Unattended slow leaks cause mold!

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Need mold remediation services? Give us a call!

During the winter season, we see a lot of broken pipes caused by the very low temperature. Unfortunately, this is a common loss during the winter season. If not mitigated in a timely manner, this damage has the potential to cause secondary damages to your home, like mold. Mold originates from moisture, and it does not just go away, in fact, it continues to grow. Microbial growth/mold may cause health effects. If you see spots like the ones in the picture, give us a call! 

 Our process consists of removing the affected areas, treating with antimicrobial, and setting the proper equipment. We will then recommend that you have the source of the moisture repaired by a plumber, in this scenario we are supposing it is a broken pipe. Once the pipe has been repaired we can come back and repair the areas removed like drywall,  insulation, and paint. We also recommend a duct cleaning, just to reassure that mold spores are not traveling through your home via the HVAC/duct system, we can also perform this for you. 

 If you suspect microbial growth, please give us a call at (301)933-2425. We will gladly come out and put together a remediation plan for you! Remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Warning. Snow is in the forecast ahead!

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Have our contact information handy, just in case.

Our area is expecting snow within the next 24 hours. Along with the snow, we are expecting low temperatures also. Low temperatures are typically the cause of broken pipes due to them freezing. If you see that a pipe is frozen in your home, attempt to defrost it with a space heater or blowdryer, this may help prevent a broken pipe. We recommend that you know the main shut-off valve is, just in case. It is also a good idea to run water in your faucets, this helps by thawing the water in your faucets and freely draining and relieving the pressure in your pipes.

If you are in need of a water restoration provider, please give us a call. Our team specializes in restoring homes and businesses after there has been water damage. We can dry out the structure properly to prevent mold from forming due to moisture left behind. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why do we ask so many questions during the intake process?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

The initial call is very important!

We understand that when a disaster strikes in your home or business the last thing you want to do is answer questions that seem insignificant, however, this is an important step to getting you back to your home's preloss condition. Not only do we ask questions for our team to show up prepared, we also ask questions to help keep you, your family, and our team safe. When you call in, our trained team will ask you for the severity or extent of the damage, we might also ask for pictures. This helps us determine how much equipment, product, and materials will be needed in order to start the restoration process.

A question that many homeowners find strange is- When was your house built? We ask this because it is important for us to know whether your property has potential asbestos. As you may know, asbestos is not hazardous unless it is disturbed. If your home was built prior to the 1970’s we will have material from your home tested for asbestos. If it comes back positive, we will recommend asbestos abatement prior to reconstruction. This process helps keep everyone safe.

If you have any questions regarding our intake process, feel free to reach out, we are always here to help!

Cheers to a new year!

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Cheers to the new year!

As we ring in the new year we would like to take a minute to reflect and share news of the year 2021. It has certainly been a rollercoaster kind of a year. Here is a quick recap.

This past year we grew in many ways, we welcomed a new Project Manager, Eli Morales. Eli brings years of experience and know-how to our team, we are very excited to have him! We also traveled to Texas when the polar vortex struck, our team was there for nearly 1 month helping get families back in their homes. We can’t forget to mention the fun moments, we were finally able to parade again this year! After a halt to the annual Poolesville tradition due to COVID, this year the town and local small businesses paraded once again. We truly enjoyed a day filled with delicious food and fun entertainment.

I digress, as we have gained team members, we will also say goodbye to a very important team member this year. Our General Manager, Philip Kirlew has decided to leave our team after 9 1/2 years. As he expressed, this was a difficult decision for Philip to make, as he was with our franchise through many ups and downs. We appreciate his many years of service, his exceptional leadership, and his hard work throughout the years. We wish him well in all of his future endeavors.

As we move forward into the new year, our team will once again pivot and evolve. We will focus on fine tuning our current systems and potentially creating new systems in order to better our operation. We are excited to share big news in 2022! With that being said, cheers to a new year full of possibilities!

Are you planning on frying your turkey this Thanksgiving?

11/17/2021 (Permalink)

Safety is always first!

Next week we celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday. This can mean time to rest or celebrate with family. Typically a feast will be in the works, we hope you enjoy it safely. 

 Are you planning to fry your turkey? This is a task that requires strategy and patience because it can be dangerous if not done correctly. Here are a few safety tips for frying your turkey at home. 

• Deep fry your turkey at least 10 feet away from your home, not on your deck
• Place your deep fryer on a leveled surface and gauge the correct amount of oil needed for your size turkey
• Make sure to completely thaw your turkey before placing it in the fryer
• Protect your skin by wearing flame retardant gloves and shoes with closed toes
• Do not attempt to move the fryer once it is already operating
• Do not heat the oil higher than the recommended temperature for your turkey or from the fryer manufacturer
• Do not attempt to put out an oil fire with water

 We hope that you enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday, with or without the deep-fried turkey. Stay safe and remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Seasonal safety tips from your local restoration experts

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Safety is key!

Just like that, we are about two months away from wrapping up 2021; How time flies! On that note, we are just about to enter the Holiday season, how exciting is that? This means family time, good food, and year-end annual traditions. With that being said, here are a few seasonal safety tips for your home.

• When cooking your Thanksgiving feast, practice kitchen safety. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, just in case. Keep cleaning rags and mittens away from your stovetop. Never leave your stove unattended while cooking.
• If you plan on participating in the Black Friday shopping tradition, be mindful of others at stores. Please remember that safety should be a priority while partaking in this tradition.
• If you are traveling during the holiday season, remember to adjust your thermostat accordingly. During the colder evenings, this can help prevent broken pipes and water damage as a result.
• If you are purchasing a real Christmas tree this season, remember to water it regularly. A dry Pine tree can be a fire hazard.

Most importantly, enjoy the upcoming season with your family and loved ones. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help.

Fire safety during fall

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Welcome Fall season of 2021

Last week we welcomed the fall season! Summer is officially over. That means pumpkin spice, and harvest decorations have already made their way to stores and local coffee shops. On that note, we want to share a few fall home safety tips.

• Exercise candle burning with caution, never leave a candle unattended 
• Use caution with space heaters, do not place them near fabric textured items
• Service your furnace if needed, have it checked for leaks
• Use your fireplace safely, never leave fire unattended
• Change your fire and carbon monoxide sensor alarm batteries

Most importantly, enjoy this wonderful season in all of its beautiful colors. We hope you find these tips helpful. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Six reasons why you should choose SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus?

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

We are here to help!

With so many restoration providers out there, we can imagine how difficult it may be to choose one. Here are a few reasons why you should choose SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

1. We count on Country support as we are a part of a Countrywide franchise system.
2. We are and have been our industry leader for over 50 years and going.
3. Our team is certified by our industry's institute, the IICRC. Our team members hold numerous certifications per team member.
4. Our team is available 24/7, all year around.
5. We service both residential and commercial properties.
6. Our headquarters has chemists who produce our own products. We do not have shortages of products needed all year round.

For more information, feel free to reach out. Our team is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Back to school week!

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Safety tips from your local SERVPRO

This week marks a big time for our little ones, this week they return to in-person school learning after over 1 year. We hope that they all have a prosperous and successful school year. We also wish them a safe return. On that note, here is a small list of tips for a safer return to school.

• When driving be sure to follow the speed limit, especially near school zones
• Practice washing your hands together, remind them to count to 20 seconds
• Advice your children to try not to touch their eyes, mouth, or nose

We hope that these tips will be useful to you and your children.

Are you re-opening ready?

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

We can get your business ready for re-opening!

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the US, SERVPRO was deemed essential. We were deemed essential not only because we are an emergency restoration provider but also because we quickly pivoted and began to offering cleaning and disinfecting services for areas contaminated by the virus. Our team of trained bio-hazard crew chiefs and technicians bravely took on this task and have been performing it successfully ever since. Now as the State and County speak of re-opening, we are called into facilities to get them up to par for re-opening; This includes worship centers, commercial offices, restaurants, and Schools. Once they're open, they have an idea of what next steps to take in order to keep their staff, family, and community safe. 

 As we move forward with re-opening our businesses and other places, let's do it with caution; Let’s do our part to keep our community safe. Feel free to call today for a free consultation at (301)332-0766. Your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Damascus/Damascus is always here to help!

How to help prevent a heat illnesses during the hot summer days

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Beat the heat!

Enjoying the summertime fun is an annual treat for many of us. This includes outdoor activities like going to the beach, bike riding, or hiking. Doing these activities safely is a challenge. We have compiled helpful information from the Maryland Department of Health, please read and share. If you work outdoors and are in the heat all day, this list is for you.

6 Tips for coping with hot weather

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and overly-sweetened beverages
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing
• Avoid direct sunlight and wear sunscreen; stay in the shade when possible
• Avoid salt tablets, unless advised by a doctor to take them
• Take it easy outside; schedule physical activity in the morning or evening when it’s cooler and take breaks if necessary

Here at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus, we wish you a healthy rest of your summer 2021. Remember that your local SERVPRO is always here to help!

SERVPRO also offers commercial services!

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

No job is too big or too small!

Many people ask us, “do you offer commercial services?” Our response, “Why yes we do!”

We have over 50 years of expertise in the emergency restoration industry, as well as commercial services. Serving in both arenas is one of the many reasons why SERVPRO is so unique. Adding construction to our repertoire years ago has been a great challenge that we have learned to embrace and appreciate. We have found the need and understood the need for being a one-stop-shop restoration provider. Moving forward when you think SERVPRO remember that we also offer the following commercial services.

• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Deodorization
• Maintenance programs
• Duct cleanings
• Sanitizing and disinfecting services

For more information or an estimate, give us a call. No job is too big or too small for our team. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fireworks safety tips from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

We wish you a happy and safe 4th of July!

This weekend we celebrate the Independence day of our great nation. On this special day, we celebrate with cookouts, delicious food, and beautiful firework displays. Though in many counties and cities of the state of Maryland, fireworks are prohibited. If fireworks are permitted in your jurisdiction, and you are planning on part-taking in this tradition, please read the following safety precautions.

• Light fireworks one at a time
• Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby
• Do not point fireworks at anybody
• Never light fireworks indoors
• Do not allow children to handle fireworks without adult supervision
• Do not ignite fireworks in a container
• Do not attempt to light a malfunctioning firework

We hope that you've found these tips helpful. We wish you a happy and safe 4th of July.

Why choose SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus?

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

We are always here to help!

When disaster strikes you are troubled with many different emotions, mainly uneasiness. When choosing the right restoration company to assist you and your family, there are many things you may ask yourself: Is the provider experienced? Are they properly equipped? Are they certified?

All of these are completely reasonable questions and concerns which is why we would like to share the following facts about the SERVPRO franchise system.

• The SERVPRO franchise system has been in business for over 50 years
• There are over 1,700 franchises serving North America
• SERVPRO is a 24/7/365 emergency service
• We create and utilize some of our restoration products
• We believe in restoring vs. replacing
• We provide residential and commercial services

For more information on how our team can be of assistance with your water, fire, mold, or bio-hazard disaster, give us a call. Our team is certified by the IICRC, and we have many years of experience. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus can help you get your business ready for re-opening!

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Are you Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

With our State reopening, we question many aspects of what the new normal should be for your home or business. We believe that setting certain processes and contingency plans for your business, employees, and patrons will make the difference to keep our community safe. Here is how SERVPRO can help.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned- This program consists of our expert-level Coronavirus cleaning and disinfecting services. Our team is uniquely prepared and trained to clean and disinfect, per CDC guidelines, to get your business back up and running quickly. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste. 

 If you would like more information on the certified SERVPRO clean service and how it can benefit you and your business, feel free to reach out to (301)332-0766. Always remember that SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened”.

Grill safety recap to start off your grilling season!

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Cafeull with the grill!

The season for grilling is almost here and with Memorial weekend coming soon, we would like to share a few safety tips for indoor and outdoor grilling. Using cooking equipment like a grill comes with responsibilities that we should consider before we start cooking on the grill. One important thing to consider is that a grill requires your full attention while using it, you should not leave it unattended. Also, make sure that you do not leave your cooking utensils on the grill while you are cooking, you do not want to burn or melt your cooking utensils from leaving them on the grill for too much time. If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure that you are lighting up your grill safely by using the correct amount of lighter fluid. If you are grilling indoors on a stovetop, be sure to cook at the correct heat measurement to help prevent heavy smoke and oil spills in your kitchen. We hope that these tips helped prepare you for the grilling season, for more helpful information check out www.nfpa.org. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

What kind of water damage are you experiencing?

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Water contamination categories

Water damage can happen to anybody. In fact, according to research done by the insurance industry, it is estimated that 37% of homeowners claim to have suffered damages due to a flood. Did you know that insurance companies pay out $2.5 billion dollars per year in water and mold losses? As you can see, water damage can happen to anybody and it can be costly to mitigate. With that, knowing what type of water damage you are experiencing may help you know how to react or know what you are truly facing. Here is the list of the different categories of water contamination.

Category 1

Water that originates from a sanitary source and is considered fit for human consumption. (Water from the sink faucet, Clean toilet water)

Category 2
Water from a contaminated source can potentially cause harm if consumed. (Dishwasher water)

Category 3
Water that is “grossly contaminated” and contains harmful toxins or pathogens. (Sewage backup, standing water, stormwater)

The best way to know how to react is by knowing what you are dealing with. We hope that you found this information helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

Spruce up this Spring with a SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus duct cleaning!

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Include a duct cleaning in your spring cleaning plans!

Spring has sprung and boy are we excited for warmer days. Along with the season's changes, we tend to take this as an opportunity to do a little spring cleaning. Why not go the extra mile and clean your ducts? As you can imagine, your ducts collect dust and debris if left unattended for long periods of time, and yes all of that is circulating though-out your home. A benefit from getting a regular duct cleaning is that your indoor air quality improves significantly after having your ducts cleaned. Another benefit is that you can potentially extend the life of your HVAC system and your ducts. Call our office if you have questions or to schedule your duct cleaning service. We are always here to help!

Commercial carpet cleaning from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can handle your commercial carpet cleaning needs!

Thinking about sprucing up your facility this spring? Why not a good old-fashioned carpet cleaning? Our process for our carpet cleaning is first applying a dirt and stain remover product, we let it sink in for some time to dissolve the dust and grime on your carpet. If the stains are tough, we manually scrub the area. We then proceed with our carpet cleaning machine which suctions and steams the carpets clean. This process leaves your carpets looking and feeling fresh. It is a good idea to perform a carpet cleaning on an as-needed basis, some areas are not as high traffic as others and do not require attention until every couple of months or years. Feel free to reach out if you would like an estimate for your next carpet cleaning. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Why do we contain areas of your home?

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Bedroom containment the SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus way!

When entering your home or business, we analyze the best approach or game plan for a successful remediation and restoration service. In some cases, we use containment methods in order to keep a safer work environment for our team as well as to prevent further damage to your property. When performing mold remediation services, containing the affected area is detrimental where there is more than one tenant in the residence, or when mold spores may contaminate unaffected areas. Another reason to contain an area is when carpentry services are being performed, such as to contain sawdust. Building a proper barrier consist of using 6mil plastic, commercial-grade tape, and zip poles. Aside from the materials, our expertise comes into play when assembling it properly. Incorrect assembly will be counterproductive. Our goal with containment is to save our client costs, possible health, and safety concerns. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Ways winter weather can affect your home, and how you can prepare and prevent

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Winter weather can strike in different ways, mainly the low temperatures and snow can cause damage to your home. Here are a few examples and tips on how to prepare and/or prevent such disasters to your home or business.

• Snow on the roof - An accumulated amount of snow on your roof can cause condensation and ice dams on your gutters, to avoid this you can remove the icicles as soon as you see them and repair any damaged shingles right away.
• Ice dams - Heavy ice dams can add weight to your gutters causing them to either fall off or decay. A way to prevent said damage is to remove the icicles as soon as you notice them and add melting agents that can be found at your local hardware store.
• Cracked Caulk - Low temperatures can cause your caulk to crack, this can lead to cold air seeping through. If you see your caul cracking be sure to apply new caulk, this will also help you save money on your electrical bill.
• Chipped or cracked concrete - After a snowstorm, we usually shovel our driveways and sidewalks to help avoid slips and falls, if you do not use the correct tools you could be causing future damage to your concrete. Be prepared for the next snowstorm, buy rubber edge shovels instead of metal, and avoid de-icing agents with harsh chemicals.

We hope that you found these tips helpful. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Kitchen fire causes soot damage!

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened."

Did you know that 2 of every 5 house fires start in the kitchen? Cooking is a big responsibility that should not be taken lightly. While cooking, food should never be left unattended. Use a timer while cooking, this will help remind you when your meal is ready. Keep all mittens, cleaning rags, plastic food containers, and any wooden cooking spoons or utensils away from the stovetop while cooking to prevent a fire.

Kitchen fires leave soot damage and debris that can be hazardous to your health if you stay in that affected area for too long. If you have a kitchen fire call 911 right away if necessary. When you are ready to start restoring, give us a call. Our team is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Christmas tree care

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Holidays!

This season brings joy and beautiful traditions. One of the traditions that we think of when celebrating Christmas is the Christmas tree. Though real Christmas tree’s are beautiful when lit we have to be cautious when caring for one in our home. If a tree is not watered properly it can become dry and catch on fire. Be sure to check the water level on your tree daily and water as needed. Also, strategically place your tree away from any heat sources. Make certain that the lights on your tree are not damaged. Most importantly, enjoy the season!

Helping our community this Holiday season

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Help your community this Holiday season

Along with the Clarksburg Chamber of Commerce and the Clarksburg Closet organization we were able to lend a helping hand to community members in need. This week we collected over 500 coats for children and adults in need this winter. The Clarksburg closet will distribute all items collected to families in need. Remember that this is the season to give back, help a neighbor in need.

Turkey frying tips and tricks

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid this for the holiday season!

The Thanksgiving holiday is finally here, and with that comes many fun recipes. One of them being the popular fried turkey. Though fried turkey is very delicious there are many precautions to take when frying. Here are a few do’s and don’ts.

Do’s:

- Make sure to set up the deep fryer away from your home

- Set the frying pot on the cold burner and then turn on the burner

- Make sure to use your mitts and apron while frying turkey to avoid contact with hot oil

- Set a timer to remind you of your cooking time

Don’ts:

- Do not set up the deep fryer on a patio

- Make sure turkey is patted dry before placing it in hot oil

- Do not allow children or pets near the hot fryer

- Do not use water to cool off the hot oil

We hope you find these tips helpful. Always remember that SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help. Happy holidays from our family to yours.

Is your thermostat set properly?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

The adequate thermostat setting may help you save money

During the climate change from summer to winter, you should adjust your thermostat temperature accordingly. This will help make your indoor environment more pleasant and in turn will help you save a few dollars in the process. Did you know that you can save 10% a year on heating and cooling by setting back your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day from its normal setting? This means that if you’re away from home during the day, adjusting it will be ideal for you. If you spend most of your time at home you can set your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day in the winter season. In the summer season the same strategy will apply, the thermostat should be set at 78 degrees. Avoid setting the thermostat at a colder/hotter setting than normal, this will result in excessive cooling/heating, therefore creating unnecessary expense.

We hope that you found this information helpful during this transitioning time. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help.

To-do list before moving into your new home

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Tips for preparing to move in!

The purchase of a home is one of the biggest and most important purchases we make. After the process to finalize the purchase we are in a bliss of emotions; Happy, excited, overjoyed, etc. Right now that the market is booming, we would like to share a few tips on what we recommend you take care of prior to moving in.

- Change the locks to your doors.

- Find and label your main water shut off valve. This will come in handy if you happen to have a broken water pipe.

- Find and know where you electrical box is, just in case you have an emergency.

- Find and label your main gas shut off valve, if you have one.

- Create an escape plan in case you have an emergency and have to evacuate quickly.

- Clean the carpets if necessary before the heavy furniture is delivered.

- Have your ducts cleaned if necessary, you do not want dust circulating in your home.

We hope that you have found these tips helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

The water restoration process, the SERVPRO way!

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO, Water Restoration Professionals

We would like to explain the restoration process for those who haven’t experienced a water loss. We hope this gives you insight and a better idea on how to handle the situation should you need assistance.

Initial call: When you call our office with a water loss we focus on gathering as much information as possible, this will help us prepare before we arrive.

Assessment process: At this point we analyze the loss and determine what the best approach will be. This includes determining the category of water.

Water removal: We continue with removing excess water with our water extraction equipment. We also remove any porous material that can not be salvaged.

The drying process: Once excess water had been removed, we start the drying process. We strategically set our dehumidifiers and air movers in the affected area, according to the IICRC standards.

Cleaning and sanitizing: When the affected area is dry we remove our equipment and proceed with cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas. We apply antimicrobial products where necessary.

Reconstruction: In some water loss cases we have to remove drywall, carpet, hardwoods, or other materials. Once we have completed the water mitigation, we put it all back what ever we removed.

If you would like more information regarding our water restoration process, give us a call at (301)332-0766. We hope this information was helpful. Always remember that your local SERVPRO is here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

We use our own products!

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

We use top of the line products in your home or business!

Did you know that SERVPRO makes their own chemicals? Well now you know! How does this affect the home or business owner? Well, it means that we’ve customized our products and services to fit your needs. Our chemist creates products that are both effective and safe for your home or business. Our chemicals also CDC approved, and they are environmentally friendly. Whatever our chemists do not make, they properly vet to make certain that it meets our high standards in product efficiency. When you choose SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus, you choose top of the line products also.

Know the difference between storm warning and storm watch.

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Do you know the difference between watch and warning?

With all of the flash flooding that we've seen in our area lately, your local SERVPRO wanted to share some helpful information.

 The meaning behind "storm watch" is indicating risk of hazardous weather, in other words, beware of a possible storm. This is to encourage us to have a plan in case of a life threatening storm, this could include a shelter in place plan. 

 The meaning behind "storm warning" is indicating that a storm event is occurring, imminent, or likely. This wording is telling us to take action to properly protect property, and most importantly life. If you see this wording, you should safely put items that are likely to fly away inside. You should also seriously consider a shelter in place plan. 

 We hope that you found this information helpful! 

Are you disaster ready?

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Are you prepared?

As an expert in the restoration industry, we feel that our input is helpful when preparing for a disaster. In the month of September, we focus on helping our community prepare. A big aspect for preparing is knowing what you have, and what you need. We have compiled a list of items that you may want to have in your home, just in case you need to shelter in place. 

Emergency Supply Kit

• 3 day supply of Water (1 gal per person, per day)
• 3 day supply of Food (preferably non-perishable)
• Manual can opener
• Battery powered flash light
• Battery powered radio
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone with back up battery 
• Wet-towelettes, trash bags, plastic bed sheets (personal care items)
• First Aid kit
• Small tool kit (include pliers in case you have to turn off utilities)
• A copy of local maps

We hope that you have found this information helpful! Always remember that you SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

Wooden floor care

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Proper wooden floor care may prolong it's life!

Adding wooden floor is a great way to beautify an area in your home. The question becomes, do you know how to care for your wooden floor properly in order to prolong its life? Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help with a few easy tips on how to care for your wooden flooring.

-Place pads underneath furniture to prevent from scratching or scuffing

-Dust or sweep your floor as frequently as possible (once a day)

-Clean all spills right away

-Keep your room temperature between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent cupping, splitting, or gapping of the wood floor

-Request that wet shoes be removed before entering

-Re-finish your floor every 3-5 years, or as needed

 Follow the manufacturers recommendations; They made it, they can show you how to take care of it best. We hope you have found these tips helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help.

Does pollen damage my car paint?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Pollen can damage your car paint

While our car sits idle, we wonder if the thin layer of pollen can affect our paint? Well, yes it can, and will if you do not wash it off as soon as possible. Here’s a not-so-fun fact, pollen is high in acidity and activates with rain water. To preserve the paint on your car it is recommended that you wash the pollen off of as needed with water. By removing the pollen you extend the life of your paint. The longer pollen sits on your car paint, the more it is likely it is to oxide and stain your paint. It is recommended to wash, or pay someone to wash your car every week or bi-weekly, this way you frequently reset your time through pollen season. If you choose to do it yourself but do not have access to a water hose consider using a spray bottle, once you’ve sprayed the car down, wipe it with a cloth rag. This may take a little bit of time but it can save you lots of money in the long run. We hope you find these tips helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Keep warm during the cold winter days!

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare for cold weather!

Though we enjoy the winter season and its beautiful snowy days, we must be cautious and prepared for the cold weather. We would like to share tips and information, courtesy of the American Burn Association, on what can be done to avoid sicknesses like Hypothermia. First off, Hypothermia is considered a medical emergency, which averages 1,300 deaths per year in the U.S. Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature cools down to a life-threatening level and sometimes accompanies frostbite injuries. Signs of hypothermia include slurred speech, shivering, weakness, confusion, drowsiness and/or loss of consciousness. If you feel any of those symptoms seek medical attention as soon as possible! If you are planning a day out in the cold weather, please see the tips below.

• Pay attention to weather forecast
• Dress in several layers of loose clothing, wear hats that fully cover the ears, wear warm boots and mittens
• Drink plenty of warm fluids but avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Avoid or limit outdoor activities when the temperature nears or dips below 5°F (-15°C)
• Take frequent breaks indoors from the cold

We hope you found those tips helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened."

Can my live Christmas tree catch on fire? Yes it can!

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Enjoy your Christmas holiday without a Christmas tree fire!

Did you know that Christmas trees alone result in 13 million dollars, annually, in property damage? More importantly, these fires present real risk towards family and friends. According to the American Christmas Tree Association, 77 percent of US households will celebrate Christmas with a Christmas tree. If a live tree is a must for the Holiday season, please read the following safety precautions to help prevent a Christmas tree fire.

• When purchasing a live Christmas tree, look for a tree with vibrant needles that are hard to pluck and don’t break easily from its branches.
• Look for a tree that isn’t already shedding its needles.
• Place your tree in a strategic place, away from heat sources like fireplaces, candles, heat vents or lamps.
• Keep your tree filled with water to avoid dry out.
• Throw out damaged Christmas lights.
• Turn off your Christmas lights before bed every night.

We hope you will find these tips helpful. Always remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened."

How to react when a fire occurs at home

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Panic, call SERVPRO!

As the holiday season quickly approaches and home kitchens become makeshift restaurants, it is important to understand fire safety and to have protocols in case of a fire at home. The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus professionals provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings, and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible. We are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to help you regain control quickly.

WHAT YOU CAN DO UNTIL HELP ARRIVES:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.

• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.

• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery

• Do not clean any electrical equipment

• Don’t not send clothing to dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

A backdraft of emotions often sweeps over the owners after a fire ravages a home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property can overwhelm the owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

So after the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let us at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus help you restore it. With the industry approved training to employ rapid response, the utmost professionalism, cutting-edge technology and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home, but the customer’s peace of mind, as well.

Do you have an Emergency Ready Plan in place?

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Are you emergency ready?

In the restoration industry we run across many businesses that aren’t prepared for a disaster like a flood, fire, or mold. Statistics show that an overwhelming 50% of businesses that planned for a disaster reopened after the plan was executed. 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. How can your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus help you? We can put together an Emergency Ready Plan for your business at no charge to you. The Emergency Ready Plan consists of the following,

• We come to your business for a no cost assessment of your facility.
• We identify and label your main shut off valves for water and gas.
• We gather all of your important contact information including building emergency contact person, your plumber, your electrician, and local emergency contacts. Once we gather all of the important contacts we put it in a neat folder for your safe keeping.
• As we walk your facility, we also inspect for any concerns that we come across.
• We also keep a record of this information so that if you may need our services we know where everything is located and are able to get you back to business ASAP!

Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus has your best interest in mind. Feel free to reach out to our staff to schedule your FREE Emergency Ready Plan consultation. Remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened."

National Preparedness month at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Hope for the best, plan for the rest.

For the entire month of September, The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors National preparedness. This month, SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus also encourages everyone to take steps towards preparing for disaster in their home or business. Remember to consider everyone in your household, and make the accommodations necessary for each person. Below is a survival kit inventory list, courtesy of the American Red Cross Association.

At a minimum, you should have the basic supplies listed below:

1. Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
2. Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
3. Flashlight
4. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio(NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
5. Extra batteries
6. Deluxe family first aid kit
7. Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
8. Multi-purpose tool
9. Sanitation and personal hygiene items
10. Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
11. Cell phone with chargers
12. Family and emergency contact information
13. Extra cash
14. Emergency blanket
15. Map(s) of the area

Consider the needs of all family members and add supplies to your kit:

• Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc)

• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)

• Games and activities for children

• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

• Two-way radios

• Extra set of car keys and house keys

• Manual can opener

Additional supplies to keep at home or in your survival kit based on the types of disasters common to your area:

• Whistle

• N95 or surgical masks

• Matches

• Rain gear

• Towels

• Work gloves

• Tools/supplies for securing your home

• Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes

• Plastic sheeting

• Duct tape

• Scissors

• Household liquid bleach

• Entertainment items

• Blankets or sleeping bags

We hope that this list gives you an idea of what you need in your home or business in order to be prepared. Keep in mind that a disaster can happen at any time and it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

July 4th safety tips from your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Happy 4th of July!

July 4th is a day to celebrate with friends, family, and fireworks! While enjoying such a festive occasion, be sure to keep your family and home safe. Bellow are a few tips to consider when celebrating with fireworks.

• Have a fire extinguisher handy, just in case.
• Supervise children handling fireworks.
• Soak fireworks in a bucket of water before putting them in a trash can.
• Light the fireworks at arms length and then stand back.
• Do not attempt to re-shoot fire works that did not initially fire.
• Set your fireworks in an open space, not to close to your home.

We hope everyone has a fun and safe 4th of July. Always remember that your SERVPRO ofPoolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm water intrusion awareness from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage? SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help!

During spring we see lots of flash storms. Flash storms leave catastrophic damage in their path in no time. Rain water is considered, what we in the restoration industry call category three water. Category three water is considered black water, which has the potential to cause health concerns such as respiratory problems. When a home is contaminated by black water, we recommend that you leave the home until it has been properly decontaminated. Our duty is to properly clean and restore your home and belongings. We believe in restoring instead of replacing. Trust that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus will take care of your home and get you back to its prior to loss condition as soon as possible.

Duct cleaning, the SERVPRO way!

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Happy ducts, happy house!

When moving into your new home or simply just to keep a clean home, a duct cleaning is essential. Sweep away bacteria and dust accumulated in the ducts of your new home. By performing regular duct cleaning you potentially extend the life of your HVAC system as well as your ducts. You also reduce chances of health risks that steam from dust, dirt, and fungi accumulated in your ducts. Our goal when performing a duct cleaning is to remediate bacteria, restore peak energy efficiency, and eliminate offensive odors. You can trust that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus will get it done right the first time.

 The SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus duct cleaning process:

1. We begin our process by using our patented roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the shape and diameter to the ducts. The roto-scraper removes debris and filth before we the vacuuming process begins.
2. Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a collection container.
3. Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environmental clean.
4. Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and soil.

Call us today for a free duct cleaning estimate! Your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened."

Allergy season in full effect!

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always here to help!

Do you or anyone in your household suffer from allergies? Though the season brings many contributing factors to allergies, there are also causes that may not be related to the seasonal change. The cause may be that your home is simply just not clean. For example, if you have a pet like a cat or dog, cleaning their dander may help minimize your allergic reactions. Another example is dust, dust particles can cause sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion etc.

 Aside from allergies, different aspects of your home can cause discomfort. An odor can cause discomfort and or headaches. An odor like mold is not one to take lightly, mold can lead to serious health issues. Take the necessary precautions to keep your family healthy this spring.

 Here are a few services that we offer that may help you feel better inside your home.

• A good old fashioned duct cleaning
• Mold Remediation
• Mildew cleanup
• Pet dander cleanup
• Deodorization
• Carpet cleaning

Your trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus can help you get nice and tidy this spring. Call us today for more information on the specialty cleaning services that we offer.  

Where do mice hibernate during winter? Possibly inside your house!

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Biohazard Clean-up from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

As we all know, during cold temperatures, we try to stay indoors as much as possible. Have you ever asked yourself, where mice hibernate? Well, possibly inside your house! They also want to keep warm during the winter months. A small sign of a mice infestation can be tiny black feces no bigger than a sesame seed. Bigger signs are holes chewed out of food containers or even drywall. In these cases the best thing to do is to get a pest control provider to come out and take care of your unwelcomed guests.

 Your next step is to hire the rite professionals to come and clean the mess left behind. Rodents carry diseases like the Hantavirus, which can cause life threatening diseases with flu-like symptoms. In some cases just breathing in the contaminated dust can make you sick.  By attempting to clean after rodent urine or feces you expose you and your family’s health. Call SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus to properly clean and disinfect your home. Our team of trained professionals have the experience and the now-how to properly clean and disinfect your home. Trust your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Snow storm tips from your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your property from winter storm weather.

Winter weather is here! It is time to dust off and take out those snow shovels, it looks like we will be needing them today. Although snow is a beautiful thing to see, it can cause damage to your home. Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to help with a few pointers on how to keep your home safe from damage due to a snow storm.

1. Remove snow from basement stairwells and window wells, melting snow can lead to water damage and moisture intrusion.
2. Drip all faucets in your home continually during severe cold, including kitchen and bathroom sinks as well as shower and tub faucets, to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
3. Use extreme caution with electric space heaters, keeping them at least a few feet away from anything flammable.
4. If you experience a power failure, use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns instead of candles whenever possible.
5. Keep garage doors closed if there are any water supply lines in the garage.

Remember your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Categories of Water Contamination

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

All water losses are different!

Here at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus safety is our first priority. Knowing how to react when you experience a water loss is vital to you and your families’ health. All water poses potential health problems. It is the single leading cause of disease in the world. Understanding the different types of water contamination levels and their health risks can make a big difference in restoration process as well as minimize your chances in becoming sick. This information will help you determine if you need to evacuate the home or not. Below you will find a description of the different types of water contamination categories.

Category 1 – Clean Water: This water originates from a sanitary water source that does not pose substantial harm to humans. This may include broken water lines, tub or sink overflows with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water supply lines, melting ice or snow, falling rain water, broken toilet tanks and toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives.

Category 2 – Gray Water: This water contains a significant level of contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if consumed by or exposed to humans. Examples of this include discharge from dish washers or washing machine overflows, toilet overflows, toilet overflow with urine, but not feces, and other sources where water has been contaminated.

Category 3 – Black Water: This water is grossly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Elderly, children under the age of 2, and people with respiratory issues should not occupy the facility until the building safe. Examples of Category 3 water are all forms of flooding due to sewage, flooding due to sea water or rain fall (rain, natural disaster), and colored water,

 Keep in mind that every water loss is different, and determining the type of water category you have is the first step towards figuring out what the next step is. Once we establish the water category we put together our plan of action.

The information above was provided by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We hope we’ve provided a better insight on the different water types. Remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Tips on preventing kitchen fires this Holiday season from your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

We wish you a safe holiday season.

The Holiday season is like a whirlwind of different activities, the decorating, the gift wrapping, the cooking! Sometimes it feels like there’s so much to do with so little time. Here at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus we understand the meaning of the “whirlwind” that comes along with the Holiday season. We know that a celebration isn’t complete without a feast to share with your loved ones. Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here with helpful tips to prevent kitchen fires this Holiday season.

• Watch what you are cooking! The leading cause of kitchen fires is because the kitchen was left unattended whilst cooking a meal.
• Keep children at least 3ft away from the stove. Enforce a 3ft area perimeter around the stove for your children to avoid. Younger children run higher risks of being burned from hot food or hot liquids on the stove.
• Use kitchen appliances correctly. Follow manufacturer recommendations when connecting appliances like microwaves, crock pots, steamers, toaster ovens, and any other appliance. Connect these items directly to a wall outlet, using extension cords can overload the circuit and cause a fire.

• Keep flammable items away from the stove. Keeping the following items away from your stove top can potentially prevent a fire in your home. Common flammable ingredients and items: Flour, sugar, cooking alcohols, oils, paper products, wooden spoons, cloth napkins etc.

 Keeping a fire extinguisher in your home is always a good idea. A class K fire extinguisher is most commonly used in the kitchen area. Fire extinguishers should be placed at least 30 feet away from the stove. Always remember safety is the most important aspect when putting together a feast for your family this Holiday season. Keep in mind that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened”.

Christmas tree precautions from your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Happy holidays from your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus!

Though Christmas is a time for celebration, it is wise to be cautious too. Old fashioned Christmas trees were displayed with wax on live tree branches to simulate snow. Since then we’ve grown wiser, and safer. Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is her to help with safety tips to reduce the risk of a fire caused by Christmas trees.

• Be sure to water your live trees, this decreases dryness on the branches. Dry needles and wood are more likely to catch on fire quicker.
• Avoid plugging more than 3 strings into one outlet. It’s best to opt for a power strip.
• Discard light strings that are worn or broken.
• Always remember to turn off your Christmas tree when leaving your home.
• When placing your tree in your home, choose wisely. Make sure that your Christmas tree does not block an exit. Also, try to keep it at least 3 feet away from any heat sources like space heaters, candles, fireplaces, heat vents or lamps.

For this Christmas season keep yourself and your family safe. We hope that you find these safety precautions helpful. Always remember that your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Biohazard and crime scene cleanup from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

We are always here to help, and make it "Like it never even happened"!

There are different types of biohazard contaminants, however all of them are harmful to your health. Weather its blood borne pathogens, crime scene residues, or sewage backups, these situations can pose serious health risks. Your SERVPRO professionals can safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. Here are a few tips on what you can do in case this unfortunate incident happens to you.

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
• Treatallbodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
• Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

After any incident involving biohazard contaminants your main focus should be keeping your family safe. Keep your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus in mind. We have you and your family’s best interest in mind. Our focus is to get your home or business to its back to its prior state, and make it “Like it never even happened”.

Why SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus?

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Your SERVPRO superheroes!

Who can you trust when you are a victim of a disaster like a flood, or a fire? When these situations happen you may feel vulnerable, or even impotent. You may ask yourself, who should I trust? Will they have my best interest in mind? The question will then become, why SERVPRO?

Reasons why:

• Our team is certified through IICRC for water, fire, mold and bio clean ups.
• We are the leading name in our industry, with years of experience.
• With over 1,700 franchise licenses to operate across the U.S, and Canada, you can believe that we are experienced and trained to take care of you.
• We are a part of a franchise system, but we are also independently owned and operated. You will received detailed attention every time!
• We are your one stop for cleaning, repairing, and managing your loss.
• We work with adjusters! We provide pictures, dry logs, and detailed explanations as to what needs to be done, and what is being done at your home or business.
• We can handle both residential, and commercial losses. With the support of our franchise, we feel confident enough to say that there is no job to big or too small for us.

Remember that having the support of a team like ours can make the difference with how quickly you recover from a disaster. When you think about clean up and restoration, think green, think SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus!

Fall Cleaning tip from your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

What’s in your ducts?

Fall cleaning? Is there such a thing as fall cleaning? Is spring cleaning not enough?

Although adding a chore like fall cleaning doesn’t sound like any fun, it can benefit you and your family’s health! A service that we recommend around this time is a good old fashioned Duct Cleaning. Having your ducts cleaned can avoid health issues like allergies. The dust, dirt, and pollen collected in your ducts can cause issues like worsening asthma symptoms. Not cleaning your ducts can also cause stale odors in your home. Cleaning your ducts will remove mold or other contaminants that may be spreading inside your home now. You may ask yourself, how frequently do I need to have my ducts serviced? That depends on a few different things such as, the size of the home, the amount of people that live in the home, and if you have pets or not.

  Call your local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus to determine how frequently you should clean your ducts, and for your free estimate!

Preparedness Month at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Where is your water shut off valve?

Knowing where to shut off your water source in case of a flood is vital. We don’t mean the sink or water hose, we mean the main shut off. If your home is flooding and you can’t find the source, shutting off the main water valve is your next step. By doing this, you avoid further water damage. We recommend that you label your main water shut off valve with clear lettering, like the picture shown above. If you would like a label like this one, you’re local SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus will be happy to provide one at no charge! Keep in mind that we are always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened”.

Home Emergency Kits from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Are you ready?

One of the things we pride ourselves in is trying to help the community by being prepared for a fire or a water loss. We make an effort to spread the word on being prepared. There is no better time to prepare then before a disaster. In this effort we offer free Home Emergency Ready Kits. This kit contains vital information that will better prepare you for a disaster. Below is a list that the Home Ready kits include, along with essential information you should know.  

• Emergency Supply Check List
• Home Evacuation Plan
• Home Contents Inventory list for each room
• Family Emergency Communication Plan
• Disaster Preparedness Brochure – What You Can Do

Contact us today for your FREE Home Emergency Kit! We will gladly assist you with any questions you may have. Remember that your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help, and make it “Like it never even happened”.

Home Emergency Evacuation Plan

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Get out, and stay out!

Are you ready for a fire, if a fire were to happen in your home? Where would you go? What do you take with you? Who do you call?

Most home owners are not prepared for an unfortunate event like a fire in their home. Fortunately SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is here to remind you. Nobody ever expects to be a victim of a fire loss, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for one.

A home Evacuation plan is a precautionary measure you should review with everyone in your household. It is a sketch drawing of your home including all of the possible exits and escape routes. It’s recommended that you include at least two exits. In your home sketch include all of the rooms in your home, including restrooms. Draw markers like trees, fences, or your mailbox. Each room should have arrows pointing towards the exit route, and towards the meeting place.

The meeting place is where everyone in the household should reunite in case you are separated during the process of evacuation. Keep in mind that during the process of evacuation you should worry about getting out as quickly and as safely as possible, don’t worry about appliances and furniture. Those things are replaceable, you aren’t!

Once you are safely out of your home call 911. They will contact the fire department, police department, and ambulance if needed.

Give us a call for a free sketch sheet for the home emergency evacuation plan. Remember were always here to help!

Mold? Where!

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours?

Mold spores are all around us! Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which just isn’t true. Unfortunately it is impossible to remove all mold from your home/business, however our mold remediation services can reduce the spore count back to its Natural state.

Here are some tips to help you defend your Home/Business from mold.

• Keep the humidity between 30-60 percent in your home.
• Provide the proper drainage away from building foundations.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
• Keep gutters and drains clear from debris.
• Inspect roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building/home and perform necessary maintenance.
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
• Contact SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

Keep in mind that Prompt mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth which can be visible in as little as 48 hours. Protect your home/business from mold!

Call our highly trained team at SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus to inspect your home/business today!

Fire tips from SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus.

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that according to The National Fire Protection Association, Firefighters respond to a fire every 79 seconds? Sounds terrifying, we know! Here are a few precautionary steps that may help you reduce the risk of a fire.

• A working smoke alarm in each room can definitely make the difference in your home. The batteries on the smoke alarms should be inspected monthly, just to make certain that the batteries are still intact.
• Make sure that you have a fire extinguisher in each level of your home; Also that every member of the household knows how to use them properly.
• Reduce the risk of a fire outside of your home. You can do this by removing dead trees, shrubs, and debris at least 30 feet away from your home; also by maintaining your gutters, roof, and eaves clear from debris.
• Be sure to keep candles away from curtains, furniture, and out of the reach of children.

Keep your home safe this 4^th of July, and remember “We’re here to help” should you need your local SERVPRO!

Careful with that grill!

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Be Grill cautious.

After all the spring showers and flash floods this year it is refreshing to know that summer has begun. Along with hot summer nights come delicious barbecues with a grill. While it may seem like something ordinary, a grill is actually cooking equipment which we should be cautious with. Did you know that 9,600 home fires are started by grills each year! You may ask yourself, what can I do to avoid a grill involved incident? According to The NFPA, “five out of six (or 82%) grills involved in home fires were fueled by gas, while 14% used charcoal or other solid fuel”.  Simply changing your methods can drastically reduce the possibility of a grill caused home fire. For more tips and suggestions check out www.nfpa.org . Remember that SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help and make it “Like it never even happened.”

Schools out!

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

Get out, and stay out!

A kid’s favorite thing to hear is that Schools out. Summer time brings so much joy to children. After a long school year they finally get to relax and unwind. To parents however it brings worry, and stress. Will my children be safe at home? If something happens, will they know what to do? SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus has a few tips for you on having your children prepared in case of a fire.

• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like, and what to do when they hear one.
• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from each room, and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
• Establish a family emergency communications plan, and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
• Practice escaping from your house at least twice a year.
• Make sure everyone knows how to dial 9-1-1.
• Teach household members how to stop, drop, and roll in case their clothes were to catch on fire.

For more tips and recommendation’s contact SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus at (301)482-0818. Remember we’re always here to help, and make it "Like it never even happened.”

Faster to your Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus water loss!

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Let the professionals handle it!

Along with a water loss comes a flood of emotions. You may be confused as to what to do next, or who to call. Here are a few tips on what your next steps should be, and whose information you should have handy just in case you have this unfortunate event happen to you.

First steps to follow for a water loss for clean water.

• Shut off the source of water if possible.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.

• Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.

• Remove oriental or other colored rugs/books/magazines from wet carpeting.

Whose information should you have handy?

• We recommend you have an Emergency Ready Plan in place with your local SERVPRO location. This will facilitate the process for both you and your local SERVPRO. In the ERP form we have most of the essential information needed to begin the mitigation process for your home or business.
• Your Insurance Adjuster should be notified immediately after or during your loss.
• Your Plumber should be notified if the loss occurred due to plumbing/pipe issues. If the loss occurred due to those issues they can repair the cause of the of the water loss. Remember that when a water loss occurs you are in a sensitive time frame to be able to recuperate your personal property and prevent further damage such as mold etc...

Have this important information ready just in case. Also keep in mind that our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Your SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus is always here to help!

Emergency Ready Profile - Phone Application

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

ERP

Emergency Ready Profile - Phone Application

In times of emergency it is crucial to be prepared. The Emergency Ready Profile application is a great step in the right direction of preparedness. Download the application in App Store by searching SERVPRO. You can also login and see profiles at www.ready.SERVPRO.com. The application allows the user to:

• Add multiple location profiles.
• Take pictures of shut off locations for fire sprinklers, water, and gas.
• Add insurance information
• Add local police and firefighter phone numbers

There are many other features within the application. One of the most popular is that of sharing the profile. Once the ERP is finished the owner of the profile can share with anyone who needs to be prepared. Now all your emergency personnel can find the shut off location just by opening their shared profile.

We never hope that you have an emergency in your home or business, but if it does, we hope you are prepared. And like our motto says, we are always here to help!

Bathtub and Dishwasher Overflow

10/30/2017 (Permalink)

bathtub

Bathtub overflow: It’s important to make sure that fittings, seals, pipes, etc. are inspected thoroughly to prevent issues such as water damage.

The bathtub overflow drain can be the cause of a leak, even though it is not the first place you'd usually suspect. A water stain in the ceiling below a bathroom is often the first sign of a problem with a tub overflow drain.

Dishwasher Overflow: Is this something you've experienced before? "Why is my dishwasher leaking, where is it coming from?" There are many questionable factors for why a dishwasher is leaking

In these cases, make sure to contact a licensed and trained professional, like SERVPRO, to fix the issue. Our technicians source out the problem and fix the surrounding areas affected by water damage. It's not a fun experience dealing with any type of unexpected home repair, or disaster. However, SERVPRO helps alleviate your stress and turn your home back to a comfortable and functional space. While catching the problem early, it saves time and money.

Duct Cleaning

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning

Taking forever to dry your clothes?

Does your furnace sound like a freight train?

More than likely this is because your air or exhaust ducts are in need of an extensive cleaning and the filters changed out.

When the dust builds up in your air ducts and exhaust system it causes your dryer and HVAC system to work overtime and shorten the life of these expensive items. Not only is this bad for your appliances and mechanical system, it's also a fire hazard.

When to Call Professionals for a Duct Cleaning Service?

• Call when dust begins appearing shortly after cleaning.
• Call when musty or stale odors are appearing when a furnace runs.

 Why Should You Call?

• Avoiding an air-duct clean could affect anyone living in the house with allergies or asthma.
• Dust, dirt, and pollen are pulled into the air duct system.
• Dismissing an air duct cleaning service could possibly leave room for mold, bacteria, fungus, and mildew to form.
• This will circulate whenever the furnace turns on.
• The services offered remove any mold or other contaminants providing a clean air circulation throughout your home.

The benefits of servicing Your HVAC Unit Include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Be sure to clean out your air ducts and vents at least once a year in order to keep the airflow in your house clean and safe. Call to schedule an appointment today.

Types of Contaminated Water

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Did you know that there are three different types of contaminated water that can cause water damage? The three different types of contaminated water are clean water, gray water, and black water. SERVPRO comes across all of these types of water in the field. Here are the 3 major differences.

Clean Water:This type of water generally comes from a clean source like a broken water supply line or faucet. Depending on the time it has been left, the temperature, contact with bacteria, and surrounding contaminates, this water can quickly become gray or black water. This is the most common type of water damage.

Gray Water:  This type of water and water damage can cause discomfort or illness as it likely contains bacteria and illness. When left untreated, gray water will quickly become black water and the water damages associated with black water is much worse.

Black Water:  This water and its water damages generally spawn from sewage, biological hazards, or flooding from rivers and streams. If left untreated, it will cause microbial growth, severe illness, and even possibly death.

The best solution when there is any kind of flooding or water damage is to have it treated as soon as it is noticed. Hiring a professional company like SERVPRO is recommended as they can give advice on why the flood occurred, the category of the flood, and how to prevent water damages.

Are You Prepared?

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Damaged Building

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere.  Each year, Americans cope with an average of  the following intense storms*:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.  * Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

How to be prepared:

• A gallon of water per person per day.
• Supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a manual can opener.
• Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• Blankets and sleeping bags.
• First aid kit and prescription medications.
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
• Credit cards, cash and extra set of car keys.
• List of family physicians. 
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
• Call SERVPRO to get an Emergency Readiness Plan into place for your facility. The plan can help minimize business interruption in the event of a disaster.

Storm Team

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Houston, TX neighborhood

Hurricane Harvey made landfall as a major Hurricane at Category 4 strength on August 25 causing widespread devastating flooding and wind destruction along the Texas and Louisiana coast. After making landfall, the storm’s track continued through Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, causing heavy rains and additional flooding.

Flooding occurred across Houston, Beaumont and Port Arthur in Texas. Rainfall totals exceeded 50 inches in Houston.

SERVPRO has mobilized and deployed the Storm Team, and luckily our franchise was chosen to visit Houston TX and help the residents with the beginning stages of their home clean up.

SERVPRO of Poolesville/Clarksburg/Damascus crew members, Luis, Harry, and Thomas, led by our owner Max, made it down to Texas in record time, and did an amazing job. We are so proud to have them be a part of the SERVPRO Storm Team.

Our thoughts and well wishes go out to any one has been affected by Hurricane Harvey. If you would like to help, please consider these options:

Donate money: The best way to help Texans affected by disasters is to donate money to charitable agencies that are experienced in disaster relief. Before giving money to an organization, do your research!

Donate blood: Blood banks have been urging people to donate since demand for blood is rising. Find your local Red Cross and donate!

Open your home: You can offer to provide free accommodations to hurricane evacuees through Airbnb. The service is waiving all fees until Sept. 25. 

Adopt a pet: If you’re thinking about adopting a dog or a cat, this could be a great time. Animal welfare organizations in Texas, Florida and around the country are likely to take in pets that have lost their owners. Check with your local animal shelter and adopt!

Mold Problem?

9/21/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Clean Up

Mold Damage can be devastating. Once any sign of mold in home or office spaces becomes apparent, people should always reach out to SERVPRO.

After all, unchecked mold growth can ruin a structure:

Your structure can experience substantial dry rot, mold growth behind walls and other damage.
Office spaces may need to be vacated for significant repairs due to commercial mold damage.
Resale values can decline from commercial mold damage and mold in home spaces.

Mold growth behind wall studs can warp walls. Lingering, foul smells can make extensive deodorization necessary.

How to Know When a Home or Business Is at Risk of Mold Damage?

Due to mold's makeup, it can exist insignificantly in many places. As a result, most indoor spaces contain some mold. For structural integrity, owners and lessees must not allow mold growth to proliferate.

People sometimes confuse mildew with mold. Mildew is a fungus that likes flat surfaces. Often, folks can simply wipe away mildew. Though it is also a fungus, mold growth is very different from mildew.

Here are a few things to look out for if you are suspecting mold growth:

Smelly odors
Discoloration on walls, floors or ceilings
Water damage
Damp areas
Cracks in any surface in your structure
Dry rot

SERVPRO Professionals can provide

Mold removal
Mold fungus mitigation
Mold remediation
Deodorization of smelly odors
Removal of dry rot
Expert handling of black mold
Termination of mold growth behind walls

Mold removal services can turn dry rot, smelly odors and other warning signs into memories.

Importantly, total mold removal is an impossible goal. Mold is tiny and abundant, so mold remediation experts carefully cleanse problem areas and help people take steps to prevent the return of mold growth behind wall segments, beneath floor pieces and across ceilings.


Call our professional team for an estimate if you suspect mold growth in your structure.

Flooded Basement in Kensington

2/16/2016 (Permalink)

 A water main break caused a basement to flood in Kensington, MD. This picture shows the mess left behind after all water had receded. 

SERVPRO of Kensington/Wheaton was called in to clean up the aftermath! The owner was thrilled and said "This basement has never looking this good in the 24 years we have owned this property."

Welcome

10/30/2015 (Permalink)

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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small