Fire Safety

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Educate your children about fire safety.

According to an NFPA® report on youth and wildfire preparedness, only 21% of students interviewed in wildfire-prone regions have a family preparedness plan for when they are home alone. Even more amazing is that only 10% had evacuation bags prepared for themselves at home. However, 65% of these young people were aware that a fire could happen at any time and anywhere.

Discuss with your family what to do before and when a wildfire happens. Take a moment to discuss what the plan is when your young family members are home alone or if they are home, caring for younger children. Some ideas for developing your family plan include:

Connecting with a trusted neighbor close by who your children know who can evacuate them.
Or, setting up a schedule with other working parents in the neighborhood, so that one is always at home and can make sure the children are safe.
Packing a Go Bag with treasured items, water, food, prescriptions, etc. That they can grab and leave quickly with.
Practice together with their pets if time allows to be able to crate them and go.
Have a designated contact, such as an out of town family member’s number programmed into their cell phone so that you can find each other quickly.
The most important thing that you can do as a family is to make sure your home and the landscape immediately surrounding your home is well maintained for wildfire safety. You want to make sure that those you care about are safe and secure. For more information about wildfire safety tips check out NFPA’s Firewise USA® webpage.

Please visit the link below for more information: https://community.nfpa.org

Summer Safety Tips

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Keep Summer Fun!

Summer is right around the corner and so are all the leisurely activities that follow. Most of us will be taking camping trips and spending afternoons at the pool or grilling out. Sometimes it’s easy to forget about the risks that come along with summer activities. The National Fire Protection Association provides many useful tips to keep you and your loved ones safe throughout the summer.

Campfire Safety

• Permitted campfires need to be at least 25 feet away from any structure.
• Never use gasoline, flammable liquids or combustible liquids on a flame.
• Avoid burning on windy, dry days. It is easier for open burning to spread out of control when it's windy and dry.
• Watch children while the fire is burning. Never let children or pets play or stand too close to the fire
• Always have a hose, a bucket of water, or a shovel & dirt/sand nearby to put out the campfire.

Grilling Safety

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep Children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from grills and in trays and below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Poolside/Water Safety

• Do not swim during a thunderstorm.
• Keep electrical devices, appliances, equipment, and cords 6 feet away from water.
• Make sure that any overhead lines maintain the proper distance over a pool and other structures such as a diving board.
• If you think someone in the water is being shocked, turn off all power and call 911.

Commercial Services

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Services

Commercial Restoration and Mitigation Services

If you are a property manager, business owner or building engineer then you understand the importance of maintaining and taking care of a commercial property. Our SERVPRO Commercial Division is solely dedicated to providing quality service for commercial clients and their properties. Our Commercial Division understands the needs and complexities of commercial buildings. We provide Emergency Ready Plans for large scale buildings, to get you back in business as quickly as possible.

We have the resources and capabilities to provide commercial restoration and mitigation services for any size structure. Whether your business or commercial property faces a fire, water or mold loss, we can handle it. We also provide board up and bio-hazard clean up services.

SERVPRO Capabilities

• We are an EPA & IICRC certified firm
• Any size loss will be handled confidently by an IICRC professional trained in water, fire, smoke, and commercial loss
• Golden Spike, Great Wolf Resorts, Ballard House, VA Medical Center, Aurora Firehouse 15, local municipalities, etc.
• We have equipment resources to manage all of your needs
• Including specialty drying equipment (injectidry, floor drying system, ETES, air scrubber, desiccant, etc.)
• 16 production vehicles, including 2 trailers
• Esporta Washing System
• Ultrasonic Cleaning System
• Document Drying
• Production teams with 7 years of national catastrophic storm travel
• Producing jobs in locations such as Illinois, Maryland, Arkansas, Idaho, Florida, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, California, Georgia, and Puerto Rico.
• Ownership that places the highest importance on Customer Satisfaction
• Our capabilities allow us to respond to your needs

SERVPRO’s Commercial Division is qualified to answer any of your restoration and mitigation questions. If you are concerned about your commercial property or if you have any questions about the services we provide, call our office and ask for our commercial division.

Document Restoration

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can even latch onto paper.

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents—documents, photographs, and books—could be lost forever. 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.

Our Document Restoration Facility:

• 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

Our Technology

Then SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).

Types of content:

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

Document Cleaning and Disinfecting

In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Digitizing Services

In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. And perhaps most important of all, you’ll have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.

Why Choose SERVPRO? 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will get the job done right. For document restoration backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO Professional nearby and ready to serve you.

Spring Tips

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Spring Cleaning

With the days lengthening and weather warming, spring is a good time to get outdoors and tackle some larger home projects. Now that the threat of winter storms has passed, you can look for damage and make any needed repairs, as well as prep your home and garden for summer. We spoke with an expert to get helpful tips on what to watch for this season, from proper irrigation to mosquitoes and termites (oh my!).

1. Clean gutters and downspouts. After the last frost has passed, it’s important to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired. ‘Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause the wood trim at the eaves to rot, and that can invite all kinds of critters into your attic space,’ says Victor Sedinger, certified home inspector and owner of House Exam Inspection and Consulting.

Having your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can also help prevent damage from spring rains. ‘Gutters and downspouts should be clean and running free,’ Sedinger says. ‘If your downspouts are installed properly, water is diverted away from the house so that no water collects around your foundation.’

Contemporary Landscape by B. Jane Gardens
2. Reseal exterior woodwork. Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas and other outdoor structures will last longer and stay in better condition if they’re stained or resealed every year or two. Take this opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork as well.

3. Check for signs of termites. Beginning in March and going through May or June, be on the lookout for these winged insects. ‘Termites swarm in the spring,’ Sedinger says. ‘If there’s a bunch of winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork, that’s probably termites. Call a licensed professional pest control company. You’ll save money and trouble in the long run.’

4. Inspect roof. Winter storms can take quite a toll on the roof. When spring arrives, start by making a simple visual inspection of your roof. ‘It doesn’t require a ladder, and you certainly don’t have to get on a roof to look,’ Sedinger says. ‘Use binoculars or a camera or smartphone with a telephoto feature if you need to.’ Look for missing shingles, metal pipes that are damaged or missing or anything that simply doesn’t look right. If you notice anything that needs closer inspection or repair, call a roofer.

5. Paint exterior. If you’re planning to repaint your home’s exterior this year, spring is a good time to set it up. Want to paint but can’t decide on a color? Explore your town and snap pictures of house colors you like, browse photos on Houzz or work with a color consultant to get that just-right hue.

6. Inspect driveways and paths. Freezing and thawing is rough on concrete, asphalt and other hardscaping materials. Take a walk around your property to look for damage to walkways, paths and driveways, and schedule repairs as needed. Asphalt can often be patched, but damaged concrete may need to be replaced entirely.

7. Check sprinkler and irrigation systems. Checking your sprinklers or irrigation systems in the spring can save water – and save your plants. Sedinger shares these tips for checking your watering system:

Run the system through all the zones manually and walk the property.
Make sure none of the heads are broken or damaged.
Adjust any heads that are spraying the house, especially windows, as this can cause moisture problems.
Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk or porches to avoid wasting water.
If you don’t know how to maintain your sprinkler system, call a professional to do it. You’ll save money on your water bill and protect one of our most valuable natural resources.
Traditional Landscape by Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates
8. Prevent mosquitoes. In recent years, we’ve become more aware of the potential danger mosquitoes can pose to our health. ‘West Nile virus and Zika virus are just the latest diseases caused by these winged pests,’ Sedinger says. The best way to prevent mosquitoes around your home is simply by getting rid of any standing water. ‘Walk around your property [and peek at your neighbors]. If you see anything or any area where water stands, fix it, tip it, get rid of it or maintain it regularly,’ Sedinger says.

9. Check screen doors and windows. Screens are designed to let the breeze flow in and keep bugs out – but they can only do their job if they’re free from holes and tears. Before setting up your screens for the warm months ahead, be sure to carefully check each one and repair any holes or tears, no matter how small. You can find screen repair kits at most hardware and home improvement stores.

10. Schedule air-conditioning service. ‘Home inspectors see a lot of air-conditioning systems that are just not taken care of,’ Sedinger says. ‘Just because it gets cool doesn’t mean it’s working efficiently.’ To get the longest life out of your cooling system and keep it running as efficiently as possible, change the filters at least once each season, and hire a licensed professional to service the equipment before the start of summer.

https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/your-spring-home-maintenance-checklist/

Commercial Property Insurance

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Denver

Commercial property insurance covers businesses for losses due to certain covered events, such as fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disaster. This coverage helps business owners protect their valuable assets, such as an owned or leased building, tools, equipment, machinery, or inventory. Commercial property insurance rates typically average $500 to $1,000 per year.

Commercial Property Insurance Rates

The cost of business property insurance varies depending on the value of the property to be insured, the location of the business, and the coverage limits and deductible you choose. There are several other factors affecting the cost of commercial property insurance, but most small businesses will pay $500 to $1,000 per year in premium.

Some insurance providers will allow you to include commercial property insurance in a business owners policy (BOP), which is a bundled package of multiple insurance types. The cost of the package as a whole is often less than the underlying policies if purchased separately.

The most important factors that affect the cost of business property insurance include:

• Geography: Everything from the land value of your business location to local crime rates can impact the annual cost of your premium.
• Safety and Security: This expands on the geography and location aspect. Is your commercial property located in a high crime area? Are there hazardous materials stored in your building or nearby?
• Size of Business Premises: A large commercial building will generally cost more to cover than a single unit office space.
• Age of Building: Old buildings can be more susceptible to certain types of damage, so they may cost more to insure. For example, a fire caused by old electrical wiring could translate into costly repairs if the building needs to be rebuilt to code.
• Type of Equipment: Heavy industrial equipment will cost more to insure than an at-home business’ sewing machine.
• Age of Equipment: You may pay higher premiums if your equipment is hard to repair because of scarce parts or if it’s more likely to break down because of heavy use.

Insurance companies will charge more for greater risk exposures that require higher coverage limits. It’s important to remain aware of the risk exposures of your business and the assets that you need covered.

Use an Agent or Broker Who Understands Your Business

Commercial property insurance is a type of small business insurance and is not specific to any particular industry. Keep in mind that not every insurance company will have intimate knowledge of your business or the risk exposures that need protection. When shopping for a commercial property insurance policy, try to find an agent or broker who understands your business or industry type.

How Commercial Property Insurance Works

A commercial property insurance policy is non-industry specific, which means that the coverage is mostly standard across all business types. However, commercial property insurance is not a one-size-fits-all product. Policies will differ in a few key areas, such as the coverage limits, how assets are valued, and what’s covered and not covered in the policy.

What Commercial Property Insurance Covers

Your insurance policy will cover certain perils, which are causes of damage such as fire or theft. Coverages included in your policy are called inclusions, whereas perils not covered in your policy are called exclusions. It’s important to know what is covered in your policy and what is not covered.

Here are some of the primary items covered in a commercial property insurance policy due to loss from a covered peril:

• The building, owned or leased
• Business equipment loss
• Damage or loss due to wind, hail, fire or theft
• Accidental damage of property
• Business Interruption (lost business income)
• Electronic data
• Interruption of computer operations
• Valuable papers and records
• Forgery or alteration
• Accounts receivable

Of the covered items in a commercial property insurance policy, the most important items to cover are the building and the business’ assets contained within it. Business interruption, which covers a loss of income when your business is forced to suspend operations due to a covered event, is also necessary coverage in the property insurance policy.

For more information about Commercial Insurance visit Fit Small Business: Get Your Business Into Shape!

Does Your Insurance Cover Mold?

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners insurance covers mold damage if it was caused by a "covered peril." Otherwise, an insurance company will likely not cover mold damage. There are exceptions, which we will get into later in this article.

Home insurance policies usually don't cover mold that resulted from a preventable water leak, flooding, or high humidity.

Home insurance companies also typically don't pay for maintenance issues that insurers think a homeowner should have prevented. Insurers expect homeowners to proactively take care of those problems before they need to file an insurance claim.

Home insurance covers mold if a "covered peril" caused the mold. In that case, your home insurance policy will likely pay for repairs and clean-up.

Here are some of home insurance's covered perils:

• Fire
• Lightning
• Vandalism or malicious mischief
• Damage caused by vehicles
• Theft
• Falling objects
• The weight of ice, snow, or sleet
• Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam from plumbing, heating, air conditioners, sprinkler systems, or household appliances
• Frozen pipes

Let's take a look at some real-world examples. When home insurance will likely cover you:

• An ice dam forms in a roof gutter during a rough winter and water backs up under your shingles. The water leaks into your attic, soaks your attic floor and insulation and creates mold.
• A pipe bursts in your home and dumps gallons of water on the floor and saturates drywall while you're at work. Mold begins to form before you call.
• A washer hose springs a leak and damages behind your washer. The washer hose isn't old, you stop the leak, and report the damage immediately, but not before mold forms.

These are "sudden and accidental" incidents. Insurance companies typically cover this type of damage. In fact, non-weather-related water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims and one of the most expensive.

When home insurance will likely NOT cover you:

Your basement pipes freeze and burst. You don't notice it for a few weeks. Now, you have a few inches of water on your floor and mold growing. 

Broken shingles on your 40-year-old roof allow water into the attic. Water saturates wood and insulation and leads to mold in the attic.

Mold forms in your shower. You don't think much about it until one day you notice that it's really unsightly and you're concerned about whether it's making your family sick.

In these cases, an insurer will likely not cover the damage. Why? An insurance company expects you to take care of your house. That means properly ventilating the bathroom, replacing an old roof, and checking your basement regularly.  An important reason to stay on top of home maintenance.

Also, the standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover water damage caused by a flood.  Thus if a flood causes water damage that leads to mold, the resulting mold issue would not be covered by your home policy. 

A separate flood policy, will cover mold and mildew, as long as it’s not caused by the homeowner’s failure to inspect and maintain the property after the flood.  That means, once you can get back into your home, you need to start trying to clean up and keep mold from growing or spreading. 

How do I know if my home insurance policy covers mold?

As mentioned earlier, home insurance companies usually don't cover mold damage unless it's directly related to a "covered peril." The good news -- there are exceptions.

Check your homeowners insurance policy to see if there is any language about mold claims. Some insurers offer limited coverage for mold claims. This may mean limiting how much the insurer will pay for a mold-related claim. Or an insurer may increase the cost of a home insurance policy if you have mold-related coverage.

If you don't have mold coverage, you can buy an endorsement to your insurance policy that adds mold coverage. An endorsement is when an insurance company adds additional coverage to a regular home insurance policy, for an additional fee.

Some home policies provide a limited amount of coverage for mold claims.  This can be by capping the amount the insurer will pay, for example at $5,000, or stating that the insurer will only pay for certain services, such as clean-up, and excluding others, such as testing and remediation.

Visit https://www.insurance.com/home-and-renters-insurance/home-insurance-basics/mold-coverage.html for more information.

Mold Testing

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Is that mold?

Mold Testing or Sampling

Is sampling for mold needed? In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's compliance with federal mold standards. Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Are there federal regulations or standards regarding mold testing?

Standards or Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for airborne concentrations of mold, or mold spores, have not been set. Currently, there are no EPA regulations or standards for airborne mold contaminants.

Understanding Mold

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

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

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

1. Emergency Contact - (303) 576-6868
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Commercial Fires Prevention

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Leading Causes of Structure Fires

Commercial Fires Prevention

During the five-year period of 2007-2011, NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3,340 fires in office properties per year which include general business offices, banks, veterinary clinics, research offices, engineering facilities, mailing firms and post offices. $112 million in property damages were reported.

When Are Commercial Fires Likely to Occur?

The chance of a commercial fire occurring during operating hours is extremely high. One-third of commercial office fires occur between business hours. The more populated a business is, the higher the chance of a fire occurring. Businesses occupying these commercial properties should inform their staff of fire dangers and how to prevent one.

Prevention Tips

• Turn off Coffee Makers, toaster ovens and kitchen appliances
• Have a designated staff member ensure kitchen appliances are turned off at the end of the day
• Always plug major appliances, like refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers, directly into a wall outlet
• Never use an extension cord with a major appliance — it can easily overheat and start a fire.
• Always plug small appliances directly into a wall outlet.
• Unplug small appliances when you are not using them.
• Don’t allow space heaters in an office setting.
• Keep lamps, light fixtures and light bulbs away from anything that can burn.
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture.
• Check electrical cords on appliances often. Replace cracked, damaged and loose electrical cords. Do not try to repair them
• Do not overload wall outlets.
• Insert plugs fully into sockets.
• Never force a three prong cord into a two-slot outlet.
• Replace worn, old or damaged extension cords right away.
• Use extension cords for temporary purposes only.
• Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched, like under a carpet or rug.
• Do not overload power strips.
• Use power strips that have internal overload protection.

Information provided by FEMA and the National Fire Protection Association.

Wet Carpet

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

All wet material removed.

Have you had a toilet overflow, a pipe burst, a washer malfunction or walk into a basement completely flooded by rainwater? Water can seep into almost every material and cause irreversible damage. When water saturates your carpet or walls, you will need to make decisions and make them quickly! Do not waste time contemplating how to clean up the water, each hour counts when water is involved. The longer water sits in porous material, like carpet or drywall, the sooner bacteria and microbial growth begins to grow.

One of the prime locations for microbial growth to spread is in a humid room with sopping wet carpet and walls. What do you do? Grab a shop vac and suck it up? Grab a slew of towels and cover the floor while dancing on top of them, hoping they will absorb all of the water? Grab all the fans you own and try to set them in just the right places, hoping that everything will dry out in time? Go ahead and try those techniques, but you will have a huge and more costly headache to deal with in a month.

If you choose to call a restoration company, be sure to call one who has the certifications to back up their work.

SERVPROs all over the country are locally owned franchises, and the majority of them are run by the actual owner. At SERVPRO of Aurora I know that our project managers, office staff, marketing team and even the owners are WRT IICRC certified. That means they know everything it takes to get water out of your home or business.

We are not magicians; we can not save all carpet and walls, but we can certainly extract the water from the affected areas and remove any wall that is not salvageable, ultimately leaving you a clean, bacteria-free slate to work with. We even have a construction division that can help you get your home back to preloss condition. Do not waste time trying to clean up a disaster on your own or have the local neighborhood handyman clean it up, just call SERVPRO of Aurora and we will walk you through the process. You will be informed and updated of the restoration/mitigation process throughout the entire job so that nothing is questionable. We are your go-to! Give us a call even if you just have a question and we will be happy to help.

-Your SERVPRO of Aurora Marketing Coordinator, Danielle Neff

Wisconsin Freeze 2019

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after this Hotel flooded from a burst pipe.

During the 2019 Polar Vortex, Madison, Wisconsin experienced plummeting temperatures of minus 26 degrees. Residents prepared for the storm, bundled up and took cover indoors, but that wouldn't stop the freeze from reaching inside. As the temperatures dropped, pipes burst inside homes and businesses. Home and business owners were facing a world of headaches and in need of professional restoration/mitigation services. A number of local restoration companies jumped to the opportunity to provide service for their community, unfortunately, there were not enough resources to provide service for everyone at once.

Back in Parker, Colorado, a locally owned SERVPRO waited for the distress call.

A little after 5 o’clock on February 1st, the crews at SERVPRO of Aurora received the notification that they would be traveling to Madison to provide restoration and mitigation services. The production crew packed their bags, filled the trailers with tools & specialty equipment and set out on the journey to Wisconsin.

A little tip from our SERVPRO Heroes

When a flood occurs, SERVPRO of Aurora professionals know that time is crucial. The longer floodwater sits and seeps into carpet, walls, and contents; the greater the chance is of mold forming and causing near to permanent structural damage. It is important to take action immediately after structure floods, if not you could be looking at a very costly restoration project.

1. Remove water as soon as possible
2. Dry out the wet areas using dehumidifiers and fans to move air around, discouraging the growth of mold.

3. Freeze your assets or sensitive documents.

The Camp Fire Devastates Paradise

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

We Care.

SERVPRO of Aurora Cares

The Camp fire of Northern California was one of the most deadly wildfires since the 1918 Cloquet fire. Local restoration companies were swamped with fire restoration projects, and only able to schedule restoration appointments weeks out. The Disaster Recovery Team at SERVPRO of Aurora was invited to Paradise California in order to provide fire damage repair & restoration services for home and business owners. The Disaster Recovery Team eagerly accepted the invitation, prepared their vehicles and set out on the road to Paradise.

The residents of Paradise left a lasting impression on one of our Disaster Recovery Team representatives; Sarah C. shared her account of the time she spent in Paradise.

“I arrived in Paradise on December 16th, and the devastation was insurmountable! It was foggy and rainy that day with the eerie feeling of a town stuck in time from the evacuation over a month prior. Buildings and neighborhoods were completely burnt to the ground with only a few structures still standing, practically untouched from the flames. These would be the residents and business owners I would spend the rest of my time getting to know during my time in Paradise. Some folks lost their home and neighborhood, but their business was spared, or just the opposite, losing their business or place of employment and finding their house to be the only one standing. Getting to know the kind hearted people of this community was reassuring because I know they will bring it back to the beautiful town it once was. I was truly inspired by the stories and brave acts of the residents in Paradise who helped neighbors, animals, and strangers through this difficult time. I wish all the best to them in a time of stress, reflection, and rebuilding.”

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team send out their thoughts and prayers to the residents of Paradise. We know that the months to come may be difficult. Fire restoration, mitigation and rebuild is not always a quick and easy process, but we will do everything we can to make it “Like it never even happened.”

“Our hearts go out to the residents of Paradise and those affected by the Campfire. Words cannot express what the residents of Paradise have experienced, and are still experiencing; we offer our deepest condolences.”

Boarding Up Broken Windows

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Broken Window

Fire Damage Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Vandalism Board-Up

Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will act quickly to remove broken glass from inside & outside  your home or business and effectively board up all windows securing the inside of the building.

What About Other Types of Vandalism?

 In addition to boarding up, SERVPRO professionals can remove spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, they can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry. Their highly trained technicians can offer the following services:

What to Expect When SERVPRO Professionals Provide Board-Up for Your Home or Business  

• Temporary secure enclosure  
• Roofs will be temporarily secured with tarps
• Fencing can be provided as an extra measure
• All openings will be temporarily secured 

Call us at 303-576-6868 if you have any questions or concerns.

SERVPRO Offers Many Services

Commercial Services

If fire or water damage sidelines your business, you need a professional restoration company to quickly restore your property. Every hour spent restoring your business is lost revenue and productivity. Commercial restoration presents unique challenges and we have the training, experience, and resources to handle any size disaster. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Commercial Storm and Major Events

Residential Services

With over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is dedicated to providing quality service. Our highly trained technicians respond quickly, whether you need water damage restoration or simply need your upholstery cleaned. You can depend on SERVPRO of Aurora for these residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services

Hire Professionals Who Understand

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Leaks Happen

Whenever you have a problem with your home, the first impulse is usually to tackle the problem yourself. Sometimes this can be the right choice, and the problem’s easy enough to solve on your own. Other times it’s much safer and smarter to call in the pros from the beginning.

Tracking down tricky leaks is one of those times. Sure, some leaks are easy to track down, but water has a way of traveling odd paths. So once finding a leak gets tough, then it’s time to call in some help. And here’s why:

They Know Where to Look

Water can travel strange paths before it finally comes out into your home, and you might be surprised how far it can come. That discolored spot on your basement ceiling could actually be caused by a leak in your roof, or your wall on the opposite side of the house.

Professionals have tracked down hundreds, even thousands of leaks over the years. That experience gives them a wide variety of usual suspects to check, and a good number of unusual ones, too.

They Know What to Look For

That slight, turquoise line along your copper pipe? That’s where water has run along the outside and caused the copper to oxidize. It’s a sure sign that a leak is sending water traveling on the wrong side of the pipes.

Pros know these and dozens of other signs. What looks like a bit of dirt to you might indicate a serious leak in your roof, foundation, or wall. Or it might just be some dirt. A professional will be able to know the difference for certain.

They’ve Got the Right Equipment

Most of us can only use our eyes or sense of touch to lead us to water, but not the professionals. They have a wide variety of specialized equipment that can sense moisture and humidity through walls or probe underground for water deposits using ground penetrating radar.

This equipment can be expensive to buy and tricky to use. They have years of experience using the equipment, and know how to put it to good use.

By using a professional in the first place, you remove that step from the process, saving you money and getting the leak repaired sooner.

Your Local SERVPRO Shares Tips

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Colorado Snow

When you live in Colorado, you can usually count on one thing - there will always be at least one blizzard during the winter season. Everyone knows the standard checklist when preparing for old man winter, including the dreaded run to a crowded grocery store to stock up on milk, bread and eggs. But here at SERVPRO we have a few tips for things you may have forgotten or not thought of: 

• Keep all electronics you may need, including cell phones, tablets and entertainment for the kids fully charged when you know a storm is coming. This way if the power goes out, you still have a full 100% instead of starting at 25%.
• Keep one or more portable battery packs fully charged for when the juice runs out on your electronics. If you are in a pinch and need to charge an electronic device, remember that most can be charged in an automobile - Just remember to start it and let it run while charging so you don't drain the battery in your automobile. 
• Keep extra coolers and empty your ice maker into large storage bags for a few days before the storm. This way if you lose power you can keep your refrigerator or freezer items cold as long as possible. 
• Keep books, playing cards and board games easily accessible in case boredom sets in. 
• Make sure to check your supply of items such as pet food, formula and diapers for children, toiletries and medications. 

Stay safe and remember that we are always here to help!

SERVPRO Professionals Understand Holiday Disasters & Can Work With Your Insurance Provider

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

The Grinch

Behind their charming facades, our homes hide an inner holiday Grinch. Flickering candles? Fire hazard. Snow-dusted walkway? Think slip and fall. Pyramid of presents? Burglary bait.  Here's how homeowners insurance helps you recover financially.

House fires

From dehydrated Christmas trees to overworked outlets, the halls are decked with fire hazards this time of year. Candle fires, in particular, hit their annual peak on Christmas, New Year's Day and Christmas Eve, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Allstate's median home fire claim during the holiday season is about $70,000, says Glenn Shapiro, the company's chief claims officer.

Covered by: Within homeowners insurance, dwelling coverage pays for home repairs and personal property insurance covers belongings.

Wrap it up: Ask your insurer for help pinpointing your home's rebuilding cost. "It could be years since you bought the policy, and building costs may have increased," Shapiro says. If the reconstruction cost exceeds your dwelling insurance amount, boost your limits accordingly.

Stolen presents

Theft is a common source of holiday homeowners insurance claims, Shapiro says. In some cases, our own behavior fuels the problem. For instance, two in three people have gifts delivered despite not being home to receive them, according to a 2015 Allstate survey.

Covered by: Personal property insurance covers stolen items. This can include packages plucked from your stoop, says Chris Hackett, senior director of personal lines at trade group Property Casualty Insurers Association of America. To make a claim, you'll need to file a police report.

However, if only a couple of items go missing you might not benefit from a claim, Hackett cautions, because the payout could be less than your deductible.

Wrap it up: Consider lowering your personal property coverage deductible. Although your rates would increase, your insurance would stretch further if you need to make a claim.

Injured guests

Say you undercook dinner and send relatives to the hospital. Or maybe someone breaks a hip on your icy walkway. You could end up on the hook for medical costs when you host holiday get-togethers.

Covered by: The medical payments coverage within home insurance pays for injuries that guests sustain on your property. You also have liability insurance in case you're sued, Shapiro says.

Wrap it up: Insurance limits for medical payments are usually low when you buy your policy, Hackett says. A bare-minimum policy pays about $1,000 per person, making this good coverage to beef up before welcoming the holiday herd.

Water damage from frozen pipes

Leaving home can be as problematic as playing host. As an example, Shapiro points to insurance claims involving frozen pipes. If an unoccupied house gets too frosty, water freezes and expands inside the pipes, increasing chances of a burst.

Covered by: Water damage from burst pipes is covered by standard home insurance, Hackett says, including damage to your house and soaked belongings.

Wrap it up: Check the fine print in your policy regarding frozen pipes. You might need to take certain preventive action before vacations to make a claim, such as shutting off your water or leaving the heat on.

We Are The Professionals

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Don't Use Bleach

We receive this question many times from concerned callers: "Can I just spray bleach on it?" 

Using bleach to take care of mold was once recommended by agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. However, they have since been revised after research revealed that the "do-all, be-all cure" for killing microbial growth, actually had the opposite effect. First, let us take a look at how mold forms to understand why using bleach is not effective. 

Mold needs water, food and typically a warm temperature to grow. This illustrates the first reason to call SERVPRO: If mold is growing, chances are that the materials are wet. There has likely been a water loss of some sort, and until it is properly dried, mold will continue to grow. 

The chlorine in bleach, due to its ionic composition, cannot penetrate porous surfaces. Porous surfaces include materials such as drywall, ceilings, wood, carpet and many others. Spraying bleach on the mold will only kill it on the surface. Many people do not know that mold actually has roots called hyphae. These roots will still remain in the porous material and eventually rise to the surface again. Remember that bleach contains both chlorine and water. The chlorine cannot make it below the surface - but the water can. Thus, you are actually replenishing the mold with one of the key things it needs to grow - water! Secondly, it will "bleach" the color, making it appear that the mold is gone. Again, this is only on the surface. 

At SERVPRO of Aurora we use specialized products, designed to travel deep into porous surfaces to remove mold at its roots. Sometimes we cannot remove the mold from the material and the material must be completely removed from the home for the safety of you and your family. Our technicians are trained to differentiate between what can be safely cleaned and what cannot. In addition, live mold releases spores into the air. The air in your home may need to be treated with specialty equipment to make sure that all spores are removed. 

What Should You Do When a Water Disaster Strikes?

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Disasters Happen

It happens when you least expect it. You take the steps to the basement, and when your foot hits the floor, you step onto wet carpet. Yuck. You have no idea where the water is coming from, or how long it’s been there.

After the initial shock and confusion, you may find yourself asking, “What do I do now?”. The following steps can help you navigate the process of managing a water loss in a quick, effective manor, reducing the amount of damage to your home, and keeping overall cost to you as low as possible.

Stopping The Source

Stopping the flow of water is the first step to getting on the right track. Shutting off the water to the appliance or area that is leaking is important to being able to fix the leak. If you are able, shut the water off to this area, or to the whole house if you are unsure of where the water is coming from.

Once the leak is identified, or even if you are unsure of the cause, calling a Licensed Plumber to identify and fix the problem is highly advisable. This ensures that the leak is fixed correctly, and/or that the appliance in question is properly repaired or replaced.

Keeping Damages to a Minimum

Once any amount of water has leaked into your home, there will be damage. However, you can keep this damage to a minimum by calling SERVPRO as soon as possible. The sooner we arrive, the sooner we can begin to clean up and minimize the damage, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in home repairs.

Also, the less time the water spends saturating the materials in your home, the lower the likelihood is that your home will develop mold and microbial growth.

Sewage

Water leaking into your home is never desirable. Sewage leaking into your home can be considered a nightmare, especially when it affects a large area or multiple levels in your house. Exposed Sewage can create a risk of mold and microbial growth, as well as illness for those in the home. Prompt clean up and neutralization of contaminates is the first priority.

When sewage backs up through drains or toilets, the first thing to do is call a Licensed Plumber, or your city Water and Sewer Provider. Finding the source, and ensuring that there is not another sewage loss in your home is key to preventing multiple mitigations from being needed, and ultimately keeps the cost to you to a minimum.

Mitigation

Once SERVPRO is on site, an initial assessment will be made of the damages and projected time needed to dry the structure. Also, an assessment will be made of the materials affected, and it will be determined if those materials can be dried, or will need to be removed.

If your contents, such as furniture, boxes, clothing, and decorative items cannot remain in place while drying, SERVPRO provides moving and pack out services for on site or off site storage while mitigation is taking place.

The average mitigation takes about 3 days, but could take less or more time depending on the level of saturation and the scale of the loss.

SERVPRO Technicians and Crew Chiefs use a variety of equipment and tools to ensure proper drying, included but not limited to Dehumidifiers, Air Mover Fans, and Non-Invasive Moisture Monitors.

After Mitigation

Once ensuring that your home has met dry standard, SERVPRO Crew Chiefs and Technicians will remove all equipment and remove any items brought into your home. If materials have been removed, SERVPRO will be happy to refer you to a Contractor for rebuild services.

If no rebuild is needed, you should be able to return to normal life in a clean dry home.

 These steps can help guide you through the stressful time of water loss in your home.

Feel free to call SERVPRO at any times with questions about mitigation, water damage, or clean up services.

303-576-6868

Water damage is never pleasant, but with SERVPRO you can assure a professional and quality cleanup.

Commercial Restoration & Mitigation

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

We Provide Commercial Services

Commercial Restoration and Mitigation Services

If you are a property manager, business owner or building engineer then you understand the importance of maintaining and taking care of a commercial property. Our SERVPRO Commercial Division is solely dedicated to providing quality service for commercial clients and their properties. Our Commercial Division understands the needs and complexities of commercial buildings.We provide Emergency Ready Plans for large scale buildings, to get you back in business as quickly as possible.

We have the resources and capabilities to provide commercial restoration and mitigation services for any size structure. Whether your business or commercial property faces a fire, water or mold loss, we can handle it. We also provide board up and bio-hazard clean up services.

SERVPRO Capabilities

• We are an EPA & IICRC certified firm
• Any size loss will be handled confidently by an IICRC professional trained in water, fire, smoke, and commercial loss
• Golden Spike, Great Wolf Resorts, Ballard House, VA Medical Center, Aurora Firehouse 15, local municipalities, etc.
• We have equipment resources to manage all of your needs
• Including specialty drying equipment (injectidry, floor drying system, ETES, air scrubber, desiccant, etc.)
• 16 production vehicles, including 2 trailers
• Esporta Washing System
• Ultrasonic Cleaning System
• Document Drying
• Production teams with 7 years of national catastrophic storm travel
• Producing jobs in locations such as Illinois, Maryland, Arkansas, Idaho, Florida, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, California, Georgia, and Puerto Rico.
• Ownership that places the highest importance on Customer Satisfaction
• Our capabilities allow us to respond to your needs

SERVPRO’s Commercial Division is qualified to answer any of your restoration and mitigation questions. If you are concerned about your commercial property or if you have any questions about the services we provide, call our office and ask for our commercial division.

Prevent a Deep Fried Turkey Fire

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent a Turkey Fire!

Tips to help prevent deep fried turkey accidents

• Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
• Watch the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
• Place the fryer on a level surface, and avoid moving it once it's in use.
• Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
• Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.
• Never leave fryers unattended.
• Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep an "ABC" or grease-rated fire extinguisher close by. Do not to use water or a garden hose on a fire related to Turkey Fryers.
• Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.
• Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil, to cook the turkey.

After your turkey is prepared, remember these Thanksgiving food safety tips to help ensure your family has a safe, enjoyable holiday. 

If you do face a fire please call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO.

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Dropping Temperatures & Freezing Pipes

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Do Not Let Your Pipes Freeze!

Why Are Your Pipes Freezing?

Temperatures outside must drop to 20 degrees or lower in order for a pipe to freeze. Newly built homes in northern climates tend to be well insulated with water pipes located on the inner parts of the house for extra protection. Homes built in southern climates can face problematic hard freezes due to homes not being built to accommodate cold temperatures.

Which Pipes Are Vulnerable to Freezing?

• Pipes located on the outer walls of the home
• Pipes located in unheated garages, attics, crawl spaces and basements
• Copper pipes
• Galvanized pipes
• Uninsulated pipes

So What if Your Pipes Freeze?

When temperatures drop, water freezes and expands causing pipes to burst.

A burst pipe can result in a water leak. Ruptured pipes and water damage can cost thousands of dollars to repair. The amount of damage depends on where the burst occurs, how long it takes to catch the problem, and how much water is leaking from the pipe.

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing.

• Install Insulation.
• Insulate pipes on the outside of your home .
• When temperatures drop, open your faucets to a slow dribble.
• Open cabinets for warm air to circulate through your home.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the night and day.
• If you leave your home for extended periods of time leave your heat on at 55 degrees.

What Do You Do if Your Pipes Freeze?

1. Turn off the main water valve.
2. Call a professional plumber.
3. Call an IICRC certified restoration & mitigation company.

SERVPRO's Water Restoration Process

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call us at 303-587-9458 if you have any questions or concerns.

Are You Prepared for Winter Weather?

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

Be Prepared

Prepare Your Business for Winter Weather

• Check your business property for low hanging tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviated flood hazard potential.
• Inspect handrails, stairways and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present .
• Ask our highly trained SERVPRO professionals about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business.

Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells this allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets , especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl or crawl space and turn it to “off”.
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage

Fall Maintenance Tips

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared for fall!

Preparing Your Home for Winter: 8 Fall Maintenance Hacks for Cold-Weather Comfort

Hurricane Florence

9/22/2018 (Permalink)

Disaster Recovery Team of SERVPRO of Aurora

Hurricane Florence 

Hurricane Florence made landfall causing major flooding and wind destruction in North and South Carolina. In addition to the 90 local Franchises in the Hurricane Florence affected areas, SERVPRO also has a national network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country. Our designated Disaster Recovery Teams have been deployed to the affected areas bringing hundreds of crews from across the nation to help.

SERVPRO of Aurora

The Disaster Recovery Team at SERVPRO of Aurora has traveled to the Carolinas to provide restoration and mitigation services for homes and businesses affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Florence. 

The Disaster Recovery team is IICRC WRT certified, and can handle any size job. Our team of dedicated professionals understand that time is crucial, and they will go to great lengths to get your home or business back up and running in a timely manner. 

Services Include: 

Residential Services

With over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is dedicated to providing quality service. Our highly trained technicians respond quickly, whether you need water damage restoration or simply need your upholstery cleaned.

You can depend on SERVPRO of Aurora for these residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services

Commercial Services

If fire or water damage sidelines your business, you need a professional restoration company to quickly restore your property. Every hour spent restoring your business is lost revenue and productivity. Commercial restoration presents unique challenges and we have the training, experience, and resources to handle any size disaster.

Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Commercial Storm and Major Events

For more news on Hurricane Florence please visit: https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/19/us/florence-wednesday-wxc/index.html

National Preparedness Month

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Be Prepared

September is National Preparedness Month 

National Preparedness Month (NPM), recognized each September, provides an opportunity to remind us that we all must prepare ourselves and our families now and throughout the year. This NPM will focus on planning, with an overarching theme: Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.   

Take time to learn lifesaving skills − such as CPR and first aid, check your insurance policies and coverage for the hazards you may face, such as flood, earthquakes, and tornadoes. Make sure to consider the costs associated with disasters and save for an emergency. Also, know how to take practical safety steps like shutting off water and gas.

The devastating hurricanes and wildfires of 2017 reminded the nation of the importance of preparing for disasters.  Often, we will be the first ones in our communities to take action after a disaster strikes and before first responders arrive, so it is important to prepare in advance to help yourself and your community.

SERVPRO offers a number of resources which help homeowners & business owners be prepared when a disaster happens.For more information please call us at 303-576-6868 ask for Danielle Neff. 

SERVPRO also offers an Emergency Ready Plan for commercial & residential apartments. 

Benefits of the Emergency Ready Plan?

• Have a plan of action before an event occurs.
• Identify and eliminate hazards and risks to help prevent potential disasters.
• Identify major water, electrical and gas shut off locations.

https://www.ready.gov/september

Labor Day

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Happy Labor Day!

Labor Day in the United States is a Public Holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the American Labor Movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, laws and well-being of the country. It is the Monday of the long weekend known as Labor Day Weekend and it is considered the unofficial end of summer in the United States. It is recognized as a federal holiday.

Beginning in the late 19th century, as the trade union and labor movement grew, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate labor. "Labor Day" was promoted by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, which organized the first parade in New York City. In 1887, Oregon was the first state of the United States to make it an official public holiday. By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty states in the United States officially celebrated Labor Day.

Canada's Labour Day is also celebrated on the first Monday of September. More than 80 countries celebrate International Workers' Day on May 1 – the ancient European holiday of May Day – and several countries have chosen their own dates for Labour Day.

To Learn more about Labor Day, please visit: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_Day

Is a Mysterious Odor Coming From Your Fridge?

8/31/2018 (Permalink)

Stinky Fridge?

Step 1: Empty Fridge 
Even if you think you’ve identified the item causing the odor, you need to empty the entire contents of the refrigerator and freezer. If you have a second fridge, stash perishables there. If the odor is the result of a power outage, don’t take any chances by hanging onto food that may have spoiled. A refrigerator will keep food at safe temperatures for about 4 hours, if it’s left unopened, according to the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Services.

Step 2: Hand wash Bins and Shelves
Take out the shelves, bins, crisper drawers, ice trays, and any other loose components and wash them.

Step 3: Deodorize the Interior
Now you’re ready to wash the inside of the refrigerator.  Stay away from abrasive cleaners and pads, which can scratch the interior of the refrigerator.

Step 4: Air it Out
Here’s where the patience piece comes in. For best results, you need to unplug the refrigerator, leave the door open, and air it out for at least one day. 

Step 5: Clean the Evaporator
If there’s a lasting funk that just won’t go away, chances are the refrigerator smells have permeated the evaporator coil, which produces cold air for the fridge and freezer. The coil, along with the fan that distributes the air, are typically located on the back wall of the freezer.

For more tips please visit:

https://www.consumerreports.org/refrigerators/how-to-get-rid-of-funky-refrigerator-smells/

Hurricane Preparation Tips

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricanes

         Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The Pacific hurricane season runs May 15 to November 30. Hurricanes:

Prevent Water Damage Before it Happens

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Water Damage

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

3.  Keep an eye on your water bill

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

4. Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

5. Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Advise from Farmers Insurance and SERVPRO Aurora

Emergency Ready Plan

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Disaster Prevention

What is Does Being Emergency Ready Mean?

            As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

Call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868 and we will help you be prepared for any size disaster.

The Emergency Ready Plan is at NO COST and SERVPRO DOES NOT REQUIRE A CONTRACT.

Is Your Business Emergency Ready?

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Disaster Prevention

What is Does Being Emergency Ready Mean?

            As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

Call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868 and we will help you be prepared for any size disaster.

The Emergency Ready Plan is at NO COST and SERVPRO DOES NOT REQUIRE A CONTRACT.

When Your Home Floods

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

What Will You Do After The Flood?

A Description of Typical House Flood Damages and Cleanup Requirements:

When your house floods, the water can wreak havoc on the structure of the house, your personal belongings, and the health of the inside environment. Flood waters contain many contaminants and lots of mud. High dollar items can get ruined all at once, even with just an inch of water, for example: carpeting, wallboard, appliances, and furniture. A more severe storm or deeper flood may add damage to even more expensive systems, like: ducts, the heater and air conditioner, roofing, private sewage and well systems, utilities, and the foundation.

• First call your insurance agent, they will let you know if you are covered or not.
• When we come out to your home or place of business, we start by extracting water, then clean out any mud or debris.
• After, we clean and disinfect every single surface, and remove any walls that may have gotten wet to help with drying out the area.

Call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868

What Can You Do When Your Home Floods?

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

When Disaster Strikes Call SERVPRO!

A Description of Typical House Flood Damages and Cleanup Requirements:

When your house floods, the water can wreak havoc on the structure of the house, your personal belongings, and the health of the inside environment. Flood waters contain many contaminants and lots of mud. High dollar items can get ruined all at once, even with just an inch of water, for example: carpeting, wallboard, appliances, and furniture. A more severe storm or deeper flood may add damage to even more expensive systems, like: ducts, the heater and air conditioner, roofing, private sewage and well systems, utilities, and the foundation.

• First call your insurance agent, they will let you know if you are covered or not.
• When we come out to your home or place of business, we start by extracting water, then clean out any mud or debris.
• After, we clean and disinfect every single surface, and remove any walls that may have gotten wet to help with drying out the area.

Call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868

Development Boom in Colorado

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Denver

Many projects currently underway are multifamily, meaning apartment or condo buildings, with nearly 10,000 new residential units in the downtown area, the report also says.

Some people say developers are overbuilding, creating too many apartments that contribute to worse traffic and overcrowding in the city.

Schippits said one way developers decide whether to build is by looking at the number of apartments compared to jobs available. CBRE is a Los Angeles-based commercial real estate services and investment firm.

Denver's job-per-apartment unit ratio is 5.9, meaning for every 5.9 jobs, there's one apartment unit.

"As a metro area... we're underperforming when it compares to our competitive set like Seattle or Austin," Schippits said. "If you peel the onion away any more...downtown is even further behind."

Downtown's ratio is at 6.6, above the national average of 6.1.

"What we're forecasting is with all the new apartments coming online, plus the jobs that are created downtown as predicted by Moody's [Analytics], our ratio will drop to 5.2," he said.

"So we're not overbuilding," Schippits said, adding that building more apartments is key to controlling for expense. "If we have more supply, there's less pressure on cost."

For More Information Please Visit: https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/development-boom-denver-construction-projects-rise-and-theres-more-to-come

When Mold Growth is Prevalent in Your Home

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Growth

MOLD REMEDIATION PROCESS

While it is important to know when to call in a professional mold remediation team, there are a couple things you can do yourself to get rid of mold if it’s in a small area:

1. Locate the Mold: Remember that mold spreads, so be sure to check all rooms in your home including, especially dark and damp areas like the basement. Be sure to also check under the carpeting, flooring and behind wallpaper or drywall.
2. Get Rid of Moldy Materials: Materials that cannot be cleaned and salvaged need to be disposed of. This includes wood, drywall, carpets or anything else that is growing mold. Use safety gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles before handling moldy items.

If the mold infestation is on a larger scale, a professional mold remediation team will likely do the following, in addition to getting rid of moldy items:

1. Use Commercial Equipment to Dry Out the Affected Area: It’s important to get your home dried out your home as much as possible, since mold thrives in wet and humid environments. Professionals will use air movers, dehumidifiers and HEPA air scrubbers that work together to eliminate moisture and dry out the air and surfaces. They’ll also wear safety gear like gloves, a mask and eye goggles.
2. Prepare the Room to Contain the Mold Problem: Mold spores can instantly become airborne. To avoid this, professionals will seal off the affected area before they get to work. They’ll use tape and plastic sheets to seal off doorways and vents.
3. Establish Negative Air Pressure: Establishing negative airflow in the sealed room using an air mover ensures airflows in but not out. Once the area has been sealed using plastic sheets and tape, professionals can poke a small hole in the plastic and insert an air mover duct attachment through the hole and seal it with duct tape. This negative air pressure further prevents mold spores from escaping into the rest of your home.
4. Use Fungicide on Remaining Materials: If there are any materials that can be salvaged and will remain in the room then it is important to thoroughly clean them. A fungicide product can ensure all the mold spores are removed and that there is no opportunity for a recurrent infestation. Any buildings materials that cannot be cleaned or removed such as porous surfaces should have a fungicide applied to them.
5. Finish Repairing the Room: Once the moldy materials have been removed and the area has been thoroughly cleaned, any necessary repairs from the water can mold damage can be completed. This may include flooring, carpeting or drywall repairs.

Prepare Your Home or Business For a Wildfire

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868

Prepare your home or business for a wildfire. If possible, use Class A roofing material. This includes tile, slate, or asphalt. You can also use Class B pressure-treated shingles or shakes. Make sure that you have smoke alarms near every bedroom or office and in each zone of your house or business. Test smoke alarms monthly and change their batteries annually. Also, consider installing fire sprinklers.  Outside your home, make sure you have enough garden hose available to reach any part of your property. Designate water sources and make sure that the fire department can access them if they need to. Water sources are areas such as swimming pools, ponds, lakes, wells and fire hydrants. Create an emergency escape plan. Speak to town officials to learn what the evacuation route is for your area. Discuss this evacuation route with everyone in your family and your employees. Ensure family members who live nearby know the route and have means of transportation. Also, stay informed by signing up for emergency text or alert messages from your town. Finally, don’t forget to create an emergency kit. 

During a Wildfire

• Moving furniture to the center of rooms and taking down drapes and curtains to prevent combustion.
• Closing all windows and doors to prevent drafts and reduce heat.
• Shutting off natural gas from its source.
• Turning on all lights in your property so that firefighters can more easily see it through smoke.

After a Wildfire

Prepare Your Home or Business For a Wildfire

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Prepare your home or business for a wildfire. If possible, use Class A roofing material. This includes tile, slate, or asphalt. You can also use Class B pressure-treated shingles or shakes. Make sure that you have smoke alarms near every bedroom or office and in each zone of your house or business. Test smoke alarms monthly and change their batteries annually. Also, consider installing fire sprinklers.  Outside your home, make sure you have enough garden hose available to reach any part of your property. Designate water sources and make sure that the fire department can access them if they need to. Water sources are areas such as swimming pools, ponds, lakes, wells and fire hydrants. Create an emergency escape plan. Speak to town officials to learn what the evacuation route is for your area. Discuss this evacuation route with everyone in your family and your employees. Ensure family members who live nearby know the route and have means of transportation. Also, stay informed by signing up for emergency text or alert messages from your town. Finally, don’t forget to create an emergency kit. 

During a Wildfire

Prepare to evacuate. Listen to emergency channels and know the status of the fire. Put emergency supplies and must-have items in the car so you can evacuate quickly. Evacuate immediately if told to do so. If you have time, there are steps you can take to help protect your property when you evacuate. These steps include:
 

• Moving furniture to the center of rooms and taking down drapes and curtains to prevent combustion.
• Closing all windows and doors to prevent drafts and reduce heat.
• Shutting off natural gas from its source.
• Turning on all lights in your property so that firefighters can more easily see it through smoke.

Evacuate Safely. Remain calm while evacuating. If you’re driving, roll up your windows and close the air vents. The smoke from the fire can get into your car, irritate your eyes and cause breathing problems. Also, turn your headlights on and keep your doors unlocked. In the event that something happens to you while driving, locked doors can slow your rescue. 

After a Wildfire

Return only when it is safe. Do not go back to your property until officials declare it safe to do so. Watch out for ash pits and hot spots. Even after a fire is extinguished, small fires can flare up without warning. Check your house and surrounding property for hot spots and extinguish them immediately. Also, be on the lookout for ash pits. These are holes filled with hot ashes left by burned trees. Mark ash pits to help prevent others from falling into them and injuring themselves. Document the damage. Take photos and video and make a written list documenting your damaged property. Contact your insurance company immediately to report the damage. Wildfires are some of the most destructive forces of nature. There isn’t much that can be done to deter a wildfire’s path. Fortunately, there are ways to help mitigate property damage and keep your employees and loved ones safe. By following the information in this article, you can help increase your chances of prevailing through a wildfire.

Please visit the following website for further information: https://www.thehartford.com/claims/wildfire-safety

Mitigation and Restoration

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

Who Can Provide Mitigation & Reconstruction?

When your home or business suffers water damage it’s important to start the mitigation process as soon as possible. The longer moisture sits in walls and flooring, the more damage the structure of your home will suffer. It’s important to call your nearest mitigation specialist as time is crucial.

In most cases, water damage leads to mold growth. Do you know why? Moist and humid surfaces are the perfect breeding ground for mold growth. Time is of the essence in every water loss.

When the mitigation process is complete you are left with a partially constructed home or business. No worries! SERVPRO can provide mitigation reconstruction. Once all moisture is eliminated from the structure and the non-salvageable walls and flooring are removed, reconstruction can begin.

Rather than having multiple contractors in your home or business, have SERVPRO come in and make it “Like it never even happened.”

What Causes Mold Growth?

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Removal

What Mold Needs to Grow

Mold Growth Conditions :

• Darkness (mold can't grow under ultraviolet light)
• Warmth (mold can't grow in freezing temperatures)
• Oxygen
• Moisture (eg water leaks, humidity)
• Enough time (most molds can begin to grow in 24-48 hours if the conditions are right)

Humidity Causes Mold

If you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like near the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth in your home can also be a recurring problem.

When moisture inside your house evaporates into the air it increases the humidity indoors. If your home isn't well ventilated then the humidity will stay high for a long time.

HVAC systems can also create humidity problems while it artificially heats or cools the air.

Sometimes people use humidifiers in their homes. But there are molds that only need the humidity level to be higher than 55% to start growing. Be sure to keep the humidity below 55%.

High humidity feeds mold. High humidity can also causes puddles of water and damp materials in the home take longer to dry out. These wet surfaces can in turn create mold growth of their own.

Poor Ventilation Causes Mold

Poor ventilation can create pockets of stagnant moist air which mold thrives in. Steam and water evaporating into the air creates humidity inside which then needs to be circulated outdoors through windows to keep the moisture level balanced.

Poor ventilation also means wet surfaces dry out slowly. Ventilation is especially important in rooms such as the bathroom and the kitchen where there is a lot of steam.

Mold Growth in Basements 

Basements often contain higher amounts of moisture or humidity than other rooms because they are usually not well ventilated. Basements are often colder which causes more condensation leading to damp and humid conditions

When water leaks in your home it will often end up running down to the basement. Not only is mold more likely to grow in basements, but because they are usually neglected mold growth may not be discovered until it is well set in.

If you have questions regarding mold please contact us at 303-576-6868.

The Storm of July 2018 in Des Moines, Iowa

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in Des Moines, Iowa

SERVPRO of Aurora traveled to Iowa, after it excessively rained, causing severe water damage to over 1,500 properties. Owner Nick and his dedicated Storm Team jumped on the opportunity to help the people of Des Moines. During a three week period the Storm Team provided restoration & mitigation services for over 40 properties. 

The Des Moines Register Update

More than 1,500 properties were reportedly affected by the weekend weather that dumped up to 9 inches of rain on central Iowa — a number authorities expect to increase.

Through Wednesday night, 15 properties in Des Moines have been categorized as majorly damaged and 350 received minor damage, Cody Christensen, permit and development administrator for Des Moines, told the Register Thursday.

Many homes and businesses had moderate damage, and others still need to be inspected.

Update: 29 homes suffered major damage, 520 with minor impacts

About 500 homes have been inspected for damage in Des Moines, Mayor Frank Cownie said Thursday, with another 500 inspection requests still needed to be finished.

He predicted tough times ahead for some homeowners if the federal government did not “see this as a national-level disaster.”

In the Fourmile Creek area alone, more than 230 single-family homes, 10 commercial buildings and six apartment buildings were damaged by flooding, Cownie has said.

For more about the flooding in Des Moines please visit the link below.

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2018/07/05/des-moines-flooding-polk-county-dallas-jasper-clive-fourmile-fema-weather-saylorville-iowa-reynolds/759108002/

Giving Back to Educational Institutions

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

We Support Educational Institutions

The owners of a Colorado SERVPRO  wholeheartedly support educational institutions, and are dedicated to preserving the integrity of every educational institute.

Who are Nick and Travis?

The brothers grew up in Cedar Falls, Iowa, graduating from the University of Iowa in 2011, Nick with a degree in accounting and Travis with a finance degree.

Nick worked in public accounting for 6 years until purchasing a Colorado SERVPRO franchise in 2016.

Shortly after Nick moved to Colorado, Travis closed their consumer finance business and joined his brother in Colorado.

Keeping in mind their educational background contributed to the success of SERVPRO. Nick and Travis wanted to show appreciation for education by sponsoring their hometown U of I Hawkeyes.

Concepts & Core Values 

• The belief there is an educational foundation behind every successful business and establishment.
• Supporting all employees in the pursuit of furthering their education.
• Providing proper training and education for all employees.
• An investment in knowledge is an investment in individual growth as well as business growth.

A little more about our U of I Alumni:

While working in public accounting Nick became a board member of Tree Des Moines, which is a community non-profit organization supporting a healthy and sustainable urban tree canopy for a viable and livable Des Moines Metro Area. He worked with children; educating and helping them better understand the biology behind different tree species and how they benefit the environment.

After graduating college Travis wasted no time opening a consumer finance business, managing and operating Osprey Capital SD LLC for 6 years. However, he wanted to make a change in people's lives,co-owning a SERVPRO gave him the opportunity to help people whose homes have been damaged by storm, water, fire or mold.

http://hawksontherocks.com/

The Esporta Wash System

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Before and After

Contents

Fire and water cause enormous damage to countless homes every year. Beyond structural damage, they also impact contents causing contamination that can prove very difficult to restore.

Leave it to us!

We know all too well that many items are extremely difficult to clean, but that is why we are the professionals. SERVPRO has a specialty Wash System that can clean almost irreversible damage. 

About the Esporta Wash System

The Esporta washing technology is capable of cleaning category 1, 2, and 3 water, heavy smoke, and soot damage.

You can count on Esporta to predictably clean and restore soft contents. Even the toughest soot, water damage and bio contamination is no match for Esporta. Our wash system consistently delivers 90% of soft contents back to “food grade” clean. Customers are wowed by what we can restore! 

What is the Esporta capable of cleaning:

• Bacteria
• viruses
• sewage
• soot
• grime
• mold
• biowaste
• mildew

Soft contents that can be cleaned include:

• Clothing
• bedding
• comforters
• pillows
• sleeping bags
• linens
• rugs
• jackets
• suedes
• furs
• linens
• stuffed animals
• shoes
• hats
• belts
• purses 
• Sports Equipment

More About Contents Restoration

SERVPRO professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. SERVPRO Professionals utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• 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 can’t 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. 

Are You Prepared?

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Be Ready!

Emergency Ready?

          As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

        Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up 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 will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Homeowners, can you locate your water/gas shut off? 

Click here:

https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/7-things-every-homeowner-should-know-the-location-of/

What Should You Do After a Fire

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Call The Professionals!

What to Expect After a Fire

Fire and smoke damage is destructive and finding a restoration/mitigation company can be daunting. When it comes to fire and smoke damage restoration, SERVPRO professionals are trained and follow an extensive and thorough restoration process in order to get your home or business back to normal.

Each fire/smoke damage case is unique and is treated as such by SERVPRO professionals. SERVPRO professionals will compose a detailed plan to rid your property of smoke and soot damage. Smoke odor latches onto and penetrates the surfaces of walls, ceilings, clothes, upholstered furniture, books, electronics and more. It is crucial that all affected contents and surfaces are properly sanitized by professionals. Oftentimes it can be difficult to determine the source of the smoke odor. Experienced professionals know where to look for smoke and soot damage and how to best approach the restoration process.

If smoke damage is not taken care of by a professional, your property and its inhabitants may face greater damage. Smoke and soot can destroy the integrity of your home or business, damaging the ventilation system, air ducts, insulation, wall studs and even the framing/structure.

Different Smoke Odors

Cleaning smoke and soot damage yourself or using a basic cleaning service runs the risk of recurring smoke odor which can cause respiratory problems. Smoke odor can be harmful depending on what type of material was burned. Smoke that comes from wood framing causes a “campfire” smell which lets off acetic acid, benzene, carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde, formic acid, heavy metals, nitrogen-oxides (NO2), phenols, sulfur dioxide (SO2).

Cooking fire smoke is very difficult to remove and has a lingering smell of burnt animal fat/protein. Grease splatter from a cooking fire requires specific cleaning techniques that only a professional can provide.

When plastic is burned, it releases dangerous chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, sulfur dioxide, dioxins, furans and heavy metals, as well as particulates and are known to cause respiratory ailments which are potentially carcinogenic.

Fireplace wood fires also emits hazardous emissions, such as particulates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other emissions that can be dangerous for health.

Who Are The Professionals?

SERVPRO provides 24/7 Emergency response. After the initial emergency call a crew of certified SERVPRO professionals will promptly respond to your fire damage and arrive onsite prepared to assess, plan and arrange resources to restore your home or business back to what it once was.

What Will SERVPRO Do?

Board Up and Security

Fires can destroy doors, walls and windows, leaving your property vulnerable to additional loss from weather or theft. SERVPRO professionals have the equipment and capabilities to provide board up for your home or business. Your home or business may need additional security. SERVPRO can also provide fencing or even security to oversee your property.

Demolition

All damaged structural material is removed from the structure in order for the mitigation and restoration to take place. Demolition is a planned procedure, completed with the utmost care and strategy.

Cleanup

The local fire department will use fire retardants and water to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO will assess and examine the extent of damage to the structure, walls, ceilings, floors, ventilation/HVAC system and contents while composing a thorough plan for mitigation and restoration.

Contents

Clothes, upholstered furniture, books, electronics and more that are affected by smoke may be salvaged and sanitized. All affected items deemed salvageable are sanitized and deodorized using specialized solutions and equipment. Contents go through an extensive inventory process ensuring all items are accounted for and stored in a secure location.

Is Your Washing Machine Leaking?

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let your washing machine cause water damage in your home.

•  Replace water supply hoses – Water supply hoses can become brittle and burst. Check them periodically and replace your old hoses with a new hose that consist of flexible plastic tubing encased in a stainless steel braided exterior. Purchase an auto-shut off hose protector that protects against catastrophic water damage by automatically shutting off. If excess water flow is sensed the water supply to the washing machine will turn off.
•  Get a washer floor tray – Replace or repair your leaking washing machine right away to protect against future leaks, slide a water catching tray under your washing machine to catch drips and leaks. It’s an inexpensive way to prevent water damage to your floor from a leaking washing machine.
•  Purchase a single-lever shut off valve – Turn the water off after each load of wash. Replace your dual faucets with a single-lever which control both hot and cold water simultaneously.
• Flood protection device – An automatic water leak detection device prevents flooding by immediately shutting off both the hot and cold water supply to the washing machine when sensors detect a water leak. These devices are quick and easy to install by homeowners and provide 24/7 protection against water damage caused by washing machine floods. Some flood protection devices sound an audible alarm.
•  Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valve and Leak Sensor – The shut off valve protects against catastrophic water damage. It allows water to flow when it senses that the washing machine is turned on, and stops water from flowing if the machine is turned off. It also stops water from flowing if it senses excessive water flow or detects a leak.

Smoke Odor Damage

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Areas of a Home Commonly Affected by Fire Damage

The level of damage varies depending on where a fire originated. An enclosed space typically will not have as much smoke damage as a large, open room with multiple appliances and a lot of wiring in the walls. Additionally, certain parts of a room may experience more damage than others.

Ceilings
 
Hot air rises, the highest concentration of smoke residue is commonly found directly above where a fire started - usually on the ceiling above the point of origin. Nail heads in the ceiling (and walls) can also attract smoke particles, which appear as an outline of a ring around them.

Corners
 
When smoke particles are ionized - or have an electrical charge - they are attracted to certain surfaces. Smoke produced by burning plastic carries a stronger charge than smoke from wood, paper or cotton. This causes smoke residue to form in clusters that look like cobwebs in the corners of rooms where walls and ceilings meet.

Walls & Windows 
 
Windows and exterior walls are normally cooler than the center of a room and because smoke  travels to areas with a lower temperature, it's common to find smoke residue on outside walls and in spaces behind drapes and blinds, even more so than surrounding surfaces.

If you notice a lingering smoke smell in your home or business call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868

SERVPRO Tips

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Do You Have Moldy Books?

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Save your books from mold!

Every Colorado book lover knows that their collection in precious. Not everyone realizes that books are at risk of fungal growth, especially when they are packed or stored away to make more room in the home, or before moving house. Mold thrives in the dark, damp environments, and many storage spots such as attics or basements fit that description. The fungus also needs a natural material to use as a food source – and paper is an ideal snack. SERVPRO recommends taking simple steps to protect your library from mold damage when packing or storing it.

Most book lovers need to move or store their collection sometimes, and that is when books are most susceptible to mold damage. Thankfully, there are several easy things you can do to keep your library safe from fungal growth. 
 
Always store books in a cool, dry place. Books can survive mold-free for far longer in a dry place because the fungus requires moisture to grow. Check out your proposed storage location and if it is damp, consider choosing another place. You might also use dehumidifiers to lower humidity in the air. 
 
Clean your books before wrapping them. Books are easy to clean using a small firm-bristled brush, such as a paintbrush that you can purchase at any hardware store. Brush page edges and covers, and flick through the book to see if any individual pages need brushing. Do not use any damp cleaner or wipe with a damp cloth. SERVPRO can offer a freeze-drying and cleaning process in certain instances to remediate mold growth on pages or the pasted bindings.
 
Books that smell musty should be left to air dry for a while before being stored. 
 
Do not pack books too tightly. Storing them too close together might contribute to ideal mold-growing conditions. Pack your favorite tomes in a rigid box that is strong enough to protect them from dents, bumps and bent covers. Place all the books carefully in the box either flat atop one another or standing side by side. Do not leave so much room that they could fall or get dented, but do not pack them too close together either. Ensure that air circulates adequately to prevent moisture buildup. 
 
SERVPRO is on hand to help with any mold problems you have in your library. Our IICRC-certified technicians have the skill and equipment needed to remediate mold.

Do You Understand Mold Removal and Remediation ?

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Got Mold?

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. We understand mold and mold growth. 

Understanding Mold

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

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

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

1. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
2. Mold Containment
3. Air Filtration
4. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
5. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Have Questions? 

Contact us at 303-576-6868

Bed Bug Facts

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Bed Bug

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation 

• Adult Bedbugs are the shape and size of an apple seed.
• After feeding, bed bugs defecate brown stains on porous surfaces.
• Bed bug bites may appear as red welts on the skin. 
• Bed bug can be found on mattresses, box springs, headboards, footboards, bed frames and other furniture near a bed.

Facts

• Bed bugs are easily transported into previously non-infested dwellings
• Bed Bugs can be found in hotels, gyms, offices, schools and stores. 
• Bed Bugs travel on bags, clothes and in vehicles.

Where Bed Bugs Hide

When not feeding, bed bugs hide in a variety of places. Around the bed, they can be found near the piping, seams and tags of the mattress and box spring, and in cracks on the bed frame and headboard.

If a room is heavily infested, you may find bed bugs:

• In the seams of chairs and couches, between cushions, in the folds of curtains
• In drawer joints
• In electrical receptacles and appliances
• Under loose wall paper and wall hangings
• At the junction where the wall and the ceiling meet
• Even in the head of a screw
• Since bed bugs are only about the width of a credit card, they can squeeze into really small hiding spots. If a crack will hold a credit card, it could hide a bed bug

Keeping a clean and uncluttered house can save you time and money by drastically decreasing your chance of bed bug infestation. 

History of SERVPRO

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO

History of SERVPRO

From a small beginning as a painting business in Sacramento, CA, in 1967, SERVPRO has become one of the most recognizable names in the restoration industry. Within two years, owners Ted and Doris Isaacson used their expertise in the cleaning and restoration to expand their business offerings. Soon afterwards, they began to offer franchises and grew steadily so that by 1979, SERVPRO had 175 locations.

SERVPRO grew exponentially after relocating its headquarters in 1988 to Gallatin, TN, about 30 miles outside of Nashville. The Isaacsons moved the company there so that its headquarters could be located within 600 miles of half of the population of the United States. Since that time, SERVPRO has nearly tripled its size with over 1,700 locally owned and operated franchises across the United States.

SERVPRO remains a family-owned company, with the Isaacson’s eldest child, Susan Steen, as the company’s chief executive officer. Steen is joined by family members Randall Isaacson and Rick Isaacson as president and executive vice president, respectively.

Staff & Training

As a national company, SERVPRO has resources at its disposal that smaller, local companies may not have. These resources include a national staff that can help local franchisees with support in various aspects of running a business, that include human resources personnel, business analyst, customer service representatives, Quickbooks specialists, national accounts coordinators, marketing data analysts, property claims adjusters and vendor coordinators.

Franchisees receive support and special training from the moment they become part of the company. The first step is a 15-day training program at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility in Tennessee. The basic course covers fire and water restoration, mold mitigation and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Franchise employees can also take the 15-day training course but also have a separate self-paced program for certification in fire and water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning and crew training.

What’s more, SERVPRO provides its employees with plenty of ongoing training that includes web-based, self-paced e-learning modules that include video presentations and support materials. The company also offers credit and noncredit courses that cover the latest knowledge and techniques in emergency mitigation. Topics include water and fire damage restoration, restorative drying, mitigation awareness response and mold mitigation and restoration.

In addition, SERVPRO partners with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to provide year-round training classes that certifies employees to work in the restoration field. Courses for applied structural drying occur in the company’s purpose-built ASD training facility.

Protect Your Property from a Marijuana Grow

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Damaged Property From Marijuana Grow

What Landlords and Property Managers Should Know

The number of houses and commercial buildings that are used for growing marijuana is increasing. As medical and recreational marijuana becomes legal in more states it also becomes legal to grow at home for certain people. Grow rooms are becoming more common & cause great damage and microbial growth if improperly built or operated.

How Can a Grow Operation Affect Your Property?

• Mold growth from inadequate ventilation causing high levels of humidity

• Incorrect wiring or overloaded circuits can result in a fire.

• Poor quality electrical work may lower resale value.

Structural Damage

• Holes for ventilation and electrical access

• Wood rot

• Rusted hollow columns

• Damaged duct system from plant sap and high levels of humidity

• Residual marijuana odor

Don’t Become The Victim

Should cannabis related issues arise after the lease has been signed and if there was no clause prohibiting it, you’ll need to rely on an anti-drug or crime policy that hopefully was included in the lease. A breach of the lease could be cause for eviction if the tenant doesn’t

comply after getting a written notice. If you did not include such a clause, it will be difficult to enforce your wishes during the term of the lease.

SERVPRO of Aurora

Call us at 303-576-6868

We provide results while minimizing the disruption to your business or home.

 Related Commercial Services

• Overview of Commercial Services

• Commercial Restoration

• Commercial Water Restoration

• Commercial Fire Restoration

• Commercial Mold Remediation

• Commercial Storm and Major Events

• Disaster Recovery Team

• Commercial Cleaning

Related Services

• Overview of Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts & HVAC

• Biohazard

• Carpet & Upholstery

• Ceiling, Floors & Walls

• Drapes & Blinds

• Odor Removal

• Sewage & Toilet Overflow

• Vandalism & Graffiti

• Commercial Cleaning Services

Winter Storms Can Cause Damage to The Interior of Your Home

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Moisture building up on a window during winter.

When the outside temperature drops we start to close up our homes. We close the windows and doors and even start installing different weatherproof products (insulation, weather stripping, spray foam, etc.). The problem often is that we are stagnating the interior and trapping moisture inside the house. This is especially the case if there are many occupants creating moisture by breathing, bathing, cooking and exercising. Also, we create stagnant odors and allow airborne particles to be locked in the house with us (germs, dust, mites, microbes, etc.).

The next thing that usually occurs is we activate the heating system to compensate for the falling outside temperatures. This has the tendency to dry the interior out, but in doing so can encourage expansion and contraction of interior materials and cause cracks in drywall, doors that don't fit, separating wood trim, heaved floors, and other problems. 

If you have a gas forced-air furnace, a benefit is that the furnace and its blower motor and filter help cleanse the interior environment. The concern is that you always need to maintain a balance where there is not too much nor too little moisture being added to the now locked-up house. Too much moisture can cause the formation of mildew and mold, cause the windows to steam up, cause doors to stick and just create a damp, humid environment.

http://www.thetimesherald.com/story/life/2014/12/06/cold-temperatures-can-damage-home/19983299/

If your home is damaged from the winter weather call SERVPRO of Aurora at 720-837-7553

Statistics Restaurant Owners Should Know

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Kitchen

Cooking up Commercial Kitchen Fire Safety:

Statistics Restaurant Owners Should Know

During 2006-2010, an estimated average of 7,640 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments were reported to U.S. fire departments per year, with associated annual losses of:

• Two civilian deaths
• 115 civilian injuries
• $246 million in property damage

In eating and drinking establishments, direct property damage per fire was 75% lower when a wet pipe sprinkler system was present, compared to fires with no automatic extinguishing equipment present.

Fires are less common during the overnight hours (from Midnight to 6 a.m.) but cause more property damage.

Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments by Major Cause (2006 - 2010)

Fires

1. Cooking equipment 57%
2. Heating equipment 10%
3. Electrical/Lighting equipment 7%
4. Smoking material 7%
5. Intentional 5%

Property Damage

1. Cooking equipment 40%
2. Electrical/Lighting equipment 13%
3. Intentional 10%
4. Heating equipment 7%
5. Smoking Material 5%

Total annual property damage for eating and drinking establishments = $246 million

http://blog.encorefireprotection.com/blog/commercial-kitchen-fire-safety-statistics-restaurant-owners-should-know

If your commercial kitchen is affected by a fire or in need of a deep clean call SERVPRO of Aurora at 303-576-6868. 

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

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

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

Common Places Mold Can be Found

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

A Home Affected by Mold

1. Window Sills

We don’t often spend a lot of time examining our window sills, but they are a prime place for mold to start and spread. Window sills are frequently exposed to moisture from condensation, and they only get decent air flow during the summer months if the windows are open. The dirt that accumulates in the grooves of the sills supply valuable food to spores and they can grow quickly.

To prevent mold in your window sills, be sure to wipe down windows when you see a lot of condensation and clean out the window tracks periodically to remove the mold’s food source.

2. Refrigerator Drip Pans

The pans used to collect condensation for our refrigerators are rarely seen, so they are easy to forget about. There is not a lot of air circulation under the fridge in most homes, and what is out of sight usually is out of mind. Sometimes, food from spills collects in there as well. This creates a perfect breeding ground for mold spores.

Make a yearly appointment to clean out the drip pan using water and white vinegar. If you notice a lot of mold growth, increase the cleanings to twice per year. Also, use this vinegar and water solution on the flooring below the pan, just in case the mold wants to grow here as well.

3. Wallpaper

Unless you are removing paper from your walls, you are unlikely to know if mold spores are growing behind it. If the paper is older or has peeling edges, it’s possible mold has begun spreading where you can’t see. If you suspect you might have a mold problem, it’s best to just get the paper removed and replaced. If you know for a fact that there is a great deal of mold behind the paper, don’t remove it yourself. Instead, hire a trained professional to get rid of it and sterilize the area. Only a pro will know how to prevent huge amounts of spores from launching into the air when the paper is removed.

If you want to have decorative paper on your walls, treat the surface first with a mold-resistant primer. Use a high-quality paste to adhere the wallpaper, and be sure to remove all the air bubbles from behind it. Do not use wallpaper in moist areas such as bathrooms or basements.

4. Attic

If you have any sort of water leak in your room, chances are good that mold could be growing in your attic. The dust that accumulates in attics paired with little air flow makes a perfect environment for spores to thrive.

Check your attic periodically for mold, and make sure there are air vents to aid circulation to the area. If you have any roof leaks, get them repaired immediately. It is best to regularly have your roof inspected to catch any leaks before they cause a serious problem, and especially after a heavy rainstorm or other harsh weather.

5. Air Conditioners

Again, condensation is the culprit here. In addition, the air that AC units suck in from the outside contains dirt and pollen–attractive materials for mold. Machines that sit without use for long periods are likely to contain mold spores.

Prevent mold by running your air conditioner every day, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. When the unit is not in use, remove it and store it in a dry place, if possible. If you know your AC has mold, either remove it from the window or hire a professional to do so and have the interior carefully cleaned with a water-and-bleach solution. If your whole-house air conditioner has mold, it’s best to call in a professional to clean it.

6. Washing Machines

The popular new front-load washing machines may be great for high efficiency, but they are notorious for off odors as a result of mold growth. The gasket around the door is wet all the time when the washer is running and doesn’t get to dry out because the door is usually closed when the machine is not in use. This creates a perfect atmosphere for mold to grow.

You can either leave the door open after running a load to let the gasket dry, or you can wipe the gasket with a cloth when you are done washing. If mold already exists in the gasket, kill it with a bleach solution and monitor the area to make sure the mold does not return.

7. Chimneys

Depending how well a chimney is capped off, it might take in a good amount of water from rain and snow. Plus, it’s likely leaves and other organic materials are entering the space, and this all combines to create perfect conditions for mold to grow. The porous surfaces of bricks and mortar only add to the problem.

To prevent mold growth in your chimney, first make sure the top is covered appropriately. Then it’s best to call in a professional chimney cleaner to remove mold and keep your chimney puffing along at its best.

8. Carpets and Pads

Moisture from concrete floors or wet crawl spaces can easily make its way into your carpet pad and, eventually, the carpet. If you have pets who occasionally have accidents on the carpet, this can increase the potential for mold spores to grow there. If your carpet starts to smell odd or seems damp, unfortunately it might be too late–mold is probably already growing.

It seems the simplest way to prevent mold growth on carpet or padding–regardless of moisture level–is to keep the carpet clean. Dirt, as we’ve discovered, encourages mold growth. By vacuuming at least once per week and having your carpets cleaned periodically, you can easily prevent spores from blooming in your carpet.

Mold is present in most places, and sometimes it can make people sick. If you would like to keep your home a healthy space to inhabit, these places should be monitored for potential problems. Fortunately, solutions are simple to achieve with a little diligence and education on what to look for and how to respond.

https://learn.allergyandair.com/hidden-places-you-might-find-mold/

When a Fire Breaks Out!

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

A Home Affected by Fire

If a Fire Starts:

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

• Stop what you’re doing.
• Drop to the ground and cover your face if you can.
• Roll over and over or back and forth until the flames go out. Running will only make the fire burn faster.

 THEN:

Once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water for three to five minutes. Call for medical attention.

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/if-a-fire-starts

If your home or business has been affected by fire call SERVPRO of Aurora at 303-576-6868.

Water Damage After a Fire

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

How Can a Fire Cause Water Damage?

In some fires, damage from the actual flames ends up being the least of your concerns. Fires often trigger damage in a way homeowners do not expect: significant water damage. Whether during the efforts to put the fire out or leaks caused by the heat, fire can directly or indirectly cause your home to take on large amounts of water unexpectedly. If the fire started during a storm, rain or flood might also cause damage. Listed are some common ways we encounter water damage after a fire. 
 
Water damage can happen from fire hoses and extinguishers. Severe water damage can happen as a result of fire hoses. Care is not often taken when controlling the water flow, with as much being used as necessary to stop the flames.  Excess water is common after a fire, and perhaps more often than not you'll be dealing with this type of damage. Typically, a small isolated fire in a kitchen or room would not inflict such heavy secondary water damage.
 
Fire can melt and break metal faucets and plumbing due to its extreme temperature, causing profuse leaks and ruptures. Although these do not often release enormous amounts of water, they can cause considerable damage to floors and walls in their vicinity.

Steps to Clean Up after a Major Renovation

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

Clean-up Steps

Usually, a post-construction clean up will include the following:

– sweep and vacuum all surfaces, including ceilings, walls
– sweep, mop, and disinfect floors
– vacuum all upholstery
– wipe down doors, knobs, baseboards, moldings, and hardware
– thorough wipe-down and sanitization of bathrooms and kitchens (including appliances, cabinets, and counters)
– dust, vacuum and wipe-down of all window interiors including sills and frames
– dust all ducts, grates, vents, blinds, ceiling fans, and lighting fixtures
– clean all hardware such as hinges and handles
– clean inside and outside of shelves and cabinets
– clean inside all closets
– removal of all remaining trash and debris (although your contractor should have removed most of this as part of the contract)

If you’re trying to decide whether to do it yourself or to outsource it to the experts, ask the following questions:

– Do you have the energy and time?
– How long will it take you?
– Do you have any money left in the renovation budget you could put toward the clean? (Or better yet, build it in now if you haven’t started!).

Different circumstances will determine who gets the job, but a thorough clean is crucial. All kinds of particles are released into the air during renovations, including various toxins, mold spores, silicates, and ultra fine dust that can damage your lungs. Freshly applied paints, lacquers, and primers also give off fumes. Given the possible dangers to your health, the hefty price tag for a proper clean may well be worth it!

Hardwood Floors: To Save Or Not To Save After a Flood?

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

What Does Water Do to a Wooden Floor?

Wood is an organic material that can only resist the effects of water for a short time. That’s why expediency is key to preventing damage from occurring. But sometimes, things happen that you can’t plan for. For example, you’re away on vacation and while you’re lying on a beach soaking up the sun, a pipe breaks and floods your kitchen which then remains that way for several days. Now what?

Signs of Water Damage on Wood Floors

Depending on how long the floor was wet, damage can vary. Here are some signs of damage to look for:

1. Staining and/or discoloration

2. Cupping and buckling from absorbed moisture

3. Popping nails

4. Lifting of floorboards (especially at the ends)

5. Mold growth (can occur within 48 hours of flooding)

Considering that the normal moisture content in a typical hardwood floor is somewhere between 6 and 12 percent and a flooded hardwood floor can have a moisture content of up to 40 percent, damage can be severe. Much of it has to do with the amount of time that the floor is exposed to the water. More moisture will be retained if the floor is left to dry on its own.

Deciding Factors for Replacement or Repair

Determining whether a water-damaged wood floor can be repaired or must be torn up and replaced will depend on a number of factors such as:

1. the length of time the floor has been exposed to water

2. whether your floor is solid hardwood or engineered hardwood

3. the severity of the damage (Has the water penetrated into to the subfloor?)

4. the floor’s finish (It can be difficult to match certain stain colors when replacing isolated floorboards, especially if the stain has “mellowed” with time.)

If the damage is minor, the floor can sometimes be saved by replacing affected boards and then sanding and refinishing the whole floor. If the damage is severe or extensive causing significant expansion, the entire floor may need replacing — and sometimes even the sub-floor will have to be replaced.

Flooded basement in Aurora 1/17/2018

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Aurora, CO

A pipe freeze cause this bathroom in Aurora to flood and leak into their basement. Disaster's like this happen every day and reinforce the importance of preparing for winter weather. Many disaster's can be avoided by small steps of preparation. SERVPRO of Aurora saved the day by cleaning up after the leak and helping to prevent future ones at this home.

Start Your Year With a Digital Cleanse

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

1. Erase your Google search history

Google’s mission is to know everything, so few are surprised that the world’s most famous search engine keeps close records of your browsing history. This might seem harmless at first: Your computer remembers the websites you visit, so it’s easier to access them later on, right? What’s the big deal?

2. Erase your Facebook search history

Would you believe that Facebook keeps the same kind of records at Google? If anything, Facebook’s data is even more personal, such as clubs and pastimes, because of the tidbits we share with our social network.

Facebook also mines when you’ve looked up an ex or a neighbor. If someone accesses your account, even by accident, that information is fully available.

3. Use covert search engines

Google has hundreds of millions of users around the world, and the company’s name has become synonymous with “finding information.” But remember, you don’t have to use Google, and as handy as the service is, there are other ways to navigate around the web.

Great Meals for Slow Cooker Month

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

CROCK POT BEEF AND BROCCOLI

1. 2 lbs. sirloin steak or boneless beef chuck roast, sliced thin
2. 1 cup beef broth
3. 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
4. 1/4 cup brown sugar
5. 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
6. 3 garlic cloves, minced
7. 4 Tablespoons cornstarch
8. 4 Tablespoons water
9. 1 (12 oz.) bag frozen broccoli florets

White rice, cooked

1. In the insert of the crockpot, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic.
2. Place slices of beef in the liquid and toss to coat. Cover with lid and cook on low heat for 5 hours.
3. When done, whisk together cornstarch and water in small bowl. Pour into crock pot and stir to mix well. Add the frozen broccoli over the beef and sauce. Gently stir to combine. Cover with lid and cook 30 minutes to cook broccoli and thicken sauce.
4. Serve over warm white rice. Enjoy!

PORTOBELLA CHICKEN SLOW COOKER RECIPE

Ingredients

SERVPRO of Aurora Heads North East

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

The coldest and most widespread blast of arctic air so far this season will spread across the majority of the United States this week.

Frigid air from the depths of the Arctic will plunge into the United States as the jet stream (a fast-river of air along which storms travel) drops southward.

The coldest days of this week will yield highs and lows generally 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit below normal from the Northwest to the Gulf and East coasts.

Departures from normal will even approach 30 degrees along the eastern slopes of the Rockies, including Billings, Montana, Casper, Wyoming, and Denver, Colorado.

The arctic blast first chilled the Northwest at the start of this week, where pockets of snow and freezing conditions made some roads slippery.

The northern Rockies and northern Plains will face multiple days of highs in the single digits and teens. Subfreezing highs will then spread to the central Plains, Great Lakes and interior Northeast.

“Afternoon high temperatures in cities like Kansas City and St. Louis will be no better than freezing late in the week, while some places in the Dakotas may have a day or two where the temperature does not even get above zero,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Brian Thompson said.

How to Prevent—or Handle—Frozen Water Pipes for Your Home

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by frozen pipes bursting

Winter might be harsh outdoors, but when frozen water pipes burst, the real emergency conditions are, ever so suddenly, indoors. Whether you’re thinking ahead to protect yourself from this bad scenario—or you’re thinking on your toes in an actual pipe-burst situation—you can use the following helpful tips to ensure that you act smart.

Prevention Tips:

1. Insulate your water pipes.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not expanding ice from within a pipe that makes it burst; it’s the remaining liquid water finding nowhere else to go but out. Wherever your pipes are warm to the touch, insulation is likely needed. Insulating your pipes not only serves as a preventative measure for pipe bursts, but also reduces the cost you pay for hot water. Ask a local hardware store for pipe insulation that you can install yourself—quickly and painlessly. You can also receive federal tax credits in the process.

2. Seal those seams.

To keep cold wind away from your pipes, seal cracks and holes in your walls with caulking. Simply walk along the walls of your house and feel for drafts. And for fainter drafts, light an incense stick. When the smoke is offset, there’s a draft.

3. Some doors are best left open.

Did you know? Kitchen and bathroom cabinets can keep warm inside air from reaching pipes under sinks or in adjacent outside walls. It’s a good idea to keep cabinet doors open during cold spells to let warm air circulate around the pipes to prevent freezing.

4. Don’t hesitate to use your taps.

As long as water is running and pressure doesn’t build up, there’s a far lower risk of freeze and pipes bursting. Also, it’s okay to let faucets lightly drip where you believe there could be risk of cold pipes. The slight relief in pressure prevents potential buildup within your pipes.

5. Leaving for a trip? Don’t over-lower the heat.

While understandably it saves money to lower your thermostat when you’re away from home, it’s important to not be overzealous and allow your home to cool excessively in your absence. A home kept reasonably warm will ensure pipes share the same cozy condition.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Aurora?

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Affected Patio Wall

When your home is affected by fire, smoke or soot damage SERVPRO of Aurora can provide fire damage restoration services. Every loss is unique and needs to be treated as such. SERVPRO of Aurora strives to provide excellent service by employing skilled and experienced Crew Chiefs and Project Coordinators to ensure that each home suffering a loss is treated uniquely and professionally.

SERVPRO of Aurora was prepared to arrive equipped and ready to serve those affected by the Tubbs Fire in Northern California. Countless homes were significantly affected by smoke and soot damage as the fire had nearly reached the front lawn of homeowners and business owners properties. 

After providing fire restoration services for numerous homes in Northern California, SERVPRO of Aurora arrived back in Colorado to serve their community. On December 14th, SERVPRO of Aurora received a heart warming testimonial from a pleased customer from Northern California. 

"Your team did an outstanding job of removing the smoke damage from my apartment after the Northern California Fires. I commend Yovan Venegas and his team for their professionalism, expeditious service, thoroughness and kindness in making my home a welcome place to live again. Do know that I will recommend them to all people who need service due to fires, floods and other catastrophic events that happen to their homes and businesses. They are the BEST."

-Allison Lazarus

Fire at Fire Station 15!

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora at Fire Station 15.

SERVPRO of Aurora  responded immediately to  the fire damage facing Fire Station 15. A fast response is the key to help prevent additional damage and reduce the restoration cost.

SERVPRO of Aurora was on site 11/30/2017 to asses the damage facing Fire Station 15 and to begin the restoration process. 

News Coverage

An Aurora fire station under construction and set to open in a few months burned Wednesday afternoon.

Aurora Fire Rescue firefighters, stationed in a model home in a nearby subdivision, responded to the fire in their soon-to-be new home just before 5 p.m. according to Denver 7 News.

The television station reported flames were shooting from the roof of the Aurora Fire Station No. 15 in the Murphy Creek neighborhood.

No one was inside and no injuries were reported, the television station reported.

News 9 reported the fire station had been under construction since the summer and was set to open in the first part of 2018. It was being built to keep up with growth in the region.

The fire was confined mostly to the attic area and the cause of the blaze is under investigation by Aurora fire authorities. It is not believed that construction equipment started the fire. 

http://www.firehouse.com/news/12384096/fire-station-under-construction-burns-in-aurora-co

SERVPRO of Aurora Dines With Firehouse 7

11/24/2017 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving Dinner with Firehouse 7.

SERVPRO of Aurora wanted to show our local Firehouse appreciation for protecting and serving the community. SERVPRO of Aurora provided and dined with the firefighters of Firehouse 7 on November 22nd 2017.Many firefighters spend the holidays away from their families and loved ones so that they may serve the community. Emergencies don't stop for the holidays and firefighters know that best. Here at SERVPRO of Aurora we believe the men and women who dedicate so much time to keeping us safe deserve the utmost respect and recognition. 

SERVPRO of Aurora gave Firehouse 7 a letter of recognition. 

Dear Firefighters,

          We want to thank you for serving and protecting our community! Thank you for your selflessness during this holiday season, and spending your holidays saving lives and keeping families safe. Thank you for waking up at any hour of the night to save someone's home. Thank you for teaching and informing the community about fire prevention and safety. The Fire Department strengthens our community and we value every sacrifice you make in order to keep us all safe. 

                            Sincerely, SERVPRO of Aurora

For more about SERVPRO of Aurora, and the Aurora Community visit our facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROAurora/ 

Avoid a House Fire When Frying a Turkey!

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

Turkey Grease Fire

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns about the dangers that come with gas-fueled turkey fryers, such as burns from hot oil or fire damage. On average, there are three times more turkey fryer claims during the holiday season than any other time of the year. The median cost for turkey fryer-related claims is almost $29,000. Follow this expert advice to know about common hazards of turkey fryers, how to prevent any injuries or damage, manage the risk, and decide if frying a turkey is even worth the risk.

Do's

Keep a fire extinguisher nearby

 Never use water on a grease fire. It will only spread the fire--and fast! Make sure to have an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby, and confirm that it hasn’t yet expired or is up-to-date on any necessary inspections. There’s nothing worse than trying to use a defunct fire extinguisher. Using an extinguisher will allow you to be far enough away while fighting any fires.

Beware of precipitation

 Falling rain and snow can lead to splattering of exposed oil or steam burns from contact with the hot cooker. Just as pouring hot water on a frozen windshield will crack it, having cold liquid hit hot oil will make it splatter or create unexpected steam that can burn.

Keep the fryer on a level surface

 Avoid accidental tipping and spills (which can lead to fire) by operating your turkey fryer on a solid, level surface at all times. These fryers are often tall and top-heavy, so ensure proper stabilization for the fryer on a level surface.

Keep children away

 Never ever let a pet or a child near the fryer. In this case, curiosity can kill. Protect small children and pets by keeping them away from the turkey fryer before, during, and after the turkey is getting fried. Even after cooking, the oil will be boiling hot and the fryer will still be subject to tipping over.

Test the process

 Before Thanksgiving or any other time you may want to fry a large bird, test out the process, and follow all this advice accordingly. When the cook is in a rush and trying something new and dangerous, corners are often cut, necessary precautions are not taken, and accidents happen. Test out the turkey fryer with another bird in order to understand the process and learn how to manage the risks days before everyone is hungry for the Thanksgiving meal.

Don'ts

Don't use a turkey fryer indoors

 Always use a turkey fryer outdoors, away from buildings, decks and anything else that can catch fire. Never use the turkey fryer in the garage either. Spilt oil can easily lead to unmanageable flames, putting your home, family, and friends in serious risk.

Do not leave a turkey fryer unattended

 Frying a turkey is at least a two-man operation. If something does go wrong, you’ll be grateful for that extra person to go and call for assistance. It’s also important that someone is watching the fryer for the duration of the cooking process, and the hot oil is dealt with after the cooking process is complete.

Do not forget to thaw the turkey first

 Never put a partially frozen turkey into hot oil, as ice and water can cause the oil to spill over and catch fire.

Do not use low quality cooking oil

 Because of the high temperatures of the cooking oil, you should use high quality oil that has a high smoke point, such as peanut or safflower oil. Anything less than that may cause severe smoke--not only ruining your turkey--but creating panic, and potentially leading to accident or injury.

Do not have inadequate home insurance coverage

 Aside from having to cook outdoors, you may really want to be as close to the house as you think is safely possible. Make sure that in the event of fire or smoke damage caused by using a turkey fryer, that your home insurance policy will cover the damage in the event of a claim. Making a claim can increase your monthly premiums--especially if the cause of the damage is seen as negligence with a turkey fryer. However, having adequate home insurance doesn’t excuse using a turkey fryer in any other way other than what is recommended.

For more helpful tips please visit:

https://expertbeacon.com

Ron Burgundy wants to know about SERVPRO of Aurora

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

"I don't know how to put this, but we are kind of a big deal!."

Marketing Representative, David Gardner gets the scoop on the latest Mold remediation jobs here at SERVPRO of Aurora.  

David Starring as Ron Burgundy

Ron: Good morning SERVPRO of Aurora Crew, what is the forecast looking like for Mold here in Aurora?

Crew: There is a home in desperate need of Mold Remediation, and we have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation. 

Ron: Are there any tips you can give the residents of Aurora to stay safe in homes affected by mold?

Crew: Absolutely

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

Ron: That will end our segment, You Stay Classy Aurora, Colorado. 

Restoring Commercial Property After Water Damage.

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Aurora

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

When a Storm hits Aurora, Call SERVPRO!

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its 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 lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Aurora, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (303) 576-6868

With SERVPRO of Aurora on the job, you know it will be "Like it never even happened."

Do you need Emergency Water Damage Service?

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora 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 - (303) 576-6868

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 Aurora 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 Aurora

SERVPRO of Aurora 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.

Is Mold lurking in your Aurora Home?

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold 

Do you have questions about Smoke and Soot Cleanup?

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Aurora will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – (303) 576-6868

Mold Growth on Drywall and Carpet.

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Mold On Your Wall!

Mold can grow just about anywhere, but drywall is especially susceptible to mold growth. Humidity and moisture in a building can aid in the growth of mold. Drywall that is contaminated by mold must be cut out, removed and replaced by new drywall. 

Mold Underneath Your Carpet!

Mold can be found underneath permanent carpeting. Carpet absorbs liquid and traps it underneath the service creating a breeding ground for mold. Carpet traps dirt and dust particles which are a food source for mold. Once mold finds a home underneath your carpet it is impossible to remove it completely. Be sure to react quickly to liquids that spill on your carpet.

SERVPRO of Aurora provides mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Aurora: 303-877-9054

Prevent Mold From Growing In Your Home!

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Any home or business can quickly become infested with mold with the introduction of a water source, like a roof or plumbing leak. Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48-72 hours, and can produce allergens and irritants that have the potential to cause other health effects.  

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can inspect and assess your property. If mold is found, they have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

https://https://www.SERVPRO.com/mold-remediation/mold-remediation

What you can do to prevent mold growth?

• Ventilate bathrooms, laundry rooms and cooking areas
• Do not install carpet in bathrooms, laundry rooms, cooking areas and basements.
• Control humidity in your home with an air conditioner or humidifier
• Use mold killing products in your bathroom and kitchen
• Don't allow spills on carpet to remain wet
• Fix leaks from walls, plumbing or ceilings promptly
• Add mold inhibitors to wall paint

Mold growth can affect your health and your home's property value. Make sure to prevent mold growth in your home.

If you have a mold problem contact SERVPRO of Aurora at 303-576-6868

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage at an Aurora home.

https://www.SERVPRO.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call the SERVPRO National Call Center, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO Franchise Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 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.

Understanding How A Fire Can Start

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Three Components That Fires Need To Exist

1. Heat
2. Oxygen 
3. Fuel

With these three components a fire cant ignite.

Causes of House Fires 

• Most fires start in the kitchen from overheated grease and unattended cooking
• Overheated equipment 
• Arson
• Candles caused approximately 9,300 home fires between 2009 and 2013  

Fire Safety

Fires can start suddenly and spread quickly, damaging your home and furniture and putting lives in danger. They are caused in a variety of ways, but there are a few simple hints you can follow to prevent them starting.

• Keep all fires and heaters well guarded, especially open fires. For fitted or portable heaters with a built in guard, give extra protection by adding a surrounding guard particularly if you have young children or older people in the home. For children, use a nursery guard with side clips that fit into fixed wall brackets
• Keep portable heaters and candles away from furniture and curtains. Position safely where they cannot be knocked over
• Don't dry or air clothes over or near the fire, or the cooker
• Do not smoke in bed
• Many fires start in the kitchen, especially fat fires. Never leave a pan unattended when deep fat frying and watch for overheating. For safer frying use oven chips or a thermostatically controlled deep fat fryer
• If there are children around, keep matches and lighters well out of reach
• Fit approved smoke detectors on each floor. Choose a smoke alarm that is mains operated or one with a long life (ten year) battery
• Plan your escape route. Remember Get out, stay out and call the fire brigade out!

https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/general/preventing-accidents-in-the-home/

Commercial Flood Questions

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

What are the real risks to my business?

Floods often strike without warning - destroying buildings, equipment, and inventory. If that doesn't sound serious, you should know:

• Most business policies do not cover flooding.
• One in four businesses that shut down from a natural disaster never reopen.
• Ninety percent of all natural disasters involve flooding.
• The most common form of federal disaster assistance is an interest-bearing loan.

How much coverage can I get?

Whether your business is large or small…whether you own or lease facilities…commercial flood insurance offers protection for your business - inside and out.

Commercial Contents Coverage:
Covers inventory, merchandise, machinery, and other contents up to $500,000

Commercial Building Coverage:
Covers buildings up to $500,000. Even if you don't own the building, you can insure the value of improvements you've made.

What if I need more coverage?

An Excess Flood policy from Bankers can increase the coverage limits of your business flood policy by:

• an additional $500,000 for building coverage
• an additional $100,000 for contents coverage

Learn more in Bankers Excess Flood section.

Who gets government aid?

Government aid is available only if the President makes an official disaster declaration (less than half of all flooding qualifies). Most often, federal disaster aid comes in the form of an interest-bearing loan. When grants are awarded, the average amount is less than $2,500. Less than half of flooding events are declared disasters, and insurance is often the sole source of assistance for victims.

Is flooding really a serious problem?

The odds may seem like a million to one you'll ever experience serious flooding. But it happens more than you'd think. In fact, 90% of all presidentially-declared disasters involve flooding.

Even minor flooding can mean major financial difficulties. Imagine just a few inches of floodwater invading your home. That's more than enough to destroy floors, damage walls, and ruin appliances - costing you thousands (more on that later).

What flood zone am I in?

Below are three major categories of flood zones. To get the specifics on what flood zone you live in, find an agent or contact us.

A Zones are usually located near a river, lake or stream - making them the second highest risk zone. Average premium is around $557 annually.

V Zones are usually located near the ocean. This makes them particularly vulnerable to storm surges (flooding caused by hurricanes). V Zones represent the areas at highest risk, and premiums in this zone are the most expensive. Average premium is around $1,000 annually.

B, C, X, and A99 Zones are less prone to flooding. Depending on your area, you may qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy and pay as little as $119 per year. Remember that almost 25% of all flood claims come from these "low-risk" zones.

Is there a waiting period for business policies?

Yes. There's a mandatory 30-day waiting period on new flood policies, so time is of the essence.

Do I need a Business Continuity Plan in case disaster strikes?

Most definitely. That's why we've put a plan together for you. From pre-storm preparation…to claim information…to tips on cleanup…we'll walk you through the steps that lead to the least inconvenience and the fastest recovery.

https://www.bankersinsurance.com/business-flood-insurance-questions.html

Commercial Fires

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

The definition of commercial property is any building used to generate profit; however this can be expanded to cover other types of non-residential properties. Commercial properties include:

•  Office Buildings – including serviced offices.
•  Industrial Buildings – warehouses, distribution centers and garages.
•  Retail/Restaurants –  includes shopping centers, leisure facilities and pubs.
•  Other non-residential properties such as entertainment venues, hotels, nursing homes, medical and self-storage complexes, as well as many more

Legal requirements for commercial fire alarm systems

As you can imagine, there is a lot more legislation concerning the installation, placement, testing and maintenance to regulate fire alarms in commercial premises than in residential buildings. British Standards provide guidelines that should be complied with and failure to do so is seen as a breach of a responsibility towards safety and can be punishable by law.

Fire alarms systems play such a key safety role in commercial buildings and there are a lot of lives potentially at steak. If the fire alarm systems are not sufficient then harsh penalties can be given, including hefty fines and in the case of extreme negligence, this can even result in imprisonment if lives are lost as a result of an ineffective approach to fire safety.

In addition if a fire does occur in commercial premises insurance policies may be voided if it can be proved that the fire alarm and smoke detectors were ineffective.

For more information visit 

http://www.eurofireprotection.com/blog/differences-between-commercial-and-residential-fire-alarms/

Mold After A Storm

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Mold and Cleanup

• Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as mattresses, carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and paper products).
• Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or flood waters.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.

Call SERVPRO of Aurora at 303-576-6868

We have a dedicated team of Technicians who are ready to provide quality restoration services!

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Aurora Professionals can inspect and assess your property. 

https://www.cdc.gov/mold/pdfs/Homeowners_and_Renters_Guide.pdf

Hurricane Harvey

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora is in Houston Texas providing restoration services.

09/07/17

The Storm Team from SERVPRO of Aurora is in Houston Texas aiding residents with flood restoration.

Why is Hurricane Harvey such a big deal?

Hurricane Harvey is the country’s first major (Category 3 or higher) hurricane since Hurricane Wilma hit Florida in October 2005. Hurricane Wilma was stronger than Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, both part of the same storm season.

While Superstorm Sandy in 2012 was one of the most destructive and costly in U.S. history, it hit the eastern seaboard as a Category 2 storm. Hurricane Matthew, in late 2016, had been downgraded to a Category 1 by the time it made landfall on the East Coast.

While the official death toll from Harvey sits at 40, officials expect it could rise.

The storm—considered a tropical depression with winds measuring about 35 mph—is still alive a week after making landfall over Rockport, Texas, and it’s still expected to dump large amounts of rain through Sunday as is travels northeast through Tennessee and Kentucky. Another storm, Hurricane Irma, is expected to hit Florida this week.

week.https://www.worldvision.org/disaster-response-news-stories/hurricane-harvey#why-care

The Process of Water Damage Restoration

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Step 4. Drying and Dehumidification

1. Contact SERVPRO of Aurora. A Representative will guide you through several questions that will help SERVPRO of Aurora Technicians respond to your water emergency quickly and efficiently. 
2. After careful inspection of your property’s water damage, the type of water damage and affected areas are determined. An Effective plan of action is established.
3. SERVPRO of Aurora uses specialized pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. Beginning the process as soon as possible helps to prevent mold growth.
4. Specialized equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers are then used to remove remaining water and moisture. 
5. Technicians sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
6. The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.

Categories of Water Damage

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Aurora Professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly.They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Three Categories of Water Damage

Clear Water

• Sanitary Water 
• Poses no major health risk
• Source example: tub or sink overflows and appliance malfunctions that involve a water supply line 

Grey Water

• Contanimated
• Unsafe to consume
• Contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants 
• Source examples: toilet overflow and appliance malfunctions that involve a water supply line 

Black Water

• Highly contaminated
• Contains raw sewage, pesticides, heavy metals or toxic organic substances.
• Source examples: sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_damage

Mold Growth

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

What's causing the mold to grow? 

It could be a leaky pipe, humid basement or a hurricane that flooded your entire first floor. The size of the problem is less important than your ability to repair the source of moisture. Mold growth in a basement, attic or crawl space is relatively common.

An understanding of how mold grows in the home and the potential for adverse health effects has since changed the way people look at fungus, even if it's not causing you problems, you have to kill growing mold and reduce moisture levels to prevent its return.

Bigger disasters, such as hurricanes or a pipe burst, will likely require major remediation efforts, since surfaces exposed to moisture aren’t isolated. A flooded basement, for example, could see widespread mold growth.

Denver building boom

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

• The Downtown Denver Partnership’s most recent State of Downtown Denver report revealed that there is currently $2.47 billion worth of construction projects being planned (14 projects) or underway (18 projects) in the city, The Denver Post reported.
• Projects include hotels (1,230 rooms), residential units (4,592) and office space (2.77 million). That level of construction dwarfs 2015’s hotel rooms (591), residential units (1,901) and 330,000 square feet of office space added — worth a total $634.7 million.
• As downtown developers set their sights on adjacent pockets of available space for additional growth, Partnership officials said it’s important that they address housing affordability, workforce development and transportation challenges so that they can be "part of the solution and not a part of the problem."    http://www.constructiondive.com/news/denver-building-boom-accelerating-as-new-construction-reaches-25b/418988/

Colfax and Peoria makeover underway in Aurora

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

The bustling intersection of East Colfax Avenue and Peoria Street will hardly resemble its hard-scrabble reputation in a few years.

Already long gone is the old Boll-e-Ana Motel west of Peoria, and several other longtime, dilapidated fixtures nearby are about to meet with a demolition crew.

“If I left today and came back five years from now I wouldn’t recognize that intersection,” said Ward I City Councilwoman Sally Mounier, who represents the area. “I just wouldn’t.”

Over just the last few months, the bustling intersection near the Anschutz Medical Campus has seen a flurry of activity. The Conoco station that sat for years at the northwest corner of Peoria and Colfax is gone, set to be replaced by a new 7-Eleven. http://www.aurorasentinel.com/news/fax-and-peoria-makeover-underway-in-aurora/

Call and plan an ERP for your commercial build today!

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW. As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Wildfires?

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

Typically, the answer is yes. Standard homeowners policies generally help protect against specific perils, or certain causes of loss, such as theft and fire, but coverage may vary by geographic location and by policy. You may also find that some insurers do not sell homeowners policies in areas where wildfires are common.

You'll likely find that homeowners insurance offers several different types of protection if your home is damaged by wildfire.

Dwelling: This type of protection helps cover your home and attached structures, such as a garage or deck. If your home is damaged by fire (or another covered peril), dwelling coverage may help pay for repairs or rebuilding — up to the limits of your policy.

Personal property: Belongings — things like furniture, clothing and electronics — are usually covered in a standard homeowners policy. Keep in mind that limits will apply, so you may want to review your policy and determine whether your personal property coverage limits are sufficient. Your local agent can help you make any changes or answer your questions.

Additional living expenses: Homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of reasonable increased living expenses, such as renting a home while your home is being repaired, if a fire leaves it uninhabitable. Check your policy or contact your agent to learn about any terms and coverage limits.

Landscaping: Homeowners insurance may offer limited coverage for plants, shrubs, trees or lawns damaged by a covered peril, such as fire, according to the American Institute of CPAs. Check your policy to learn what kind of protection it may offer for landscaping on your land.

What happens after a Fire?

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some major or minor fire recovery tips for houses and apartments.

A special thank you to the firemen, policemen, industry professionals, lawyers, insurance agents and people who gave us their time, insight and real-life advice.

• Be safe, be smart.
• Depending on the damage, the fire department may allow you to take your personal belongings (clothing, - jewelry, important documents). If you remove anything, you may have to fill out a form with the fire department listing each item. You will not be allowed to take certain items (i.e. couches, TVs, computers, appliances) as they may have caused the fire.
• If your car is burned or very damaged by debris, do not start it or move it. Fire officials will tell you when you can move your car.
• Ask an on-site fire official for a fire department contact in case of questions after the fire.
• Ask for the approximate date and time for the initial walk-through of your property. For safety purposes, you MUST be escorted; this is especially true if there is structural damage.
  • If you are insured, you should call your agent about this walk-through. Have them contact SERVPRO Aurora.

http://www.whathappensnow.com/getHelp.cfm?cat=2&sub=2

5 Easy Tips to Prevent Water Damage

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

3.  Keep an eye on your water bill

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

4. Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

5. Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Advise from Farmers Insurance and SERVPRO Aurora

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in the Home

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

Flat Roofs

A flat roof, in theory, should be just as ‘good’ as a sloped roof but when things start going wrong, it can create a host of new problems that others just don’t.

Normally, in order to work properly, a flat roof should have a slight gradient to it. In other words, despite the name, flat roofs are not normally actually flat. A flat roof then is very slightly convex and that’s how it is able to gradually cause water to run off of it and into your gutters.

Gutters

Another common culprit when it comes to the causes of water damage is the gutter system. Normally, your gutters have the job of directing water away from your roof and away from your building more generally as it runs off the edges. This will work fine though until the gutters become blocked with debris such as leaves and branches and thus another dam forms.

Now the water will begin to overflow over the edges of the gutters and thus start running down the side of the house. You can spot this by looking at the paint on your walls – are there dirty water marks from rainwater that’s flooded out of the gutters?

Leaking Pipes

If you have a leaking pipe then this can often lead to destructive water damage in your home without your even being aware. The problem here is that the water can leak in a loft or under your floor boards and might just be a very subtle dripping. Thus it never gets extensive enough for you to notice but you nevertheless have constant dampness which leads to water damage and black mold.

Tornado Safety

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

If you are at home during a tornado:

• Go to a windowless interior room on lowest level of your house. Go to a storm cellar or basement if your house has one. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet.
• Get away from the windows.
• Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.
• If you are in a mobile home, get out and find shelter elsewhere.

If you are at work or school during a tornado:

• Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, or shopping malls.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.

If you are outdoors during a tornado:

• If possible, get inside a building.
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building. Look out for flood waters which may also fill low areas.
• Use your arms to protect head and neck.

If you are in a car during a tornado:

• Never try to drive faster than a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car or truck and toss it through the air.
• Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.
• If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

https://eo.ucar.edu/kids/dangerwx/tornado5.htm

Flood Safety Tips

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
• Do not drive over bridges that are over fast-moving floodwaters. Floodwaters can scour foundation material from around the footings and make the bridge unstable.

• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground.

• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.

• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

Flood watch

• Turn on your TV/radio. You will receive the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.

• Know where to go. You may need to reach higher ground quickly and on foot.

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

  Prepare Your Home

• Bring in outdoor furniture and move important indoor items to the highest possible floor. This will help protect them from flood damage.

• Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. You could be electrocuted.

• If instructed, turn off your gas and electricity at the main switch or valve. This helps prevent fires and explosions.

• Flood warning

  Flood Warning = "Take Action!"  Flooding is either happening or will happen shortly.

  Steps to Take

  • Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground.

  • Evacuate if directed.

  • Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away

https://www.ready.gov/floods

BEST OF COLORADO -SERVPRO Aurora, Gold Medal Winner

4/5/2017 (Permalink)

Readers Choice, Best of Colorado Gold Medal. Best Cleaning & Restoration Company

Each year Colorado Customers vote for their favorite pizza, brewery, brunch, margaritas and almost every industry you can imagine. 

SERVPRO Aurora is honored that they just earned the prestigious Gold Medal in the category "Best Cleaning & Restoration Company" BEST OF COLORADO READERS SURVEY

Within the last year the SERVPRO Aurora franchise is under new ownership. It is noteworthy that the BOC Readers Choice Gold Medal aligns with the praise SERVPRO Aurora has garnered from their recent and raving Customer Certificates of Satisfaction reports.

Residential Services

Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to make your house feel like home again. They have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. Our residential services include the following:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services 

Commercial Services

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO Professional nearby and ready to serve you. Our commercial services include the following:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation 
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Commercial Storm and Major Events 

https://www.SERVPRO.com/

Eight Ways a Home Improvement Project Can Affect Your Home Insurance

3/14/2017 (Permalink)

Now that home improvement is at an all-time high, we figure now is a good time for us to tell you how your home projects just might be affecting your home insurance. HomeAdvisor has indicated that the number of homeowners that have completed 2 repairs or renovations on their home have increased by a multiple of twelve between 2015 and 2016.

Despite the obvious perks from doing repairs and renovations on your house, failure to consider the future impacts this can have on your insurance can be detrimental. So below we’ve listed 8 things you need to know before getting to work.

• Home Replacement Cost

After completing your home improvement project, the cost to replace your home may rise. So make sure you have the right coverage limits in place to protect your property in case of an event.

• Builders Risk Policies

Buying a builders risk policy can be very beneficial to you, especially on the bigger projects. Builders risk insurance offers protection for your home as well as all the building materials and equipment during new construction. A huge plus with this coverage is it also protects you from damage caused by weather and unforeseen risk.

• “Attractive Nuisance”

Depending on the size of your project, you’re going to need a construction site, and with construction sites come noise and hazards. Attractive nuisances commonly cause home insurance rates to rise and can be a liability to the homeowner. Just make sure you are doing everything you can to eliminate these dangers.

• Protecting  Personal Items

Protecting your belongings is always a smart thing to do. Make sure you speak with your insurance provider about what coverage you’ll need for personal property while your project is going on.

• Unforeseen issues

Issues that are beyond your control such as weather or crime can really put a stop on your project. Getting builders risk insurance will help protect you aginst any of this.

• Storage of Property

During you home renovations, putting your belongings in storage isn’t a bad idea. Finding temporary storage for you items or asking a family member is your best bet. Make sure you notify your insurance agent to ensure your personal property is still being protected.

• Building Codes

The money you spend bringing you house up to code is another thing to consider. Think about looking for a home insurance policy the feature building codes coverage if you plan to do a lot of home improvements

• Permits

Permits are very important if you are going to be building. Contractors will usually pick up permits before they begin a project. If you decide to go the solo route and do it yourself, make sure you check with the city or town government to find out what you need.

Always remember to contact your insurance agent if you have any questions about how a home improvement project may affect your insurance rates.

Avoiding furnace repairs during the coldest days in Colorado

2/15/2017 (Permalink)

Nobody likes being uncomfortable, especially when it’s -8 degrees and your furnace goes out. Then you have to make that painful call to your expensive repair man, who can only work on the furnace while you’re at home. Oh, let’s not forget those pesky Holiday or after hour fees they charge. So now you’re stuck in a freezing house in the middle of winter with no heat, which is not only uncomfortable, but can also be dangerous. Everyone says hindsight is 20/20, so here are a couple of tips you could have used to help prevent this unfortunate situation.

• Keep An Eye On Your Furnace’s Air Filter

The air filter for the furnace is there for just that, to filter out the dirt, dust and debris from your home, and when this filter gets over used, it reduces the amount of air flowing into your system. In turn, this causes a negative impact on your system and starts to make it work harder, making it more vulnerable to those costly breakdowns and running up your energy bill. It’s always smart to change your furnace filter every one to three months.

• Make Sure You're Keeping Your HVAC System Free of Debris

As previously mentioned, dirt and debris can block airflow and can cause a system to shut down. So making sure the area around your furnace is clean and clear is a must. Also, occasionally checking your air vents to make sure they are open and unblocked by furniture that can impede the heat coming into rooms is a good habit to get into. Contact SERVPRO of Aurora to schedule your HVAC system cleaning now.

• Have Your HVAC System Maintained Regularly

Having your HVAC system maintained by a professional who can spot and stop problems not only saves money by avoiding major issues, but also allows your system to run more efficiently ending up with lower energy bills. Ultimately, the visit of the maintenance visit will pay for itself through less money towards bills, fewer repairs and a longer lasting furnace.

Aurora Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Aurora 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 Aurora 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 See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 303-576-6868 

Aurora Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

This Aurora home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 303-576-6868

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 303-576-6868

Where do most house fires come from?

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are nothing to joke about. Help yourself and your family members stay safe by following these simple steps.

Do you know what the number one cause of house fires is? If you guessed cooking incidents then you'd be correct. These incidents are usually brought on by leaving a pot or pan unattended while you run and do something for "just a minute." According to the NFPA, %40 of all fires, or on average 156,600 per year are started this way. There is a (57%) of a fire starting on a range compared to in the oven (16%) due to frying. 

Wandering if there's anything you can do to prevent becoming one of these 156,00 house fires a year? Well keep reading, SERVPRO of Aurora has your back.

-Make sure you are always alert and never leave your food unattended while it is cooking.

-Make sure you smoke detectors are working and you have a fire extinguisher close by.

-NEVER throw water on a grease fire, it will only spread it faster. Instead put a lid on the pan to smother the fire.

-If the fire starts in your oven, simply turn it off and keep the oven door closed until the fire is out.

-Always keep anything burnable like clothing or towels away from fires. 

For Immediate Service in Aurora, Call SERVPRO of Aurora

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Aurora Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

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

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 303-576-6868

Residential Services

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

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Aurora commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Aurora Home

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Aurora is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates 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 Aurora

SERVPRO of Aurora 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.

Among being IICRC certified, here are some more certifications of SERVPRO of Aurora

Restoring Your Aurora Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Aurora

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

When Storms or Floods hit Aurora, SERVPRO is ready!

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its 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 lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Aurora, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (303) 576-6868

With SERVPRO of Aurora on the job, you know it will be "Like it never even happened."

Does Your Aurora Home Have A Mold Problem?

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (303) 576-6868

Aurora Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Aurora Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Aurora will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (303) 576-6868

Aurora 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Aurora

SERVPRO of Aurora 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 - (303) 576-6868

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 Aurora 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 Aurora

SERVPRO of Aurora 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.

Meet our crew