor columns sink or settle deeper into the soil, producing a gap between the top of that column and the bottom of the flooring it supports.

When a column settles and creates that gap, it naturally causes the flooring to sag as well.

Foundation Damage

Excessive moisture in your crawl space can provide the ideal environment for concrete fractures to develop, causing your foundation to move and shift. Allowing this scenario to persist increases the likelihood that your foundation, and other areas of your home, will need expensive repairs.

SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover and be protected from water damage. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ so when water damage makes a mess in your life, we’re always here to help.

Do You Need a Water Leak Detector for Your Business? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your facility, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews are your local experts who can respond immediately.

Undetected water leaks are a significant source of property damage in commercial spaces. While floods often get the majority of attention when it comes to water damage, a broken pipe or leaky roof may cause considerable water damage to all types of commercial facilities.

Detecting a leak immediately is critical, and water-detecting technology is an ever-developing tool to prevent serious damage from occurring at your business. Utilizing leak detectors in the disaster reduction strategy for your property will enable you to respond swiftly to a water leak event and, as a result, minimize water damage and save money on repairs.

You see, the longer a leak continues, the higher the risk of water damage. Makes sense, right? But many leaks in commercial spaces go unnoticed.

Water damage, especially hidden water leaks, can cause all kinds of issues to your property, including structural damage that requires significant repairs and replacement expenses. Oftentimes, water issues are a major issue, compelling workers or tenants to relocate. All that said, there is no doubt that water leaks are certain to create all kinds of disruptions to your business.

A water leak detection system alerts of a leak quickly. It’s especially helpful when when workers are not on-site or water sources are tucked in less visible regions of the facility.

Today’s commercial water leak detection systems assist you in identifying and responding to water leaks via the use of sensors that transmit warnings to designated responders on-site or off-site. It is critical to turn off the water supply immediately upon detection of a leak, regardless of whether the source has been located.

The wonderful thing about this system is that it can be programmed to shut off valves automatically, preventing serious damage to your building, especially when no one is there to turn it off. 

There are many different types of water detection systems you can consider for your facility. It might be the difference between a serious and an interruptive issue for your business.

When water damage strikes your facility, you have local, specialized experts who can respond immediately to any size issue. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help 24 hours a day and seven days a week so there is never any need to delay.

Potential Hazards After a Disaster | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to disaster relief, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews are your local restoration experts.

Taking the first look around your damaged home after a disaster such as a tornado or windstorm can be shocking. It may be wildly overwhelming to even know where to begin, on top of the emotional toll of experiencing something as devastating as these types of storms can be.

Tornadoes and other severe storms can rip through buildings, causing power outages, exposing electrical wiring and destroying structurally essential walls. It’s important to know what to do after a storm so that you do not expose yourself to dangerous hazards that can arise after the storm passes.

Let’s look at a few of these potential hazards:

Gas Leaks. As you may know, many buildings and homes have gas lines that power heat and/or electricity. When a storm hits, it can damage gas lines causing invisible leaks. If you smell gas or even suspect there could be a leak, call a professional to inspect the property before turning on any lights, smoking or anything at all that might cause a spark, leading to an explosion from the gas leak.

Carbon Dioxide Poisoning. Oftentimes, severe storms will cause power outages, leading to the use of alternative sources of fuel or electricity for heating or cooking like gasoline-powered generators. It’s vitally important that you do not use these inside your home or garage, but to keep them outdoors, as a deadly gas called carbon monoxide is released and can build up if used indoors and poison the people and animals.

Electrical Shock Hazards. If the storm has caused flooding in the home, it’s very important to call an electrician to asses the property for safety. Do not enter a home with standing water, especially if you are unsure if the electrical circuits in the home have been cut off. It’s very important not to turn on any appliances or touch any electrical items plugged into the walls if you are standing in water.

When it comes to disaster relief, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is the expert. If you have any questions at all about the safety of the property, it is not worth the risk. Call our experts today and we will safely, properly and quickly get to work assessing the damage and restoring your property.

Do You Need Commercial Cleaning Services? | SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage comes in many shapes and sizes. If you experience any loss, SERVPRO of Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to respond immediately.

Business can get a little messy sometimes. You, your employees and customers all bring in different dirt, grime, allergens and even pathogens that settles into the carpets, upholstery and other surfaces.

SERVPRO helps commercial customers with a wide variety of cleaning, construction and restoration projects. Our professionals are trained in a specialty cleaning procedures for carpets, drapery, blinds, upholstery and floors.

We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry and have the training and equipment to give your business a higher level of cleanliness that you and your customers deserve.

Carpet & Upholstery

Our professional carpet and upholstery cleaners can remove deep-seated dirt and grime to keep your carpet looking fresh and extend its lifespan. Carpets and upholstery alike can collect dust and dirt from daily traffic in your facility.

Carpets get the most use of any surface in your business, and upholstery is often the most neglected of surfaces when it comes to cleaning. You can keep your carpet and upholstery looking good for years with SERVPRO’s carpet and upholstery cleaning services.

Drapes, Blinds & Windows

Window coverings such as blinds and curtains may accumulate dust, dirt and allergens among other things. It is suggested that they be cleaned about every two years in order to keep them looking fresh.

When it comes to inspecting and cleaning fabrics, SERVPRO’s highly-trained specialists know how to identify which of the various cleaning procedures is best suited for each specific material and will work with you to identify which approach best matches your requirements.

Ceilings, Floors & Walls

One area of cleaning many business owners neglect is the ceilings, walls and floors. Because they make up the frame of every room, they get exposed to the common irritants of daily business.

Your facility’s HVAC system can also distribute these common irritants throughout the building, so maintaining these surfaces should be a part of your routine maintenance.

No matter the shape or size of the cleaning job your commercial space needs, we can handle it. Call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews today to take the burden off your shoulders and leave it to the experts.

Trust SERVPRO for Specialty Cleaning | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Mecklenburg/Matthews to get the job done.

As with nearly everything, cleaning needs vary greatly from situation to situation. There are everyday jobs, the kind you may expect to encounter—and then there are unique jobs, the kind that catch you off-guard or require unusual methods or approaches to make right.

Everybody knows (or at least we hope they do) that SERVPRO can help you when you need office cleaning or cleanup after a water damage event. But when it comes to outside-the-box situations, it pays to know we have you covered there, too.

Your local SERVPRO can take care of all your specialty cleaning needs—here are just a few.

HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning. Every few years, your duct work may need some attention. It’s not an everyday need, or even an every-year need—even the EPA says some light particle buildup in your ducts is no danger. But if you have a mold issue or critter infestation, it’s time to call us to get things cleared up before bigger issues occur.

Biohazard/Crime Scene Cleanup. Situations involving hazardous materials require special care for removal and cleaning, and these often cross over into crime scenes or traumatic situations, which means they also require a certain level of professionalism, respect and care. When you call on SERVPRO for this type of cleaning, you know you’re getting the best, most experienced crew to handle the job, and that the cleanup and restoration will be done in compliance with all requisite care and regulations.

Document and Data Restoration. Fires, floods and natural disasters are among the top causes of document and data loss for business, many of which don’t recover after a massive loss. Not to mention the fact that both home and business disasters can cause seemingly irreparable harm to precious physical documents, heirlooms and records. Your SERVPRO experts are equipped to work near-magic levels of restoration on documents and data drives of all kinds, saving your memories, and perhaps even your business, from expiration.

Odor removal. You want your place to smell its best, and we can help you restore or maintain that freshness. Whether you have a pet smell, a sewage stench or an unknown odor you want to get rid of, we’ll get right to the source to eliminate it (not merely mask it).

The list goes on—graffiti, vandalism, COVID-19 cleanup and so much more—but the bottom line is if it can get dirty, smelly or otherwise in need of cleaning, we can tackle it, no matter how unusual the situation.

When you’re ready for a world-class clean, contact the experts at SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews. One click or call is all you need to get things smelling, looking and feeling right again.

The Causes of a Flooded Basement | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Whatever the cause of water damage, we’ve got the solution. Reach out to SERVPRO of Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

Every homeowner faces the threat of water damage; it’s among the most common insurance claims for homeowners in the United States, and it can happen any number of ways, from the common (think gutters backing up) to the freak (who expected that debilitating freeze in Texas in 2021?)

But all homeowners whose homes have basements can pretty much count on one thing—at some point, your basement will take on unwanted water, or at the very least, excessive moisture. It’s a near-guarantee: 98% of homes with basements will deal with some kind of water damage during the life of the home.

Basements being inherently below or partially below ground level creates a great many opportunities for water to find its way inside, both from within and without. These include, but are certainly not limited to:

Slope problems. One of the most important things for basement owners to do is to ensure that the slope of your yard sends rain and ground water away from your home. If your gutters are pooling water up against your house, it’s a guaranteed basement issue.

Pavement seals and slope. If you have pavement bordering your home perimeter, make sure its seals are regularly checked, and replaced as needed. Water that seeps through cracked seals will surely find its way into your basement. And that same pavement may settle or be worn over time, leading to a change in direction for water that flows over it.

Downspouts. It may seem a little much aesthetically to some, but in order to keep gutter flow safely headed somewhere other than your home, your downspouts need to extend 10 feet from your home.

Overflowing gutters. Gutter overflow can be caused by several things, but the two most common would be leaves clogging your actual gutters and debris clogging your downspouts. Make sure cleaning your gutters is part of your routine maintenance as a homeowner, as any overflow from your gutters runs down to your home’s foundation, which can either cause direct damage or erode the soil next to your perimeter, leading to likely damage down the line.

Hydrostatic pressure. This is less in your control than any other issue, but it can cause problems all the same. Pressure from the ground and groundwater can cause your home to—don’t freak out—essentially float in groundwater, which can then find its way into any little nook and cranny in your basement.

Regardless of the cause of your basement damage, we’ve got the solutions for getting it made right. Contact SERVPRO today to get the best team in the industry on your side.

Fire Extinguisher Basics | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

If fire breaks out, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews has the tools and experience to repair, restore and recover your property.

Most of us are familiar with the look and concept of a fire extinguisher. We know the image of the big red canister with the black hose, with a metallic grip and handle on top. We saw them at school behind the near-sacred glass, and now we see them at work or in hospitals.

We’re well-acquainted with the idea—but how many of us have ever held one or discharged one? If a fire started right now, would you know what to do with a fire extinguisher?

Let’s look at some basics you need to know as it regards our little red flame-retardant friends.

Preventing Water Damage While You’re Away from Home | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage happens while you are away we can get you in the dry again. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to get started.

Ahh, what a relaxing vacation. Wasn’t it great? You got to go to that special, sentimental place with those people you love, you experienced that thing you always hoped as a kid you’d get to do, and you got fully recharged after a long, weird year. You even did that one thing you were afraid to try, but you ended up loving it—congratulations!

After the perfect trip away from home, the last thing you want to find is that while you were gone your home experienced a dreadful water event. In only a couple days’ time, literal tons of water can gush through your home, ruining treasured personal belongings, materials, floors and even foundations.

The truth is that your home much more likely to suffer a water emergency while you’re away than a fire or burglary, and yet fewer than 20% of homeowners consider the need to mitigate potential damage before leaving home.

So let’s look at a few things you should be doing on your way out the door to prevent a soggy end to an otherwise great trip.

Turn off your water main. This is the most sure-fire way to mitigate damage. Even if a pipe or hose suddenly fails while you’re gone, it can only leak so much water without being fed more from the main supply line. This step alone can save multiple thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Your water main is likely located on the lowest floor of your home, directly in line with the street side shutoff valve used by your local municipality.

Examine your sump pump. Your sump pump, if installed, collects groundwater and drains it away from your house. This can help your home stay dry in heavy storms and area flooding. To check that it’s working properly, dump a bucket of water into the sump pit and listen for the pump to begin working. A battery backup can also ensure your pump keeps working even it electricity fails while you’re gone.

Freeze-proof your toilets. If you’re traveling for winter, you can’t prevent all possible frozen pipes, but you can do something to keep your toilet water from freezing and cracking the porcelain. Step one is to turn off the water supply to the toilets and then flush them. Then pour marine antifreeze (the non-toxic kind for boats) into the remaining water in the bowl, and it will keep it from freezing while you’re gone.

Lastly, you can adjust your water heater, either by lowering the temperature several degrees or switching it to vacation mode if your heater has that option. Turning your heater off completely is not recommended.

If water damage happens while you’re on vacation, we can get you in the dry again. Contact SERVPRO to get started.

That’s Not Hail, It’s…Graupel? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

If storms or precipitation cause damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

There are many forms of precipitation, and we’re likely to see them all over the course of a Matthews winter—all but one, that is.

Have you ever noticed that it doesn’t hail in winter, or thought about why it doesn’t hail in winter? Of course you have; you’re very inquisitive, and that’s why we love you.

So we’re going to make your day today, by helping you differentiate the different types of precipitation you’re likely to experience over the next few months in Mecklenburg County, including one that sometimes masquerades as hail.

Rain. If you’re not able to define this one by now, we need to start over. Rain forms when water vapor condenses as part of the global water cycle, which consists of condensation, precipitation and evaporation. The drops get too heavy to be held in the clouds, and they fall to the earth in the form of raindrops.

Freezing rain. Freezing rain appears to us to be rain that freezes once it hits the ground, but it’s actually melted snow that refreezes when it hits the ground. Snow crystals descending from clouds encounter warmer, moist air and melt. When they hit the cold ground, they freeze again and create a thin layer of ice if enough drops fall.

Sleet. Sleet has the same origin story as freezing rain, in that it begins as a snowflake and descends through a moist, warm layer of air. But thinner layers of moist air cause snowflakes to melt incompletely, and they becomes small ice pellets instead of raindrops. These pellets are what we know as sleet, and they, too, form a potentially dangerous layer of ice when they hit the ground.

Graupel. Sometimes called soft hail, corn snow, snow pellets, this frozen precipitation is rarely mentioned, but often mistaken for hail. It forms when very cold water droplets come in contact with falling snowflakes and combine into tiny balls of ice that vary in size up to about 0.2 inches—this process is called riming and it creates a unique precipitation that is hard enough to be ice, but soft enough that it typically disintegrates when touched.

Graupel pellets never reach a size that could classify them as hailstones, and their formation is different. Hail forms because of low pressure rising from the earth’s surface, which doesn’t happen in winter.

So now you know—you may see several kinds of frozen or freezing precipitation this winter, but hail won’t be one of them. Regardless of what type you encounter, be sure to be very cautious if driving or walking during a winter weather event, especially if weather becomes severe.

If storms or precipitation cause damage do your home or business in East Mecklenburg County, you’ve got a team nearby who’s ready to help. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can assist you.

Commercial Solutions for Businesses Struck By Disaster | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is the industry leader in cleanup and recovery. Contact us for any restoration needs.

It’s hard enough running a business on a perfectly normal day. As a manager or owner, you have things on every side, vying for your attention mentally, physically and financially—and keeping those things under control is enough to push anyone to any number of limits.

So it stand to reason that when a disaster or unexpected disruption takes place, you’re going to need some help; that’s where we come in.

SERVPRO is the industry leader in cleanup, recovery and restoration for businesses of all kinds, from mom and pop corner shops to malls, casinos and athletic venues. And while your focus is your product and customer experience, ours is getting you back on track after any kind of disaster.

Let us help you deal with damage from…

Fire and smoke. Businesses are victimized by over 100,000 fires per year, to the tune of over $2 billion in losses. We can deal with the rebuilding, restoring and reopening of your space, right down to the removal of smoke odor.

Water damage. Pipes burst, toilets overflow and unexpected issues render carpets soaked, drywall ruined and sometimes even structural integrity damaged. Whatever the cause and whatever the result, we can get you in the dry again.

Storms and natural disasters. As many as one in three small business owners are impacted by natural disasters, and many businesses are unprepared. You can change that by setting up a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, setting you up for a fast response and recovery to get you back on track after a tornado, flood or other weather event.

Mold. Realizing toxic mold has set up shop in your workspace is realizing that your workforce and customer base are at risk. Cleaning it won’t work, nor will painting over it; mold outbreaks need complete remediation under the care of a professional team. Fortunately for you, there’s an expert SERVPRO team right here in Mecklenburg County fit to handle it.

Whatever the disaster type or size, we can aid you in your recovery, so you can get back to business faster. Just reading this article means that you’re halfway there—now take the next step and set up your Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO today.

When you’re ready to get the industry leader in cleanup and recovery on your side, contact SERVPRO. Whether you need help preparing or recovering from a disaster, we’re here to help.

Choose SERVPRO to Get You Back in the Dry | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

We’ve got the experience and tools to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

Water damage is one of the likeliest issues you’ll have to deal with as a homeowner, statistically speaking. Almost a quarter of all homeowners insurance claims involve water damage, and water damage affects approximately 2% of all homeowners in the United States each year.

That may not sound like much on its face, but when you consider there are over 79 million owner-occupied homes in the U.S. (not to mention rental properties, etc.), that number starts to feel a little more threatening.

The odds are good you’ll come up against some form of water damage in your life as a homeowner, whether from a burst pipe or damaged water heater or something more ominous like a flood or natural disaster. If that time should come, we want you to know that you can trust SERVPRO to bring you through it and restore your home. When you call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews, you can expect:

Fast, local service. Your crisis is our crisis, so when you’ve got an emergency, you’ll find a team right here in the neighborhood waiting to help. We’re available 24 hours a day for emergency service, and we don’t simply say we’re “Faster to Any Size Disaster,” we back it up with every single call.

Top-notch care. The award-winning service of SERVPRO is a testament to the kind of care we provide for home and business owners nationwide, and it’s one of the reasons we’ve become the industry leader for restoration and recovery. When you call on us in a moment of emergency, you know you’ll be receiving the best care from the best team in the business.

Restoration as the first option. We have a restoration-first mindset when it comes to water damage, which means we want to help you keep as much of your original stuff as possible. Whether it’s carpet, furniture, clothing or even documents, we’ve developed methods for thoroughly and completely restoring many of the things that matter most to you. We’ll only replace what’s absolutely necessary, and you get to keep the assets and accessories you wanted in the first place.

When water damage hits home, we’re here to help. Contact your local SERVPRO team to see how we can help you get through a wet situation.

How Do Thunderstorms Form? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

If thunderstorms should bring water or damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is your local expert in restoration

We experience thunderstorms regularly in the greater Charlotte area, and we know that they are a common (sometimes all too common) weather event. We might even look up into the sky or notice a drop in temperature and become aware of the impending possibility of a storm.

We often focus on the result of storms—flooding, heavy rains and water damage—but have you ever thought about what’s going in the atmosphere to actually cause one of nature’s most common weather exceptions? What are the atmospheric pieces that have to be in place to cause one?

Without getting too deep in the science, let’s take a look at the formation of thunderstorms.

How Storms Form

Ordinary thunderstorms, also called single cell storms, form when moist, warm air just above the earth’s surface rises into cold air in the atmosphere above. This causes the warm, rising air to cool, and when it does the moisture (or vapor) already present in the water condenses (shrinks and gathers in the air) and forms small water droplets.

The heavier cool air then lowers into the lower atmosphere, where it warms, rises, condenses and falls again. This continues to happen in a repetitive cycle called a convection cell, which eventually becomes a cloud.

When larger amounts of air and moisture collide, a larger convection cell can form and create a thunderstorm.

3 Stages of a Storm

Most storms form in a pattern of three stages:

The Cumulus Stage, described above as the formation of the formation of the convection cell. The warm air meets the cold air, and condensation begins.

The Mature Stage, where the cloud turns grey as more moisture condenses, and the condensed droplets become too heavy to rise anymore. They begin to fall, and we have ourselves a thunderstorm. The air moving within the clouds here also builds up an electric charge, and this (in a very simplified way) is why we get lightning.

The Dissipating Stage, in which cool, dry air that has been pulling rain down toward the ground (aka a downdraft) becomes stronger than the updraft of warm air, stopping the ability of droplets to form in the cloud. The cloud disappears from the bottom up, the sky clears and the storm is over.

There are lots more interesting details and several different types of storms, but we’ll let you search those out on your own for now. For now, remember:

*If thunderstorms should bring water or lightning damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is your expert friend in the restoration industry. Let us help you when disaster strikes.*

Preventing Kitchen Fires at Work | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire should get out of hand and cause damage to your business, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help

Offices in Matthews and Mint Hill are full of hungry people, just like anywhere else. When lunch or break time comes, the office kitchen gets busy—food gets reheated or cooked, leftovers and Lunchables are served and somebody always pretends they didn’t know you’re not supposed to microwave fish.

But kitchens in the workplace are a leading cause of commercial fires. In fact, the average number of office, hotel and restaurant fires started in the kitchen is a whopping 47%.

So aside from educating your team on workplace kitchen fire safety by showing them that one episode of The Office, what can you do and encourage to keep your workplace kitchen from becoming part of that unfortunate statistic?

Know your risks. This can vary from one workplace to another, but you should always be aware of environmental factors or specific things about your building that could come into play. Older buildings almost always have things like older wiring or less reliable sprinkler systems, which may need updating or regulation.

Check appliance cords. Faulty power cables are an easy cause of kitchen fires. Cables can fray or break down over time, exposing wire that can instantly cause a fire if an electrical short occurs. Don’t bother with electrical tape—if wire is exposed or cables are bent at sharp angles, replace them and prevent disaster.

Pay attention in the kitchen. Food should never be left alone while it’s cooking. Stovetops, microwaves and even toasters carry inherent fire risks and should always be used with caution in the workplace. And with any sign at all of burning, enact emergency measures.

Ensure proper cleaning. This isn’t fun by anyone’s definition, but it’s vital in keeping fires under control. Bits of food left behind in the microwave or grease on the stove can start blazes that can quickly grow into something devastating. So put regular cleanings on the calendar, and make sure any spillovers in ovens, stovetops or microwaves are dealt with in between.

Have regular fire extinguisher training. They seem simple, but many people may not know how to properly use handheld fire extinguishers. Teach employees the PASS method: Pull the pin; Aim low, at the base of the fire; Squeeze the lever firmly; and Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Kitchen fires don’t have to be a danger. The old saying holds true: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So make sure you’re following the recommended guidelines to minimize fire accidents in your building’s kitchen.

If a fire should get out of hand and cause damage to your business, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help. Call or click today to get in touch with your local technicians.

Residential Cleaning Services | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Let’s be honest. Clean ducts aren’t necessarily at the top of our day-to-day priority list, but it’s important!

Let’s be honest. Clean ducts aren’t necessarily at the top of our day-to-day priority list, but it’s important!

The phrase “duct cleaning” usually refers to cleaning heating and cooling systems such as an air conditioning unit (HVAC) or ventilation. If these pieces of equipment are not properly installed or maintained, their parts can collect dust or pollen. If this occurs in a humid or moist environment, this material can be released into parts of the home. Breathing this in can cause health effects. Essentially, failing to maintain your ducts can lead to poor air quality in the home.

Don’t let that happen to you! Call SERVPRO® of Prattville for a duct cleaning.

Why SERVPRO?

1. Our technicians have the skillset needed to give your home the detailed cleaning that it needs to look its best.
2. We have the equipment and training needed to eliminate offensive odors from your home.
3. An HVAC cleaning can help reduce the potential for mold growth.

If you need our services, you can depend on us. You can contact us at any hour of the day to learn more about our services or to report damages.

Recovering at Your Business After a Disaster Strikes | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

If your business is hit by a disaster, Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews. We are here to guide you through the process.

Careful planning and strategizing is a key part of being a business owner, both for all of your everyday business decisions and when it comes to emergencies. Disasters devastate businesses every single year, leaving many business owners confused and unsure of how and if they will be able to reopen. Through careful planning, you can mitigate quite a bit of this uncertainty.

When you are considering how a disaster could impact your business, the first thing to be aware of is safety. Plan ahead to make sure you and your staff will be safe when a dangerous situation arises, and then consider how you will recover if there is damage to your building. Your restoration provider, your insurance company and your customers will all want to keep in touch, and you will have many resources available to you from organizations for financial assistance.

Ensuring Your Business Can Recover From a Disaster

Make contact with your insurance and restoration providers. No two commercial insurance policies are the same, so getting in touch with your insurance provider quickly after damage occurs is recommended. The process of filing a claim will vary, but once you get the details settled with your insurance company, you should reach out to your restoration provider as quickly as you are able so they can begin working on the damages.

Give customers updates on your status. Because of social media, it is easier than ever to keep in touch with your customers in real-time—and after a disaster, you absolutely should. Consider providing updates on your reopening timeline and any options customers have for supporting you while you work to recover (i.e. purchasing gift cards, making online orders, etc.).

Consider all your options for assistance. While a disaster is always a difficult thing to endure, business owners do have plenty of resources available for recovery through the Small Business Administration. Their disaster loan program is quite possibly the biggest help, as it is easy to qualify for, offers flexible repayment solutions and provides financial assistance for a variety of post-disaster expenses incurred.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

East Mecklenburg/Matthews Business Owners Can Count on Us During the Pandemic and Beyond | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

Did you know that we’re a locally owned and operated business?

That means we’re members of the Montgomery community, too. Our team is here to help business owners when they need us. We’re invested in helping our community thrive.

We understand that it takes planning, research and hard work to get your business going. And there’s even more to be done as your business opens and starts to grow.

But not every situation or circumstance can be controlled. For example, the global COVID-19 pandemic has changed how most of us interact with clients, add value and meet our customers’ needs.

Many businesses have already opened their doors again, and others have found new ways to work remotely or offer products and services digitally. Regardless of how you and your employees have decided to move forward, there’s help out there for you.

Tips to Help You Keep Working During the Pandemic

The good news is that many people (not just your loyal customers) are invested in helping you succeed. You can find great tools including more information about business loans and tips, advice, and more from sources you can trust.

Taking all the precautions you can to see that your business is clean and safe is important, too. That’s where we can help you.

We can help you get your space “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” What does that mean? We’ll explain it to you.

It starts when we consult with you. We’ll use what we learn to create an individualized plan for your business.

Next, our experts will clean your space. They’ll use a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers to come back. Our teams work with proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

Finally, we’ll certify your space. And you can open your business with confidence.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

Why Does My Smoke Alarm Go Off at Random Times? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fire safety is of utmost importance, especially in the home. You know this, of course—nobody wants to see their home damaged or destroyed by a destructive blaze.

That’s why the proliferation of smoke detectors and home fire alarms in the last  a game changer. alarms are getting smarter,And whihalf-century has been suchle yes, smoke alarms are getting smarter, and we have more ways to interact with them, they may still periodically produce a false alarm in the night, waking you from that dream you love so much—you know the one.

So what causes these false, “nuisance” alarms?

Traditional alarms have several causes of false triggers, from the organic to the electrical.

Several of these involve the sensor being covered by one thing or another. Dust from drywall, construction or seasonal use of the furnace can cover the sensor and trigger an alarm—even insects can get into the sensor chamber and cause an alert.

Power interruptions or loose electrical connections can also send your smoke alarm into temporary emergency mode, as can applying a large electrical load to the circuit in which the alarm resides (that’s why the alarm goes off while you vacuum or dry your hair).

Finally, poor location can trigger alarms—if your alarm is too near a bathroom, a cold air return or heat-producing appliances like ovens and furnaces, it may occasionally cry wolf because of humidity or combustion particles.

The bottom line of all this is that, while you may occasionally experience a false or nuisance alarm at your home, the benefit of knowing you have a singularly focused technology working for you at all times to prevent fire loss far outweighs the annoyance of an infrequent beep in the night.

Maintain your fire and smoke alarms, upgrade to newer technology, keep the batteries fresh and rest easy at night—most nights, anyway.

At SERVPRO, we know not every disaster can be avoided, even with the best preparation or technology. Call or click whenever you need us.

Odor Removal after Fire Damage | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can leave behind an awful smell that affects your belongings. Click here to learn the best practices to avoid fire damage.

One of the most troubling side effects of fire damage is the smoky odor it leaves behind. Why does smoke seem to stick to everything it touches? Smoke particles are tiny and can easily embed into porous materials like carpets, furniture, fabrics, books, and even paint which are, unfortunately, very common to our homes. Furthermore, certain materials, like plastics, that burned in the fire can make removing the smell even tougher. With that said, it’s best to leave fire, smoke, and soot restoration to the professionals!

After you’ve called us and before you leave the home, please be aware of how much you’re moving around the house. Try to limit your movements because with each step or touch you can further embed soot particles into upholstery and carpets. This means that even though it might be instinctive to throw sooty towels into the washer or start washing your walls, you shouldn’t!

At SERVPRO® of Mecklenburg/Matthews, we have technicians who have the training, equipment, and several odor removal products to identify and efficiently eliminate these odors. Our technicians can identify not only the cause of the odor, but the conditions when smoke or a fire touched the surfaces of your belongings. This knowledge enables them to often remove the odor over time without a trace.

Successfully removing offensive odors can be a challenging task, so give us a call, and leave the job to us! We’ll take care of you.

If your home or business needs fire, smoke, or soot restoration or any of our services, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with our team regarding our services.

You Can Do More Than You Think to Protect Your East Mecklenburg/Matthews Home from Water Damage | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO® of East Macklenburg and Matthews today.

Here’s a fact you might not know: One out of every 50 American homeowners will have to file a water damage claim next year.

That means if you need water damage help, you won’t be alone. Given the numbers, someone in your circle of friends, family members and coworkers will likely have to file a claim, too.

But have you thought about the things that can cause water damage? Storms, flash flooding and major appliance malfunctions are usually at the top of that list. But other things can cause water damage—namely heavy rains.

You can take basic precautions to lower your water damage risk. Thoughtful planning can actually go a long way toward protecting your home. Plus, most of the things you can do to protect your home are simple.

Cut Your Risk for Rain Damage

We see many water-damaged homes, so our team has in-depth knowledge of some of the ways water can damage a home. That means we can offer tips that can help you avoid it, too.

Here are some things experts recommend:

Understand the way your yard drains. Knowing how your yard drains around your home is key to protecting your home. If the water in your yard drains toward your home, then it’s time to chat with a landscaping expert. They can help you find ways to protect your yard.

Use native plants. The flowers and shrubs you choose can do more for your home than add to the curb appeal. Landscaping can help protect your home from water damage, especially if you choose native plants. Talk to a local expert about native plants or visit a native plant sale.

Explore sealing your roof. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles, which can be prevented with this step. It’s definitely worth considering.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

East Mecklenburg/Matthews Residents Can Get Quality Restoration Help Now | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews for your restoration needs. We will work with you to get things back to normal quickly.

Here’s a question for homeowners to think about. When you’re putting together your yearly budget, do you consider putting money aside in case a natural (or accidental) disaster strikes your home?

It’s a hard question. And it’s also one no one likes to think about answering. But it’s something you do need to think about because home damage is more common than you probably think.

Millions of Homeowners Every Year File Claims

The Insurance Information Institute has pulled together a lot of statistics that show just how common homeowner damage is.

For example, about one out of every 350 American homeowners will deal with a fire damage claim each year. Water damage claims will be filed by about one in 50 homeowners.

That translates to millions of American homeowners. Some of these homeowners will need to seek help from restoration professionals to restore their homes.

Overall, one in 20 homeowners will file a damage claim this year. That means if you know 60 people (through work, worship services or other community events), three of them might need restoration help this year.

So having a quality restoration team in mind now can make a difference for you or someone you love later.

Our Teams Have the Training You Need

We provide a high level of service in a few ways. They include our local availability, our ²⁴⁄₇ staffing, and the quality of technicians and equipment we offer. But its our highly trained expert technicians that set us apart.

Beyond the training offered by SERVPRO at a national level, our technicians earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides an array of certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians are able to use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.

And when you choose your local SERVPRO, these restoration experts will take the knowledge they’ve gained through our intensive training programs and use it to restore your home.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time. We are ready to help!

Indicators of Water Damage in Your Basement | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg and Matthews is a full restoration company. Our experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best course of ac

A basement is a versatile, utilitarian space for many homes. You can get creative and finish it up for extra living space or a mother-in-law apartment, you can turn it into a man cave or a she-shed or you can use it to store those old trophies from high school you just can’t bear to get rid of.

However basements come with a built-in risk, namely the risk of water damage. This is due to the fact that they are built into the ground and thus surrounded by moisture at all times. Even the healthiest home is prone to intake some of that moisture at some point.

While it’s not a guarantee that you’ll come up against this problem, it’s certainly more likely than not, and you should know what to look for regarding basement water damage. Below, we will look at some of the signs that water damage is present in your basement—should you realize you need further action, we’re right here to assist anytime.

What to Look for to Assess Water Damage

Unpleasant, musky odors. The water that gets into the basement could very well be clean water, but give it a little time to marinate and seep into the carpet, and it will begin to give off the familiar eau de basement. Many people assume this is just how basements smell, but that’s not the case. This smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment, a sure indicator that your basement is damp. Even if you can’t see mold yet, your nose is trying to tell you to find where water is coming in.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Yes, the paint can may say that it’s waterproof, but what that really means is that it will hold off the signs of a water leak longer than regular paint, but it will eventually give way, revealing an even bigger, built-up problem. If you’ve got bubbles and cracks, you’ve got a water issue.

Foundational cracks. Water damage over time can cause a fault line to form in your foundation. Cracks can show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, and they often indicate that uneven pressure is being applied to your home’s structure, possibly due to a cracked foundation. Hairline cracks are no big worry, but if they become larger, they should be examined immediately.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

The Physical and Financial Impact of Water Damage From Hurricanes | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

The impact of a hurricane is a serious event. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews are here to help with any cleanup and restoration.

Hurricanes are damaging in myriad ways. A storm of that size can dump 10 to 15 inches of rain in the area it impacts, causing devastating water damage to a swath of soaked business and homes in its wake.

We often see news coverage of physical damage, displaced families and sometimes sadly we even get reports of injuries and casualties. But when the news coverage ends, the reality of a future full of instability remains, and much of the lasting damage from a massive weather event is felt in the area of financial recovery from water damage.

Water Damage and Its Financial Impact Locally

The frequency of extreme weather events is taking its toll on many areas and industries across the nation, and North Carolina is no exception.

In fact, North Carolina has suffered the damages of 20 different hurricane disasters in the last 30 years with a financial impact that has amounted to at least a billion dollars each.

The greater Charlotte and Mecklenburg area alone has felt the effects of officially recorded hurricanes or tropical storms an average of every six years over the last century, with the latest as of this writing being 2020’s Tropical Depression Bertha, with a windspeed of almost 30 miles per hour and a diameter nearing 35 miles.

Financial Impact of Hurricane Water Damage Nationally

In 2018 and 2019, there were 28 climate and weather disasters with financial losses exceeding $1 billion (among them Hurricane Florence in North Carolina). This falls in line with the average from 2015–2019, which is 13.8 disasters of this same type and minimum impact annually, with an incredible $136 billion in damages.

Hurricanes alone accounted for over half a trillion dollars in damages between 1986 and 2015. Being a coastal state puts North Carolina in harm’s path often, relative to other states, so it’s imperative to take each hurricane season with the utmost care, and do what you can to maximize preparedness, in order to minimize financial, structural and personal losses.

Add to the financial losses the fact that floodwater carries waste and pesticides which can cause illness, and that it promotes the growth of mold and mildew, and you’ve got an incredible amount of risk from water damage in such massive storms.

If your home or business should sustain water damage from storms or floods, SERVPRO has local technicians on standby 24 hours a day for emergencies, and we’ll be on hand to make sure your restoration needs are taken care of. Click or call today to be find out how we can help when disaster strikes.

What to Do After the Storm When Your Home Is Damaged | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

The storm season is gearing up. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews are on call and ready to help you though any disaster.

It’s hard to think about your home being damaged by severe weather, but it happens to millions of Americans every year.

In places like Matthews, where strong spring and summer thunderstorms and tornadoes are always a risk, you need to know the first steps to take if your home suffers storm damage.

This type of damage isn’t always preventable, but there are things you can do afterward to make the recovery process easier for you and your family.

Our team members have years of experience dealing with storm damage and restoration, so we know the things homeowners can do to make the process easier.

Do This If Your Home Is Damaged During a Storm

Learn the steps you should take if your home is damaged by a storm now so that you can be prepared later if you ever need the information.

If you have natural gas, turn it off. This step is important because damaged natural gas lines and gas leaks are hazardous. You can potentially lessen the damage to your home, property and the surrounding areas by turning off your natural gas if your home is damaged.

If you can, open your windows and start running fans. This will help stop water damage from worsening during the cleanup process.

Use caution and follow emergency guidelines. Be sure you’re careful if you’re cleaning up the damage, and don’t enter areas the authorities have asked people to stay away from. Even if your home is damaged, you and your family must stay safe.

Document the damage. This is the type of information your insurance company will need to help you file a claim.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

How Our Cleaning Technology Makes a Difference for Your Business | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/ Matthews

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Our cleaning technology can help put business concerns at ease. If you need a deep cleaning contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

Operating a business during a pandemic is a challenge. And it’s one that business owners here in Matthews are meeting with resilience.

Because we want to be a resource and support for business owners during this unprecedented time, we’ve pulled together tools and information you can use to keep your doors open.

Pandemic Resources You Can Use

The Mecklenburg County government has helpful resources for business owners and other residents to track the prevalence of COVID-19 in our county. You can find the latest information about Mecklenburg County here.

Business owners can also get information they can trust from the Small Business Administration. Their website includes information that can also help you deal with added pandemic stress. The SBA recommends setting realistic goals for the pandemic, among other things.

And of course, you want to know who to turn to if your in-person business needs a deep-cleaning after any type of exposure. Here in Matthews, you can call on SERVPRO for that help.

We have advanced technology that can be used to ensure your business is clean and ready for customers. Our technicians use an electrostatic sprayer.

How Our Electrostatic Sprayer Works

You may not have heard of an electrostatic sprayer or understand why having this powerful technology in our arsenal makes a difference. Let’s take a closer look at how it works.

Our sprayer charges the disinfectant we use with a positive charge. That allows the particles to make a 360-degree coating on objects. So we can use less product and still get a powerful result.

Additionally, our sprayer allows us to provide touchless disinfection services. That means you can rest assured nothing else is introduced into your business while we’re cleaning the space.

We’re here to help you at any time if your business needs powerful touchless disinfection services. We’re here early mornings, nights and weekends if you need us. Don’t wait to call.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

Be Prepared for Flash Flood Risks | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Spring can bring heavy rain. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews if you encounter any water damage from excess rain.

What would you say if you had to guess what the most common natural disaster that hits the Mecklenburg County area is?

According to local government sources, the answer is flash flooding. That means you’re more likely to deal with flash flooding damage than from severe thunderstorms or tornadoes.

The spring and summer bring storms, thunderstorms, and heavy rains to our community. That means these seasons also can bring flash flooding. We can’t do a lot to prevent a flash flood from hitting our area. But there’s plenty we can do to prepare for a flash flood.

How to Get Your Home and Family Ready

One of the best things you can do for your home and family is to take the right steps to prepare for a natural disaster.

Understand your risk. Knowing what your home’s risk for flooding is will help you stay safer and help you prepare. Know your home’s unique flood risks and how you can better fortify your home.

Have an emergency kit ready. This tip is great for anyone preparing for a disaster. It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit stocked with medicines, first aid items, bottled water and packaged foods that stay fresh ready. You’ll also want batteries, a flashlight, important documents, and extra cords and chargers for your electronics.

Know what to do when a flood hits. Don’t drive through standing or moving water. Tune in to local radio and TV stations and listen to local authorities for updates about shelters and evacuation routes.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

What to Do After a House Fire Caused By a Lightning Strike | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Any damage to your home is heart-wrenching. If you experience any storm damage, contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

On average, a fire department responds to a house fire in the United States every 93 seconds. The National Weather Service reports that lightning is responsible for starting about 4,400 house fires each year, resulting in an estimated $283 million in damages.

In the instance that a fire does happen to your home because of a thunderstorm, we wanted to share some tips of what to do in the aftermath.

File an Insurance Claim

First things first, contact your insurance company and file a claim. Just like any other unfortunate occurrence that would happen to your home, you need to take photos or videos to share with the insurance company. In a fire instance, this helps the adjusters decide whether to send a restoration vendor or an investigator.

Document Damage

House fires not only damage and demolish things, but the fire is followed by water to put the fire out, meaning that you could be dealing with losses due to both fire and water. You’ll have to make a list of the items that are damaged or completely gone. If you don’t have photographs, look for receipts to prove you actually owned these items.

Secure Your Property

Just because the fire is out, doesn’t mean that it’s safe to stay in your home. If you’re not able to stay in your home, you will need to board up, lock and move things so that nothing more gets vandalized, stolen or destroyed.

Keep Track

If you’re forced to leave your home, you are likely to incur some substantial expenses. Make sure you keep up with everything you are having to purchase. These can range from expenses like accommodations to clothing and food. Get a folder or a binder and keep everything in there so it’s easy to keep up with.

Fire damage caused by a lightning strike will require professional cleanup. We have highly trained fire and water restoration specialists, and we are available ²⁴⁄₇. After everything you have been through, let us do the work for you.

Business Owners Have a Reliable Cleaning Resource | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

When you own a business, you definitely perform a juggling act.

Business owners often find themselves performing multiple roles throughout the day. One day, you may be doing inventory or taking orders. On another, you might be interviewing potential new employees or working on budgets.

Regardless, it’s enough to keep you busy. And you likely don’t need extra to-dos.

That’s where a trusted commercial cleaning resource can make a difference. Especially during a pandemic, it’s good to know that the spaces you trust are ready and prepared for you to use safely.

There are lots of good reasons to hire a commercial cleaning service. They include feeling confident that it’s thorough and keeping your work environment healthy. Additionally, in some cases, it may release you from some liabilities.

Plus, it can save you valuable time that can be used to grow your business. You can take the time you would’ve spent cleaning or supervising a cleaning staff and put it to better use elsewhere.

Regardless of why you want to choose a commercial cleaning service, it’s a good idea to go with a trusted community resource.

Your local SERVPRO team is ready to help you. Our technicians are prepared to do a thorough deep-cleaning of your office space. When you work with us, you’ll know the certified team is ready to help and support you.

We also have advanced disinfecting technology, like our electrostatic sprayer. This device allows us to clean your business efficiently, without touching surfaces, and to deliver a high level of disinfectant.

So call us if you need commercial cleaning. Our team is ready to talk with you about your needs and can help you with an individualized plan. We’re here to be a resource for you!

If you need cleaning help, we’re here. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our services and how we can help you with an individualized plan and leading technology.

Building a Solid Evacuation Plan for Your Mint Hill Business l SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some helpful tips we’ve put together to help you build a solid emergency plan. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews to learn more.

Every business needs an evacuation plan in case of a fire or another disaster. In many cases, OSHA requires it and even publishes their own standards to check your emergency plans against.

Plus, it’s a good way to ensure both your employees and your customers are safe if something unexpected happens. (And, considering everything that happened in 2020 with the COVID-19 pandemic, planning for the unexpected now certainly seems wise.)

We’ve put together some tips to help you build a solid evacuation and emergency plan if your business should need it. We’ve worked in the disaster restoration and recovery business for years, so our team understands how these processes can work.

Things to Consider

We use the term “emergency” or “evacuation” plan, but it should be more than one plan in reality. Here’s why:

Some disasters require you to shelter in place. In the event of a fire, of course, you’ll want to have the routes out of the building posted and employees trained to help with the process. But in other cases, sheltering in place is the right call. That usually is the best option if a severe storm or tornado has been spotted in the area. So, you’ll want to have a plan in mind that covers all types of disaster scenarios.

Your employees’ roles can change. You’ll want to talk with your employees about head counts, evacuation routes and their role in leading people out. You may also want to establish a set meeting place to ensure that everyone you know is in the building has gotten out. Or if they haven’t, how many people first responders should be looking for inside the building.

Some special equipment may be required. Depending on your business and the type of disaster you’re dealing with, respirators and other equipment may be required.

If your business is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Matthews Business Owners and Their Customers Can Count On Us to Use the Latest Technology l SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Your local SERVPRO team proudly offers complete cleaning service. Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews and take advantage of our new cleaning

Businesses in the Matthews area and across the country are looking for new ways to ensure their locations are safe during these unprecedented times.

Your local SERVPRO team proudly offers a service that the Environmental Protection Agency has found effective for use against COVID-19 and other viruses.

Our commercial cleaning clients can take advantage of our new electrostatic sprayer. This powerful technology offers a new way to disinfect surfaces.

How the Electrostatic Sprayer Works

Our spraying system charges disinfectants with a positive charge, giving them the ability to cover anything in a 360-degree radius. The charged particles have a wrapping effect, allowing them to coat everything in a close radius in the disinfectant.

The model we use is a cordless backpack sprayer. It’s designed to allow our highly trained technicians to use a minimal amount of product with maximum effectiveness for their treating surfaces.

Because it’s a sprayer system, the technicians can do all of this without touching a surface, making the entire cleaning process safer for everyone involved.

Bringing Technology to You

This leading-edge sprayer system is just one of the options we have for local businesses requiring commercial cleaning services. We are always seeking new ways to better serve and assist other business owners in our area.

Because we’re a locally owned business, we are members of the community. We’re here to contribute and help other local business owners succeed, even during these unprecedented times.

If you want to learn more about how our electrostatic sprayer can help your business, we’re here to answer them for you. We can also talk with you more about our commercial cleaning options and other services. Contact us at any time to learn more about how we can help your business or family.

Can I Claim Water Damage on My Homeowners Insurance? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

If there has been any heavy rain or flooding in our area, contact us right away. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews are your water restoration exper

For many homeowners, sustaining water damage is a confusing and convoluted process, and dealing with the aftermath can feel like quite a chore. While there is no discounting this, being aware of your options in regard to water damage and understanding how to begin to rebuild can go a long way in mitigating the overall damage.

Experiencing water damage can be quite costly, so if you are able to claim it on your insurance, it can make the recovery process much easier.

Planning for a hypothetical sounds like a difficult process, but having a plan is the only sure way to make your restoration process easier. Because one out of every 50 homes will sustain water damage in a given year, it is best to know what to do in case it happens to you—including what scenarios might be eligible for an insurance claim to recoup some of the damages that occur.

When Will Water Damage Be Covered by Insurance?

In some scenarios, water damage will be eligible to be claimed on your insurance policy, while in others, it will not. The types of water damage that are typically covered by homeowners insurance are:

• Water damage that is sudden and internal
• Water damage from rain or snow
• Burst or leaking pipes, including faulty plumbing
• Appliance overflow
• Leaking of the roof
• Mold damage that is a result of water damage

What Types of Water Damage Are Not Covered by Standard Insurance?

While the above types of damage are typically covered, there are many more possible scenarios that are not. Some of the situations that will typically not be included by standard insurance include:

• Weather-related flooding
• Sewage or water pipe backups
• Water damage issues related to negligence

Fortunately, if flooding is a concern in your area, you can purchase additional flood insurance for your home to ensure you are covered if a flood does occur.

Additionally, this list involves typical coverages, but your own insurance coverage may vary, so it is wise to check with your provider if you are concerned with your coverage.

If you experience water damage, we are here to help from start to finish—including working with your insurance company if applicable. You can contact us at any hour to start the restoration process.

Should I Be Concerned With Severe Weather? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged due to a storm, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is here to help. We will get the job done right, contact us today.

There are plenty of things to be concerned with on a daily basis, and for many people, planning for severe weather ends up pushed to the sidelines. Though severe weather can feel like a more abstract concern than a literal one, it is still extremely dangerous.

Responsible for many injuries and fatalities each year, severe weather can cause serious issues—especially for those who have not taken the time to prepare.

Why Should I Be Concerned With Severe Weather?

Severe weather is certainly unpredictable, but it is also unavoidable. Chances are, you will be impacted by a thunderstorm, high winds or heavy rains at some point, and not acting with safety in mind can put you or your family in harm’s way.

Severe weather can cause many issues ranging from lightning strikes to wind damage to bodily harm, in addition to the significant threat that flash floods can cause. Though we may never be able to know exactly when and where severe weather will strike, preparing for it is the best thing we can do.

How Can I Be Safer in the Event of Severe Weather?

Get a reliable weather update system. If severe weather is possible, local officials will issue watches and warnings accordingly, and being able to tune into these alerts can potentially save a life. Instead of relying on a cell phone, get a battery or hand-powered weather radio so you can tune in even if cell reception becomes spotty due to storms.

Pack a household emergency kit. Having an emergency kit in the home is a must, as storms can knock out power and floods can knock out utility services. Your kit should have everything your family might need for a few days, including light sources, food, water and first-aid supplies.

Create an evacuation plan. In most instances, you will want to stay put in the event of severe weather—but if you are in the path of a flash flood, you will want to move to higher ground. Make sure you have an evacuation plan in case this happens, and practice it as a family beforehand so you can execute it smoothly if you are in danger.

If your home is damaged due to a storm or severe weather, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our restoration services or to report damage to your own home. Call us today.

What the Numbers Tell Us About Holiday Season Fires | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holiday season. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews will be here to help.

Fires are unfortunate at any time of the year, but when they occur around the holidays, there are many family memories and special moments that can be tainted. Though there is no way to fully guarantee that a fire is not a possibility, by knowing exactly what causes holiday fires, you can better work to prevent them as you go through your holiday celebrations.

Today we will be looking at data from the National Fire Protection Association as well as information from the Red Cross to examine why these fires occur and how we can work to prevent them.

Reasons Behind Decoration Fires During the Holiday Season

Many fires we see during the holiday season are due to decoration mishaps—while decorating is a fun, festive activity, it is important to be fire-safe while you do it. Here is a look at leading causes of decoration fires:

• Candles are a leading cause of holiday season fires, with more than half of all December fires being started by them.
• Candle fires are most likely to occur on holidays, with Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day being the top days for them.
• If you celebrate Christmas, be careful around the tree—they are associated with one out of every four fires during the winter season.
• Christmas tree fires are also often deadly, leading to fatalities in one out of every 52 incidents.
• Lights are another leading cause of Christmas tree fires, as they can overheat or spark if they are frayed.

Other Reasons Why Winter Fires Are Likely to Occur

In addition to decoration-related fire incidents, winter tends to see an uptick in other types of fires as well:

• Cooking, always the leading cause of house fires, also causes more fires during the winter.
• The use of space heaters in the winter can cause surrounding objects to easily catch on fire if they are left unattended.
• Fireplaces should be treated with caution, just as any open flame would be.

Fire damage can be devastating, especially around the holiday season. If you are in need of fire restoration, we can help you on any day of the year—contact us today to learn more.

Cut Your Risk for Electrical Fires This Winter l SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Fires peak during the winter more than any other season. SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is available 24/7 in the event of an emergency.

If you’re a business owner, having a disaster plan in place before you need it is smart, especially when dealing with the aftermath of a fire.

In fact, fire damage claims are the most common type of claims small business owners file. They’re ahead of other common issues, like problems with customers and water damage claims.

Fire damage claims can bring up issues around your business’ security and future. Restoration can be involved and may need to include steps from cleanup to rebuilding. If your business is ever damaged by fire, then you need to know what steps to take to ensure your business is secure and the restoration process is started quickly.

Here’s how you can handle fire damage at your business:

Reach out to your insurance company. They’ll be able to guide you in getting the process of restoring your business started.

Take pictures and document your losses. If you don’t have an inventory of everything already, then you’ll need to make a list of everything that has been destroyed or damaged in the fire.

Secure the site. Your business is vulnerable after a disaster, so secure the site and take steps to protect any other valuables you have there.

Ensure you don’t have utilities on. You can make your business site safer by turning off the utilities at your site. That will include water, gas and electricity.

Communicate effectively. Be sure you’re regularly communicating updates about your business restoration with your employees and any stakeholders who are involved with your company. Also, keep an open line of communication with your restoration service and the insurance company.

If your business or home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help.

Handling a Sewer Backup at Your Wilgrove Home | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

On average, about one out of 50 American homeowners every year file a water damage claim. If you have any water damage contact SERVPRO of East Meckle

No one likes to think about a sewer clog or backup affecting their family home. But that is one of the most common (and messy) problems homeowners deal with every year.

Claims for sewer backups are part of the millions of water damage claims that are filed every year. On average, about one out of 50 American homeowners every year file a water damage claim.

If you find yourself dealing with the signs of a sewer blockage, it’s important to act quickly so you can avoid a larger issue than you might have expected to handle.

Handling a Clogged Sewer Line at Home

Here’s what to do if you notice the signs of a sewer backup at home:

Know the signs that you’ll see first. Problems with your sinks and toilets, washing machine, tub, and shower can be the first things you notice when your home has a sewer blockage. If these home fixtures start acting abnormally, it’s time to take a closer look.

Don’t use anything that requires plumbing. Stop using your sinks, tub and washing machine immediately. It can make the problem worse by adding additional water. Instead, check your sewer cleanout or call a professional. Your property will be better off because you acted quickly.

Inspect your sewer cleanout. Do you know where your sewer cleanout is located? If not, you aren’t alone. Many homeowners don’t know where to find it—or where to look—until they need it. If you aren’t comfortable locating and checking the sewer cleanout yourself, then you can enlist help from a qualified plumbing professional to locate your cleanout and fix the issue.

Correct the issue. After your sewer blockage is repaired, you can begin to use your home’s plumbing systems normally again.

If you have water damage in your home due to a sewer backup, a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services.

Ways That Business Owners Can Better Prepare for Disasters | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is your go-to in case a disaster occurs. Get in touch with us to learn more.

For business owners, disasters are more than just an inconvenience—they can interrupt your livelihood and even ruin your chances of continuing operations if they cause damage to your business. While planning for something this dramatic is difficult, it is a must to ensure that you have a good chance of being able to reopen after a disaster occurs.

The key to being able to reopen is to streamline the recovery process, which can be done by planning ahead as much as possible. There are many resources to help you do this, from local government to the Small Business Administration, and it is wise to make use of all the resources that you can.

Preparing for Disasters When You Own a Business

Communicate with your employees. Keeping everyone safe is so important as a business owner, so be sure to have a plan in place for emergencies that is communicated to employees. Things like evacuations, emergency supplies and communication plans are all necessary to think through to make sure you can keep everyone safer and reduce panic in the moment you find out a disaster is imminent.

Check your insurance coverage and upgrade if necessary. You can get insurance to cover nearly anything, but if you just have basic commercial coverage, you may be surprised at what is not covered by your insurance provider. Checking in advance is a good way to ensure you do not run into this unfortunate scenario—things like flooding, income interruption and damage to company vehicles will often need to be covered with additional policies.

Consider who you will use for restoration. Once you start the insurance process, having the damage to your business handled as quickly as possible is key. Damages left unattended can cause even more issues, so be sure you are confident in the company you are choosing to call. Try to find a company that is available 24 hours a day, so you can be certain that they will be there no matter when a disaster occurs.

We are here to be your go-to in case a disaster occurs, so get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help your business with commercial restoration. We are here ²⁴⁄₇ to take your call—contact us today.

What’s the Big Deal With Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthew, if you suspect any water damage. We are your local water restoration company and ready to help.

It is probably no surprise that we are passionate about educating people about the dangers of water damage, but what does come as a surprise is how many people are unaware of the true damage it presents.

While a leaky roof or soggy basement may seem like routine home issues, damage caused by moisture is often far more serious than it gets credit for.

Between structural issues, the cost of restoration and the health hazards it can cause, water damage is not something to take lightly. When you discover water damage, treating it quickly is the best way to ensure these issues do not get out of hand and begin to compound.

The Dangerous Elements of Water Damage

The structural damage it can cause. First and foremost, the structural damage caused by moisture is an extremely serious thing. Not only can it cause damages that are cosmetic in nature, but water can also seep into your floor joists, impact the studs in your wall and undermine the entire structural integrity of your home if it is allowed to fester.

The costs it can present. While fortunately, many types of water damage are covered by insurance, the cost of restoring severe water damage is not always cheap. While you can (and should) claim it with your homeowners policy, this can cause your premium to go up and cost you money for years to come. The faster you pursue restoration, the less severe the water damage will be, which will generally lower your costs significantly.

The hazards it can lead to. While water damage can cause its own host of problems, it can also introduce a prime environment for mold and mildew to grow in the impacted areas. Mold and mildew thrive on moisture, so untreated water damage creates an ideal scenario for them to take hold and begin multiplying. This can lead to serious health effects for your family, even working its way into your central heat and air and spreading throughout the entire home.

If you have water damage in your household, you can depend on us to take care of it. Contact us today to learn more about our restoration process and how we can help restore your home after water damage.

What to Do if a Thunderstorm Catches You Outside | SERVPRO® of East Mecklenburg/Matthews

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews is available 24/7. We specialize in complete restoration services.

Thunderstorms can be frightening no matter where they occur, but if one catches you while you are outside and away from shelter, it can be absolutely terrifying to endure. While checking weather alerts is always a wise thing to do before heading out, storms tend to pop up suddenly this time of year as they thrive off of the heat and humidity of long summer days.

While being in a building during a thunderstorm is the safest option (with being in your vehicle a close second), if you are away from buildings and cars when a storm strikes, knowing what to do next is key.

How to Seek Shelter From a Storm if You Are Outdoors

Get to low ground. Lightning tends to take the most direct route to get to the ground, which is why it commonly strikes the tallest object in the vicinity. While this is not an absolute, the chances of being struck are certainly reduced if you are situated on low ground. Avoid hills or wide-open spaces, and try to crouch in a less exposed area if possible.

Avoid being near tall objects. Being extremely close to an object that is struck by lightning is almost as dangerous as being struck yourself, so avoid tall objects when possible. Trees, light poles, flagpoles and even fences are all more likely to attract lightning, so avoid them if possible to not be a target yourself.

Get away from water. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so if lightning strikes a body of water, everyone nearby is in danger. If you are swimming, get out of the water as soon as the first clap of thunder sounds, as that is a sign that lightning is nearby. If you are on a boat and can’t get to shore before the storm begins, put down your anchor and crouch down in the boat, or go into the cabin if your boat has one on board. Avoid touching any metallic surfaces in the boat, as well.

If your home or business is damaged by a storm, you can count on us to help. We are here ²⁴⁄₇ so you can report your damage and get a rapid response. Contact us today to learn more.

Storm Damage?

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

We always want to stay prepared and so to do that here is a list of facts and weather history to have us well suited for any upcoming weather.

• North Carolina averages 26 tornadoes, 3 tornado fatalities, and 39 tornado injuries each year.
• April is the peak month for tornadoes in the state. A secondary peak occurs in November.
• Tornadoes occur more frequently in the afternoon and early evening but can develop any time of day or night. The deadliest time for tornadoes can be at night since it is more difficult to be alerted of warnings that are issued.
• Severe storms don't have to produce tornadoes to be deadly. Straight-line wind gusts from severe storms can cause extensive damage similar to that of a tornado.
• In the last 5 years, 16 people have been killed and another 70 injured by straight-line winds from severe thunderstorms in North Carolina.
• A storm is classified as severe if it produces damaging winds or hail one inch in diameter or larger.
• In the last 5 years, baseball-sized has been reported 8 times in North Carolina. Golf ball size hail has been reported 200 times.

Make sure you have great shelter, which should be sturdy, small, and windowless at the lowest point of the building. A basement is a great example. If you don’t have a basement, a bathroom or hallway and even a closet will do just fine as well.

Stay informed and stay protected.

If your home or business suffers any damage from a storm, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews 704.847.8001

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews is Always Available

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in. 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

Residential Services

Whether your Whittier home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our 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 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:

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Have Questions? Call Us Today – 704.847.8001

Faster to Any Size Disaster

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews is here to quickly help get your business back up and running after a disaster. When you need a quick response, call us! We understand there's no such thing as a small emergency when it can negatively impact occupant safety, revenue loss and business continuity. 

Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage, business interruptions and recovery costs. You and those who depend on you will appreciate the rapid response, expertise and training that enables SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews to help get your facility back into operation quickly. 

We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The sooner we arrive, the better chance we can reduce damage and save money. 

If your business in the Mecklenburg or Matthews area suffers a water or fire loss, call us at 704-847-8001. 

Emergency Damage Process Overview

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

EMERGENCY DAMAGE PROCESS OVERVIEW

ONE HOUR

• Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews will contact you to arrange for service. You will know help is on the way! 

FOUR HOURS

• Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to damage.

DETAILED INFORMATION. 

• A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. 

PRETESTING

• A SERVPRO of  East Mecklenburg / Matthews professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward. 

EIGHT HOURS

• Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally the adjuster or property manager. 

CLEANING AND RESTORATION 

• SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state of the art restoration techniques to ensure the property is taken care of right the first time. 

FINAL WALK-THROUGH

• After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure satisfaction. 

Call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg / Matthews for your emergency needs! 704-847-8001 

SERVPRO'S Trained Technicians and Advanced Equipment

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

The water loss remediation industry continuously devises new equipment that takes an East Mecklenburg/Matthews property from soaked and deteriorating to dry and clean faster and more efficiently. As amazing as innovative tools are, it takes a crew of seasoned and highly-qualified technicians to use them to the best effect. Professional water remediation companies deliver their best outcomes when the workers pledge to train and recertify on a regular basis.

When you face water damage in your home, you benefit from cutting-edge equipment and crews who know how to operate them according to industry standards. Even diehard do-it-yourselfers recognize that managing water incursions is a tricky business, requiring not only hard work but also a solid understanding of the science behind water removal and structural drying.

Developing professional expertise to mitigate water damage is why SERVPRO sends our crew members to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) classes. The IICRC is a standard developing and establishing organization worldwide. Skills taught to the employees we sent to remediate and restore your home base their effectiveness on research.

An example of a task that might seem straightforward enough to be within the grasp of every homeowner is carpet water extraction. The equipment resembles a shop vac, and a homeowner typically feels comfortable operating a vacuum. Why SERVPRO requires crew members to complete a comprehensive IICRC course in carpet cleaning relates to the problems that can occur if standards are unknown or ignored.

The art and science of extracting water from carpeting or other floor coverings are not intuitive. An effective way to pull moisture out of a carpet is with a weighted wand extractor. SERVPRO IICRC-trained technicians learned and practiced the techniques that extract moisture without putting stress on the textile floor covering. Inexperienced individuals can stretch the carpet fabric by exerting too much pressure or moving too quickly across a surface. Inappropriate force might cause delamination of the carpet backing from the carpet face. 

SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews delivers high-quality water mitigation results by arranging for professional training of all our technicians. Schedule an appointment with our top-notch workforce by calling (704) 847-8001.