Is Security Fencing Really Necessary?

10/10/2022 (Permalink)

Security fencing is a great way to protect your property in Chattanooga, TN.

What Is Security Fencing and Why Is It Used?

If you're looking to protect your property in Chattanooga, TN, then security fencing may be the right option for your business. However, there are some important considerations that you should make before hiring someone to install it.

You should always hire a professional

If you are going to use security fencing, you should always hire a professional for its installation. There are lots of examples of businesses using security fencing. For example, security fencing can be used by homeowners because they want protection from intruders who want to come into their house without permission like burglars and thieves! 

Hiring a professional fencing company to install your security fencing is important in order to ensure that it is done right and will give you the protection you want and need.

The Importance of Security Fencing for Commercial Properties

You might have security fencing in place to keep people out of your commercial property, but it can also be used to protect the property from vandalism and theft. If you own a construction site, for example, there are several factors that could make it more susceptible to criminal activity. The construction site is likely to be in a remote location which means that there aren't any passersby or other people around who might spot suspicious behavior. It's also possible that the materials on-site could provide opportunity for criminals looking for things they can resell or use themselves.

Security fencing may help deter these types of crimes by making it obvious that someone has put time into always protecting their property—even when nobody's around!

Who is Using Security Fencing?

Security fencing is a popular choice among property owners and managers for a variety of reasons. Some want to protect their property from theft, while others desire protection from damage caused by weather or fire.

If you are a commercial building owner who has experienced fire damage and need to keep intruders out, or if you're a landlord who wants to make sure that your tenants' belongings are safe, security fencing may be the right choice for you. It also could be useful for businesses that have experienced theft on their premises or want to protect their vehicles from theft.

Landlords who want to keep unwanted guests of their rental properties can find security fencing at hardware stores and home improvement centers throughout the country. If you own private residences in an area where crime rates are high, then having this type of fencing installed around each of them will ensure that no one enters without permission and stays after all hours (which could result in criminal charges).

Security fencing is often seen in the business world.

In the business world, security fencing is often seen. It can help prevent fire damage, water damage and other kinds of damage while also keeping unwanted people out of your premises. There are many different types of fences that can be used for this purpose.

Security fencing is usually made up of steel panels which are bolted together to create a secure barrier around your property. Some businesses also choose to install electrified wires or razor wire along the top of their fence as an additional deterrent for intruders or trespassers who try to climb up and over them without permission from management first (which should always be obtained before entering any area that's not public).

The bottom line is that security fencing is a great way to protect your property in Chattanooga, TN. It can be expensive and difficult to install, but it's worth it if you want to keep intruders out of your business. 

Why Hidden Mold Causes Odors and How To Detect It

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Mold was found behind the walls of property in Harrison, TN.

How to Detect Hidden Mold and Why It Causes Odors

An odd smell in your commercial building that you can't locate the source of can be an extremely frustrating experience. There are several reasons why you may be noticing a mold smell on your property, even though you haven't seen any mold. If you discover any, it is important to have mold remediation professionals deal with it before the problem grows.

Reasons You May Smell Mold But Not See It
Fungus smell is often described as a musty odor. If you are smelling mold but not seeing any, it is probably because there are a variety of hidden places mold may grow:

• Behind walls
  
• Under flooring
  
• In ceiling tiles
  
• Inside storage areas
  
• Under fabric on upholstered furniture
  
  

Causes of Mold Odor
Mold smell occurs because these fungi produce and release compounds, called microbial volatile organic compounds, that have strong odors and are quickly released into the air. If you are noticing mold or mildew smell in your building, you should investigate any surfaces that have recently been wet and current sources of moisture.

Detecting Hidden Mold
You can find some hidden mold by simply looking for it. However, mold that occurs behind walls, under flooring and other areas may not be able to be detected by visual inspection without tearing out material. Test kits are available that may detect the presence of mold, but usually are not very helpful at identifying its location of it. A mold professional in Harrison, TN, can inspect your property and use advanced detection systems, such as infrared cameras, to locate mold that is hidden behind surfaces.

Preventing Mold
To prevent future mold problems, dry out anything that is damaged by water within 24 to 48 hours. Repair any leaking plumbing or equipment. Take steps to control excess moisture from condensation in HVAC systems and other sources.
If there is a mold smell in your building, chances are you have mold growing somewhere. A professional inspection can help you identify and remove sources.

5 Reasons to Hire a Fire Mitigation Specialist

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Mitigation specialists have industrial-grade tools to remove smoke and soot from your property.

5 Reasons to Employ a Fire Mitigation Expert

While you hope a fire never breaks out in your Chattanooga, TN business, there is always a possibility. After the event, you are left with fire damage and other issues that require proper cleanup and restoration. Since most business owners are experts in their field, it’s often best to have a professional fire damage company. Below are five reasons to use an expert.

1. Insurance Adjuster Recommended
The insurance company sends out an adjuster to assess the damage. Their assessment determines the extent of damage and how much will be covered. Hiring a fire mitigation company means getting an additional assessment of the damage. A licensed contractor will provide the adjuster with a detailed list of the work that needs to be done and work with the adjuster on your behalf.

2. Proper Odor, Smoke and Water Damage Cleanup
Along with the visible fire damage, there will also be smoke and odors. Since water was likely used to extinguish the flames, that also means potential water damage. A trusted professional will be able to locate hidden damage, ensuring it is repaired right the first time.

3. Specialized Equipment Needed
While you might think getting the soot off will be tedious but possible on your own, it is often a substance that smears or penetrates surfaces. Mitigation specialists have industrial-grade tools to handle that, as well as odors and water issues.

4. Salvage More Items
Once the fire is out, it is often a chaotic time. After the adjuster leaves, you may be overwhelmed and think nothing can be saved. With technology and specialized methods and equipment on its side, a restoration company will likely be able to salvage more than you thought was possible.

5. Faster Recovery
Getting back to business is essential. If your business isn’t restoring damaged property, it may mean extra-long downtime. Using a service provider helps ensure the process goes faster and more smoothly.
When a business experiences fire damage, it doesn’t have to go it alone. Obtaining the services of a mitigation company provides many benefits.

Before You Buy: What You Should Know About Mold Inspection

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold behind baseboards is really common.

If you’re purchasing a commercial property in Birchwood, TN, you’re probably aware of the many steps you must take before closing on the loan. Did you know that a mold inspection is recommended as part of the building inspection process? That’s because mold isn’t just a problem in and of itself, it’s an indication of water damage or other underlying issues you should address before you proceed.

What You Need to Know About Mold

Mold needs these conditions to grow: water, a nutrient source, oxygen and an environment where the temperatures are between 40-100 degrees.
Mold spores are almost always present in any environment.
The color of mold comes from its nutrient source and the age of the colony.
Mold will reoccur if its source of water isn’t removed.

Where To Look For It

The most common spaces to find mold during a mold inspection are in bathrooms, basements, kitchens and around windows or doors — wherever water is most likely to be found. In bathrooms, look for visible mold in tile grout and caulking, especially around bathtubs and showers. In basements, check the corners of the floor and ceiling, paying particular attention to outside walls. Kitchens can grow mold anywhere around the sink or stove, especially if the range hood isn’t working properly.

What Are Common Causes of Mold in Commercial Buildings?

Roof leaks
Clogged gutters
High humidity levels indoors
Leaky pipes
Poor drainage around the foundation

How To Get an Inspection Done

Hire a commercial real estate inspector that will check for mold and provide a risk assessment for potential water damage or mold problem. Inspections of this nature can be expensive; however, it is a cost worth undertaking to protect your investment. The inspector should check each unit and room of the building to provide an accurate assessment.
If your commercial mold inspection reveals existing water or mold damage, hiring a mold remediation specialist is the next step to make the building safe and sound for your new purchase.

How to Save Money On Your Water Damage Insurance Claim

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water cleanup in Harrison, TN.

How To Save Money With Pretesting

If you operate a business in Harrison, TN, you need to be prepared for whatever comes your way. In the event of water damage, you will want to seek out a restoration service company that can get the property back to a safe and tidy state. In addition to getting a thorough cleaning, you will also want to consider how to keep your insurance claim from costing more than it needs to. Here’s how you can save money with pretesting.

Go to the Source

The restoration service professional will first locate and stop the water source, whether it be an overflowing toilet, broken supply line or sump pump failure. This step prevents additional damage from occurring.

Survey the Damage

Once water is no longer flowing, it is time to take account of the damage sustained. This includes inspecting all affected areas and determining the appropriate mitigation strategy.

Fix Rather Than Replace

The advantage of pretesting is that it provides the business owner and the insurance agent with a more detailed and accurate picture of the damage. Where it is possible to fix the damage, the cost of replacement can be avoided.

Identify Dangers

While assessing the water damage, your cleanup professional can also test the water for contamination. They will determine if you have any gray or black water so that the restoration meets industry specifications. Additionally, they will note other dangers such as asbestos and lead.

Prepare for Water Removal

After conducting a comprehensive assessment of the property, they will begin to prepare the area for water removal and restoration. This includes moving or removing rugs, furniture and other times that may interfere with the cleanup or sustain damage during the restoration.

Dealing with water damage is not something any business owner looks forward to, but being prepared can make it as painless as possible. Selecting a restoration like SERVPRO will help you save money by conducting pretesting.

2 Steps for Using a Fire Extinguisher

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

You should have the proper fire extinguisher in your building

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in Two Steps

Every business owner needs to train its employees on how to properly use a fire extinguisher. It is not as easy as it looks. In the event a kitchen fire breaks out in your building, you should always contact 9-1-1 so that professional firefighters in Ooltewah, TN, can address the situation promptly. However, you may be able to contain smaller fires and prevent more fire damage from taking place by using an extinguisher the right way.

1. Use the Right Extinguisher

Many people do not realize that there are several different kinds of fire extinguishers available. They are categorized as follows.

• Class A: Meant for paper, cloth and wood
• Class B: Meant for flammable gases and liquids
• Class C: Meant for electrical fires
• Class D: Meant for flammable metals
• Class K: Meant for grease fires and oils

You should have the proper fire extinguisher in your building meant for the type of fire most likely to break out. A majority of businesses will benefit from a Class ABC extinguisher. However, if you work out of an industrial plant, then you may need the other variations readily accessible.

2. Follow the PASS Method

PASS is an acronym to tell you how to operate an extinguisher. First, you need to pull the pin. Next, you need to aim the nozzle toward the base of the flames. Hitting the flames directly will not help. After that, you need to squeeze the trigger. Finally, you want to sweep the extinguisher from side to side to ensure complete coverage. You will only have between 10 and 20 seconds to use the device until it is out of flame retardant.

After you use a fire extinguisher, you need to get it refilled in Ooltewah, TN, immediately. You do not want to risk needing to use it again in the near future only to discover it is empty.

Cleaning Electronics After a Fire

10/30/2021 (Permalink)

Always practice safety, and trust trained professionals.

Electronics Recovery

Believe it or not, it’s not impossible to salvage your electronics after a fire. Because electronics are made of many components inside a protective casing, it’s often possible to replace a damaged casing or component as long as it can be extracted from the overall device. Even if an entire computer is destroyed, with effective computer cleanup, you may still be able to salvage the hard drive and data. If you’ve suffered an electrical fire or any other type of fire at your Tyner, TN, property, you still have options for electronics recovery.

Safety First

Always be safe when handling fire-damaged electronics; remember that the root word of “electronics” is “electricity”, and there may be live current. Be particularly safe if the device was the source of the electrical fire. You should always follow these steps:

• Wear rubber gloves, or gloves made of other insulating, non-conductive materials. You should always wear gloves anyway in case of sharp edges or exposed wires.
• Ground yourself.
• Unplug the devices immediately.
• If it’s not safe to get close to the devices due to sparking or jumping current, shut off power to the location.
• Do not attempt to handle the devices yourself. Only do everything you can to secure the location and prevent additional issues with electrical mishaps. Your goal in these steps is not to recover the devices, but to secure a safe environment.
• Do not pour water on the devices. Not only will you ruin your electronics, but you also may create a situation in which electric current could jump due to water conducting electricity.

Call a Professional

Fire-damaged electronics are best trusted to professionals with the safety gear and knowledge necessary to handle the items without injury. While you can secure the area and ensure no repeat issues with electrical fire or other fire damage, do not attempt to salvage the items themselves. Always practice safety, and trust trained professionals.

The Facts About Mold Removal

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Chattanooga property

Facts About Mold

Any property can quickly become infiltrated with mold when there is an unwanted water source such as a leak. That is why it is so vitally important to understand the steps involved in mold removal. Here are some facts about mold:

• Mold is present in almost any location, inside and outdoors.
  
• Mold spores are microscopic.
  
• They float in the air and could come into your home through doors, windows, and HVAC systems or even attach themselves to your pet or your clothes.
  
• Mold spores flourish in moisture.
  
• Mold spores can rapidly bloom into colonies when water is present.
  
• Before any mold repairs can start, the source of the unwanted moisture or water needs to be dealt with.
  
• Mold often produces a musty, strong scent.
  
  

Dealing With Mold

There are countless reports and marketing efforts regarding mold growth, so it is easy to get confused about how to treat it. You may hear the term “black mold” and think that this is an especially dangerous type; however, it should be treated with care like all mold, and should not be touched. The key to preventing the growth of mold is to keep unwanted moisture out of your property and contact a professional mold remediation company at the first sign of an intrusion.

The Difference Between Mold Remediation and Removal

It is important to understand that mold exists almost everywhere in nature. When a cleanup company suggests “mold removal,” know that it is impossible to remove all spores. A competent restoration company knows the science, and it has the requisite knowledge to remediate the mold in your property. Remember that mold remediation does not focus on eliminating mold, but rather getting mold back to its ordinary amounts.

Dealing with a mold issue and subsequent mold removal at your property in Collegedale, TN, can be overwhelming. That is why it is important that you contact a professional mold remediation company promptly to assess any damage and perform a professional cleanup at the first sign of trouble.

Top Tips for Implementing an Evacuation Plan

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Creating a fire escape plan for your commercial building can help keep you and your employees safe.

Commercial Fire Escape Plan

Thinking about a fire tearing through your Ooltewah, TN office building can leave you anxious. After all, fires can cause a lot of harm, including:

• Destroying buildings
• Damaging equipment
• Injuring people
  
  

As the building owner, you need to prepare the workers inside for evacuating in an emergency. Creating a fire escape plan can help ensure everyone knows how to get out during a fiery blaze.

Create Maps

Mapping out the layout of your building can help panicked employees remember which way to go in an emergency. You may want to include an emergency escape plan map in every room of the building. This allows visitors to know where to go in the case of a fire too. Your maps should highlight different ways people can leave the building. Fires may block off hallways or break downs stairs, so having more than one way out is essential.

Train Employees

After you have created a map, you need to make sure your employees are aware of the evacuation routes you have laid out. You also need to make sure everyone can recognize the fire alarm. You may want to have regular fire safety training to remind employees what they should do if a fire breaks out. Make the best routes out of the building clear. Don't forget to tell everyone where they should meet once outside. A fire restoration professional may be able to help you assign the best evacuation spot on or near your property.

Practice the Escape

Part of your regular training may be practicing the fire escape plan. You can encourage employees to think on their feet by setting up obstacles across the easiest path out, so they have to take an unexpected route out of the building. Even during practice, you should make sure everyone meets at the designated spot.

Creating a fire escape plan for your commercial building can help keep you and your employees safe. While you never want a disaster to strike, it is best to be prepared. 

When a Commercial Fire Damages Your Business, Call SERVPRO

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let a fire damage your business in Chattanooga.

Repair Your Business Property After Experiencing Commercial Fire Damage

When a fire ravages your business property, you may wonder how you will be able to repair all of the fire damage. Some Chattanooga, TN commercial fire damage will result in a full loss, but others may only impact a small area of the property and business. Regardless of how large or small the fire was, you may need the property repaired as soon as possible so that operations can resume. Until this happens, you and your clients may be inconvenienced, and the business profit will decrease. With a few important steps, you can rectify commercial fire damage in Chattanooga, TN and get your operations back to normal as soon as possible.

Surveying the Damage
An important first step to take in the Chattanooga, TN commercial fire damage restoration process is to survey the damage to your property. Through a quick overview of the damage, you will get a better idea of the scope of a repair project, and you can estimate how long it will take to get the damage repaired. Keep in mind that a fire often inflicts more damage than just the area affected by the flames. Smoke damage, for example, may spread throughout a property even when the fire was contained to a particular room of the building. Water damage incurred from the firefighters putting out the fire may also be present. Each of these types of damage will require a different overall repair process and may lengthen the overall restorative job.

Cleaning the Property
Clean the property and removing the ashes and soot is a high priority to limit damage and odors. In some cases, water extraction is necessary. Afterward, you will be able to determine other areas that may need to be cleaned. For example, carpeting or furnishings may require special professional cleaning techniques if they have been damaged by smoke or water.

Repairing the Area
While some areas impacted by the fire will need to be professionally cleaned, others will need to be repaired or replaced. For example, any charred areas that have been burned by the fire often will need to be entirely replaced and will not be salvageable. It can be difficult to determine which areas can be repaired or replaced and which can be cleaned, but a professional team of fire damage remediation professionals from SERVPRO can assist you in this area. We can inventory and document all salvageable and non-salvageable business items such as computers, copiers, furnishings, retail stock, and documents. Our team can also interact with your insurance provider to mitigate damages, costs, and downtime.

If your business property has been affected by a fire, our team of fire damage specialists can help. As a locally owned company, we can respond quickly to your request for assistance with fire damage repair services.

Commercial Water Damage Impacts More Than Your Chattanooga Facility

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Chattanooga, TN.

Commercial Water Damage

Water damage in your Chattanooga, TN commercial building can cause problems in many more ways than just the physical structure. Water damage can come from a variety of sources, such as a flood from a river or stream or a broken pipe, often in the overhead, or from one of the many appliances or systems that provide all of the services for your building. This photo shows water damage in a local school from an overhead pipe bursting. about 3 inches of standing water flooded the gym, cafeteria, offices, and classrooms on the first floor. 

The important thing to remember is that after water damage often comes molds and mildews, even if the water is cleaned up right after the loss occurred. Imagine if this occurred in a restaurant? If the building was declared 'unsafe condition’, it would cause a definite fall-off in customers, not even mentioning the mold and the bad smell associated with a lot of wet things. All of this to say that just simply mopping the water up does not do the job without the restoration that a commercial water damage restoration company can provide. 

A commercial restoration company will complete an inspection to determine all damaged areas and how to get them cleaned, repaired, and back to working order. 

The inspection is followed by any or all of the following tasks or activities that must be accomplished very quickly: 

• The establishment of temporary power, if needed.
• Free standing water removal and extraction from carpets, furniture
• Sewage cleanup, which carries its own dangers so must be handled by personnel trained and certified in this work.
• Structural drying
• Verification of dryness through the use of testing equipment such as Thermal Imaging and
• Dehumidification
• Disinfection and Deodorization
• Carpet cleaning
• Reconstruction (SERVPRO of Chattanooga has a reconstruction division to fit these needs)
  
  

Water damage in your Chattanooga commercial building needs the immediate attention of the professional services of SERVPRO of Chattanooga.   

4 Steps to Take To Keep Your Fire Sprinklers Operational

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

A well-maintained fire sprinkler system is a valuable investment for any company.

4 Steps to Take To Keep Your Fire Sprinklers Operational

Your commercial building in East Brainerd, TN, should have a number of fire mitigation devices and strategies. This includes fire alarms, fire extinguishers and a fire sprinkler system. While having these devices in place is important, it is not always enough. It is critical that these units are operational in the unfortunate event that a fire breaks out. When it comes to fire suppression with sprinklers, the following steps must be taken.

1. Inspection. The equipment for your system should be inspected on a regular basis by certified technicians. This will make sure the components are in good shape and capable of providing water as needed. The technician will look for signs of wear and tear and discoloration as well as leaks.

2. Testing. Periodic testing may be necessary to ensure the fire sprinkler system responds to heat sources according to National Fire Protection Association standards and codes. This often involves a focus on the electrical components of the fire detection equipment.

3. Maintenance. Any deficiencies identified during inspection and testing should be addressed by either repairing the part in question or by replacement. Any changes to the original system should adhere to all applicable codes and regulations.

4. Observation. To provide additional support to your system, someone in your building should be responsible for observing the system for flaws in intervals between inspections. This could catch problems that occur without warning and that could compromise the effectiveness of the water suppression system. This step is especially critical for older systems.
In the event of fire damage, a fire sprinkler cleanup might be necessary to deal with instances of water damage. A local fire restoration franchise is trained to deal with both fire and water damage. This is all part of a comprehensive plan to protect your company from the dangers of fire. A well-maintained fire sprinkler system is a valuable investment for any company.

Changing the Game with Matterport Technology

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Our team has recently been utilizing the Matterport camera to capture a 3D walk-through video of commercial losses. We use this technology for many reasons, including: 

1. Documentation before and after restoration

2. To get exact measurements and floor plans that we can use in Xactimate for pricing

3. A tool for business owners to use in the future

On any large commercial loss, we send our Emergency Readiness Coordinator to complete an ERP and Matterport scan before work is started. We are able to capture the damage before work is started for insurance purposes. For example, we completed several Matterport scans to send to insurance agents and adjusters when the tornado occurred because they were unable to travel due to COVID-19. We see many benefits with the Matterport camera and we're excited to see how we can further use it to benefit our customers. Check out the Matterport scan of our office here. 

Store Your Contents With SERVPRO of Chattanooga

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Store Your Contents With SERVPRO

One of the benefits that SERVPRO of Chattanooga is that we offer a pack-out service. When disaster strikes your business, more often than not, you need to have your belongings stored while remediation is performed. Your business may smell like smoke or have a musty odor. SERVPRO of Chattanooga wants to ensure that your business will resume preloss condition after we are finished, so items should be stored away so they do not take on any unwanted smells.  Items may also just need to be moved to make room for remediation efforts to continue. SERVPRO of Chattanooga will carefully wrap and store your items while we make your facility "Like it never even happened.” 

Our Chattanooga office has a storage warehouse that is approximately 13,000 square feet, and in the warehouse we have 10 by 10 wooden storage containers that we label and store until the customer is ready for their items to be returned to them. Also in our facility we have equipment that allows us to clean and restore soft fabric items.  To read more about this process click here! Another service that could be beneficial for your business during a loss is our document restoration service. Read more about how we can bring you paper items back to life. 

SERVPRO of Chattanooga provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

How is SERVPRO of Chattanooga assisting in the fight against COVID-19?

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19. It is on everyone's mind daily and the height of most people's concerns. How is SERVPRO assisting in the fight against this virus? SERVPRO of Chattanooga is providing proactive cleaning services to customers that want to take measures to protect themselves, their families, and their employees in this fight against Coronavirus. This is not the first time that SERVPRO has taken to the front lines in a pandemic. We have encountered everything from the common cold to the swine flu, and now Coronavirus. Our highly trained professionals have been fighting pandemics for years and adhere to all CDC Guidelines when doing it. We are a firm believer in helping the members of our community stay healthy and ahead of the curve when it comes to health hazards. 

Proactive cleaning takes many forms, all of which should be performed by a trained professional. We have many cleaning products including sterilizing and disinfecting solutions that we use to combat airborne and direct contact diseases. Some are fogged into buildings and others are sprayed directing onto surfaces and wiped off. Dwell time is the duration a product is allowed to sit on a surface in order to perform its function. We always allow for proper dwell time and cleanup of all solutions in order to provide maximum effectiveness in sterilization and disinfecting of buildings.

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. If you or anyone you know is interested in proactive cleaning for their home or business, please contact us and we will be happy to assess your needs and provide you with some peace of mind during these trying times. 

Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.

Health Hazards and Damage Caused by Water Affect Buildings in Chattanooga

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Water Damage Results in Health Hazards in Chattanooga

Health hazards caused by water damage to buildings in Chattanooga can escalate quickly. Within just a few minutes, the water can seep into other areas, increasing damages and costs for insurance claims. Items like drywall, wood, furnishings, carpet, and precious antiques will warp, swell, and eventually split.

Quick Action is Essential

Hiring a water restoration company like SERVPRO of Chattanooga as soon possible is essential to saving as many items in the building as possible. Once furnishings begin to swell and warp, it will be more difficult to save the items. Carpet absorbs water like a sponge and requires immediate attention. As the drywall begins to soak up water, more walls will need to be replaced. Once the drywall is wet, the building structure could become affected by mold, and a musty smell will be noticeable in the air. The longer the water sits, the more contaminants will be found in the water and the building.

Appearance of Mold and Fungi

If the water damaged building is not treated quickly, fungi could appear within days followed by an increase in the musty odor. When water is present, the relative humidity will also rise which creates additional moisture in the air. This excess moisture can damage desks, furniture, electronics, and even appliances. The conducive condition for mold proliferation increases as the moisture level rises. Also, people who have respiratory issues could become increasingly ill.

Black Water Contamination

Black water is raw sewage or converted gray water that has been standing within the building or pipes for days or up to a week.

Once water has been in an area for this length of time, mold spores have developed into fungi and mold. This growth will affect paper coverings, dry wall, books, paper, and building materials. Discoloration can also occur when water affects the chemicals in furnishings and other materials. The longer the water remains in the building, the more items will need to be discarded and replaced. Consider SERVPRO of Chattanooga as the immediate response team to get your business back up and functioning. 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

We are available 24 hours a day to get your Chattanooga business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for water damage- including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your businesses best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

We Are Here To Help Our Community During COVID-19

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Chattanooga, we understand how COVID-19 has affected our community and we are working everyday to provide relief to our customers.

The pandemic has caused quite a bit of fear and worry among community members and you may be thinking to yourself “What can I do to keep my exposure minimal?” and “How can I be proactive in combating this virus?” You will be glad to know that SERVPRO can help you in being proactive! We have several levels of proactive cleaning services that we offer to our customers year round that can help minimize exposure by thoroughly disinfecting businesses and homes. We follow CDC guidelines when performing these services and our employees are all highly trained. 

Several businesses have already contacted us to perform proactive cleanings of their office spaces, restaurants, theaters, and much more. The best part is that you do not need to vacate your home or business for an extended period of time like you would if you were to have a bug fogging service performed. Our cleaning chemicals are not harmful to you, your pets, or your customers once the cleaning has been performed. This means that whether you are having a home cleaned or your restaurant, we can have you back in the structure and living your life the way you want without having to worry about hotel stays, business interruption, or harm to guests and pets. 

As an industry leader, SERVPRO of Chattanooga has been performing services like these for years to proactively clean against everything from SARS, Swine flu, to the common cold! If you or someone you know is interested in having these services performed or obtaining an estimate for these services, please don’t hesitate to give us a call today! 

Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.

Do You Have Mold in Your Commercial Building?

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Have you found some type of mold in your commercial building? We understand that you may be concerned for the health of yourself and your employees. Rest assured that we receive many calls concerning mold in commercial buildings, and we don't want you to panic. 

We can address these concerns, by finding out:

• Where is the source of moisture?
• What needs to be fixed to stop the moisture from entering the workplace?
• Are any employees experiencing any health effects from this?

If the answer is “Yes” to the Health Issues question, we immediately refer the called to a company that specializes in Indoor Air Quality and Mold testing. We have a few companies that we work closely with if you would like recommendations. 

We want to make something very clear as there tends to be confusion around this topic: SERVPRO of Chattanooga is able to remediate the mold, but we cannot test the mold. An Indoor Air Quality Specialist is able to give the business owner more information through 1.) a full site visual inspection, 2.) collection and testing cultured air and surface samples, and 3.) measuring the moisture levels in the building. Their findings and recommendations are included in a report, or protocol, which is given to the customer.

• The next step is for the commercial customer to send us the protocol.
• We can then do an assessment at the business site.
• Only then, can we give a price range, and scope of work, keeping in mind that there may be unknowns.

For more information on our Mold Remediation Process, click here.

If you have found mold in your business, remember- don't panic! Give us a call at (423) 326-1406. 

The Importance of Regular HVAC Maintenance

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

The main function of the HVAC system, whether in a commercial building or residential home, is to exchange air and regulate comfort. Putting off routine maintenance of the HVAC system impacts not only building operations, but occupant safety as well. If the filters are not regularly changed, they become dirty and clogged- thus restricting air flow and static pressure. When this occurs, it is harder to regulate the temperature and humidity in the building. The buildup may also get damp and becomes a food source for bacteria and mold. Mold brings in foul odors and allergens that cause headaches, sinus congestion, and eye irritation of its occupants.

Additionally, HVAC units that are under constant stress are more likely to fail due to wear and tear of belts, bearings, and bushings. Clogged drain pans may overflow and cause water damage- something we’ve seen often in our industry (click here to see what we're talking about.) Wiring may overheat or short circuit, which could result in fires. These are only a few of the risks associated with deferred maintenance of the HVAC system in your commercial building. So, how do you avoid these issues? Keep an inventory list of the HVAC equipment in your building. A good inventory list provides insight into the specifications, age, and history of equipment. This is helpful for routine maintenance and planning for replacement.

HVAC systems are key to maintaining optimized building operations and occupant health. It is highly recommended to contact a professional when dealing with duct cleaning and air handling units because of the risk of cross-contamination. The certified professional will know how to clean every component associated with the duct system, including reheat coils and VAV terminals. SERVPRO of Chattanooga specializes in duct cleaning for both residential and commercial buildings. Make sure you are checking your HVAC system regularly and hiring a professional to perform routine maintenance. To read more about our HVAC cleaning services, visit https://www.SERVPROchattanooga.com/airduct-cleaning.

Commercial Chattanooga Fire Damage Requires Fast Restoration

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tackles a Fire Damaged Business in Chattanooga

A small business owner may have his whole life's investment in his commercial dream. Any Chattanooga fire damage event that occurs can be devastating for a small business owner.  A common issue for business owners is fire damage. Flames can damage your enterprise. There are many steps you can take to help mitigate any damage that a fire may cause. 

To help prevent a fire from causing major damage to your business, build or remodel with quality products and building materials. Newer and higher quality materials are more stringently regulated and are more fire retardant. It can save thousands of dollars in fire damage when you invest money up front to protect your business space and profits generated by good will. However, even if you have a preventative plan in place, thus reducing the chances of a fire, and used high-quality materials, you still may end up with fire and costly, or even devastating fire damage. Use fire damage and prevention professionals from SERVPRO to help you restore your place of business. 

Fire damage restoration professionals from SERVPRO are experts in helping homes and businesses clean up after a fire or other natural disaster. They possess the equipment, knowledge, and experience to get the job done right as quickly as possible. Fires can cause several levels of damage to a company. Flames can cause damage to the structure. Smoke, soot, and water damage can be significant on the interior of a business causing fire and smoke damage to inventory, office assets, records, and documents. Time is of the essence in reopening your business to generate revenue and to satisfy your customers and clients. SERVPRO will work around the clock if necessary to help.

In safeguard against a fire, outline steps ahead of time for employees and customers of your business to evacuate the premises safely. By law, you must post emergency exit routes and important contact information for all emergencies in locations throughout your business. Talk with your local fire marshall to outfit your building with the equipment you need to warn you and put out fires. There are many types of smoke detectors, fire alarms, sensors, fire extinguishers, and fire-suppressant sprinkler systems to provide warnings and extinguishing features. If you invest in prevention, it can save you a lot of money, alleviate stress, and maybe save lives. 

If your doors are closed for business because of Chattanooga fire damage, call SERVPRO right after you call your insurance company. We will dispatch crews to assess the damage and formulate a professional, cost-effective plan of action to mitigate losses and revenue. Our IICRC certified technicians, having received extensive, supplemental corporate and eLearning instructions, can grapple with all aspects of your loss. We work to reopen your business establishment quickly "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Chattanooga- Document Restoration

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

We have the ability to transport your documents to be restored in a state-of-the-art drying chamber at our corporate office.

Along with our water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup services, did you know that we offer document restoration services? Our document restoration is: 

• Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
• Secure: managed by HIPAA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
• Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
• Flexible capacity: we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
• Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization 

1. Drying- the process in which an item containing moisture is frozen and dried using vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation.
2. Cleaning- we offer onsite cleaning. This is cleaning each document front and back to remove debris and any surface particulate. 
3. Sterilization- Gamma Irridation is a process that is used for disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. 
4. Deodorization- once paper has been wet, an odor can begin to form. Letting us deodorize your documents will reduce the odor and sometimes almost completely eliminate it. 
5. Destruction- we offer destruction onsite.
6. Digitization- digitizing documents makes them easier to access as well as easier to store. We use state-of-the-art equipment to turn your paper copy into a digital file. 

The types of documents that can be restored are: 

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your paper goods before it is too late.

Contact us should the unexpected happen to your business.

Esporta Machine- Cleaning and Restoring Soft Goods

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Meet Tammy! Tammy is our Textiles Manager. She collects soft goods from water or fire damaged homes and brings them back to our warehouse to clean. Our textiles room houses our Esporta machine that helps clean and restore textiles and other soft goods that have been affected by soot, sewage, mold, water damage, and bio-contaminants. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing. Additionally, we have 4 sets of washers and dryers for less damaged goods, as well as a commercial-grade dryer. According to the Esporta website, "the latest ultrasonic cleaning systems use high frequency sound to vibrate water molecules. In short, they ‘clean by bubbles’ through a process called cavitation, or gas bubble implosions in liquid. An example being the moving blades of a boat propeller. Essentially, the sound waves create cavitation bubbles that multiply quickly and eventually implode due to the return of high pressure, producing a cleaning effect." Learn more about the Esporta machine here.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. Additionally, the system is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have experienced damaged soft goods, we have the personnel and equipment to get your contents back to their original state, "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Chattanooga Helps a Local Chattanooga School After Water Damage Strikes

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Air pushers and dehumidifiers on site of the flooded school.

In 2018, we received a call from a local roofing company who was in the middle of re-roofing a school. They had tarped the roof after a days work and planned to come back to finish the job two days later. That night, we had a storm come in with heavy rains and strong wind. The wind had pulled the tarp up and water leaked through the holes in the roof, ultimately flooding the top floor of the school. The roofing company immediately called SERVPRO of Chattanooga when they were aware of the situation. We were able to get to the school that day and begin restoration services. We had all hands on deck to ensure that this school would be able to stay open for their students and we were able to clean up/dry out all the water damage within a week.

The roofing company commented on our response time and efficiency, saying “They were very good at sorting everything- drying what they could dry. It helped save costs as well. The maps that you provide are very well written to where anyone that doesn’t understand what’s going on can see where the problem areas are. You always have someone on site to answer questions.” He goes on to say, “After seeing the response time with you all, we know that when we run into an issue, we will call you. We looked really good because of the response time that you guys had.” We’re thankful for our loyal customers and the opportunity to help those who need us everyday!

If you run into water, fire, mold, biohazard, or any other issues at your commercial property, give SERVPRO of Chattanooga a call at (423) 326-1406. We are Here to Help 24/7!

Fire Strikes a Commercial Building in Hixson, TN

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Earlier this week, a commercial building in Hixson, TN experienced a fire that left their building full of smoke and soot damage. SERVPRO of Chattanooga was called out immediately to assess the damage. When you experience a fire in your home or business, the smoke and water damage from the firefighters' extinguishing efforts will likely cause additional damage. If you experience a fire loss in your home or business, here are some tips to better understand the fire restoration process. 

1. Emergency Contact 

   When you call us, you will be asked questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate team, equipment, and resources.

2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment 

   SERVPRO of Chattanooga carefully inspects the entire home or business- not just the immediate area. Sometimes, soot and water affect areas that are not always seen. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

3. Immediate Board-up and Roof Tarp Service 

   Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs, as seen in the photo of the commercial property. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

4. Water Removal and Drying (if water is present) 

   The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. Most of the water occurs if pipes melt and leak, or from the firefighters' efforts to extinguish the fire. We use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the water complete the drying process. 

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces 

   We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing 

   We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire.  We’re also trained to remove several types of odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

   Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO of Chattanooga has a reconstruction division that focuses solely on getting your home or business back to normal, "Like it never even happened."

Understanding Mold Remediation

7/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold cleanup is referred to as remediation rather than removal for a scientific reason: you can’t get rid of mold spores. The naturally occurring, microscopic entities are present everywhere indoors and outdoors. Once black mold or any other colony has grown in your establishment, mold remediation must immediately begin in order to limit the spread of the mold. While each situation is unique, here are six general steps a professional cleanup and restoration company will take to rid your Chattanooga, TN business of its fungal presence:

1. Inspection

Mold remediation experts will assess the property for noticeable signs of mold. A variety of technology can be utilized to detect the subliminal signs of mold, often found behind interior walls or under carpeted floors.

2. Containment

The HVAC system and fans will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold spores through airways. The contaminated area will be closed with technology tactics and physical barriers to contain the mold within a restricted area.

3. Filtration

Possible irritants contained in black mold can spread to the surrounding air. Using advanced filtration technology, workers will capture the microscopic spores to filter air during the cleanup process.

4. Removal

Dependent on the amount of mold growth some building materials may have to be removed and disposed of. Porous materials such as carpet, drywall or wood can retain the moisture and spores that led to the original mold growth. For safety and prevention of returning mold, materials damaged by black mold must be removed.

5. Cleaning
In-depth cleaning of restorable items includes specialized cleaning methods, disinfection and sanitizing and thorough drying. Any lingering odors can be removed with fogging equipment.

6. Restoration

Full restoration minimizes the threat of mold returning through thoroughly cleaning and drying effected materials. However, significant mold damage could require replacement of drywall, subflooring or other porous building materials that could retain mold spores.

Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com/ for more information on mold. 

How To Discourage Birds From Nesting on Your Building

6/16/2018 (Permalink)

Birds commonly migrate as seasons change, and when they do, they need a place to rest. Many birds look for welcoming surfaces on which to build nests, but the drawback is that these nests are not always wanted by the building’s human inhabitants. A mud nest is not only an eyesore; it can actually degrade the structure of the building, initiating the need for restoration services. Bird removal is not always easy, and many methods are illegal. The best bird cleaning strategies, therefore, are preventative.

1. Mock Predators

While it may be illegal to physically remove the birds from your building in Chattanooga, TN as you can with other methods of pest control, it is perfectly okay to scare them off. Visual deterrents that resemble natural predators can be an effective way to discourage birds from taking up residence on your commercial property. The migratory birds spot the deterrent and tend to flee. For an even more effective strategy, try moving the deterrent to different locations so the birds don’t get used to it.

2. Physical Barriers

A net that covers the awnings where birds like to nest can prove to be a lot of trouble for them. If birds have to work too hard to get to their preferred spot, they are likely to give up and go find a place that’s easier to reach. Nets are typically inexpensive, easy to install and discreet. They are a useful bird cleaning tool.

3. Covered Landing Zone

If the net is not enough, you may have to make the area where the birds land and begin to assemble their homes inhospitable. A sloping apparatus can make it impossible for the birds to get sure footing. They simply slide off the landing, and your building remains nest-free.

You cannot control the migratory patterns of birds, and once they have nested on your building, you may not have a lot of choice as to whether they can stay. You can defend your property with preventative measures, though.

Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com/ for more information on commercial damage. 

How To Care for Your Building’s Contents After a Flood

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you’re dealing with a flooded company, the best thing you can do for you and your employees’ safety is hire a Chattanooga, TN, remediation team.

If your building was recently flooded, it is understandable that you may want to act fast to start cleaning your contents. After all, the longer you wait to clean your items, the more money you lose. However, content cleaning a flooded company should not be taken lightly. Whether you’re dealing with a flood caused by a broken pipe or one caused by sewage backup, there are certain precautions you need to take:

• Review basic hygiene procedures.
• Invest in personal protective gear.
• Train your employees on disease prevention.
• Know when to call in the professionals.

Basic Hygiene Procedures

If you and your employees attempt to clean up the mess on your own, it’s crucial that you take precautions to protect your health. Some things you can do to clean up your flooded company include the following:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after coming into contact with human waste or sewage.
• Do not touch your face, eyes, mouth or open sores while handling contaminated water.
• Remove soiled work clothes as soon as you’re done cleaning and before you do anything else or go anywhere else.
• Do not chew gum or smoke tobacco while handling sewage or human waste.
• Invest in dry cleaning to thoroughly clean contaminated clothes.

Protective Personal Gear You Need

Knowing how and when to clean your hands and clothing is not enough. You also need to know how to handle contaminated water or, more importantly, what gear you need to safely do so. Equipment you will need includes these items:

• Rubber boots and gloves
• Liquid repellent coveralls
• Goggles
• Protective face mask

Conduct the Proper Training

Though you should always rely on a professional Chattanooga, TN, water remediation team for content cleanup, it doesn’t hurt to train your workers in safe techniques and basic hygiene practices. A portion of training should focus heavily on when to seek medical attention and recognizing signs of waste-borne illnesses.

If you’re dealing with a flooded company, the best thing you can do for you and your employees’ safety is hire a Chattanooga, TN, remediation team. The professionals are properly trained and have adequate protection. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com/. 

Building a Defense Against Wind Damage

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Here is a basement area where the flood water can be clearly seen.

You already know to protect your place of business against lightning and rain during thunderstorms in Chattanooga, TN but like many business owners, you’ve likely overlooked the threat that wind poses during severe weather conditions. The truth is, wind can do as much damage to your commercial building as other thunderstorm threats in a shorter amount of time. It can:

• Strip away shingles to cause a substantial roof leak
• Damage your roof with branches or downed trees
• Shatter windows

Fortunately, protecting yourself from this invisible threat is simple when you know the right steps to take.

Outdoor Cleanup

Your first step toward protecting your establishment from wind damage is to clean up the outside. That means replacing gravel and rock landscaping with something softer (like mulch or straw) or unmovable (like asphalt or concrete). Keep branches on trees around your building trimmed, and consider taking down any trees that are too close to the building or which already show signs of damage. Your local utility company may help out by pruning trees near power lines if you place a few calls. Furthermore, consider removing any loose outdoor furniture from courtyards, lounge areas and patios indoors when you hear a thunderstorm being forecast for your area to prevent the creation of flying debris.

Proper Inspections

Removing trees and branches sometimes isn’t enough to completely protect a roof, especially if it’s old or already has damage like missing shingles. Ensure your business is up to the next storm by investing in annual inspections by professional roofers who can identify and properly fix damaged roofs before they become a real issue, leading to a roof leak or much worse. Perform the same courtesy for your building’s windows and doors as well to prevent shattering and blow-ins during high-wind storms.

Taking these steps may not eliminate wind damage altogether; you might encounter a roof leak here and there or a crack in your window. But the right precautions help to make your business a safer place for you and your employees when strong winds blow in. Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on commercial storm damage. 

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in a Commercial Setting

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

It is important that all members of your staff know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. A fire is the most common emergency a business must plan for according to OSHA. A small kitchen fire may be able to be contained with an extinguisher. They can also be used to help protect evacuation routes.

OSHA requires that employees be trained how to use these tools and how to determine when evacuation is the best choice by assessing the situation.

Use

PASS is a simple training method that can help you and your employees remember the correct way to operate a fire extinguisher.

• Pull
• Aim
• Squeeze
• Sweep

You start by removing the pin. You next want to aim the spray nozzle at the base of the fire and squeeze the trigger on the handle. Use a sweeping motion while aiming the end of the nozzle at the base of the fire.

Considerations

A small extinguisher is a great tool to reduce fire damage and potentially save lives by preventing fires from getting out of control, but their use is limited. Fire extinguishers are only effective on small fires. It is important for employees to know when to evacuate.

If a fire is too large, it is time to evacuate. If flammable solvents are involved, the fire can’t be reached from a standing position or is partially hidden by the ceiling or a wall, everyone should leave the building immediately, and leave the firefighting to the professionals in Chattanooga, TN.

If the room or office fills with smoke, don’t risk it. You may need some form of respiratory protection. Get out of the building. You need to be able to get within ten to fifteen feet of a fire for a fire extinguisher to be effective. If the radiated heat prevents you from getting close enough, the safest thing for you to do is follow the office evacuation plan.

Office fires may be more common than you think. It is important that you and your employees know how to safely act in various situations that involve fires.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on commercial fire damage.

What To Do If Your Commercial Water Supply Line Bursts

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

The water supply line to your commercial property is vital for ensuring you have a clean business that your customers will want to visit. Unfortunately, sometimes accidents happen. If your water supply line bursts, you could find yourself with a large mess to take care of. Use these tips to help you get through the pipe burst cleanup process.

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first thing you need to do when you notice a burst pipe is to shut off the water supply. This may be found in several areas:

• Near the sink

• Behind the toilet

• In a basement or utility space

• At the main valve near your water meter

Clamp the Pipe Shut

Next, you’ll need to close off the burst in the pipe. Do this by applying a repair clamp to the area. While each package will have its own instructions, the process typically includes adding a rubber sleeve to the leak and then bolting a clamp over the sleeve. If you do not have a repair kit, you can use rubber from an inner tube or similar item with an adjustable hose clamp. This is only a temporary fix, so be sure to call a professional plumber as soon as you clamp the pipe to stop supply line leaking.

Visit SERVPRO of East Chattanooga for more information on commercial water cleanup.

Cleanup Process for Commercial Pipe Break

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Beginning the Cleanup Process after a Pipe Break

Begin the pipe burst cleanup. If any electrical outlets or equipment were disturbed, shut off electricity to the area. Use a wet vacuum or sump pump to remove any standing water and then clean, sanitize and dry any affected areas and items.

Keep in mind that an area that doesn’t dry quickly enough can develop black mold and lead to further damages to your property. To ensure the area is properly cleaned, sanitized and dried, you should work with a water cleanup company in Chattanooga, TN, that is experienced with commercial pipe burst cleanup.

Our Technicians are certified in commercial and residential water damage cleanup. Visit SERVPRO of East Chattanooga for more information on commercial water cleanup.

Creating and Maintaining a Safe Environment During a Fire

9/16/2017 (Permalink)

Creating and Maintaining a Safe Environment During a Fire

Reducing the risk of commercial fire damage can often make more of a difference than even the most prompt and thorough fire restoration efforts. Devices that ensure faster detection of a potential fire as well as the fire suppression and fire sprinkler systems which may help to ensure that a kitchen or electrical fire is less likely to spread or grow are critical resources. Preventing fire damage from occurring can spare commercial property and business owners from having to deal with the extensive cleanup and fire restoration costs that may be needed in order to recover from an on-site blaze.

Ensuring Effective Response and Fire Suppression

While on-site extinguishers or an automated fire sprinkler system can help to minimize the risk and potential damages associated with a small kitchen, break room or utility room fire, there are times where the services of professional firefighters and first responders may be required. Ensuring that a fire truck is able to access all areas of a commercial property without issue is not a matter that should be left to chance. Obstacles which may impede the placement of a fire hose and issues which could keep firefighters from evacuating an area or reaching the site of a fire. Minimizing the extend of smoke damage, soot damage or the water damages caused by a fire hose or a fire sprinkler system may be all but impossible in situations where firefighters are unable to respond effectively.

Beginning the Cleanup Process

Business and property owners would be wise to ensure they how to go about responding to commercial fire damage. Larger fires and issues that may require an on-site fire truck in order to address may result in numerous safety issues and waiting for firefighters or a fire inspector to issue the all clear prior to beginning any fire restoration or cleanup efforts is critical. Fire damage can easily compromise load-bearing structures and entering an area that has suffered extensive soot damage or smoke damage may entail considerable risk.

Finding the Best Fire Restoration Services and Solutions

Cleaning up after an electrical fire or a utility room fire can be a far easier undertaking for those who seek help from the right professionals. Any blaze that requires a fire truck to extinguish may result in extensive commercial fire damage. While ensuring that those on-site have access to extinguishers, a fire hose and other fire suppression equipment can help minimize the risk of fire spreading to additional areas, cleanup and restoration of any affected areas may still require a wide range of resources and service options. Commercial business and property owners would do well to seek out the best selection of fire restoration and cleanup services available.

Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on fire damage. 

Home And Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Chattanooga Should Be Left To Professionals

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

Chattanooga Commercial Fire Damage Relies on SERVPRO for Restoration and Cleanup

SERVPRO Provides Remediation and Repair for Damaging Fire Events

Dealing with fire damage can be stressful. What can be even more distasteful is when the fire damage was caused by someone who lives next door.

Duplex, Townhouses, Villas and Fire Damage in Chattanooga
Taking all the precautionary steps possible to protect a home from catching fire displays extreme care on the part of the owner. Unfortunately, the homeowner cannot be responsible for how his or her neighbor behaves. Common walled structures can lead to a migration of the inferno from one home to the other.

If the next door home's fire is extinguished in time, then the fire and smoke damage to the adjoining house may be minimal. Fast results do not mean fire damage restoration work is not required. Even a mild amount of fire, smoke, and soot damage must be addressed through immediate fire cleanup work.

The Unsafe Situation
Upon waking up in the middle of the night to a smell of smoke, panic sinks in. When a resident discovers the odor is emanating from the adjoining home, he may experience a brief moment of relief. The trouble is that the smoke odor is going to remain in the home until smoke removal is done by a professional team like that from SERVPRO.

Smoke damage not only affects furniture and walls creating aesthetic issues, but health hazard can result from the circulating particulates.

Moreover, there may be concerns related to the roof of the property. Even though the fire department may have cut through the neighbor's roof to flood water into the inflamed interior, the water may have impacted the adjoining wood between the two homes. Water damage in the walls is possible as well.

The Business Connection
Fire in home properties is not exclusive to this type of damage. Fire in business locations could occur as well. Businesses may be next door to one another in a series of adjoining properties on a block or a shopping strip center. Fire in business scenarios might be more likely than what would be the case in a home. An old building with faulty wiring or one that works with hazardous materials could create commercial fire damage. Fire damage could disrupt business activity, ruining the proprietor's ability to generate a cash flow. If the commercial fire damage is not too severe, fire cleanup by SERVPRO Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians can be done to reduce downtime for the enterprise. Similarly, fire in home problems should be fixed quickly to make a property livable.

No Time for Amateurs
Those who think they can perform fire cleanup work on their own are typically mistaken. Fire damaged homes, and business structures require a thorough inspection by a professional who can assess the damage and then perform an appropriate fix. Fire damage could be more extensive than realized. The fire cleanup work may be far more involved than thought. It generally is.

Smoke damage and soot damage are not exactly easy to address without the right equipment. With an action plan in place, IICRC certified SERVPRO technicians can discard non-salvageable burnt elements, set up ozone machines and hydroxyl generators to help purify the noxious air thereby restoring a semblance of acceptable indoor air quality. This is needed for the safety of the workers, and the residents if they remain in the fire-damaged structure.

Insurance and Fire Damage Restoration Work
A homeowner's insurance policy could cover losses related to fire damage restoration. A business general insurance policy may have provisions to cover commercial fire damage. When an insurance company is covering the costs, there is no reason not to bring in a professional crew to handle the vital task of restoring a property back to its original and safe condition.

SERVPRO of East Chattanooga can deal directly with your insurance carrier to lessen your burden even as we restore your fire damaged property. Pick up the phone and call (423) 326-1406.

A Company You Can Trust for Help with Fire Damage Restoration in Your Chattanooga Business

4/3/2017 (Permalink)

Our technicians have the experience and staffing to handle any scale disaster. Call our personnel to discuss how we can help.

Certified Commercial Restoration Technicians with Effective Tools Can Quickly Restore Your Damaged Property

When dealing with fire damage that affects your hotel, you want access to a restoration company that makes restoring your property a priority. Someone who can provide you with fast, efficient services and get your doors open again as soon as possible.
 
The company you hire needs to be someone you can trust, a company on your side that understands how important it is to deal with the aftermath of commercial fire damage on your Chattanooga property with a little finesse. While also giving you access to technicians who are not only IICRC certified, but also take great pride in using their experience to combat each situation that they face. We truly enjoy producing quality results for you, the customer.
 
SERVPRO has had the pleasure of helping many, property and business owners overcome adversity regarding restorations after disaster strikes. Our technicians put their skills to work saving time and reducing costs while limiting any disruptions to the services you provide. Often allowing us to help you keep your doors open, while repairs are underway. We work on a schedule that produces the best results for you, day or night; we are there for you.
 
SERVPRO technicians use their extensive training to take control of your complete restoration, making us a one-stop solution for all of your fire damage restoration needs. We respond quickly and use cutting-edge techniques, to deal with any fire, smoke, or water damage issues found during our initial inspection and even put cleaning and odor control methods into motion to ensure that we meet or often exceed any expectations you might have.
 
SERVPRO would like to be a partner that helps get you back on your feet. We can assist with restoring any service areas caught up in the fire including kitchens, bathrooms, guest rooms and staff areas. While using special cleaning methods on woodwork, walls, ceilings, carpeting, and furniture caught within the affected area to remove acidic smoke residues that develop during a fire. Paying particular attention to each surface material to produce the best results.
 
Utilizing the expertise and resources available today, SERVPRO of East Chattanooga specializes in responding to your calls for assistance. Contact a company that cares. (423) 326-1406

Learn More About Cleaning Challenges Presented By Fire Damage Found In Collegedale Restaurants

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

The removal of smoke residues alone is often a difficult challenge.

Challenges That Come Up When Dealing with Collegedale Restaurant Fire Damage

You have worked for years building a successful local restaurant. The menu is finally perfect, and customers begin visiting regularly. Unfortunately, a fire breaks out in your kitchen, causing damages that are beyond your capabilities to restore.

Every building is susceptible to fire damage, even your restaurant in Collegedale. When this type of event happens to you, access to a professional restoration company becomes crucial. You want someone available that knows how to handle the kind of damage done by smoke and fire, or any other damage you may face getting your business back to normal quickly.

SERVPRO responds immediately to your request for help, providing you with the expertly trained technicians, equipment, and expertise necessary to perform your restoration utilizing specialized cleaning techniques to save as much of your property as possible. While each situation is different, we work diligently to restore your items rather than simply suggesting a replacement.

SERVPRO's full fire damage restoration process involves tackling many different kinds of damages including, fire, smoke, and water exposure from fire suppression systems or firefighting efforts. While we use specific water extraction equipment such as hand-held extractors with five to twelve-gallon solution and waste tanks for smaller jobs, truck mounted extractors with sixty to one hundred-gallon storage containers may be necessary for larger jobs.

SERVPRO technicians face many cleaning challenges and a variety of factors that affects the cleanability of different materials. The type of material burned, the amount of heat, oxygen, and moisture present, air flow patterns in your particular building, type of smoke residues produced by the fire, and the different kinds of surfaces impacted by smoke and heat all play a role.

The removal of smoke residues alone is often a difficult challenge. Porous surfaces allow smoke particles and odors to penetrate further into the material than nonporous surfaces. Wall coverings or glossy, enamel painted surfaces are easier to clean than flat latex paint or wallpaper coverings.

Challenges also include determining the amount of heat involved and the age of the surface that is exposed, while the amount of moisture that exists helps set residues and makes material stains more likely to occur, which is why a quick response to your situation becomes such a concern.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Contact SERVPRO of East Chattanooga to obtain the services you need to quickly and efficiently restore your business today. (423) 326-1406

Water Removal When Your Chattanooga Self Service Storage Business Floods

2/7/2017 (Permalink)

Make sure that your customers' possessions are dry by calling SERVPRO immediately after water damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Generate an Effective Plan Quickly for Water Removal at Your Commercial Property

A self-service storage business struggles if customers’ units experience even occasional flooding. Heavy rains and runoff from surrounding parking can send water flowing through the units, damaging possessions and eroding trust. Call SERVPRO immediately to remove the standing water, and start the restoration process for your renters.
 
Commercial water removal must proceed quickly in your Chattanooga self-storage facility. The longer water stands, soaking the contents of your customers’ units, the more likely contamination becomes. We send crews of trained technicians with powerful water extractors after your call, removing the obvious moisture swiftly. If necessary we use submersible pumps, getting the water out without waiting for the level to recede. Water that pools or hides in corners of various areas is wet vacuumed up.
 
Once the pumps and extractors do their jobs, SERVPRO project managers implement phase two of the water removal plan. Air movers positioned at strategic angles accelerate the drying within the units. We measure ambient humidity to get an idea of how much more moisture should be removed from the structure. If areas of the storage facility are unaffected by the flood, we try to approximate their humidity levels.
 
If some of your renters gather as we continue to work on water removal, we may begin moving belongings out of some units, improving the odds of drying the contents of each. Depending upon the provisions of the contract your renters sign, all units may be emptied of their contents for better water removal results. The possessions stored dry out much more efficiently if air can move easily around them. Your renters may want to move the items stored to other safe areas to sort through their possessions. Informing the people who use your storage facility about the water damage is a wise move. Each renter has different priorities and expects to make his or her decisions about their wet items. We have the experience and skills to help dry out a variety of stored possessions, including documents and electronics. These skills may be a good fit for your customers.
 
SERVPRO of East Chattanooga has the expertise and equipment to remove water from your storage facility. As soon as you discover the flooding, call (423) 326-1406 to schedule an inspection of the areas.

Landlords' Water Damage Woes in Chattanooga

12/24/2016 (Permalink)

Toilets can quickly overflow causing flooding and subsquent water damage. Call SERVPRO to quickly assess and remediate the damage!

Count on SERVPRO's Certified Technicians to Expertly Deal With Your Water Damage Problems

If you count college students from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga or Chattanooga State Community College as some of your tenants, their youth and inexperience with household maintenance can spell water damage disaster for you as a landlord. Even well-meaning student tenants are poor observers of potential water damage issues for their landlords. They ignore constantly running toilets, leave the freezer door ajar leading to melting frost, and fail to notice a leaky front loading washer door until some serious problems present. A landlord’s best friend when water damage in rental buildings comes calling is your local SERVPRO, able to find, repair, and restore any moisture issues your student tenants offer you.

Today’s student apartments often come with in-unit laundry facilities and full sized kitchen appliances. Because they are busy with studies, socializing, and internships, your student tenants frequently focus little attention on the commercial water damage that occurs when a Chattanooga undergrad adds too much detergent to a high-efficiency washer or a hard working ice maker bursts a water line under the kitchen cabinets between the fridge and the sink after a partying weekend. When the suds pour out the back of the washer or a steady drip, drip, drip causes ceiling damage under the bathroom; contaminated water has a chance to invade your rental unit. Bulging drywall, mold growth, and rotting floorboards under the laundry closet tiles are some of the challenges you might face when the students move out at the end of the term.

As groups of student, tenants come and go SERVPRO teams up with landlords to restore rental units back to their pre-water damage condition for the start of a new school year. Our technicians are great water detectives, able to follow the flow from a neglected washing machine or hushed-up shower curtain fail to make certain that all areas of water damage are remediated. Hidden moisture can seriously harm your investment in student rental apartment buildings or other rental units. Work with us to find the damage your tenants caused, documenting issues as the problems in the rental units are solved. Our records help you if you feel you must retain damage deposits and when the building inspector arrives to make sure all problems have been repaired among your rentals. Our experience and training ensure the water damage is fixed according to local codes.

When looking for a solid and steady partner in the student housing business SERVPRO of East Chattanooga comes to the rescue by restoring all manner of water damage. Call us anytime at (423) 326-1406 for fast, professional results.

SERVPRO Commercial Water Removal Chattanooga

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

To ensure rapid action, SERVPRO maintains 24-hour response and restoration teams.

Chattanooga Commercial Water Removal - SERVPRO

Standing water can shut down a business in just a few hours. Regardless if it's the result of a storm or damaged plumbing, it has to be removed quickly in order to prevent damage, get the doors opened, and start serving customers again.

SERVPRO knows how important commercial water removal is for Chattanooga businesses. This can be a difficult process, but our people will explain every step and to work as rapidly as possible.

To ensure rapid action, SERVPRO maintains 24-hour response and restoration teams. Once a team arrives, the inspector will determine the extent of the flooding, its source and then put their equipment and personnel to work. We maintain an extensive inventory of commercial pumps to remove water. If the power is out or if the building's electrical system is compromised, we also maintain generators and generator trucks to ensure uninterrupted service.
Once we have the water pumped out, our technicians employ air movers and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture.

While the paper is quickly damaged and cloth (furniture, curtains, etc.) can be compromised in a matter of hours, floors, and carpeting can still be recovered. Specially designed heaters and water extractors can prevent wooden floors from warping and concrete slabs from forming cracks.

If done quickly enough, they can also prevent water from leaching floor varnish and carpet color.
Moisture also has to be removed in order to prevent mold growth. Drywall is an exceptionally vulnerable building material; it disintegrates quickly and becomes a food source for a growing mold colony. When moisture is brought down to normal levels, growth quickly stops and affected panels can be safely removed.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you have standing water, puddles on floors or soggy carpets, SERVPRO of East Chattanooga is here to help get you back in business. To schedule an inspection or have one of our restoration teams begin work, call us today at (423) 326-1406 to get started.

How Commercial Storm Damage in Collegedale Directly Costs Businesses Money

10/22/2016 (Permalink)

Collegedale Storm Damage Gets Help from SERVPRO

SERVPRO Helps Reopen Your Doors in Flood Damaged Collegedale

Storm damage can vary widely in its intensity and symptoms, but it's never going to be a good thing for business (at least until after restorations are complete). Some types of damage may destroy or render useless merchandise and equipment in your business, or others could drive away customers by making the place unsafe or unclean. We employ a thorough restoration process when dealing with any sizable storm damage, ensuring that your business saves not only its equipment but also its customers.

Messes that Can Drive Away Customers
Whether you're in the service industry, a corporate setting, an industrial district, or something else entirely, commercial storm damage in Collegedale is more likely than not to lose you, customers, if it is not properly cleaned up. Flooding can be the most thorough and expensive visual damage, staining floors, displays, walls, and anything in its path. However, many storms cause significant aesthetic damage aside from flooding as well, blowing in mud, dirt, debris, and rainwater and perhaps breaking windows or other fragile objects in the path.
 
Damages that Directly Cost You in Goods and Equipment
Some types of damage can also directly destroy or devalue merchandise or equipment, creating an immediate financial loss for your business. SERVPRO employs a strategy of mitigation and restoration over replacement, meaning that we attempt to save as many objects and fixtures as possible without having to buy new ones. The heaviest form of storm damage to equipment is again flooding, but other types and events can also lead to the destruction of your merchandise. Offices are often at the most risk after a flood, as they typically contain valuable electronics and data which can easily be lost as water hits and destroys fragile equipment.
 
SERVPRO of East Chattanooga has the equipment and experience to tackle commercial storm damage whenever and wherever it strikes in the local area. Call us at the first sign of trouble at (423) 326-1406 for our fast response times and mitigation services.

Comprehensive Commercial Water Damage Restoration, from Where?

8/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Reopens Your Collegedale Water Damaged Business Fast

Rely on SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration to Your Commercial Property

Commercial properties can be damaged by rain, floods, internal plumbing and appliance mishaps, or experience secondary water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO offers property owners a speedy response when water damage compromises the use of business property, offering a full range of restoration services that mitigate even the worst damage water can do. Our technicians are highly trained to industry standards by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), ensuring your commercial property’s water damage repair is in the hands of experts in the field. No business property is too large or too small to benefit from the proven skills and experience of our trained water damage control and restoration professionals.

When Collegedale commercial water damage occurs because of severe weather, plumbing malfunctions, floods or other natural or man-made disasters the economic toll to the industries affected can be high. Whether it involves only your own business or also prevents any tenants or other business partners from the quiet enjoyment of their homes or robust commerce in the shop or storage area they rent from you commercial water damage must be restored quickly and thoroughly. Because we are a local company we can respond immediately to your commercial water damage needs with trained technicians and specialized equipment that can handle most commercial water disasters. We have experience with almost any type of water based damage and will have your business back on track fast no matter the cause.

If the extent of your commercial water damage is greater than one restoration company can efficiently manage alone, we can tap into a network of over 1700 franchises to increase the scope of our repair capabilities vastly. When you contract with our company to deal with water damage that is catastrophic and extensive, we will utilize our relationship with the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams nationwide to respond on the scale your situation requires. The resources at our command will rise to the challenge, turning the tide on the most complex and momentous water damage scenarios.

If water damage of any nature threatens your business, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of East Chattanooga to restore your properties to pre-disaster condition. Commercial water damage can be reversed and your money making assets placed back online quickly when you dial (423) 326-1496 any time of the day or night and engage our services. We are proudly ranked as of one of the leading commercial restoration companies in the nation.