Why Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team always wears PPE to protect ourselves!

Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as "PPE", is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards. Personal protective equipment may include items such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, or coveralls, vests and full body suits.

It is important at SERVPRO of The North Coast that our technicians are as safe as possible while working for our wonderful customers so we can get the job done right and efficiently.  

Although it isn't the most fashionable outfit of the season, it is absolutely necessary in some situations!

Our SERVPRO Team protects ourselves so we can better serve you!

Why Our SERVPRO Team is "Faster To Any Size Disaster"

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you need help....fast!

When disaster strikes, time is of the essence.

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

SERVPRO of The North Coast provides 24-hour emergency services throughout Cleveland and the surrounding areas. We are dedicated to providing excellent service no matter how large or small the damage may be. Our highly trained and IICRC certified technicians can respond immediately to your disaster. No matter the hour of the day.

If a disaster strikes your home or commercial property, call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team today. We are always Here To Help!

Preventing Fires At Your Commercial Property

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call the trusted experts at SERVPRO of The North Coast for all of your fire restoration needs.

Fire damage to your business is a serious concern. Even moderate damage can result in your facility being closed for repairs for weeks on end, and this can be financially devastating.

The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Some facilities may be more likely to endure damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, there are many fire hazards that are present in most workplaces on a daily basis regardless of the type of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take proper steps to address and mitigate those risks and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage.

Electrical Concerns
Damage to electrical wiring can result in sparks that quickly lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring damage may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. It may also include damage to internal wiring inside the walls, and these may be damaged by pests and other forces. Electrical fires may also start when power sockets are overloaded or when equipment gets too hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed.

Poor Equipment Maintenance
Other hazards in workplaces are related to poor equipment maintenance. For example, failing to service your furnace regularly may result in the accumulation of dust and other flammable debris. A gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may also include dusty, dirty or greasy components, such as air ducts and vents, kitchen exhaust vents and many other features that are used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.

Flammable or Combustible Materials
Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but even restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners and many other types of business may store combustible materials on-site. These materials should remain properly sealed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times.

As you can see, there are numerous fire hazards that could result in serious damage to your business. If your business has already experienced fire damage, it is essential that repair work is completed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of The North Coast is your trusted leader in the restoration industry. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that operations can resume in your place of business. Call us today!

Stages of a Fire

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of The North Coast at 216-221-3333 if you experience an unexpected fire

A fire in your home or business never something you expect to experience. Which is why it is important to know the 4 stages of a fire to keep you safe.

Incipient: This first stage begins when heat, oxygen and a fuel source combine, having a chemical reaction resulting in a fire. It is also known as “ignition”. There is usually a small fire, which often goes out on its own, before the following stages are reached. During this stage, recognizing a fire so early is your best chance at suppression or escape.

Growth: This stage is where the structure’s fire load and oxygen are used as fuel for the fire. During the growth stage, there are multiple factors that affect the fire including where the fire started, what combustibles are nearby, ceiling height and the potential for “thermal layering”. This is stage is when a deadly “flashover” can occur’ potentially trapping, injuring, or killing firefighters.

Fully Developed: When the growth stage has reached its maximum and all nearby combustible materials have been ignited, the fire is considered fully developed. This is the hottest stage of a fire and the most dangerous for anyone trapped within.

Decay: The decay stage is the longest stage of a fire; it is characterized by a significant decrease in oxygen or fuel, putting an end to the fire. There are two common dangers during this stage. First, the existence of non-flaming combustibles that can potentially start a new fire if they are not fully extinguished. Second, there is a danger of a backdraft when oxygen is reintroduced to a volatile, confined space.

Our Mission Statement

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Industries Vision statement is:

“To be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.”  

That statement could not be more true to those of us at SERVPRO of The North Coast. Our goal and core values are to be the best of the best for our customers. This means requiring our technicians to become certified within the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certifications) standards. Whether our team is helping a customer who has had storm or fire damage or if we are cleaning carpet and upholstery, we strive to be the leader in the industry. 

This is why SERVPRO of The North Coast should be your first and last choice for your cleaning and restoration needs. We are always “here to help.”

Call SERVPRO of The North Coast today at 216-221-3333!

Is Water Damage An Emergency?

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage ruin your commercial property!

Having a water damage in your home or business is a very stressful situation. Many things can go through your mind, but how do you know if it is an emergency? If no one is injured, then by definition it is not considered a "true" emergency and 911 usually does not need to be called.

However, it could still be an emergency in regards to your property. The longer that water sits on the building materials, the more possibility there is that secondary damage will occur. Water can seep into wall crevices and down through the floors below. If it is not cleaned up and dried out properly, then the potential for mold growth is high. 

If you walk in and see water pouring into your home or business, step 1 is to find the main water shutoff, and to shut off the water.

Also be very aware of these other things that may be affected and could be a potential hazard, such as the electricity supply, gas supply, water damaged electrical appliances, contaminated water (gasoline, chemicals, etc.) or structural damage.

So if you don't call 911, who do you call?

• Local SERVPRO of The North Coast Restoration professionals
• Insurance Agent
• Insurance Company 

We work hand in hand with your insurance company to act fast, so we can get your home or business back to normal. We are available 24 hours a day to address these water emergencies. When it comes to water damage, don't take chances. Call us today and get the damage taken care of, the right way!

Water Damage In Commercial Buildings

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Our certified technicians are on call 24/7 to quickly get your building cleaned up and minimize any potential downtime for your business.

Due to the wide variety of issues that can stem from water damage, it is one of the most difficult challenges a property owner can face. Depending on the severity, water damage can compromise structural integrity and damage belongings. When left unresolved or if not taken care of properly, water can result in the growth of mold. 

What is water damage?

Water damage is the type of damage that occurs on a structure and to personal property due to excessive moisture and collected water. Most often water damage will occur where water can collect without notice. For example, they will occur in the lowest depths of one's property such as crawl spaces and the basement.

Here are some examples of the equipment used for water damage repair services:

• Air Movers - help dry water-damaged flooring and surfaces by forcing moisture to evaporate more quickly
• Dehumidifiers - by maintaining the humidity of the room, a dehumidifier is a catalyst for drying an area that has excessive moisture
• Air Scrubbers - filter out any particles in your indoor air which may include airborne contaminants including the smell of musk and smoke
• Moisture Meters - gauges the severity of water damage on a surface or an area by assessing the moisture preset

At SERVPRO of The North Coast, we have state of the art equipment to ensure that your property is taken care of properly. By reducing the time it takes to dry your property, you'll be saving time and money. Call our SERVPRO Team today at (216) 221-3333.

SERVPRO Is Your One Stop Shop!

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast offers a full line of reconstruction services!

SERVPRO is known as a leader in the Cleanup & Restoration industry, but did you know that SERVPRO of The North Coast also offers a full line of reconstruction options?  As a licensed general contractor, our team can provide a wide array of building services, both commercial and residential, to help restore your property to its preloss condition.  Some of these services include:

• Electrical and Portable Power Needs
• Roof Tarping and Repair
• Tile, Hardwood, and Linoleum Flooring Repair
• Plumbing
• Drywall Removal or Installation
• Painting

By utilizing one company for both your damage mitigation and building reconstruction needs, you can save both time and money for your repairs.  Serving central Cleveland and the surrounding areas, SERVPRO of The North Coast is Here to Help. For more information about our Reconstruction Division, give us a call at 216-221-3333.

To File A Claim Or Not To File A Claim

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast works with your insurance company!

As a homeowner, renter or business owner it is important to fully understand your insurance policy. Every policy is different, with exclusions and named perils. Being knowledgeable about your insurance as much as possible will help you in deciding if it is necessary for you to file a claim in the event your home or place of business suffers water damage. Here are some things to consider before filing an insurance claim:

If the total amount of repairs is less than your deductible, avoid filing, especially if other claims have been filled in the last ten years.

If it is an uncovered loss, you are responsible for the mitigation and repairs, be aware of what is covered under your insurance.

Claim frequency could affect you in the form of non-renewal for being a high-risk.

If damage occurs due to lack of maintenance that is your own responsibility, do not submit a claim. But remember, continuously maintaining your home or business can get you better premiums in the future.

Ultimately, being aware of all exclusions and coverage limits is important by knowing your options in which direction you need to go to mitigate and repair damage that occurs on your home or business.

Levels of Damage In Your Commercial Building

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast came to the rescue after water damage affected this local office building.

SERVPRO of The North Coast not only handles residential damage and restoration, but commercial damage as well.

When handling a commercial loss, three levels of damage are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

Specialized Fire Damage Services

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast boarded this home after a fire.

Along with providing structural cleaning, contents cleaning, and deodorization in the Northern Ohio area after a residential or commercial fire, SERVPRO of The North Coast also offers additional specialized services to our customers:

Board-Up

One of the top priorities after a fire loss is to secure your property and belongings until work can begin. SERVPRO of The North Coast offers board-up services for windows, doors, and other exposed structural areas to prevent intrusion by both water and unauthorized persons.

Inventory, Pack-Out and Storage

As the clean up and restoration process begins, our SERVPRO of The North Coast technicians take inventory of the contents in your home or business. As the contents are sorted, they will be categorized as salvageable, and processed to be cleaned, or unsalvageable, and documented as such for insurance purposes. Our professional SERVPRO Team can pack-out and store any unaffected materials as needed as well. Our SERVPRO Professionals are trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration, and deodorization process.

Document Drying and Restoration

The SERVPRO Document Restoration Team offers a range of services to restore your damaged documents, including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization.  Depending on your specific needs, and utilizing industry leading techniques and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover paper goods, no matter the size of the loss.

Serving Cleveland and surrounding areas, SERVPRO of The North Coast is Here to Help with all your fire damage needs. Our professional team will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Preventing Grease Fires In Your Kitchen

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO Team for your fire restoration needs!

Whether you are cooking in a restaurant or in your own home, a grease fire can quickly become a big disaster. Grease fires can present themselves as a difficult issue since they are notorious for being difficult to put out.

The first reaction to a fire is to pour water on it, which for grease fires, can actually spread the fire and make it worse!! Follow the correct steps below on putting out a grease fire.

How do I put out a Grease Fire?

1. Turn off the heat. Make sure to not pick up the pan. Picking up the pan can cause the fire to quickly spread to you or spill onto other surfaces in the kitchen.
2. Put a lid on the pan to cut off oxygen to the fire. Once it has sufficiently cooled down, you will be to move and clean it.
3. If the fire gets out of hand, make sure to call 911 to get assistance right away from the Cleveland Fire Department.
4. NEVER pour water on an active grease fire or fan the fire. Both of these actions will only spread the fire.
5. Do NOT fan the fire with a dry or wet cloth, it can make it worse and spread the fire.
6. If all else fails, use a fire extinguisher to put out the flame.

How to Prevent A Grease Fire

1. Never leave your cooking unattended, always keep an eye on any pots or pans.
2. Make sure that you have a sufficiently sized lid for all of your cooking ware.
3. Heat the oils in your pans slowly, don't put your stove on the highest setting right off the bat.
4. Turn the heat off if you think your pans are getting too hot.

Due to the nature of a grease fire, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a professional like SERVPRO of The North Coast for fire restoration help. In addition to cleaning up any damage such as burned materials, soot, or grease, a professional can help your kitchen rid itself of the smoke scent.

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team has the knowledge and decades of experience to help you quickly and effectively repair damage from a grease fire.

Soot Webs Not Spider Webs

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Here is an example of soot tags. You can see how closely they resemble spider webs.

As fire damage specialists, we see a lot of fire damaged residential homes and commercial properties. The damage can either be extensive or very minimal. One of the most common visible instances of fire damage are soot webs, the technical term for them are "Soot Tags". They look exactly like spider webs. Rest assured, you did not have magical "fire spiders" that created these cobwebs in your home.

Soot Tags form in areas of low circulation when petroleum/synthetic based sources burn. During a fire the heat of the fire moves into colder areas since the air seeks to create equilibrium. The soot then rides in the air with the heat particles that follow the air into those colder areas with low circulation and are able to concentrate. Since that soot is a product of combustion the particles themselves are charged which makes it quite easy for them to create long chains of soot or soot tags. So while it looks like a lot of soot got stuck on pre-existing spider webs it is actually a whole new structure. 

If you notice that you have soot tags in your home or business after a recent fire, do not try to clean it up yourself. Any time you try to clean soot without the proper chemicals, tools and experience, you’ll likely cause further damage in your home. That's why our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team is here to help, we are the fire damage restoration specialists at your service 24-7!

Avoid These Dangers During a Flood

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Don't wait to call our SERVPRO Team after a flood!

SERVPRO Extracts Flood Waters to Mitigate Damage

Flood damage is exceedingly dangerous, for both homes and lives. Floods have the power to swamp and drown residents, as well as cause them serious injury or infection. To homes, they can seep and flow into not only furniture but also the structure itself, causing immense water damage. Furthermore, floodwaters are usually unsanitary and can cause dangerous airborne and water carried illnesses and mold, which may cause health effects. Avoidance is the best way to skirt issues and hazards caused by flooding. So watch out for heavy rains or floodwaters in the street, and keep upstairs if possible.
 
Infection and Illness
One of the most common injuries sustained after flood damage in Elyria is an infection. Floodwaters breed and transport dangerous microbes, and because they often mix with sewage and overflow materials, diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and others can occur. Any water ingested or entering wounds has serious potential to lead to illness or infection, hence why you should exercise extreme caution and avoid entering floodwaters when possible. Also, some microbes, pathogens, and viruses may spread through the air or emit toxic gasses, and so the air surrounding flooded areas may also be hazardous to breathe.
 
Cuts and Wounds
Floodwaters often carry shards of wood, glass, and ceramic that may cut or stab into exposed flesh. These can cause blood loss and pain, in addition to opening up a wound for infection. Should you be cut anywhere in a flood-soaked area, immediately seek to disinfect and bandage the wound to prevent acute infection.
 
Further Damage to the Home
SERVPRO lists on our website some ways that you can help clean up before our technicians arrive following a flood. Be careful to stick to these recommendations and avoid danger, as there is a chance that you may cause further damage to your home. Allow our trained IICRC technicians in water restoration to be the first to begin serious work, for the sake of both you and your insurance.
 
SERVPRO of The North Coast is a locally owned and operated company with trained technicians and high-quality equipment prepared to deal with any flooding disaster, large or small. Call us today at (216) 221-3333 for our help or services.

Classes of Damage

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO technicians are trained handle any size and any class disaster!

If you have ever endured storm damage to your Cleveland home, SERVPRO is here to help.  Our employees are trained and certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to ensure that the technicians have the expertise in restoring your home. 

In cases where there is flood damage to your home, the IICRC categorizes four different classes of destruction as follows:

• Class 1:  The lowest and easiest to deal with, this has a slow evaporation rate. Only part of a room or area was affected, there is little or no wet carpet, and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate, such as plywood or concrete.
• Class 2:  With a fast evaporation rate, this level affects an entire room, carpeting, or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12”, and there is moisture remaining in structural materials.
• Class 3:  This class has the fastest evaporation rate, and ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors are all saturated. The liquid may have come from overhead. 
• Class 4:  This class is labeled as specialty drying situations, which means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick, or stone.

If your home is ever in need of restoration services from flood damage, call SERVPRO of The North Coast at 216-221-3333

Why Are Dehumidifiers Important?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Drying out flood damaged homes takes more than just clever tools and equipment.

Drying out flood damaged homes takes more than just clever tools and equipment. You need an expert restoration team, with high-level skills and knowledge of the most efficient techniques. This is what SERVPRO of The North Coast can offer you if flooding has recently hit your property. We have access to state of the art drying machines, but we also know how to maximize their power.

Dehumidifiers are one of the most important drying tools when it comes to repairing flood damage in Cleveland. It extracts the moisture from of the air and returns it to dry air. This is an essential part of the restoration process because flooding does not just leave its mark in standing water. For successful repairs, all moisture has to be eliminated, whether it is in the air, on the ground, or caught in soft furnishings.

Keep reading to learn more about how SERVPRO sets up dehumidifiers and gets the drying process started quickly.

Type Of Materials
The first thing that our SERVPRO technicians do is carry out an inspection. They enter the flood-damaged area and determine the extent of the damage. Before dehumidifiers can be set up, they first need to know what kind of materials need drying. Porous items (curtains, sofas, carpets, wood, etc.) are the hardest to restore. If a lot of porous items are wet, a longer drying period is required.

On the other hand, if wet materials are non-porous (metal, plastic), the drying period will be quicker and fewer dehumidifiers may be used. Most homes contain a mixture of the two, which means that technicians have to find a careful balance. Too many dehumidifiers can cause the air to become overly dry. This may damage softer materials like wood. Often, air movers are combined with dehumidifiers to prevent this from happening.

Putting Together A Plan
For all of these reasons, it is necessary for flood repair teams to think very carefully about how they set up drying equipment. To homeowners, it may appear arbitrary, but many precise calculations are involved. For instance, to determine how many dehumidifiers are needed and of what size, the following information must be gathered:
- Size of the flooded area (in feet)
- Type of flood damage (based on porosity)
- Type of dehumidifying technology available
- Average amount of water to be removed per day (in pints)

Choosing The Right Experts For The Job
So, you can start to see why flood damage restoration is such a complex task, even if the damage is modest. You should seek the help of a professional company like SERVPRO of The North Coast. We are a locally based service, so our technicians are perfectly placed to respond to emergencies. Call us 24/7 at (216) 221-3333.

SERVPRO's Dedicated Storm Response

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team today! We are faster to any size disaster!

Our team here at SERVPRO of The North Coast is always ready for whatever happens, no matter the time of day. Our crews are always on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When it comes to fire and water damage, our professionals work tirelessly to make sure our customers are satisfied and are explained each step of the cleaning process.

Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leading professionals in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, along with a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home or business and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

If a storm hits your home or business, odds are you'll need help immediately. Our team's quick response will help prevent any secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

Our team has access to resources and personnel of over 1,800 franchises to handle major storms and disasters. Our team also has access to our exclusive Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located to respond to catastrophic storms and events throughout the country.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of The North Coast is locally owned and operated. We are actively apart of the community with you as well. When you have a storm disaster or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help you.

If you experience storm damage, don't hesitate to call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team at (216) 221-3333. We are always here to help!

Cleveland's Preferred 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Cleveland.

SERVPRO of The North Coast is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (216) 221-3333

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of The North Coast has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of The North Coast

SERVPRO of The North Coast specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Does Your Insurance Policy Have You Covered?

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The North Coast is prepared for the unexpected! Call us today at 216-221-3333

Bad weather can spring up without much of a warning. Most of the time when a flash flood or bad thunderstorm is threatening your area, you barely have enough time to find shelter. As a homeowner, it is important that you think about these moments before they occur.

Do you have the correct insurance policy? Is your home going to be covered in the event of a disaster? Is the amount of coverage going to be enough to restore your home? Thinking about these questions before the storm damage occurs can make your life after the storm much easier.

Before you do anything else, stop and make sure your home is covered for the following:

• Water and Windstorm Damage
• Debris or Tree Removal
• Sewer Backup Due to Flooding
• Sump Pump Failures Due to Flooding
• Additional Living Expenses In Case A Storm Forces You Out of Your Home

Once you have the proper home insurance coverage for storm damage, you can feel safer during the event of a disaster. Seeing your home damaged after a major storm can be heartbreaking. The best thing you can do for your family and your home is to begin the storm damage recovery immediately.

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team is here to help after every storm. We are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year!

What You Need To Know About Ice Dams

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

If your home becomes damaged by an ice dam, call our SERVPRO of The North Coast experts today!

For homeowners in Elyria, winter can bring a number of problems, from burst pipes to leaky roofs. Another issue you may not be aware of is the formation of ice dams. While it may not seem like much of an issue on its own, it can cause extensive water damage to your house which can then create more problems. Here are a few things that you should know.

1. What Are They?

As you may be able to guess from its name, an ice dam is a formation that keeps water from properly moving from your roof. They occur when snow melts and then refreezes into harder ice. They often form on the edge of the roof which can make it difficult for water to drain properly but can also show up in other areas. When this happens, the trapped water can begin to back up and cause damage to the roof and ceiling underneath it.

2. How Do You Prevent Them?

These formations occur because of melting and refreezing snow, so one tip for ice dam prevention is to keep the temperature of your roof cold enough to prevent melting. This is most easily done by keeping the temperature in your attic low. Proper insulation can help as well. Another method of prevention is removing snow from your roof immediately after a storm.

3. How Can You Remove Them?

If you already have an ice dam on your roof, then you should remove it as quickly as possible to prevent it from causing any damage. One way to do this is by using an ice melt product. Hot water steaming can do the trick as well.

While a winter storm and cold weather can often create frustrating problems, you do not need to handle them all on your own. Our SERVPRO of The North Coast team is always here to help!

The Danger of Electrical Fires

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in a local grocery store was caused by this electrical box

Like residential homes, commercial buildings are at risk of an electrical fires and you should take precaution to prevent these hazards. Electrical equipment, plugs and wiring can all causes a fire. Older buildings can have outdated wiring which poses additional risks. If you are in doubt, call a professional electrician.

Here are a few precautions you can make to minimize your risk of an electrical fire:

1. Outlet & power cords – Make sure outlets are updated and in good working condition. Outlet should not be warm to the touch or make cracking sounds and should fit snugly. Have a professional repair them if you experience any issues.
2. Cords & Wiring – Do not use a damaged cord. If your cords are frayed, pinched or pierced, throw them out. Damaged, worn, cracked or corroded electrical wires can increase the chance of an electrical fires.

The National Fire Protection Agency suggest calling a qualified electrician if you experience:

1. Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
2. Discolored or warm wall outlets
3. Flickering or dimming lights
4. Sparks from an outlet

Call SERVPRO of The North Coast if you do experience an electrical fire in your business at- 216-221-3333.

Restoring A Building After A Flood

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

The flood in this commercial building was caused by a malfunctioning toilet.

Restoring a commercial building after a flooding event has a lot of moving parts. Even when professional restorers of our team can get on the scene very quickly, many things must happen to make the space usable again. Such was the case with this specific office in Columbus that our professionals worked to restore back to its original condition.

Several steps play into flood damage restoration f. As always, this process begins with an overall assessment of the damage and the appropriate tools and personnel required to restore it. Once this is established, work can begin.

In the image, you can see that the flooring had to get removed by our SERVPRO technicians. This was partly because the damage was irreparable to the flooring material, and also partly an easier access point for our professionals to work to dry out the dampness in the sub-flooring and lower levels.

You can also see what is known as flood cuts. This process serves to remove overly saturated drywall from the affected areas but has a dual purpose to allow concentrated drying efforts to happen within the now open wall cavities. These cuts were made at two feet from the floors up the wall, but this size varies from project to project based on the affected surfaces and what amount of the drywall requires removal.

Mitigation is an important aspect of flood restoration. The better our SERVPRO technicians can stop damages from getting worse, the shorter these projects take overall and the lesser their estimated costs for your business or property. It is part of our pledge to be Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Overcoming flooding in your commercial building can seem overwhelming at first, even amid the restoration work. However, with the right professional restoration team, you can have a fully restored office space as quickly as possible. Trust in the experience and expertise of our SERVPRO of The North Coast flood restoration specialists and give SERVPRO a call today at (216) 221-3333.

Leave The Drying Equipment On!

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

We understand that the drying equipment can be noisy and annoying, but please leave it on! We promise it helps!

When you call SERVPRO of The North Coast to help restore your property after suffering a water loss, our professional technicians will place the appropriate amount of equipment to dry out the area as quickly as possible. It is important to always follow our instructions and keep the equipment running at all times. We realize that the equipment is noisy and can become bothersome if you remain in your home during the restoration process, however, turning off the air movers and/or dehumidifiers can delay the drying time and can cause further damage to your property such as mold growth. It is also important to note that oftentimes your insurance coverage will only pay for the drying equipment for a specific length of time, depending on the category of damage. Your SERVPRO of The North Coast project manager will monitor the moisture readings of the equipment daily to determine the appropriate time for removal. If you have any concerns or questions about the drying equipment, be sure to speak to any of our highly trained technicians!

Condominium Fires In Cleveland

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

After you and your family are safe and the fire fighters leave, contact our SERVPRO Team for fire damage remediation and restoration services.

It is never a pleasant experience when a fire starts inside your Cleveland condominium. Fires not only threaten the safety of you and your family but are costly to repair as well. The heat, flames, and smoke produced by fire many times cause extensive damage to your building.
 
Whether the fire is small or large, it is a smart move to let the professionals come in and assess the situation. SERVPRO's fire damage experts are IICRC certified and have experience with different types of scenarios.
 
Both the heat and smoke created by a blaze cause different types of damage to your condo. Flames burn contents and building materials inside the building. Smoke spreads throughout the structure leaving behind soot and foul odors. Our professional crews at SERVPRO get taught how to mitigate fire damage by putting each case into a category based on the severity of the damage.
 
In fire damage situations, there are three main types of severity. Putting each damage scenario into a certain level of severity helps our specialists know what types of methods to use when mitigating the problem. The three levels are minor, medium and major fire damage.
 
In minor fire damage situations, smoke residues only affect individual rooms of the building that are near the source. The amount of soot left behind from the smoke is minimal. Very few areas get re-painted, and only some minor items get replaced. Most of the mitigation process involves wet and dry cleaning of the ceiling, walls, and other surfaces.
 
In medium fire damage cases, the amount of smoke residues is moderate and more areas need wet cleaning. The areas that need to be re-painted and items that require replacement increase. Most of the time with medium fire damage contents inside the home get cleaned on site, but there is heat damage to building materials.
 
In major fire damage scenarios, there is a lot of heat and flame damage at the fire's source, and structural charring is even possible. In these cases, emergency procedures such as boarding up the exterior of the building and detailed cleaning of the structure possibly takes place. The building gets filled with smoke damage and foul odors, and usually, our crews must pack out the house and clean the contents offsite.
 
No matter how severe the damage in your condo is, hiring professionals like SERVPRO of The North Coast always gets you the best results. Our Team can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (216) 221-3333!

Keeping Your Store Clean

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team helps you stand up against harmful bacteria!

Every day more and more shoppers visiting grocery stores, it means more and more hands touching things you’re going to buy. Scary right? By giving more attention to germ-prone areas, store workers play a significant role in preventing the spread of viruses. 

How do you properly clean sections of a grocery store?  Read our store checklist below!

Store Cleaning Checklist

• Shopping carts: As carts are used throughout the day, constantly wipe down the touch areas of the cart (especially the handles) with disinfectant cleaner.  Treat hand baskets the same way.  Nightly power washing serves as a proactive measure to sanitize and prepare the carts for use the next day.
• Checkout aisles: Cashiers (and with the assistance of baggers) should frequently clean the checkout area.  The conveyor belt, rails on each side of the belt, customer counter, and the bagging area should be wiped down at pace with the number of customers passing through. 
• Credit Card Machines: Keep credit card reading machines clean.  Cash and plastic cards are known for harboring germs.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms in a store probably already receive several cleanings per day, but with a recent emphasis on public health, it’s wise to increase the frequency of cleaning.  Customer and employee restrooms should be sanitized throughout the day: floors, doors, stall walls/doors, all handles (including paper towel and soap dispensers), sinks, counters, baby changing sections, etc.  Once the store is empty for the day, a more comprehensive cleaning should be done from top to bottom.  You should sanitize everything.
• Floors: Floors are high-traffic areas, and grocery store floors get even more foot traffic now that restaurant traffic is prohibited beyond carry-out.  For more efficient and thorough floor sanitization, consider using an industrial auto-scrubber.
• Walk-in freezers and refrigerators: Because freezers and refrigeration units house more prepared food these days, it’s a best practice to keep them clean for food safety. Give extra attention to these areas where products are handled by customers.  These areas should be routinely cleaned.  At a time that works best for your store schedule, remove the items from the refrigerator or freezer and clean the surfaces with no-touch products.  This helps mitigate any contamination.

Be aware of places where hands leave behind germs and coughs/sneezes may leave behind pathogens. As always, SERVPRO is here to help!  It can be overwhelming for your team members and our cleaning teams are ready and available 24/7 to proactively clean your business.  Please call us today! 

Restoring Your Personal Belongings After A Fire

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

After a recent fire, soot covered every surface in this home. Our SERVPRO Team cleaned each item by hand, restoring all of the belongings.

If having a fire happen in your home isn't detrimental enough, there is still the aftermath of cleanup that has to be addressed. Fires not only affect the home but also all of the items inside your home. Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast, we understand this process can be difficult and we are dedicated to making it go as smooth and painless as possible. 

With fire comes soot and ash which in turn may engulf some or all of your personal belongings including sentimental items. We always go into each job with the mindset that we would rather restore than have you replace your beloved belongings. We have many different cleaning methods that we use to restore your most valuable of items. These methods include...

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

When special care is needed our SERVPRO Team will be there.

Count on Us for Flood Damage Restoration

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause damage to drywall!

If you’ve recently had a significant flood, you are probably experiencing some severe water damage to your home and possessions. We know it can be overwhelming. But it is important to remember that you have professionals to turn to, like our team at SERVPRO, to help you restore your property back to preloss condition.

Flood damage in Elyria of any kind can create quite the mess of things and will disrupt your daily routine. However, you can rest assured that the professionals here at SERVPRO of The North Coast are trained to handle any situation like this properly, getting you back to normal as soon as possible.

Water damage restoration is a process with multiple steps which need to be handled by our professionals who are licensed and certified water restoration contractors, through both corporate and IICRC training methodologies.

The Initial Visual Inspection
The first step will be to do an initial assessment to figure out the right action that is needed to reverse the adverse effects of the flood damage. After this is done, if there are no safety hazards, your contents will be secured, and the restoration can begin.

Extraction of Water
Containing the flood damage and getting rid of any standing water right away is the top priority. Anything that is wet such as pillows, throw rugs, toys, clothing, and the like are removed from the affected area. Our technicians will start to treat any wet surfaces such as ceilings, walls, or floors to help speed up the drying process. Baseboards may need to be discarded, along with any wet insulation. Cabinet drawers and doors will be opened to speed up the drying process. All wet surfaces will have to be treated.

Stabilizing and Drying
Once all the wet materials are removed, the drying process can begin. Technicians will use commercial grade equipment, including dehumidifiers, air movers, heaters and wood floor drying systems. Controlling the moisture is very critical in preventing the growth of mold and preserving your belongings and furnishings.

Reassessing the Damage
Once your home is dry, our certified technicians will do another inspection to make sure there are no hidden moisture pockets which could result in further damage or mold growth. No guess work is involved because moisture sensors and thermal hygrometers will reveal hidden pockets of residual moisture.

Reconstruction
After the water damage has been mitigated and your home returned to a preloss condition, if there are any building materials which need replacement or structural damage, the last step is restoration. At the end of reconstruction, your home will be safe and secure once again for you and your family. "Like it never even happened."

Flood damage can be devastating. However, we at SERVPRO of The North Coast have the knowledge and training to restore your home. Give us a call anytime at (216) 221-3333 when you have experienced damage from flooding.

We Have The Certification To Restore Your Water Damaged Home

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team can handle any size of flood damage!

Flooding of any type will ruin some personal possessions (books, papers, and cloth) within minutes. In just a few hours, carpets and flooring can be destroyed as well as furniture. After only a day, walls can become damaged past repair and will have to be removed and replaced before a homeowner or renter can return to their house.

When it comes to water removal for our Cleveland neighbors, we require our personnel to meet the high standards established by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). SERVPRO also maintains an extensive inventory of specialized equipment built to extract flood water, regardless of the source and where it might be located in your home.

Each team member is trained on this equipment to quickly remove water. Since that is only the beginning, however, we also require them to become certified in five areas as determined by the IICRC. They are:

Water Damage - This overall course covers the many types of water damage and the effects it has on a home. Concentration is given to problems such as overflowing sewers and mold contamination.

Applied Structural Drying - This teaches each technician to use monitoring equipment, moisture extractors and specialized heaters and fans to dry walls and floors that have been under water.

Carpet Cleaning - Our team members learn to identify fabrics and the proper cleaning techniques required for each one. They also are taught to safely use the different cleaning chemicals available to us and how to use them with our vacuums and extractors.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning - Techs learn more fiber and cloth identification. Each person also learns about the specific cleaning issues needed to prevent fabrics from bleeding their colors, shrinking or otherwise becoming distorted from having been soaked.

Odor Control - Personnel learn to identify the source of odors caused by flooding or other water damage and the deodorization techniques available to combat them.

In addition to these areas, each technician is trained and qualified on every piece of equipment they might use on each job. Our inspectors also receive additional, specialized training to identify potential problems before they happen.

If you may have or suspect damage from previous flooding, call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team today at 216-221-3333 to schedule an inspection!

First 48 Hours After a Flood

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Don't wait! The first 48 hours are critical!!

Act fast. The sooner you clear the contents out of your basement during a water incident, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition to your items and possessions.

When a finished basement experiences significant water damage, such as a basement flooding or a water pipe burst, timing is everything. Where the sooner you begin the disaster recovery process, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition of your possessions and the finished basement environment.

The first 48 hours are considered the most important time period to react, as it is crucial to preventing further damage to the basement and the items within, as well as preventing a wide spread mold problem. Below are the first steps to take, preferably within these first 48 hours.

1. Turn Off the Power. Never enter a flooded basement or touch the flood waters without cutting off the power.
2. Call your insurance company. Policies differ. Most require special flood insurance to cover ground water leaks, but homeowner’s insurance may cover damage from indoor plumbing and hot water heater leaks.
3. Get the water out as soon as possible. Call SERVPRO of The North Coast to extract any standing water. If there isn’t a lot of water, you might try to get it out yourself, with a “floor sucker” or a shop-vac.

Dry everything out as quickly as possible

To prevent items and building materials from becoming ruined, dry your basement as soon as the water is removed. Ideally, the basement should be completely dry within 48 hours. After that, the potential for mold growth increases considerably. A professional restoration company might help expedite this process. Alternatively, you can consider acquiring a powerful basement dehumidifier.

EWWWW!!! What's That Smell? It Might Be Water Damage

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you smell something funny in your home, don't wait! Call SERVPRO of The North Coast today!

Do you know when to be worried about a funny smell? Most new homeowners are not water damage specialists, but the human nose is an excellent tool for sniffing out trouble. Your nose is not the only way to spot water damage in your new home. Our SERVPRO of The North Coast technicians are IICRC certified and can help handle any moisture problems you may discover after moving in.

The sooner you notice a problem, the sooner you can call our team to help mitigate ongoing damages. With summer coming in northern Ohio, some water damage will be easier to spot. When you notice a problem, a highly trained SERVPRO professional can assess the extent of your damages. We can use our specialized equipment to remedy the issue fast.

What should you keep an eye out for when you do your spring cleaning? Start at the top. When looking for roof damages, obvious water stains aren't the only problem. Swollen insulation is usually an indication of water retention. Check your flashing (where the roof meets the walls) for cracks and look for missing shingles as well as more obvious signs like holes. Look at door frames and molding. Unusual stains or dark spots on the walls can mean trouble.

Inside, make sure you check your appliances after you move in to be certain they are not leaking where you cannot see easily behind them. Cracked hoses and loose connections can be tricky. Ripples, buckling, and changes in texture can tell you the flooring has a water problem. Remember to trust your nose. If it smells wrong, it probably is.

Outside water damages and mold are often caused by improper drainage. Check your spouts to see that they are clear and make sure you do not have water pooling around the foundation of your new home. At the first sign of damage, you can call SERVPRO.

No one wants to find water damages in their new home this spring. If you do, SERVPRO of The North Coast is available at (216) 221-3333 24 hours a day. We can make things “Like it never even happened.”

IICRC Certified Firm

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team is IICRC Certified!

SERVPRO of The North Coast is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) create the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of The North Coast

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

Common Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

This flooded building was caused by a broken pipe.

Unexpected flooding in commercial buildings can happen very quickly, especially if there is no one on site to access the problem. What starts out as a small water leak can instantly turn into something larger, and cause significantly more damage than expected. If your commercial building isn’t in pristine condition, there is a much higher chance of water damage occurring. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage in a commercial building:

1. Broken Pipes. Broken or cracked pipes are very common to occur in commercial buildings, especially as they age. When a pipe bursts, water rushes out of them, spraying throughout the whole building. A busted pipe can cause damage to the walls, ceilings, flooring, and any other contents you have occupying that space.
2. Malfunctioning Sprinklers. It is a law that all commercial properties are equipped with an overhead sprinkler system. It works in conjunction with the fire alarm, and is activated when the fire alarm goes off. This causes water damage in two ways. First, if there is a fire in the building, the smoke will set off the fire alarms, activating the sprinklers causing water damage. And second, if the sprinkler system malfunctions and activates on its own, causing the water to cover the entire building.
3. Backed Up Sewer Lines. Bathrooms are another common source of possible problems. Sewer lines can get backed up, releasing water into the building. This type of water damage is extremely dangerous because the water is filled hazardous waste and other contaminants.
4. Damaged Appliances. Almost every office building has a kitchen or break room. Typically these rooms have a refrigerator or a dishwasher and when these appliances malfunction they can leak a significant amount of water, flooding entire room or more.

Ahh! My Pipes Are Frozen!!

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, that's why our SERVPRO Team is always here to help!

The cold temperatures in Cleveland can lead to a number of problems for local homeowners. One of which may include frozen pipes. A hard freeze can even lead to broken pipes or water damage in your home. Here are some things you may want to know about what to expect when your pipes freeze.

What To Do When Pipes Freeze

If you have a frozen pipe in your home there are a few things you can do

• Call a professional, like SERVPRO for help
• Keep your pipes open so the water has a place to go when thawed
• Apply gentle heat, like a hot towel or blow dryer, to the frozen area of the pipe

Why Pipes Freeze

During a hard freeze the temperature outdoors can drop so low that the cold can permeate the pipes. Any water inside will then expand. If there is not enough room inside the pipes, then the pressure can cause cracks which will lead to leaks when the water thaws. A water damage professional can help with repairs to your home if the leak causes damage.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Fortunately, there are a few prevention steps you can take to prevent the freezing of your pipes and subsequent water damage. These steps include draining the water from pipes that may freeze such as a sprinkler line, and disconnecting any hoses from your home. You may also want to close any indoor valves that supply water to outdoor lines. If the weather is especially cold you may want to let your faucets drip a little as moving water is less likely to freeze. It’s also a good idea to keep your home’s temperature above 55 degrees.

When a hard freeze occurs, the water in your pipes can freeze and cause some damage to your home. A professional can help with any repairs and cleanup you may need. If you know that the temperature is likely to get to freezing point, you may be able to take some steps to protect your pipes.

Cleaning Smoked Damaged Homes

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Here is an example of soot covering the entirety of this room due to a fire.

What goes into a Fire Cleaning and Restoration Project?

Projects vary based on a variety of factors such as:

• Size and scope of the damage
• Source of the fire
• Odor level
• Type of materials affected 

To get a good idea of what is necessary for your particular situation it is best to give us a call and schedule a free inspection and estimate to determine what processes are best suited to restore your home. Typically many of our fire restoration projects include:

• Board Up
• Dry cleaning with a sponge or HEPA vacuum
• Wet cleaning with solutions or enzymes
• Ozone treatment for odor
• Thermal for odor
• Content pack-out for off site cleaning (more severe fire damage situation)
• Duct cleaning

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team deals with fires all year around and we are ready to help you take back your home after fire. Make sure you review these fire damage tips and give us a call today for an inspection today at 216-221-3333!

Our SERVPRO Team Gives You A Five Star Experience Every Time!

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our goal is to go above and beyond for each and every one of our customers!

Guess who’s one of the most highly recommended restoration company in the Cleveland area? That’s right, it’s us! We don’t need to toot our own horn, because we’ve got over 100 reviews to do that for us. We are really proud of them, because we’ve worked really hard to make sure each and every one of those reviews is well earned. Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team strives hard to make sure every one of our customers has a five-star experience, no matter the size or type of job. Whether it’s a fire or a water loss, whether it’s a home or a commercial building. We want you to have the same experience no matter what, and if you aren’t happy, we aren’t happy! We want to make it right every time and ensure that you receive the same care and compassion that everyone else has.

Give our SERVPRO Team a call today at 216-221-3333!

Our SERVPRO Team Takes Pride In Customer Service

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team is dedicated to providing the best possible customer service.

If you ever wonder what makes the difference between all of the contractors you can choose from, the answer is simple. It’s customer service! Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast we strive to make every job the quickest and best quality that it can be. This picture is just a quick before and after photo of the small carpet patch to a much larger job. This is an example of the careful and attention to details that our project managers pour into your projects. Next time if you ever ask the question: Why SERVPRO? It’s because we care about every little detail of our work and your property. We personally work with you through every step of the way during this stressful time. Our SERVPRO Corporate office has a 1-4-8 requirement for all SERVPRO jobs. Which means we must contact the customer within one hour, be on site within 4 hours and have the estimate to the adjuster in 8 business hours. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

What To Expect After A Fire

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team can help you after a fire!

A fire damage event is difficult for the home or business owner on many levels, and the restoration process that follows can be intimidating. Each fire event is a little different, and each will require a unique solution, although the overall general process stays the same. The steps we are listing below will illustrate the SERVPRO process for the average fire damage emergency.

• Emergency Contact. Your restoration process begins the moment that you contact us. Our representative will ask you questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us to respond with the appropriate equipment and resources for your particular situation.
• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment. Our team will carefully inspect and test all the adjoining rooms of your home or business to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is vital to us, allowing us to develop the perfect plan of action for your property.
• Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service. Fire damage will often compromise the condition of windows, walls, and roofing. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we will board up missing windows and walls, and place tarps on damaged areas of the roof.
• Water Removal and Drying. If water damage is present, the water removal process will begin almost immediately, with the goal of removing the majority of the water. Our team will then employ dehumidifiers and air movers to remove any remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Removal of Smoke and Soot From All Surfaces. SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and all other surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing. We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. Our team uses a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to the condition they were in before the fire. We are also trained to remove lingering odors, using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
• Restoration. This is the final step - getting your home or business back to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, installing new carpet, or painting surfaces, or it may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various rooms or areas.

Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast, we are here to help if your Cleveland home or business suffers from damage due to a fire. 

Why Choose A Team Who Is IICRC Certified?

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

With the proper training, our SERVPRO Team sets themselves apart to serve you!

SERVPRO of The North Coast is proud to be an IICRC certified firm. IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is a non-profit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. The goal of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration and installation industries. To accomplish this goal, the IICRC sets standards and certifications for inspection, cleaning, and restoration. The IICRC ensures that when consumers hire a certified firm or technician that they have hired experts who will provide reasonable assurance that work will be completed in accordance with the industry's "standard of care." The technicians of SERVPRO of The North Coast sets themselves apart through training, experience, and comprehensive examination.

For more information about the IICRC, please visit https://www.IICRC.org/. 

Our SERVPRO Team Can Take Care Of Your Hazardous Jobs

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast team is highly trained to handle all of your bio-hazard needs.

SERVPRO of The North Coast professionals are trained to safely and effectively removed bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, along with state and local health regulations. We are equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, our team can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes, and offices.  

Bloodbourne Pathogens

SERVPRO professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits- these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of The North Coast professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. Our SERVPRO team help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Handling Fire Damage In Your Cleveland Home

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team has the knowledge and tools to restore your home after a fire.

You may think that your Cleveland home is not vulnerable to a fire, but evidence shows that unexpected home fires can happen very quickly and when you least expect it. A kitchen grease fire or an electrical short can damage your home in just a few minutes. Very often, the fire burns in only one section of the house, but the smoke travels farther out than where the source of the fire is. However, even the smallest of fires require professional attention.

Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast, we specialize in fire restoration services for Cleveland homeowners. We coordinate the repairs and continually communicate with your insurance adjusters to make your restoration process as easy as possible. Our SERVPRO Team is available around the clock to minimize the time in which your home and its contents continue to absorb soot, smoke, and any extinguishing agents used to put out the fire.

Call Your Local Fire Restoration Team to Restore Your Home in Cleveland

We recommend you let our SERVPRO team take a look at the damage in your home. It is best to have our knowledgeable team use the latest technology available in our field to inspect your home. Using tools such as hygrometers and infrared camera imagery, we can detect where water might be hiding in places such as subfloors and within wall cavities. Similarly, we inspect your ventilation system and follow the smoke path to determine how to mitigate the odor it left behind. This thorough assessment focuses on protecting you from developing an environment where your home or health could be compromised. Among the actions we can take to remove traces of the fire we include the following:

• Use thermal foggers or hydroxyl generators to combat the pungent smell
• Discard items, particularly porous textiles that might pose a danger to your health. Upholstery and carpets are especially vulnerable to being damaged beyond repair
• Application of industrial-strength cleaning agents to remove stains and soot throughout your home

Power Strip Safety

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience an electrical fire from a power strip, call SERVPRO of The North Coast for help.

With the endless amount of accessories, appliances, and tools that are becoming more and more common in your household, it can sure be a hassle figuring out where to plug all of them in at. Many homeowners find themselves always swapping plugs or using devices such as a power strip. While a power strip can help you out in many situations, it is the mistake of relying on them too much that causes problems. Follow these tips below to ensure your safety when using a power strip in your home.

• Use only light load appliances on power strips. That includes computers, lamps, clock, etc.
• Ensure that the power strip you purchase has an internal circuit breaker. This is a very important safety measure that is designed to prevent property loss and risks of fire.
• Use power strips sparingly. They aren't designed to maintain a load for an extended period of time, and can easily overheat quickly if used to often.
• DON'T plug a power strip into another power strip (term is called "daisy chaining"). Doing this will short out appliances and highly increase the risk of an electrical mishap.
• DON'T use power strips in moist or potentially moist areas. DON'T put them in kitchens, utility rooms or basements.
• DON'T continue to use a power strip if it feels hot.
• NEVER cover, staple, tack or nail a power strip to anything. Covering can smother the strip, and provide ample flammable material in the event of a power strip failure. Puncturing can harm the cords, making room for dangerous situations.

Clogged Gutters Can Cause Water Losses

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

It is critical to keep your gutters clean to prevent water from seeping into your basement and causing floods.

One of the biggest fears as a homeowner with a basement is your basement flooding whenever it rains. A valid and legitimate fear, this situation causes a myriad of repairs. All sorts of damage including ruined flooring and carpeting, rotted drywall, destroyed furniture, and the worst of all, mold growth can occur. These repairs can be time-consuming and costly, and your basement can even flood in dry weather.

Issues with your foundation drainage is a big cause for a flooded basement and flood damage in your Columbus home. However, the main reason for water in your basement is overflowing gutters. It is critical to keep your gutters clean to prevent water from seeping into your basement and causing floods. Quality gutter guards and even using an expert to clean your gutters out routinely keeps debris and leaves out of the gutters so they can function properly.

When your gutters do cause flooding in your basement, it can be quite overwhelming. You need to have professionals, such as SERVPRO, come to your home to help you get all the water out and repair the damages.

When your gutters are clogged with debris, the water has nowhere to go. It overflows over the gutters to the ground next to your house, only a couple feet from the foundation. As the ground is settling and moving, it stresses the foundation of your home which causes cracking, letting water enter your home. Hydrostatic pressure might force water in through the concrete. The main solution is to keep your gutters clean.

Flooded basements create not only a lot of possible damage but plenty of stress for you as well. At SERVPRO, we understand this, so we move quickly to get to your home after you reach out to us. We have the professional and industrial equipment to get all the standing water out of your home and use fans and dehumidifiers to finish the drying process. We have moisture meters to find any hidden water or mold growth as well.

When SERVPRO of The North Coast is finished restoring your home after your basement floods, it is "Like it never even happened." Just give us a call at (216) 221-3333 so we can get started as soon as possible.

Leave The Roof Tarps To Our SERVPRO Team

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

This residential home needed a tarp after a recent storm.

Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast we want to take the hassle and stress out of the board up and roof tarping of your home due to a disaster.

Whether your home or business was damaged by a fire, storm, or other structural disasters, boarding up or tarping a damaged property is a burden that you as a homeowner shouldn't have to handle. Incorrectly boarding up or tarping your home can result in further damage, making the situation worse. Whether the further damage be from moisture or animal intrusions.

Our dedicated team of professionals are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to help with in case you come across unexpected damage to your home or business.

Our trained and certified professionals are here to board up or tarp your damaged property, remediate the original damage and provide you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

Sump Pump Back Ups In Your Residential Home

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

This residential basement experienced water damage due to a sump pump back up.

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team sees many flooded basements due to sump pump issues. If you have a sump pump, follow these steps.

First things first, check with your insurance agent to review your coverages! It is very frustrating for owners to find out they did not have any coverage or insufficient coverage.

How do you know if you need sump pump coverage or not?  Look at what you have in the basement. If you have an unfinished basement and just concrete floors, without any contents (or very few and not valuable), then you probably won't suffer much of a loss other than the cleanup effort from someone like us at SERVPRO of The North Coast, who specializes in cleaning up floods and backups in homes and businesses. If you have a finished basement and contents that you would want to be replaced if ruined, then the cost of replacing and repairing everything grows very quickly, and insurance can be a good way to protect your investment (in your contents, and structure--walls, etc).

Take time today to reach out to your insurance agent for a coverage review--you may be surprised how under insured you are, not only for your home or business, but also your vehicles, health, and life. No, we are not insurance guru's, but we see their clients--YOU, and they are either very upset with the situation because of no coverage or under insured, or just a little frustrated with the situation, but feel better about it when they know it is a covered loss! 

Another precaution is to make sure you are paying attention to the weather and when we get a bunch of rain, then make sure you go downstairs to catch a problem as early as possible. Many times, property owners do not realize they have a water loss until they start to smell something and go downstairs to see. The longer the water sits, the more damage and discard items you can expect...including your carpet, pad, and drywall that was affected. 

Restoring Your Wooden Furniture

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause significant damage to your wooden furniture and cabinets.

Water damage can strike any household at any time. There are various causes of water damage, including a burst pipe, an overflowing tub, a leak or a broken appliance. Water can also enter your home from outside sources such as a damaged water main, garden run-off or severe weather. When water leaks or soaks in, it has the potential to cause untold damage to your home and belongings. That is why it is important to contact SERVPRO for help when dealing with unwanted water in your home - “We’re faster to any size disaster.”

There is no doubt that wooden furniture can suffer if there is water damage to your Cleveland home. That is bad news for your antique rocker, favorite family dining table or that wooden chest of drawers you inherited from your beloved aunt. The main cause for concern when it comes to wooden furniture is that water can cause it to warp. Wicking up water can also cause swelling of furniture joints and cause them to come unstuck or suffer other structural damage. There is also the risk of water spots or stains on the surface of the item. Chairs, tables, and other items may also crack or warp as they dry.

Our IICRC-experts are experienced in creating the optimum drying conditions for wood furniture. While you are waiting for the specialists to arrive, it is safe to use an absorbent cloth or sponge to pat furniture dry. However, we recommend that you do not wipe or rub it and that you handle it with extreme caution.

SERVPRO experts are trained to assess the damage to your furniture and liaise with furniture refinishers on your behalf if necessary. If it is possible to save the item we set up a drying area for it. The key to getting a great result when drying wood furniture is to dry it slowly and avoid direct heat. We also have wood cleaning products for the removal of minor stains.

Our technicians are equipped with air movers, box fans, and dehumidifiers to help dry out your items. Once we get the temperature to a stable 70-90 degrees F, we use portable low grain dehumidifiers to bring down the humidity around your furniture. Meanwhile, air movers direct air around, over and under the item to increase the rate of evaporation and encourage the drying process.

Do not let water permanently warp your furniture. Call SERVPRO of The North Coast at (216) 221-3333 today for drying solutions.

Preventing Mold Growth At Your Commercial Property

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

If you discover visible mold in your commercial building, give our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team a call.

High humidity is a breeding ground for mold. The fungus feeds off moisture and can spread quickly. This often results in costly and complex black mold cleanup.

Those who manage commercial property in humid climates thus have to take additional steps to limit mold damage. Below are some tips for preventing the growth of mold in your Columbus commercial building.

Keep Water Out

If there is any kind of flood or water leak on the premises, dry or remove the wet items immediately. You should quickly address any standing water within the property, as well.

Similarly, you should take steps to prevent water from entering the property from the outside. That means cleaning the gutters regularly and fixing any cracks in the walls or roof.

Utilize an Air Conditioner

If your property is in a location with high humidity, it likely includes an air conditioning unit. You should set it to approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. Also, be sure to have the unit inspected regularly to ensure it is working properly. This will prevent the need for mold cleanup in the future.

Use Dehumidifiers

The dehumidifier is a great way to lower the amount of moisture in the air. Ideally, the humidity level should be no higher than 50 percent.

Increase Ventilation

Mold reproduces quickly in stale air. While an office building can get stuffy in a hurry, there are ways to improve the ventilation. Try opening some desk drawers or closet doors. You should also limit any clutter and keep furniture away from the walls.

Limit Condensation

Condensation is another common cause of mold growth in places with high humidity. You should thus install appropriate insulation in areas prone to this type of moisture.

Even if you follow the above steps, you could still encounter mold on your property. Mold remediation specialists can help fix the problem. They can also clean up any water damage and take steps to prevent the fungus from coming.

Commercial Water Removal In Cleveland

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Technician extracting after a recent commercial water loss.

Water damage in many regular businesses in Cleveland might not be a common occurrence probably because, in most of them, there is little interaction with water. For example, if you have a bookstore, only the restroom might have free-flowing water installations. The limited presence leaves you less prepared for such an eventuality, but with the services we offer, your business can bounce back soon enough.

 
During commercial water removal, speed is crucial because apart from the damage the water is likely to cause, extended downtime might lead customers to seek services elsewhere. Working with a professional like SERVPRO provides a realistic chance of getting your business back on track fast enough because we have a professional team and industry-leading equipment. With our truck-mounted water extractors, we can remove water from your property within a few hours, or portable wet vacs and mops and buckets for smaller removal efforts.
 
One thing that slows down the recovery process is the kind of contents on the premises. In a bookstore, you might have to move shelves or boxes fully stacked with stationery before taking steps to address the affected areas. One of the effective steps to take in such a scenario is a pack-out. Moving all or most of the contents away from the business premises makes extracting the water more effectively done and also relocate paper materials out of harm's way. Our SERVPRO team is well equipped to handle pack-outs. Among other things, we gather contents, wrap them in protective sheets and a label them correctly so that when we return them, it can be "Like it never even happened," whenever possible.
 
Proper water removal takes more than just running a few drying or extraction equipment. Once the water floods the property, it might reach areas such as wall cavities, which are not readily accessible. One way our SERVPRO team removes water from the hidden areas faster is by drilling holes in the walls. If there is insulation, we make flood cuts, but if there is no insulation, weep holes work. These holes allow for increased circulation of air in the wall cavities, drying the premises faster.
 
When the unexpected water loss occurs, you should call SERVPRO of The North Coast at 216-221-3333. We evaluate the situation and find a way to get you back in business fast.

Be Prepared For Upcoming Winter Storms

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Winter is coming! Be ready for the next winter storm!

Winter weather in Ohio can be hard to predict.  Even though we have not any snow yet this year, it is a good idea to prepare your home, car and surrounding area for any upcoming storms. 

Follow these helpful tips

Salt pavement around your house: the city is pretty good with clearing the roads around your home, however any sidewalks and pathways are left up to the homeowner to clear.  To make things easier on homeowners, once you are aware of any storm headed your way spread street salt on your driveway and walkway. Placing salt down prior to any snowstorm can reduce the ice that forms underneath piles of snow. 

Keep a steady drip:  With snow comes freezing and sometimes below freezing conditions leaving your pipes vulnerable and likely to freeze and in turn burst.  Having a settle but steady drip of warm water flow through will help keep your pipes from freezing during these conditions. 

Create a winter ready emergency kit: In an event of a snow storm the strength of it is always unpredictable.  To keep you and your family safe, create and keep a winter ready emergency kit available.  A few things to keep in the kit; bottled water, batteries, a functioning radio, different layers of clothing, blankets and non perishable food items.

SERVPRO of The North Coast has a 24/7 emergency response team that is ready to handle any storm damage you may have in your Cleveland home.

Restoring Your Carpets After A Flood

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

In some situations, only padding under a carpet needs replacing after incurring water damage.

Carpet replacement can be one of the costliest parts of a water damage cleanup process, but it does not always have to happen. While carpet can easily be damaged beyond possible repair, in many cases SERVPRO can restore your carpet without needing to replace part or all of it. The most important and deciding factor is the severity and type of water damage in your Columbus home - storm flooding and some other forms of damage are typically irredeemable. If the flooding is benign, or if the damage is light overall, we can help save your carpet (and your wallet).

 
Rapid Drying
 
Our primary method of softening the impact of water damage in Cleveland is our time-tested strategy of mitigation. If the carpet is allowed to stay damp for too long, damage can become permanent, and mold can begin to grow. Within four hours of your first call to us, our personnel should be on-scene to evaluate and respond to damage.

Floodwaters can be extracted before they have time to settle in and cause more severe damage, and we can quickly set up powerful air movers to create powerful, water-removing air currents in your home. Finally, we then use dehumidifiers to take water back out of the air, leaving any scene of water damage completely dry within a short time frame.
 
Restorative Techniques
 
Once the carpet has been dried, it likely still needs some restorative processes to be back in top shape. SERVPRO specializes in this, with dedicated cleaning tools and techniques to help maintain color, texture, and integrity of carpeting. During this time, if we determine that a region of carpet is more seriously damaged or otherwise needs replacing, we can typically cut off that spot alone for replacement without removing the rest of the carpet.
 
SERVPRO of The North Coast is available around the clock to respond to water damage emergencies in the local area. If water damage has hit your home or if you would like to learn more about our services, call us at (216) 221-3333.

What To Do After A Tree Falls On Your Home

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

A tree fell on this local home and damaged the roof. Luckily our SERVPRO Team came to the rescue!

When a tree falls on your roof, it not only damages your home’s structure, but it also exposes the inside of your home to outside elements. During certain times of the year, our SERVPRO Team gets a mass amount of calls from customers who have had trees fall on their roof and are unsure of what to do. It’s not a quick process, but there are a few steps you can take!

1. Remove the tree. This might seem like an obvious first step, but we’ve had countless calls from customers who haven’t even removed the tree. Until the damaged area of your roof has been cleared, it can’t be covered. We recommend calling your local tree removal company.

2. Tarp exposed areas. Unless you’re lucky, a fallen tree will likely cause damage to your roof, generally leaving it exposed. To ensure outside elements don’t get in and cause more damage to the inside of your home, you should have the affected area tarped.

3. Contact your local SERVPRO Team. The tarp is only a temporary solution! After the damaged area is tarped, our SERVPRO Team will discuss next step repairs with you. If a storm hits before the affected area is properly tarped, you will most likely have water damage affecting the interior of your home. Our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team can not only handle your water disaster but also fix your damaged structure of your home!

A fallen tree can cause a lot of damage and create a headache for you, but with the above steps, you can get your life back on track. If your home is damaged by a fallen tree, call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team today! We are available 24/7 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Leave The Mold Cleanup To Our SERVPRO Team

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

These homeowners were unaware that mold was growing behind their walls.

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

What To Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of The North Coast for mold remediation services.

What Not To Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services:

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

If you discover mold in your home or business, call our professionals at SERVPRO of The North Coast.

Our SERVPRO Team Gets You Back To Business

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

We are Faster To Any Size Disaster!

There are many reasons why a commercial business needs to quickly return to its normal daily operations after a water or fire disaster. The reason that is the most prevalent on the minds of the company's stakeholders is simple: profitability.  The longer a business remains idle due to an unexpected loss, the faster that losses from lost opportunity will mount. It is critical to respond quickly. 

As small business owners, we understand that every hour you spend cleaning up after fire or water damage means lost revenue and productivity. Our goal is to clean and restore your structure and contents quickly and efficiently so you can get back to what your business and building does best.

SERVPRO of The North Coast is a large-loss team that routinely mitigates water and fire damage losses in office complexes, medical buildings, high rise buildings, university buildings, large hotels and other commercial structures throughout the Columbus area. Whether you are in need of board-up services, commercial drying, or the mitigation of massive amounts of water from a factory floor, we have the knowledge, equipment and proven expertise to deliver fast, proven results for our commercial customers. 

Don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of The North Coast for your all of your unexpected commercial restoration needs. Our highly trained professionals are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your next unexpected disaster. We are always Here To Help!

Don't Wait! Call Us Right Away To Prevent Secondary Damages

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Your janitorial team is NOT equipped to handle water damage issues. Call our SERVPRO Team!

A flood can be a nightmare for a customer-facing business. Unfortunately, they are not easy to prevent due to the myriad of potential causes. A customer could leave a faucet on, an aging pipe could finally burst, or even extreme weather conditions could result in flooding. These all can cause temporary closure, and those that happen overnight can be particularly damaging. To limit the loss of revenue and be able to return your staff to work, you can use our professional restoration service.

The job of commercial water removal in commercial properties is usually one that goes beyond the scope of your janitorial team. SERVPRO has access to national resources and can train local technicians while providing them with the right equipment to work on larger job sites. We operate our emergency line twenty-four hours a day to help our commercial businesses in times of need.

A water issue in a property is not always a case of large quantities of standing water. Sometimes a leak can spread out across a large surface area. This excess water is then absorbed into floors or wall cavities, primarily if the problem occurs during the close of business hours. We can conduct mitigation tasks quickly to help to ensure that no lasting damages are sustained to your property.

One method of removing water from a property is through creating airflow. SERVPRO use rapid air movers in a variety of ways to start this process. These equipment work by blasting air out at the surface level which pushes moisture into the air. Working with an open system, the circulation can replace wet air with drier air from outside the property.

Air movers can also be adapted to create circulation in areas of the property that would usually be hard to access. By attaching shrouds to an air mover, SERVPRO can re-purpose them to send air currents through wall cavities or beneath floorboards. These steps can often be essential in mitigating against microbial growth.

The benefit of professional assistance it that it can help to guard against expensive secondary damages, contact our SERVPRO of The North Coast team today!

Don't Worry SERVPRO Is Here To Help After A Storm

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Don't worry our SERVPRO Team is always here to help!

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. When a large storm hits the Cleveland area, nobody is more prepared to handle the damage than SERVPRO of The North Coast. Our SERVPRO Team has the storm damage experience to take the needed immediate actions to help you when you need it most.

Regardless of your property size, our SERVPRO Team will respond quickly to clean and restore your property. If your home has been impacted by storm damage, call SERVPRO of The North Coast anytime, day or night at 216-221-3333. We are here to help 24-7. Our SERVPRO Team makes your home "Like it never even happened.”

Our SERVPRO Team Is Here To Help After A Fire

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO of The North Coast Team today!

Our SERVPRO Team knows that even the smallest of fires can create large amounts of smoke damage, and that damage isn’t just confined to the area of the fire. SERVPRO of The North Coast understands that when your business or commercial property has been affected by a fire, you need help fast. When you call our SERVPRO Team, our highly trained professionals will be on site quickly to assess the damage and begin the process of getting your building up and running.

As small business owners, we understand that every hour you spend cleaning up after a fire means lost revenue and productivity. Our goal is to clean and restore your structure and contents quickly and efficiently so you can get back to doing what your business and building does best. 

If your business or commercial property has been impacted by fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of The North Coast anytime, day or night at 216-221-3333. We are here to help you 24-7. Our SERVPRO Team makes your building "Like it never even happened.”

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned; A Higher Standard of Clean

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward. Employees may be hesitant to return to work, and customers may wonder whether the businesses they patron are safe.

We are proud to launch Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned—a cleaning and disinfecting program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When businesses chose SERVPRO, their employees, customers, and community can rest assured that they’ve selected a “higher standard of clean”—Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Please contact our SERVPRO of The North Coast office at 216-221-3333 to have your building Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. 

Unexpected Summer Storms

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

The flooded hallway in this Cleveland home was caused by a recent storm.

It's official, summer is FINALLY here! It's the time of the year that we have all been waiting for. It's a time for us to be outside, enjoy the sunshine and get ourselves a nice tan. But we always forget that summer also brings us storms, which means rain! Bummer!

You have probably already noticed that our forecast lately has a lot rain in the future. Does the upcoming rain make you think about your home? Probably not, you're too busy waiting for the rain to go away so you can get back outside again. But you should be thinking about your home especially with the upcoming storms we may have this summer.

Thinking about your home and the rain, you should have SERVPRO in the back of your mind! Our SERVPRO of The North Coast team is here for all of your water damage needs. Our Team follows IICRC Standards when restoring your home after a storm.

Here at SERVPRO we are prepared for any upcoming storm even though you may not be. We have a 24-7 on-call technician available for you, even in the early morning hours. We are ready to address your next residential disaster and send a crew right out to you. We want to get a crew out to you quickly, we don't like to wait around, that causes secondary damages to your home which means more downtime. No fun!

SERVPRO is prepared for the unexpected! That's our business and we love it! SERVPRO of The North Coast is always here to help. Call us today at 216-221-3333!

Water Damage Experts Here For You!

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team uses state of the art equipment to dry out water damage.

Professional water removal services are readily available to you through our professional residential and commercial restoration processes. Don't leave anything to chance, see how our expert technicians and advanced equipment made us a responsible trusted leader within the industry!
 
We have a highly efficient water removal team in Cleveland that is eagerly waiting for your call! We'll work with you through everything and look forward to the opportunity to show you that our services are the best you'll find to assist you with your water removal needs! We'll help manage any paperwork involved in your case and walk you through the entire process.
 
Our SERVPRO Technicians are expertly trained to handle your water damage situation! Each Technician is certified to perform various functions required during different phases of our restoration process, and they desire to perform their assigned tasks as efficiently as possible to produce high-quality results for our customers.
 
The extraction equipment that our SERVPRO Technicians use is second to none; we spare no expense in providing our Technicians with the highest quality tools available. These extractors come in both portable and truck mounted variations, no job is too big or too small. While, submersible pumps are used to extract water exceeding two inches deep to help speed up the process.
 
Each extractor is made up of three main parts; a heater, a pump, and a vacuum system and their only purpose are to work together to perform a single function. They remove water!
 
Dehumidifiers are used throughout the process to assist in the drying process. These dehumidifiers are used to cycle the air in the surrounding area, run it through a cold evaporator coil. Inside of the evaporator coil, moisture is separated and captured in a collection tray; then warm, dry air gets pumped out of the dehumidifiers exhaust fan.
 
A Refrigerant or LGR Dehumidifier is used at the beginning of the process when the humidity is at its highest, while Desiccant Dehumidifiers only serve a purpose when structural materials are wet, but everything else is dry.
 
SERVPRO Technicians using this type of equipment ensure that we can perform our absolute best and provide our customers a level of service that is as fast, effective and efficient as possible!
 
Find your way to SERVPRO of The North Coast for any water removal services. Our fast, 24-Hour services at your disposal seven days a week, including all holidays! 

Hidden Leaks Can Result In Costly Damages

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in this home was caused by an unknown refrigerator leak.

Think back, when's the last time you checked your appliances? You probably can't remember. Unfortunately appliances don't operate like vehicles do. There are no lights that come on to indicate you have a problem. Not knowing if your appliances are actually working properly can cause problems. Appliances that utilize water and are connected to a supply source are prone to leaks, breaks and cracks. Water damage caused by appliances can go unnoticed for weeks, months, and even years before a homeowner notices a problem. And unfortunately at that point, it is too late. That water that has escaped from the appliances have made its way into the walls, floors and baseboards.

Regular inspections of appliances is critical to prevent your home from experiencing costly water damage. Let's take a look at which appliances you should inspect.

• Refrigerator
  • We rarely move our refrigerators because they are heavy and it's a hassle. The water supply lines that are connected to the back of our refrigerators are made up thin plastic that can break pretty easily. Check for leaks behind and beneath your refrigerator to ensure there are no hidden issues.
• Dishwasher
  • A dishwasher's supply line is just as prone to leaks and breaks as the refrigerator lines are. But the supply line to the dishwasher supply a larger amount of water and are very hidden. Checking the supply line regularly could save you from costly repairs in the future.
• Hot Water Heater
  • This forgotten appliance is usually hidden down in the basement closet or in a garage. Hot water heaters hold anywhere from 20 to over 80 gallons of water at a time, and last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. That's a lot of water that you don't want in your home. The seals and pipes on these are certainly susceptible to failure and should be checked for accumulations of moisture.
• Washing Machine
  • The supply drain and hose are flimsy and are attached with simple hardware that can easily come loose, crack or disintegrate. Make sure to check the connection and the overall condition of these hoses monthly and replace them every couple of years.
• Air Conditioner
  • Every A/C unit should have a drain as well as a safety switch that causes the unit to shutoff when excess moisture pools in the drain pan. If this drain were to malfunction, you’re going to see water appear in places you wish it hadn’t. Each unit and manufacturer are different so we recommend referring to the manual for service and inspection scheduling. A professional HVAC Technician will know what to look for and how it can be repaired.

Candles Can Start A Fire In Your Cleveland Home

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO Team today if you experience an unexpected candle fire!

We all love candles. They are pretty to look at and get your home smelling wonderful. But unfortunately we need to remember that a candle is an open flame and can easily catch its surroundings on fire causing your beloved home to go up in flames.

First, lets take a look at the candle fire facts from the National Fire Protection Association to see just how common a candle fire is.

• There are 21 candle fires reported per day on average.
• Candles cause 2% of reported home fires, 3% of home deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 4% of the direct property damage in house fires.
• 37% of home candle fires start in the bedroom.
• 11% of the candle fires were a result of falling asleep while a candle was still burning.
• 60% of candle fires occurred when a flammable item was too close to the candle.

Wow, those facts are chilling! Now that we know how common candle fires are, let's take a look at how we can prevent candle fires in our homes.

• Blow out all candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Avoid having candles in the bedroom or other area where family members may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from flammable items in the home.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won't tip over easily.
• Make sure the surface your candles are on is sturdy and uncluttered.
• Be careful when lighting candles. Be sure to keep your hair and loose clothing away from the open flame.
• Never burn a candle all of the way down. Be sure to put it out before too close to the bottom of the container.
• Never use a candle in the home if there is oxygen being used.
• Never leave your children alone in the room with a burning candle.

Don't wait to call a professional when a candle unexpectedly causes a fire in your home. SERVPRO of The North Coast is here to help with your fire restoration needs.

Small Fire With Even Larger Damages

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Even though the fire in this office building was small, it caused a thick layer of soot throughout the building.

Fire accidents in the home happen quite frequently. There are many things that cause house fires including cooking accidents, which is the most common, lightning strikes, candles, smoking mishaps, heaters, fireplaces, electrical issues, dryer vents, and other household appliances.

Did you know? In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. Within minutes it creates thick black smoke engulfing the house in flames. That is why it is important to have a fire extinguisher on hand and if possible extinguish the flames. Every second counts.

In most cases, you can put out the flames quickly and the damages are minimal. But even a small fire can causes larger amounts of damage to the rest of your home. Often times, it is only one room that is completely charred but the damages go beyond that room. Smoke from a fire can fill your whole house and circulate throughout several rooms. Smoke damage occurs when the acidic ash or chemicals react with metal, plastic, or wood. Smoke can permeate carpet and other soft surfaces such as fabrics, drapes, and clothing. Our team always tries to restore your belongings before replacing them becomes an option.

SERVPRO of The North Coast is your go to company that is well equipped to handle any size fire damage. Our SERVPRO Team follows IICRC Standards when restoring your home. Our trained professional state of the art equipment to return your home to it's pre-fire damage condition "Like it never even happened."

You Notice A Water Stain On Your Ceiling, Now What?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes caused water damage on these residential walls.

Water can be very sneaky and can hide in very unknown places. Unless there is a sudden burst or flooding in a certain area of your home, you may not notice you have a problem until the problem has been going on for a long long time.

You may think your home is in perfect condition. And then, suddenly you notice a water spot that you hadn't noticed before. Now you have a problem! You think "What do I do? Who do I call?". You call SERVPRO!

Yes SERVPRO handles the big water disasters but we can also take care of the small unknown water problems that you didn't know you had. Depending on what floor the water stain is on, we can detect where the water is coming from, whether it is coming from a leaky pipe from the upstairs bathtub or a leak in your roof causing rain to find its way into your home. Don't worry about having to call a roofer, we can take care of all of your roofing needs.

Here at SERVPRO of The North Coast we are a one stop shop for all of your water restoration needs. We can repair your roof and ceiling, replace a shower or bathtub and remodel any room in your home.

Our SERVPRO of The North Coast team is always here to help you. We are able 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Even if you think your small water stain isn't an emergency, we will be out right away to access the damage. Call us today!

We are Your Local Cleaning Experts!

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is here to help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of North Coast at 216-221-3333!

Sources:

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

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

Does Your Building Have The Flu? SERVPRO Can Help!

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call our office today to have your building cleaned!

About Influenza (Flu)

Approximately 8% of the U.S. population contracts the flu each year. Influenza virus is a contagious respiratory sickness causing mild to severe symptoms. Those with the flu can spread it to others without direct contact. The flu virus spreads mainly by droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. Someone can also get flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it.

How SERVPRO Can Help Prevent The Spread Of Flu

Our SERVPRO team is here for you! We can treat your buildings for Influenza A, Rhinovirus, and many other harmful viruses. Our team uses a powerful, EPA botanical disinfectant that dries with no residue and is safe for use in the most delicate of applications like nursing homes and schools. Our staff would treat your building with a fogging process then go over heavy touched areas by hand.

Call our SERVPRO office today for more information!

How To Know If Your Walls Have Water Damage

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

These homeowners knew they had water damage when they noticed the water stains.

Have you ever wondered if your walls have water damage? Sometimes it's not so easy to identify.  And, as you know, water losses don't typically happen during convenient hours of the day. It’s not always easy to identify if your walls are damaged, but here are some signs to look for.

Common Signs of Water Damage In Your Walls

1. Musty Odor: Water damage can often cause mold damage and/or mildew damage if left undetected. But unfortunately, mold isn't always visible. If you notice a musty odor, that's a sign there may be mold somewhere you don't see. You want to make sure both sides of your walls are checked and tested for mold damage. Most importantly, you'll want to find the source of your water issues so the mold doesn't return and cause more damage.
2. Visible Mold Growth On Walls And Baseboards: Always be on the lookout for visible mold growth, it comes in various sizes. Mold infestation can quickly spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. But you want to be careful because mold may cause harm to you and your family's health, including your pet's. That is why it is very important to contact trained professionals who have the proper training and experience to remove and remediate mold.
3. Discoloration: Discoloration is a key indicator that your walls are damaged as a result of water damage. The common colors associated with discoloration are yellow, brown, or copper.
4. Peeling Or Bubbling Paint And Wallpaper: The peeling or bubbling of paint or wallpaper is another key indicator that your walls are damaged. It is important to contact trained professionals to access your walls, to prevent further damage from happening down the road.
5. Warped Walls: Inspect your walls carefully to see if you have any warped walls. When the sheetrock behind a wall absorbs too much water, it will start to bend and curve, which, in turn, can cause the wall to warp.
6. Water Stains: Inspect your walls carefully for any potential water stains. Water stains can easily be missed, especially if they are tiny in size. Since they can start out small, homeowners typically don't notice the water stains until they have increased in size, which, at that time, further damage may have occurred. It's a good idea to inspect around your windows and frames as well.

If you notice signs of water damage in your walls, don't hesitate to call our SERVPRO team! We are always here to help!

What Our Customers Can Expect When They Call Our SERVPRO Team

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our team can help with all of your restoration needs!

You can never plan for a water loss to occur in your home or business but it’s a good idea to keep handy the name and number of a local cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO. A disaster like this may seem like the end of the world but to our SERVPRO team it’s just an average day. This is our specialty. Our job is to provide state-of-the-art service to our customers that are in need of water damage restoration experts.

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. That is why it is imperative to call SERVPRO as soon as possible, so our team can start extracting the water.

Here is what you can expect when our highly trained technicians arrive at your home or business.

INSPECTION

Within two hours of receiving the loss notification, our SERVPRO of North Coast restoration professionals will be on-site to help ensure your water damage is handled in accordance with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Standards. Our team will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage. We will review the inspection with you, answering any questions you may have before beginning the work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Our SERVPRO of North Coast professionals take the necessary steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the affected area for drying. Once the area is prepared for drying, our technicians will then place our state-of-the-art drying equipment strategically in the area. Our team will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step and can assist you with filing an insurance claim, should you choose to file a claim. SERVPRO of North Coast is a preferred service provider for most major insurance companies such as Nationwide Insurance, State Farm, Allstate Insurance, Farmers Insurance and Grange Insurance. We always keep a great working relationship with our local Insurance Adjusters and Claims Agents.

MONITOR

To help ensure the structure and contents of your home or business are dried to the appropriate IICRC Standards, a SERVPRO of North Coast professional will monitor and document the drying process. These updates will be consistently communicated with you and when applicable, to your Insurance Adjuster or Claims Agent. Continuous monitoring allows our trained technicians to better understand how the property is drying, and the equipment can then be adjusted to dry the area quickly and more cost effectively. The length of drying does depend on the severity of the loss.

RESTORATION SERVICES

SERVPRO of North Coast will repair structural materials, reinstall carpers and cleaned affected areas of your property and contents. This is where our SERVPRO team lives up to our motto “Like it never even happened.” A final walk through of the property will be conducted with you to ensure your home or business was returned to its preloss condition.

When you contact SERVPRO of North Coast  you can rest assured that you are in good hands and that we have you and your property’s best interest at heart.

Sump Pump Replacement

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

If you need your sump pump replaced call our SERVPRO team.

Have you ever had your sump pump fail and back up your basement? Have you had to wait hours on a plumber to come out to your house?

It's always a stressful time whenever you have a sump pump back up in your basement. It's even more stressful when you are waiting for a plumber to come out to replace your sump pump and drain the water out. Water damage is already bad enough, don't make it worse! Don't wait on a plumber any longer! Call SERVPRO of North Coast, we are your One Stop Shop. We offer a 24 hour Sump Pump Replacement Service. Our team will replace your sump pump, mitigate the water and restore your basement back to preloss condition.

Call us today at (216) 221-3333

Dryer Vents Can Be A Fire Hazard

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire caused by a dryer, call SERVPRO of North Coast.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are nearly 17,000 reported home clothes dryer fires every year. The fires caused by dryers results in around 51 deaths, 380 injuries and $236 million in property loss. The leading cause of these fires is failure to clean dryer vents. Follow these tips below to prevent a potential dryer fire in your home.

Signs Of A Clogged Dryer

• A musty odor on the clothes following the drying cycle.
• Clothes unusually seeming too hot to touch.
• Excessive heat in the room where the washer and dryer are located.
• The dryer vent flap doesn't open properly when using the dryer.
• Debris on the outside dryer vent opening.
• Large amount of lint build up in the lint trap after each cycle.
• Odor from dryer sheets used in each cycle.

How To Prevent A Dryer Fire

• Read the manufacturers' instructions and warning before installing. Have your dryer installed by a knowledgeable professional and ensure that the correct electrical plugs an outlets are used.
• Clean out the dryer lint filter before and after each load of laundry.
• Clean the filter with a nylon brush at least once every 6 months or more if it becomes clogged.
• Clean the lint out of the vent pipe every 3 months.
• Occasionally check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure it is not damaged.
• Put a cover on outside wall dampers.
• Make sure the outdoor vent cover is open when the dryer is on.

Signs Of Storm Damage

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

This roof was damaged by a storm causing a tree to fall on the home damaging the roof and gutter.

After a storm rolls through, it is important to inspect your house for damage the storm may have caused. Listed below are areas you should be looking at.

1. Roof: Look for shingles that have discoloration, tearing, or even holes in them. These can all be signs that your roof has been damaged. Another sign is if there are leaks in your roof or your ceiling.
2. Gutters: After a hail storm, looking for dents or dings can also give you a better picture of what the storm did to the rest of your home. Your gutters can also give you insight to whether you have roof damage. Check to see if there are granules from the asphalt shingles in your gutter.
3. Windows: Look at each of the windows on your homes and note any signs of shattered or broken window and frame damage. This is especially important after a hail storm or a strong wind storm.
4. Exterior: Not only is it important to look at the siding of your home to check for damage, it is also important that you check all appliances. Inspect your AC/HVAC unit as well as items such as an outdoor grill.

After your inspection, if you notice any signs of storm damage follow up by checking the area for signs of mold, mildew, pests or other secondary damage. Our team is able to put an emergency roof tarp to prevent any further damage. Call SERVPRO of North Coast at (216) 221-3333 for any restoration needs you may have.

No Job Is Too Big Or Too Small

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast if you experience a loss at your home or business.

No matter the size of your property's emergency disaster, SERVPRO of North Coast is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you. We treat all of our customers with respect and thoughtfulness, as we know that even though a job may seem "small" to us, it feels really big when it's happening to you! We treat even the smaller residential jobs with the same urgency that we do on a large commercial loss.

When it comes to larger property emergencies at a commercial building, our team is well equipped to get the job done! Not only do we have our team here in Cleveland, we also have two warehouses full of equipment and crews ready to help out down in Columbus. We have years of experience handling large floods that affect multiple floors of high rise buildings as well as large warehouses with hundreds of thousands of feet affected from a flood or infested with mold. 

Size doesn't matter to us! You can always trust in SERVPRO of North Coast to take care of your restoration needs.

Preventing Your Pipes From Freezing

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience burst pipes in your home or business, call our team at SERVPRO of North Coast.

As the temperature continues to drop, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting rises. According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, burst pipes is the leading cause of property damage during the winter, resulting in $5,000 or more worth of damage. Follow the tips below to prevent your pipes freezing.

• Keep your garage door closed, especially if your water supply lines are located in the garage.
• Open all kitchen cabinets and doors. This allows the warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if you have sinks located on the exterior wall.
• Let cold water drip from your faucets. Running water through the pipes even a trickle can prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep your thermostat at the same temperature during the day and night.
• If you plan on leaving, leave the heat set to no lower than 55 degrees.
• For long term, add insulation to your attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in those areas. And to prevent drafts, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates, where the house rests on its foundation.

How To Thaw Frozen Pipes

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast is you experience burst pipes in your home.

If you turn on your faucet and notice only a little trickle coming out, it's safe to say you have a frozen pipe. If you suspect that the pipes are frozen, be careful when thawing the pipe out because if the pipe has already burst, the water will start flowing out into your home causing a flood.

If you notice that the pipe has been broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve. If the water is still running and no sign of burst pipes, follow the steps below.

• Turn on your faucet. As you start to heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, the water needs to be able to flow through. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Heat the section of the pipe. Use an electric heating pad to wrap around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or wrap the pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Avoid using any device with an open flame, the high heat can damage the pipes and even start a fire.
• Apply heat until the full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home. If one pipe is frozen, it is very likely that others may have frozen too.
• If you are unable to locate the frozen pipes, call a licensed plumber.

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast if you experience a fire during this holiday season.

This is the time of the year that people wait all year for. The time of the year where they can finally start decorating for the Christmas holiday. A live Christmas tree is a common choice for most homeowners. But did you know that Christmas trees alone result in 13 million dollars, annually, in property damage? When putting up a live tree in your home, the combination of the tree's dryness, electrical malfunction with lights and poorly located heating sources can make for a deadly combination. Follow these tips below to prevent a potential fire this holiday season.

• When shopping for a tree, look for a fresh tree with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck off and don't break off easily from its branches. Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire. 
• Always place your tree away from any heating sources like fireplaces, candles, radiators, heat vents or lights.
• Keep the base of the tree filled with water to avoid it drying out.
• Make sure your indoor and outdoor lights have been tested by the UL or ETL/ITSNA for safety. Throw away any damaged lights you may uncover.
• Make sure the lights your are using on the exterior of your house are labeled suitable for exterior placement. Plug exterior lighting into a ground-fault circuit interrupter protected receptacle.
• Keep all of your candles away from the tree, furniture and decor.
• Don't forget to turn all the lights off on the Christmas tree.

Causes And Signs Of Water Damage

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

These homeowners knew they had water damage from the brown water spots on their ceiling.

SERVPRO of North Coast knows that when you experience unexpected water damage it can be costly and set you back. It can occur at any time. Here are some examples of situations that can cause water damage in a home:

• Problems with the HVAC system.
• Cracks in the foundation or walls.
• Severe storms, floods and other extreme weather.
• Leaky or busted pipes.
• Malfunctioning dishwashers or washing machines.
• Roof damage, such as missing shingles or cracked flashing.
• Leaks from toilets, sinks, and showers.
• Drainage problems on your property.

Water damage is recognizable when it’s caused by a flood, but with other causes, it is sometimes hard to spot. If you are unsure of what to look for, it can be easy to miss until it becomes a major problem. Here are the usual signs of water damage in a home:

• Paint peeling from your walls
• Mold growth (which can look like dark discoloration) on any surface
• Warping of your floors.
• A strong musty smell.
• Sagging in parts of your walls or ceiling.
• Stains or discolored patches on walls or ceilings.
• Water pooling in your yard after a storm.

Cleaning Soot In Your Home

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO of North Coast for your soot removal needs.

As the temperature continues to drop, we often looks for ways to keep warm inside our homes. Whether that be to light candles, have a fire in the fireplace, or use a space heater. Unfortunately these heath sources can cause a fire if not monitored correctly. A fire then produces soot, a black residue that is left behind when various materials are burnt such as plastics, synthetics, foam and wood. Soot can have damaging effects on your home. While it is advised to leave it to the professionals to clean up soot, you can make the cleanup process easier by following these safety guidelines.

• During the first inspection of a soot damaged room, refrain from touching anything. This prevents soot to from getting in areas that were unaffected.
• The best method for soot cleanup is by using dry-cleaning sponge or chemical dry sponge. If you attempt a wet method, the soot will smear, leaving behind a hideous stain.
• Always wear protective gear, such as masks, gloves, and long clothing that covers the skin.
• To minimize the inhalation of soot particles, keep the room properly ventilated.
• For easier cleanup, clear the room of unnecessary debris.
• Use proper cleaning methods when removing soot from the walls. Most homeowners think soap and water will do the trick but improper cleaning can cause the damage to spread or get worse.

Leave it to the professionals. Call our SERVPRO of North Coast team for fire damage cleaning and restoration.

Preparing Your Commercial Property For Winter

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

This flooded room was caused by a leak in the roof.

As winter approaches, it is smart to start thinking about how to prepare your property for winter to minimize the potential for damage. Follow these tips below:

Building's Exterior

• Inspect and repair the roof. To prevent roof leaks, seal around vents and other protrusions.
• Remove all obstructions from gutters and downspouts, make sure they are properly secured.
• Drain and winterize exterior water lines to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Clear debris from drains and ensure that water is draining away from your property.
• Inspect trees and remove unsafe branches near the building and walkway.

Building's Interior

• Inspect furnaces and check the filter.
• Prohibit or minimize the use of space heaters. Assure a safe location when operating.
• Inspect wood burning stoves and chimneys for safety use.
• Protect interior pipes from freezing.
• Leave faucets dripping during intense cold.
• Test all smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors.

Fire Protection Systems

• Protect all sprinkler pipes from freezing if they are exposed to temperatures below 40 degrees.
• Have antifreeze systems tested annually for adequate concentration.
• Ensure that the heat in the rise room is kept at least 40 degrees minimum.
• Ensure that the sprinkler system is routinely serviced and operational.
• Fire pump rooms must be kept at 40 degrees minimum.
• Have your generator ready for use.

If you experience an unexpected disaster in your commercial building, call our team at SERVPRO of North Coast.

Maintaining Your Fire Sprinkler System

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience damage due to a malfunctioning sprinkler head, call SERVPRO of North Coast.

Fires can happen without warning and can cause extensive damage to your commercial property. According to the National Fire Protection Association, property damage from fires totaled in about $12 million in 2012. Luckily we have fire sprinklers that are considered one of the most effective fire suppression systems available. When a building sprinkler system is activated by a fire, they are effective 96% of the time according to the NFPA. That's why it is very important for these systems to be in good condition and maintained regularly.

• Be sure to inspect all control valves to ensure that they are open, accessible, properly locked, and free from any leaks. Examine water and air pressure gauges to make sure they are showing normal ranges in good condition.
• Inspect the condition of sprinkler heads for paint, dust, or obstructions.
• Make sure there is an adequate clearance of at least 18 inches from the height of storage to the sprinkler head. This prevents anything from accidentally knocking into it.
• Have at least 6 spare heads that correspond to the type and temperature rate of the heads in use.
• Inspect all fire department connections to verify caps are in place and that no damage is present.
• Check low points on dry sprinkler systems to remove water to prevent freezing.
• Maintain adequate heat within a dry sprinkler control valve room to prevent freezing.
• Always report damage to any part of a sprinkler immediately.

Our Team Responds To Water Damage Day Or Night

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of North Coast team responding to a residential water loss.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of North Coast provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. Our highly trained professionals arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

If you need emergency services, please don't hesitate to call us at (216) 221-3333

Emergency Ready Profile

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

This is a free service offered by SERVPRO that provides you with all the information needed in an emergency that you can access directly from our app.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.  By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business can reduce the amount of damage a disaster can cause to your commercial building. SERVPRO is the leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back to preloss condition.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantages:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It takes minimal time to complete and will not take you away from your other current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.  
• A guide to help you get back into your building following an unexpected disaster. This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.  
• Establishes SERVPRO of North Coast as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by to help you.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time, so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” 

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW!

Did You Know?

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, many of them had a preparedness plan in place.  Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Commercial Water Damage

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

The loss in this commercial building was caused by a toilet overflow.

Here are SERVPRO of North Coast, we understand that when a water emergency occurs in your commercial building it is important that the issues are mitigated quickly and efficiently. That's why our team is faster to any disaster. During these emergencies, it is not just the building that needs to be back up and functioning but the materials and equipment you use on a daily basis that allows your property to run smoothly.

SERVPRO of North Coast has the ability to save contents such as office furniture, desks, and even sensitive information that may be stored in the office with our Document Restoration. We are in the business of restoring these items that may have been damaged during your water emergency. We always attempt to salvage anything damaged because we understand that it is important to keep the cost down for you and the insurance company as well the value it has to your company. If an item can be saved or restored it is worth the time to do so.  

Our highly dedicated team works tirelessly to treat each of your items with special care to protect. Our crew members are trained to keep your items from damage while we do work. Our content specialists team does wonders with your clean-up on all types of materials.  

Trust that SERVPRO of North Coast keeps in mind that time down for your business, is money lost. Our dedicated team will work around the clock to make sure your building looks “Like it never even happened.” and your property is back up and running.

Sump Pump Maintenance For Your Home

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Sump pump failures can cause devastating water damage to your home.

A sump pump is one of the most important parts of basement plumbing equipment. It makes sure that any accumulated water in your home and around its foundation is promptly pumped out and away from your home to a storm sewer or containment pond, so it doesn't allow your basement to flood, damaging your possessions. At least, that's what it is supposed to do. If your sump pump is not regularly and properly tested, then you can't guarantee that it will come through when you need it most.

1. Inspect the pump and its outlet pipe

Start the inspection by listening. If there is excessive groundwater around the foundation, the pump should turn itself on, pumping out the water and turning itself off again. Next, remove the cover and look inside the sump pit. If the level of water is low, there is a high chance the pump is working properly. Examine the sump pump for any signs of external damage, as well as any obstructions or debris in the surrounding pit. You will also want to see if the outlet pipe that carries water from the pump to outside your home is free of any blockage. And the check valve is working properly.

2. Check the electrical components

Your sump pump should be plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, which protects it from a potential short while it is submerged. Consider getting yourself a battery-based backup pump for your sump pump that will kick on if your primary sump pump fails.

3. Test the sump pump

Test your sump pump by pouring in five gallons of water. The pump should then turn on once the water level reaches a predetermined level below the basement floor. If the pump doesn’t turn on, it could be either clogged or damaged, and you should call a licensed plumber for help.

4. Clean and maintain your sump pump

The typical lifespan of a sump pump is 10 years but if your sump pump is running often, you should consider replacing it every 5 to 7 years. Inspect and test your sump pump at least once a year. To be safe, check your sump pump before a big storm hits your area.

If you experience a loss due to your sump pump failing, don't hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Coast

SERVPRO And Customer Service

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

One of our Crew Chiefs documenting the recent water loss at this commercial building.

If you ever wonder what makes the difference between all of the contractors you can choose from, the answer is simple. It’s customer service! Here at SERVPRO of North Coast we strive to make every job the quickest and best quality that it can be.  Next time if you ever ask the question: Why SERVPRO? It’s because we care about every little detail of our work and your property. Being reliable to our customers is letting them know we are available 24/7 for an emergency loss to property.  Our customer is the most important part of our business.  They are the purpose of our work and they are doing us a favor by giving us the opportunity to service them. Our SERVPRO Corporate office has a 1-4-8 requirement for all SERVPRO job. Which means we must contact the customer within one hour, be on site within 4 hours and have the estimate to the adjuster in 8 business hours.

Preparing Your Home For Winter

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast if you experience winter related damages in your home or business.

As winter starts to set in, it is important to take preventative measures to protect your home during the cold months. Winterizing your home can make a huge difference in how comfortable your home is and could also save you a chunk of money on energy bills. Follow these tips:

• Clean your gutters and downspouts.
• Replace the furnace filter.
• Close any vents that may have been opened for the warm weather.
• Disconnect all hoses from the outside faucets and shut off the water.
• Keep extra water and canned food in storage for emergencies.
• Test your heating system.
• Check the attic, walls, and basement for sufficient insulation.
• Feel around the electrical outlets and switch plates for cold air. Add insulation where it is necessary.
• Check around doors and windows for gaps and potential areas where warm air can escape.
• Apply weather-stripping or caulk around problem draft areas.
• Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof for damages or loose gutters.
• Have a professional inspect your furnace to make sure it is working properly.
• Clean your chimney.
• Test the flue of the fireplace for a tight seal when closed.

Who Would You Call?

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast if you call experience water damage in your home.

Who Do You Call?

When a storm comes down quick and fast, it often finds its way into your home through the cracks in the roofs, or the storm floods a part of your home and remediation is often needed. Most homeowners do not think about who their remediation company might be if needed. Most people may never experience something like this and the idea of a contractor coming into your home is sheer terror. With all the nightmare stories that exist about contractors, it is no surprise!

We Will Put You At Ease

Here at SERVPRO of North Coast, we want to put your anxiety about hiring someone to come and make repairs to your home. We are here to help you get your home put back together and walk you through the entire process. We want to make sure that you have the confidence when you hire us that we will get the job done efficiently and correct the first time. Things are going to happen, how we react to them and how we prepare for them is the difference!

Call our office if you have any questions at: (216) 221-3333

Storm Damage In Cleveland, OH

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Coast is ready for your next storm disaster!

SERVPRO of North Coast specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our dedicated crew is staffed with highly trained professionals that use specialized equipment to restore your residential or commercial property to pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response reduces the damage, prevents further damage, and minimizes the restoration cost. Our teams are trained and qualified to assist you in any size disaster.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Cleveland area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of North Coast at (216) 221-3333

IREM Toy Drive

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Coast pairs with IREM to support the Salvation Army.

We believe the most important part of being a great company is Service. Not just customer service but service to the community. When you meet the employees in our office you will find out quickly we are passionate about our town. Most of our SERVPRO of North Coast family volunteers time at one or more service organization regularly. We love to give back to the town we serve our customers become more like family. SERVPRO of North Coast is teaming up with IREM Northern Ohio Chapter to donate toys to the Salvation Army. We feel very passionately about this organization, we want every family to enjoy the holiday season. Our team greatly appreciates the continuous support from our customers and the community to serve our great Cleveland home.

Here For You

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

We are dedicated to being "Faster to any size disaster".

Across the United States, SERVPRO Franchises are gearing up for the new year to serve you as the leader in the cleaning and restoration industry. Are you READY for what the new year may bring your way? While we only hope to see good things come about in a new year, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for the unexpected and unwelcome disasters such as fire, water or mold damage.

Here at SERVPRO of North Coast, we are here to help make your residential or commercial property “Like it never even happened” if one of those disasters comes your way. With over 1,700 independently owned and operated Franchises, you can trust the team in green to get your property— and life—back to normal. We are only one call away!

Faster to any size disaster is a commitment from SERVPRO to be there when you need us the most.

Whether you are a small business or home owner facing minor fire or water damage, or a property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, SERVPRO of North Coast has the resources needed to respond quickly and efficiently. The faster help arrives, the quicker restoration begins and the sooner you can resume business as usual.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the size, call SERVPRO of North Coast at (216) 221-3333.

Causes Of Water Damage In Commercial Buildings

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

A flood in this local church was caused by a toilet overflow.

Unexpected flooding in commercial buildings can happen very quickly, especially if there is no one on site to access the problem. What starts out as a small water leak can instantly turn into something larger, and cause significantly more damage than expected. If your commercial building isn’t in pristine condition, there is a much higher chance of water damage occurring. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage in a commercial building:

1. Broken Pipes. Broken or cracked pipes are very common to occur in commercial buildings, especially as they age. When a pipe bursts, water rushes out of them, spraying throughout the whole building. A busted pipe can cause damage to the walls, ceilings, flooring, and any other contents you have occupying that space.
2. Malfunctioning Sprinklers. It is a law that all commercial properties are equipped with an overhead sprinkler system. It works in conjunction with the fire alarm, and is activated when the fire alarm goes off. This causes water damage in two ways. First, if there is a fire in the building, the smoke will set off the fire alarms, activating the sprinklers causing water damage. And second, if the sprinkler system malfunctions and activates on its own, causing the water to cover the entire building.
3. Backed Up Sewer Lines. Bathrooms are another common source of possible problems. Sewer lines can get backed up, releasing water into the building. This type of water damage is extremely dangerous because the water is filled hazardous waste and other contaminants.
4. Damaged Appliances. Almost every office building has a kitchen or break room. Typically these rooms have a refrigerator or a dishwasher and when these appliances malfunction they can leak a significant amount of water, flooding entire room or more.

Mold In Commercial Buildings

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Mold found behind wall in commercial building.

Just like in your home, you also need to be concerned with mold in commercial buildings. Mold can be found almost anywhere and can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as there is moisture and oxygen present. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold starts to grow, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Although it is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores, but you can control mold growth by controlling the moisture indoors.

In commercial buildings, moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters directing water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance

As mentioned before, the key to mold control is moisture control. Follow these mold prevention tips:

• Fix any leaky plumbing and leaks in the building as soon as possible.
• Look out for condensation and wet spots. Fix sources of moisture problems as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing the surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air.
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, properly flowing and unobstructed.
• Maintain a low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity, 30-50% is ideal.
• Have your building and HVAC inspected and maintenance regularly.
• Clean up and dry out wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Never let foundations stay wet.

Escape Plan

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Two minutes to escape

In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have,giving everyone enough time to get out.

?Do you have working smoke alarms in your home?

?Do you have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room and outside each sleeping area? .

? Is there a smoke alarm on each level of the home, including the basement?

? Do you test your smoke alarms at least once a month? (Have a grown-up push the test button to check if the batteries work.)

? Do you know the sound of your smoke alarms?

? How old are your smoke alarms? (If they’re more than 10 years old, you need new ones.)

? Does your family have a home fire escape plan?

? Do you know two ways out of each room in your home?

? Do you know what to do when you hear your smoke alarm? (Get out and stay out.)

? Are all the exits in your home clear of trash and toys?

? Has your family picked a meeting place outside the home where everyone can go when they’ve escaped a fire?

? Does everyone at home know how to call the fire department once they are outside?

? Do you and all family members practice your escape plan at least twice a year? 

Fire Damage

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Damaged exterior from fire

Who Will Rebuild?

After the devastation a fire can cause, in most cases, there will be some element of rebuilding that will need to take place.  This fire was in a residential unit that will need completely gutted. After the fire department extinguishes the blaze, they must often poke holes to check for hot spots in the walls to make sure the fire is completely out with no chance or risk of flare up. This causes total devastation to the space and hiring a contractor is often needed.

We Are Your Solution!

SERVPRO of the North Coast s is a fully licensed and proven General Contractor that can help you fully restore your space. We can assign a project manager to your claim to walk you through a scene like this to completion to make sure that your space is brought back to life.

Call Today for A Free Estimate

Reach Us At: (216) 221-3333

Contents are Often Overlook in a Fire

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning contents after a fire.

Contents are often easily overlooked in a fire. Most homeowners or tenants, are worried about the damage and devastation that a fire calls to the property. They’re worried about their couch, they are worried about their vehicle and their wallet, but it’s easy to forget many of the little things that can add up and cost a lot of money to a customer. Here at SERVPRO of the North Coast, we make every effort possible to restore every item an article in your home or property that has been damaged or effected by a fire. This includes all of your electronics, DVD collections, clothes, shoes and all other personal items and keepsakes that can be restored. We know that our customers are in an uncomfortable situation with any type of loss, so that’s where SERVPRO of the North Coast comes in to deal help you deal with the devastation of your loss. We are #HereToHelp 

Please call us 24/7 (216) 221-3333

Summer Storms can Bring Flash Flooding

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Coast if you experience flooding in your home or business.

When we think of summer our thoughts go to sunshine, beaches and lemonade but summer storms can bring heavy rains and flash flooding. These storms can bring several inches or feet of water in a short period of time causing flooding and many dangers. The NSSC (National Sever Storms Laboratory) says that, “floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters and in the U.S., floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes and lighting.”

To keep your family safe during a flash flood, follow these guidelines:

• If you live in a flood zone, have a family plan.
• Always be alert of flash flood watches and if it turns into a warning get to high ground immediately.
• Never drive into high water, your vehicle can be carried away or flip over.
• Do not walk into highwaters, only six inches of rushing water can knock you over. Flooding water is also considered sewage because the contaminates it contains.
• Downed power lines can cause the water to be deadly.

When the water recedes, there are some precautions you can take:

• Make sure is it safe to return to the flood zone.

• Check your basement for water damage caused by the flood. Do not enter if there is standing water.
• Inspect structure for damage and any risk of collapsing.
• Check for fire hazards, gas leaks and water damaged electrical circuits.
• Look for cracks or damage to your foundation.
• Ventilate your home by opening windows and doors.
• Dispose of any food that was in the flood.
• Be caution of any animals that may have entered your home.

If your home is damaged by flooding, you will need a professional water damage restoration company to restore your home. Call SERVPRO of the North Coast at 216-221-3333.

Common Causes of Home Fire

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

A fire in a bedroom in a local home.

Understanding the leading causes of home fires and what you can do to prevent them will keep your family safer. There is research by the National Safety Council that home fires have decreased over the years and most fires are preventable with some knowledge and care to minimize the risks.

According to the National Fire Protection Association these are the leading causes of home fires and preventable measures:

• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires                Keep combustibles away from heat source                Keep pot handles inward

•                 Keep children and pets away from the cooking area
•                Do not leave the kitchen while cooking on the stove top

• Heating equipment Flammable materials should be kept at a distance
• Watch portable heaters and never go to bed leaving them on

• Keep children three feet away from heating equipment or fireplace
• Keep equipment clean

• Electrical distribution and lighting equipment
• Electrical cords should be in good condition, check for frayed wires
• Check your light fixtures for the correct wattage and do not use bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage.

• Do not run cords under carpet
• Always have electrical work done by a professional

• Smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths
• Smoking materials should be keep out of the reach the children

• Always us an ashtray and don’t discard butts or ashes where they could encounter materials that can burn
• Do not smoke indoors. Death results from fires starting in family room, and bedrooms

Following these simple recommendations can help reduce the chance of a fire in your home. If you do experience a fire in your home, call your local fire department immediately.

SERVPRO of the North Coast is here to help, call us at – 216-221-3333.

Storm Damage in Northeast Ohio

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

This basement flooded due to a sump pump failure.

We received numerous calls over the past few weeks due to the flooding that has hit the Northeast Ohio.  A lot of these homes flooded due to sump pump malfunctions.  It is very important for Sump Pump's to be well maintained so that your basement does not get affected when heavy storms roll through the area.  The following are 4 Tips for Sump Pump Maintenance:

1. Test it regularly:  You can test your sump pump to confirm it’s working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. When you do this, the pump should turn on right away. Remove the water from the pit, then shut it off in a couple of seconds. Be sure that the float switch and the check valve can move freely and that nothing is in the way. In addition, check the discharge line to be sure it is not obstructed or frozen. Also, if the inlet screen is clogged, clear it of any residue or debris.
2. Change Batteries:  If your sump pump is backed up by batteries, be sure that the batteries are replaced every two to three years, or as directed from the manufacturer.
3. Clean It:  At least once a year, you should take out the pump. Begin by disconnecting it from the power. Flush it out well with water to remove any standing debris. While it’s out, remove stones, mud, debris, or anything else that is inside the sump pit. Then put the sump pump back in and reconnect it to the power. Test the unit by pouring a bucket of water into it to ensure the sump pump still functions properly.
4. Be Sure the Outside of your Home is Well-Maintained:  Basement flooding can be incredibly damaging. To avoid this, seal any cracks in your walls, windows, or in the foundation. In addition, clean gutters and downspouts regularly so things can drain properly. Also, make sure that the grading around your home is designed properly. It should slope away from the foundation so water can be washed away. Water buildup can happen quickly. If your home’s exterior isn’t being taken care of, you could see damage in your basement right away. A sump pump works well in normal conditions, but it can’t overcome a faulty design.

Source:  https://meticulousplumbing.com/4-tips-sump-pump-maintenance/

In the even that your basement does end up flooding, contact SERVPRO of the North Coast to make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm and Wind Damage

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

A tree blown over caused damage to a pole barn and truck.

With summer upon us thunderstorms can not only bring water damage to homes, it can also bring wind damage.  Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes.

Below are some steps to take if your home is damaged by wind.

Documenting Damage:

• Call and report your damage to your insurance company.
• From a safe location, take pictures of any damage.
• Inventory any belongings that may have been destroyed or damaged, noting the brand, price, age, etc.
• If you have pictures of your home before the damage, include them with your insurance claim.

Preventing Further Damage:

• If you suspect possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
• Cover broken windows and doors with tarps, heavy plastic or plywood to prevent further damage. Save repair receipts for reimbursement. 

Repairs and Cleanup:

• Don’t start permanent, major repairs or renovations until your property has been inspected by an insurance representative.
• If your roof needs to be replaced, hire a professional roofing contractor who is licensed and insured.
• Fallen trees or large branches also are best removed by a professional tree service. This service may be covered depending on your policy coverage.

If your home suffers wind damage, please contact SERVPRO of the North Coast 216-221-3333 for any board up, tarp up, tree removal, or roof replacement services.

What to do till help arrives.

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Basement flood in North Olmsted

Should you have the unfortunate experience a water damage, safety should be your number one priority. There are many safety issues you need to be aware of to protect your family. Two of the most common safety issues are “slips and falls” and electrical hazards, however, there are others.

Water Supply

• If possible, turn off the water supply to minimize the water damage and safety concerns. Take caution when entering all rooms with wet flooring to prevent injuries from “slips and falls.”

Electricity

• To prevent being shocked or electrocuted, do not enter a room with deep standing water that may be exposed to electricity.
• If the water is high enough to reach the electrical outlets, have an electrician inspect your wiring to prevent electrical shock.
• Have electrical appliances such as furnaces, freezer, washer and dryers dried and serviced by a qualified repairman if the water has reached their electrical unit.

Gas

• If you smell gas, turn off main valve and leave the area. Call the gas company immediately.

• Have gas appliances inspected by a qualified repairman if high water has reached their gas controls.

Structure Stability

• Water damage on a second floor can compromise the ceiling below. If you see sagging ceilings do not enter the room.

Sewer Damage

• Sewer backups can present diseases and bacteria and should never be cleaned without personal protective equipment.

If you have a water damage call SERVPRO of The North Coast at 216-221-3333 to assist.

Biohazard Cleanup

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Contamination of your home due to sewage backup, trauma, hoarding situations or any biohazard can be a difficult and trying time for you and your family.  Allow SERVPRO of The North Coast to alleviate this stress for you. 

Biohazard cleaning can be a difficult and dangerous process. Exposure to and improper handling of biohazard materials can lead to serious health complications. Specialty training and experience is of key importance when addressing these situations. SERVPRO of The North Coast can properly and safely remove and dispose of these materials according to OSHA and health regulations. We have the proper cleaning agents and safety equipment to provide these services.

Need help with biohazard? Call us today at (216)221-3333. Let our employees put you and your family at ease and return you to the comfort of your home.

Meet Your Local SERVPRO

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO North Coast Team

NOC Operations, Inc. dba SERVPRO® of The North Coast is an Ohio Restoration Service Company that partners with over 1700 SERVPROs® nationwide. SERVPRO® provides a full range of services designed to reduce the impact of an unplanned event resulting in structural and content damages. SERVPRO® of The North Coast has serviced Northeast Ohio for the past 32 years. 

We have 13 background checked team members , including 1 project coordinator, 3 project managers, 3 two-man restoration crews, 1 restoration floater, 1 account manager, and 1 administrative support staff member. Our dedicated staff is always here to help when you experience an unexpected disaster in your home or business.

We are faster to any disaster. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Prevent Spring Water Damage with These Tips from SERVPRO of The North Coast

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is just two short weeks away. After a cold, long winter, we’re all excited for spring and the sunny days of summer in Northeast Ohio. 

However, warm weather does bring April Showers. There are a few thing we can do to avail the potential of water damage. Taking time to check the following maintenance areas you will lessen your chance of water damage to your home.

1. Cleaning your gutters and making sure they are in good repair goes a long way in preventing water intrusion in your home.
2. Each spring, SERVPRO receives many calls about water damage caused by outdoor spigots that are turned on. If you turn them off and drain the water supply to your outdoor spigots in the winter, you can have a damaged pipe due to the heavy freeze. When you turn your spigot on, make sure there are no leaks. If there are leaks, turn off the spigot immediately before any damage occurs and have your pipe repaired.
3. Spring is a good time to inspect your roof. Ice damming is common in the winter months and can damage your shingles, flashing, eves, and overhangs.
4. Check that your landscaping slopes away from your home. If it slopes towards your home, so will the water from the spring storms.
5. Outdoor drains can get clogged with debris and leaves, so make sure they are free of debris and draining properly.
6. Your sump pump will work over time, so make sure it’s working properly. If it’s old, this would be a good time to replace it before it fails.

Enjoy the warm weather. If you do experience an unexpected water damage, call SERVPRO of The North Coast at 216-221-3333. We are here to help!

Fire Prevention Week

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week - 10/7/18-10/13/18

The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) fire prevention week theme is “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware-fire can happen anywhere”.

• Look for places fire can start
• Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm
• Learn two ways out of each room

SERVPRO cares about its customers and hopes that you take the time to educate yourself, your family and your employees to take mind in preventing fires and what to do in the case of a fire. Fires can come from an array of different sources, so many in fact that it is almost impossible to list them all. Fire can start from human error, lit candles, cigarette smoking, appliances, electrical, fireworks, cooking and so on. They can range from small in scale (minimal (if any) structure and soot damage) to large in scale (major structural and soot damage and even water damage). They occur in homes, businesses, residential complexes, vehicles, recreation vehicles, boats, etc.

Should you or your business have a loss, contact SERVPRO @ 216-221-3333 and let our professionals help you. But, also, please make sure to be on the look out for potential hazards and keep yourself and those around well informed and educated in fire prevention and safety. There is much information on the NFPA website that can help. Go to www.nfpa.org for additional information/resources.

Ottawa County, June 2018

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Here to help when we are needed!!

SERVPRO franchises do not worry only of their own territories, but also those that are near and far.  SERVPRO of the North Coast (as do other SERVPRO franchises) responds to help our fellow franchises when the need arises.  Ottawa County, Ohio was hit with heavy rains that started in the evening of 6/12/18 and ended in the early hours of 6/13/18.  Up to 6” of rain fell in various areas during this time.  No matter how much a homeowner may prepare their basement and/or take the necessary precautions in preventing water damage, when Mother Nature calls, there is no control over what may or may not happen.  We answered the call and were there to help.  Along with continuing to service our current projects we rallied to help our neighbor franchise in assisting as many homeowners as possible in the cleanup and dry out of their basements as quickly as possible.  Weather events happen and along with those events come home and business damage.  SERVPRO of the North Coast is here to help.  Call us 24 hours a day @ 216-221-3333 and let us help you in whatever manner possible.

National Safety Month

6/9/2018 (Permalink)

Keep yourself well and safe!

June is National Safety Month and week 2 is Wellness week.  It is important to prioritize your wellness. Our wellness has an impact on the physical aspects of both home and work life and also on our mental wellbeing.  Here are some tips to help improve daily wellness:

• Take stairs instead of elevators/escalators
• Take a walk on your lunch or break and/or take a walk through your neighborhood in the evening
• Have a healthy snack for those in between meal cravings
• Join an exercise class, your local parks department may have several to offer
• Take breaks during the day, stand up and stretch
• Visit your doctor annually, discuss with them all of your concerns, ensure you are getting all the proper tests
• Ensure you get the proper amount of sleep every night (7-9 hours)
• If your employer has wellness programs, join them, take advantage of them
• Encourage family, friends and coworkers to join you in your efforts

Being observant of our physical surroundings along with physical wellness can help prevent accidents/injuries at home and at the worksite.  Our safety often depends on those around us.   Keeping yourself well can help ensure the safety of you, your loved ones and your coworkers.  The above tips are just a few ideas.  SERVPRO cares about the wellbeing and safety of our customers so please, use these tips and also look deeper into how you can keep yourself healthy, happy and safe, not only in the month of June but all year long.  www.nsc.org

Sump Pump Maintenance

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

First, let’s answer the question what is a sump pump? A sump pump is a small pump that is installed to help keep the area underneath a building dry and to prevent it from flooding.  They are installed in the lowest part of the basement or a crawl space.  They are normally installed in specially constructed pits which is where water flows into through drains or through migration through soil.  The pump’s job is to pump the water out of the pit and away from the building.

Here are some tips to help with the maintenance of your sump pump so as to prevent water intrusion in your home:

• Make sure the pump is plugged into a GFCI outlet
• Make sure the cord in in good shape
• Check the pump occasionally to ensure it is running and the breaker has not tripped
• Ensure the pump is standing upright in it’s crock
• Periodically pour a bucket of water in the pit to make sure the pump starts automatically
• Remove the pump from the pit and clean the grate on the bottom
• Check the outlet pipes to ensure they are tightly joined together and are draining at least 20ft from the foundation
• Ensure the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear
• Install a backup battery in case of power failure

Should you still get water in your basement from sump pump failure or inability of sump pump to keep up due to the amount of water coming in, call SERVPRO of the North Coast and we can help with the clean up. We will address your structure as well as any affected contents and set the proper drying equipment to ensure your basement is thoroughly dried out.  We can be reached 24/7 @ 216-221-3333.

Fire Damage Move Out

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Due to the severity of this kitchen fire, personal property had to be packed and moved out from the home while repairs were made.

Fire and smoke damage can cause minor damage to severe damage. Depending on the severity of your loss the contents of your home or business may need to be moved out and stored at an offsite facility while the repairs are being made.  Should this be necessary, SERVPRO is here to come in and provide those services for you.  Belongings will be evaluated to ensure restoration is possible and photos will be taken.  We take a complete and thorough inventory of your personal belongings by room and box any items necessary.  Once the inventory is complete everything is moved to our secure facility.  At our facility your belongings are carefully cleaned and deodorized.  We store everything until your home or business has been restored.  Once you are ready we coordinate with you for the move back of the items. Move outs can provide several benefits, including:

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

SERVPRO of the North Coast has trained employees to take special care of your belongings. We can help you through the difficult time of having to leave your home or business.  Call us today at 216-221-3333 and we will assist you as best as possible and ease your mind through the process.

Steps to take when your basement floods

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Even if you’ve taken steps to protect your basement from water damage, a burst pipe, broken sump pump, or heavy storm could cause your basement to flood, leaving you with a long cleanup and restoration project. Knowing what to do when disaster strikes can dramatically reduce the damage to your home.

First, the health and safety of you and your family is paramount to all else. Stay out of the basement until you’re sure the conditions are safe. As soon as you can and always before returning to basement, turn off all electricity and gas lines to that area. If you are unsure how to do this, call SERVPRO for 24/7 emergency assistance.

If the flood is due to rainfall, wait until the storm passes before attempting any cleanup. If the flood is not due to rain, take action immediately. Locate the cause of the flood and take steps such as unblocking drains or shutting off water valves to stop waters from rising.

Once you are sure no more water will enter the basement, start by ventilating the area. Open windows and doors to promote airflow and speed up evaporation. Collect and move boxes, documents, and small items away from the flood. Leave electronics in place; they pose a risk of electrical shock even if the electricity is off.

To remove the water, you will need a wet-vac or pump. Never attempt to collect water using a household vacuum. If you haven’t already, call SERVPRO and let our highly-experienced team take it from here. We will extract the water from your basement and remove damaged items such as carpet and drywall.

After the area is 100% dry, disinfecting and mold prevention measures are taken to ensure no lasting effects. Finally, the damage is repaired and rebuilt so you can get back to normal. SERVPRO can also restore many electronic items and dry documents and photos to minimize the water damage to your possessions.

If your basement is flooding, you should consider it an emergency situation. Call SERVPRO anytime for immediate service and the best name in water damage repair and restoration

Preventative Measures to Avoid Water Damage

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your personal property safe

We all know that prevention is the best medicine, but floods can happen at any moment from any number of causes. By completing regularly scheduled home maintenance and keeping an eye out for common warning signs, you can minimize the chances of a flood. However, nothing can give you a 100% guarantee of never having a flood. In that case, preparation is the best way to minimize water damage.

First, it’s a good idea to know your flood risk. Are you in a potential flood zone? Is your yard sloped away from your foundation? Knowledge is power so the more you know about how your home might flood, the more steps you can take to prevent it or minimize damage from it.

Using waterproof building materials is a great way to reduce damage from flooding and there are waterproof sealants and paints that can be applied to existing structures. In particular, there are many protective coatings for block or poured concrete walls which are common in basements.

Keep your valuables and irreplaceable items such as photo albums, yearbooks, and important documents on high shelves. Do the same with chemicals and paints. If they leak into flood waters, they could cause additional damage. Any items put away for storage should be in air and water-tight plastic containers. Never leave boxes or items on the floor; instead, invest in raised shelving units.

It may also be a good idea to raise appliances and electronics off the ground. Get wires and power strips out from behind your tv stand and organize them in a way that keeps them out of the flood danger zone. Put washing machines and dryers on cinder blocks or sections of lumber to reduce the chances that rising water levels will affect them.

If a flood does strike, turn off electricity, gas, and water lines and place buckets under active leaks. If the water is pooling slowly, soak up as much of it as possible to reduce the potential damage. Calling SERVPRO at the first sign of a flood is the best way to reduce water damage. Our highly trained technicians will solve your immediate problems and ensure you don’t experience lasting effects or further damage.

Flooding can happen to anyone. Take steps now to protect your home and keepsakes from water damage in the event of a possible flood.

How to Get Rid of Black Mold

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Black mold is the most common variety found in households. It grows in damp spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Black mold is toxic and prolonged exposure could lead to symptoms such as chronic coughing, fatigue, nose and throat pain, headaches, and eye irritation. It’s important to get rid of black mold as soon as possible.

As you gather supplies for your DIY mold removal, there will be a lot of options for cleaners. Commercial mold-killing solutions are effective at killing the fungus down to the root. For a more natural choice, use vinegar. The mild acidity makes it safer to work with, but you still get an effective clean. No matter what product you select, your safety equipment should include eye protection, gloves, long arm and long leg clothing, and ventilators.

Be sure to never mix cleaning solutions such as ammonia and bleach; this can cause harmful vapors. Regardless of your choice of cleaning solution, you should always use fans and open windows to keep your work area ventilated. Spray on your cleaning solution and let sit as indicated on your product label. After you have finished your mold removal, put all the waste in a separate garbage bag and immediately take it outside to avoid the risk of mold spores becoming airborne inside your home again.

Having mold in your house is completely normal and nothing to be alarmed over. Since mold remediation is about returning the mold count to a baseline level (mold can never be fully eradicated), keep an eye on the spots you cleaned and repeat as necessary.

SERVPRO of The North Coast offers mold remediation services. If you are experiencing a major mold issue, call us today.

Commercial Building Fire Restoration

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Ron Pack and Jim Jordan discussing the best and most efficient way to clean and deodorize to get the Cinema showing films again.

An electrical fire in a cinema in Cleveland, Ohio caused minor smoke, soot and fire extinguisher dust damage. Ceiling tiles, walls, theater chairs, curtains and flooring were affected.  Cleaning and deodorization of the structure were performed, and ceiling tiles were replaced.  The cinema was ready for showing films within a few days.  We are here to respond quickly to your loss.  SERVPRO offers a wide variety of commercial services to include but not limited to:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Odor Removal
• Storm and major events
• Bio Hazard Clean up
• Disaster Recovery Team
• Carpet Cleaning

Big or small, SERVPRO is here for our commercial clients to help restore their businesses and have them operating as quickly and seamlessly as possible. We are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.   The next time a disaster hits your business, call SERVPRO of the North Coast at 216-221-3333 and let us get you returned to full operations.

Residential Fire Clean Up

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Fire started out the back of the house.

Fire/Smoke damage can happen in the blink an eye, such as at this home in Cleveland, Ohio. Fire damage cannot only cause physical damage (where items need to be replaced), but it can also cause cosmetic damage (where cleaning and possible painting are necessary) and odor damage.  Cleaning after a fire can be extensive work, and it’s not always easy to determine the correct cleaning agents to use or the correct method of cleaning.  Different types of soot and different materials require special knowledge in the cleaning & restoration portion of a fire loss.  SERVPRO has their own line of cleaning agents to properly address the various types of soot and odor damage.  We carefully inspect each loss to determine the correct method of cleaning and deodorizing necessary.

SERVPRO of The North Coast is here for all of your fire/smoke damage cleaning needs. Call us at 216-221-3333 and allow us to help you in getting your home back to “Like it never even happened.”

Residential Biohazard Cleanup

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

LaShawn Hill, ready to make your home yours again

Contamination of your home due to sewage backup, trauma, hoarding situations or any biohazard can be a difficult and trying time for you and your family.  Allow SERVPRO of the North Coast to alleviate this stress for you. 

Biohazard cleaning can be a difficult and dangerous process. Exposure to and improper handling of biohazard materials can lead to serious health complications. Specialty training and experience is of key importance when addressing these situations. SERVPRO of the North Coast can properly and safely remove and dispose of these materials according to OSHA and health regulations. We have the proper cleaning agents and safety equipment to provide these services.

Need help with biohazard? Call us today at (216)221-3333. Let our employees put you and your family at ease and return you to the comfort of your home.