Bonfire Safety

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfires can be outdoor fun no matter the season. Residents of York County can often times have their very own small bonfire. There are times when a Permit is required, check out this link to apply for a permit Open Burning Regulations | York County, VA

Follow these helpful tips for a bonfire:

Approved bonfire permits typically require that the bonfire be located at least 50 feet from any structure on the permittee property and not less than 250 feet from any structure on adjacent property. Bonfires shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable extinguisher (minimum size 3A40BC) or approved on-site fire extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, and garden hose shall be available for immediate utilization. Other conditions may be established as determined during the permit review and approval process.

Check out this site for more information

https://www.yorkcounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/704   

 Homeowners can burn small piles of yard debris, leaves, and brush as long as they meet these requirements: Between February 15 and April 30, State forest laws prohibit open burning before 4:00 p.m. (may burn only until 9:00 p.m.).  check out this site for more information

 https://www.yorkcounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/706

• The burning pile is 50 feet or more away from the dwelling.
• It is in a controlled pile where there is no opportunity for fire spread.
• The burning pile must not contain any refuse of plastics, rubber, hazardous materials, or petroleum products.
• Any pile larger than normal household brush clearance MUST have a permit issued from the Fire Marshal's office, especially burning for the purposes of land clearing. If a permit is required, it MUST be obtained by the Fire Marshal's office at least 14 days prior to the start of burning.

There are also some general safety precautions to bonfires in general:

• Check the weather. Never build a bonfire on a high-wind night.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case the fire begins to spread. It is important to be prepared in case of emergency.
• Keep a close eye on the bonfire as well as children nearby. This will help protect others around you.
• Do not burn aerosols, canisters or anything containing foam or paint. These types of chemicals have extremely flammable ingredients that can cause fire to spread or produce toxic fumes. Containers of these products could explode, causing injury.
• Ensure the wood you are burning is dry and seasoned. This means no railroad ties, nothing coated or treated and no furniture should be thrown in the fire.
• The pile shouldn't be bigger than 5' x 5' to keep the flames containable.

The most important part of a successful bonfire is making sure that it is put out properly. After the bonfire is done, turn over the charred materials with metal shovels and rakes, and douse the area with water. Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool. Leave only when they’re cool to the touch.

Follow these safety tips to have a fun and successful bonfire.

Did you know batteries can be dangerous?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Experts recommend replacing the batteries in your home’s smoke detectors at least twice a year.  Every time we change the clocks we should change the batteries in our smoke detectors. 

Disposing of old batteries isn’t always as simple as throwing them in the trash. What are you supposed to do with the old batteries?

Batteries can be especially dangerous when disposed of together. In one instance from April 2011, a man accidentally burned down his family’s home with nothing more than a few 9-volt batteries. He had changed the batteries in his smoke detectors, placing the old batteries in a separate bag to recycle later. When the bag was moved, the batteries’ terminals contacted one another, causing the fire.

The best way to prevent this from happening in your home is to place a piece of electrical tape over the terminals of old batteries before you dispose of them.

You should store new batteries in the packaging they came in and not thrown loosely in a drawer.

This simple step can save your home and save the lives of those around you by preventing a fire in an unexpected location like a garbage bag or junk drawer.

If you need SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson to help with a fire damage at your home or business we are only a call away

 Call 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

Customer Reviews

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

It’s a great day at SERVPRO® of York, James City County, & Poquoson we are proud of the reviews we receive from our customers. We strive for excellency and 5-star reviews in everything we do.

Here are some recent reviews from google.

"SERVPRO® has given me their full attention which I needed during this time. Throughout the many interactions with the office staff and the onsite crew everyone was patient!"

"SERVPRO® always goes above and beyond to take care of their clients. The staff is always friendly and they are always willing to explain each step of the process. We appreciate their hard work!"

Call us today!

When you need emergency services for your home or business, we are only a call away.

757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

https://www.SERVPROyorkjamescitycountypoquoson.com/

HIdden Water Damage

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

We can help make sure your home is dry.

Call Us For Your Water Damages!

Our technicians  are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your home or commercial business. SERVPRO® of York, James City County & Poquoson are here to help. Call us at 757-229-3442.

SERVPRO® of York, James City County & Poquoson have been restoring water damages in the area for years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Here are some examples of the types of technology and equipment we use to help our customers save time and money:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• We use infrared cameras to identify water locations for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

How Do We Handle Water Damages

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

We are here to help.

If you experience a water damage, it’s important to call professionals. Contact SERVPRO® of York, James City County and Poquoson at 757-229-3442 to get the help you need. We’re available 24/7 to serve you.

Residential water damage requires professional assistance to limit damage to furniture and other belongings, as well as guarding against mold growth and odor issues. Excess water in a home can be the result of a leak after heavy rainfall, a broken pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance. In some cases, the amount of water can cause problems with your flooring or other structural components of your home. SERVPRO® has trained technicians who are ready to assess the damage and bring your home or business back to normal safely.

Water damage assessment

When you call in the water remediation specialists at SERVPRO®, we immediately get to work assessing the extent of the damage. We determine if damage is limited to belongings, or if the damage is more widespread such as walls, flooring, roofs, etc. We determine the scope of your water damage, inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and establish how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Water removal and extraction

 Time is of the essence to keep damage to a minimum, the water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water that is visible. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove substantial amounts of water from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. Once the water is removed, we then focus on drying.

Drying impacted areas

The goal of the drying process is to dry the affected area thoroughly. We use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business. Lingering odors commonly dissipate once the area is dry. We use portable extraction units to remove and dry water. Dehumidifiers can help to replace moisture with drier air as well as removing it from fabrics. Finally, we can use spray deodorizer on surfaces to ensure the offending odor is neutralized while they dissipate.

Cleaning damaged items

The cleaning process comes next. We focus on cleaning fabrics, rugs, or walls while the surface texture is still wet. The likelihood of a successful restoration of upholstery is higher before stains are allowed to set. Using agitative cleaning methods, alongside foam cleaning for sensitive fabrics SERVPRO® can target the damage before it becomes a permanent issue. We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Addressing remaining damage

In some cases, the water damage is substantial and restoration to get it back to what it was pre-water damage. Restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home. A SERVPRO® professional will review all substantial damage assessments and recommendations prior to any work beginning so homeowners are always in the loop.

Water Damage at Home? Let us help.

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

We have more than 50 years of experience in repair and restoration so you can trust us to help you develop a water damage restoration plan to help ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Our customer-focused professionals will assess the residential water damage to your property. Then, we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your home. Our top-notch people use the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson today for any water restoration needs 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

What is an Air Scrubber, and why do you use it?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

This specialty piece of machinery creates a safe working environment for the crews that are working in the damaged environment. Air scrubbers can also prevent damage from spreading to other structural building materials and limits contents from absorbing the odors. 

These devices are utilized to clean the air from the odors and toxic gases that are left over after the fire has been extinguished or the residual odors from a water loss. 

This is achieved by changing over the air in the damaged structure at a minimum of three to four times per hour.  We accomplish this by setting up the machines under positive air flow or negative air flow.  Which type of air flow needed is determined by the situation and or the severity of the job.  This specialty piece of equipment helps  our crews reduce or eliminate smoke or soot residue, ash particles and any other residues which are present after a fire or water damage. 

Some may ask? 

Will an Air Scrubber Help With Bad Odors?

It sure will. When an air scrubber “scrubs” pollutants from the air, it essentially obliterates them – along with their unpleasant odors. Air scrubbers can help eliminate common household odors associated with pets, cigarette smoke, paint fumes, mold spores… and even burnt food!

If you have questions or need help with any deodorization, please call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002

How to Prepare Your Home for A Storm

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

While summer typically means warmer weather, it can also bring a variety of harsh weather conditions, sometimes leading to severe storms.

Homeowners can take preventative measures to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. 

Clear limbs and trim trees

During a storm, dead tree limbs can get loose and cause damage to a home’s exterior or even puncture a window. Heavy rain can also cause trees with shallow root systems to pull out of the ground.

Secure fences

Ensure that your fences are properly secured so to help prevent them from being lifted up and thrown against the house by heavy winds.

Secure furniture

Heavy winds can cause items like patio furniture and large toys to damage the exterior of your home. It’s a good idea to anchor outdoor furniture or bring it indoors before a storm hits. You should also move anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage.

Check gutters

Help prevent damage inside your house by having downspouts drain away from your home and clear your gutters of any debris. This includes making sure your horizontal gutters are free from seasonal leaves that have fallen. 

Protect the critical areas

Wind is a major threat to your roof, windows, doors and garage doors. Either you or a building contractor can build and install temporary protection, such as approved wind shutters or plywood on windows and coverings for patio and entry doors, strengthen and stiffen garage doors, and install heavy-duty door hardware.

Protect your valuables

Protect mementos in waterproof containers and/or take the items with you if you evacuate. Inventory valuables and contents in the home with pictures or video. Note the approximate value of each item and the date of purchase. You can also send an inventory to a family member outside your region for safekeeping. Also, make sure important documents, such as an insurance policy or mortgage papers, are stored in a safe deposit or fire safe box.

Stock a basic emergency kit

A true emergency can leave you without basic services, including electricity, water, gas or sewage, for a few hours or a few days. Stock your family’s emergency kit with enough food, water and supplies to carry all of you through at least three days—and restock your kit once the emergency has passed. Be sure to include:

• Water: One gallon per person per day to cover drinking and sanitation
• Food: At least a three-day supply of food per person
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Hand-crank flashlight
• First aid kit
• Cell phone with charger
• Local maps

Create a family emergency plan

Staying connected is of the utmost importance during an emergency. Designate an out-of-town family member or friend to be your check-in person in case local phone lines are down. Make sure every member of your family knows that contact’s number and has a way to reach him or her—ideally a cell phone and charger or a prepaid calling card.

Choose a local place where your family members should meet if they are separated when an emergency strikes and your home is unsafe. This might be a landmark or even a parent’s workplace.

Know your policy

It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Then, examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

Know Who to Call

It's important to know who to call when there is damage to your home or business.  Get your numbers ready before the need arises.   At SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson we will always work to make your damage  "Like it Never Even Happened". 

Reference: https://news.nationwide.com/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-a-storm/

Mold Present At Your Business?

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

We can help with all of your commercial needs.

Businesses in York and Poquoson face the challenge of living  where mold is a constant battle. Microscopic mold spores float around in the Earth’s atmosphere, waiting for the perfect warm and moist conditions. Once these conditions present themselves, mold will spread quickly through a commercial building. First, we will inspect and locate the source of the excess moisture and make repairs to minimize the potential for the mold to return.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Contact us at 1-757-229-3442 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.

We are highly trained  professionals

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

We have experience working in all kinds of buildings and workplaces, including:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us!

Whether you have a home or a business you can trust SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson to mitigate and remediate the mold  “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 1-757-229-3442

Don't worry, we've got it!

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

We're here to help.

It hard to predict when disaster can happen. With that being said, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan or you can always give SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson a call to take care of it for you. We are always ready to help, even if it is a few days after a storm and tragedy doesn't happen until after. Doesn’t matter is you call us the day of or a few days later, SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson is always prepared and here to help make sure things are back to normal for our customers. Give us a call today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

What to do if a Storm passes through.

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

When a strong storm passes through our community it can catch us off guard.  After the storm has passed and when it is safe it is important to assess the property to determine if damage has occurred and get started with any potential cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson is here to help with your Storm Damage Repair.

Below is some helpful information about different types of storms that can bring on damage to your property and how you may be able to protect its value.

Lighting Storm Damage

Lighting can be so pretty to look at  from the comfort of your home but oh so dangerous at the same time, there are three common types of lightning: cloud to ground, cloud to cloud and cloud to air. Cloud to ground lightning is the most dangerous. The ground is mainly consisted of positively charged particles while the bottom of violent storm clouds have negative charged particles.

Winter Storm Damage

Winter Storms not only wreak havoc but also can cause the formation of Ice Dams. Ice dams are caused by heavy snowfall or ice build-up on your roof. These can go undetected and cause many problems, not the least of which is water damage in addition to structural deterioration and leaks. When water builds up in an ice dam, it backs up under shingles, leaks into a house, and causes major water damage to your property.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a problem for several different reasons. While not only creating an inconvenience - more seriously it can cause major damage to your home or business. If you see visible frost on the outside of your exposed pipes, detect slow or uneven water flow across your property, or feel your walls getting damp, it's critical that you act fast. Even if your pipes haven't entirely burst, it's a good idea to reach out to a restoration expert to prevent any further damage.

The Best Equipment

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

When we are called to a flooded space, it is essential to be able to rapidly determine the extent of water damage in the home or business.

Getting your home or business dry is imperative in the aftermath of water damage. With excess moisture mold and mildew can develop and bacteria can multiply. That’s why SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson uses moisture meters during and after completion of water remediation work to ensure that structures are properly dried.

Moisture meters can reach areas that may be overlooked or not considered as being affected by moisture. These include areas such as basement walls, spaces between layers of drywall, concrete subfloors, and beneath carpet and tile. Identifying potential damage to these lesser-suspected areas can save thousands of dollars in reconstruction later.

SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. 

If you need us we are here to help!

Safety - Why SERVPRO

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Safety- Newsline

Wireless Emergency Alerts or WEAs are emergency messages sent by authorized government alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners included local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. Alerts received at the right time can help keep you safe during an emergency with WEA, alerts can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm's way, without need to download an app or subscribe to a service WEA may share:

• Extreme weather warnings
• Local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action
• AMBER Alerts
• Presidential Alerts during a national emergency

A WEA will look like a text message on your mobile device. The WEA message will typical show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.

If you find yourself needing cleanup after a storm don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson at 757-229-3442 or 1-800-889-5002. 

Is that a Spider Web?

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Soot Webs in Hallway in a house fire in Newport News, VA

Being fire restoration specialists, we have seen a lot of fire damaged homes and businesses in our area over the years.

Fires create heat and release both smoke and soot. Smoke is a vapor made up of very fine particles, while soot is a solid made from powdery or oily carbon and tar.

One of the most common visible instances of fire damage are the black spider webs that seem to spring out of nowhere after a fire.  It's what looks like a spider web, but in reality it isn't. 

Soot tags are thread-like chains made from carbon and tar released as a fire burns. They are also called soot webs because they look so similar to spider webs or cobwebs. In fact, most people assume they actually are spider webs.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson for any and all fire needs at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002.  We have the knowledge to both take care of your home and help you learn about what is "typical" in a fire damaged building or home. 

Grilling Safety Tips

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Grilling Safety Tips

U.S. Grilling Statistics:

Did you know that seven out of every ten people in the United States have a grill or smoker? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2014 and 2018, fire departments responded to over 8900 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbeques per year.

SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year and we offer these grilling safety tips from the NFPA to help you stay safe while grilling on a charcoal grill:

Charcoal Grill Safety

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of York, James City County, & Poquoson offers a full range of fire restoration and deodorization services to return your home or commercial business to preloss condition with minimal disruption. Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002. We’ll restore your fire damage in York, “Like it never even happened.”

5 Water Damage Tips, While you wait

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

There is only so much water damage mitigation you can do on your own. At the end of the day, when water damage is causing you problems, you need professional help FAST to get it cleaned up and your property restored. If you are struggling with water damage of any source, contact SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson for the high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services you need. Our number is 757-229-3442, and we are available for 24/7 emergency services. 

When your property has suffered a burst sewer line, a pipe that is leaking, or a natural disaster, it can often leave your home severely water damaged. In such situations, it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly to prevent further destruction. 

It can be enormously stressful to deal with water damage, with it potentially leading to all other sorts of problems down the line. While it’s important to get repairs done by professionals, there are a few things you can do to help limit water damage where possible as well. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing five DIY water damage restoration tips you can use to immediately begin addressing water damage in your home. 

What Can Water Damage Impact?

Water is crucial for life, but when it gets somewhere it’s not meant to be, it can cause all sorts of destruction. As a homeowner, you should understand what parts of your property are most at risk for water damage. After a storm, flooding, or other type of water damage, always be sure to inspect the following components:

• Drywall
• Insulation
• Wood
• Framing
• HVAC
• Pipes
• Floor coverings
• Etc.

How Severe Are the Damages?

To determine if it’s a water cleanup job you can do by yourself or you should hire a specialist for can be determined by evaluating a number of key factors:

• Water Volume — If you have the right tools, when there is only a small amount of water, you can sometimes manage it on your own. Significant flooding, on the other hand, means it’s time to call a professional. 
• Source of Damages — Certain types of water, such as blackwater and gray water, need to be handled with care, as they may contain contaminants or other health hazards. 
• Severity of Damages — Light damage can generally be handled by homeowners, while significant damage can require more expeditious care and accurate repairs. For example, flooding on an upper floor can lead to water seeping through the floor and into the ceiling in the floor below, causing greater and greater damage the longer it goes unmitigated. 

5 Tips for DIY Water Damage Restoration in Your Home

After getting a picture of the situation, consider the following tips to ensure repairs are done quickly. Be aware that wet materials can start developing mold growth in a day, so there’s little time to wait!

#1: Disconnect Outlets

One of your first priorities after water damage in your home has occurred is to unplug all electronics in the vicinity immediately. You may not yet see the full extent of the water damage, and it’s important to be careful. If electronics become damaged, repairs will generally take longer and be more expensive, with the need for hiring an electrician.

#2: Start Addressing Mold

If you see mold starting to form, there are a few things you can do right away to mitigate it. When it’s a small area, you can cut it out of the wall and dispose of it. It’s also important to stop any air flow in the area to prevent further spread before a mold specialist can stop the contamination. 

#3: Start the Drying Process

While you may not have access to industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and other dry-out equipment that water damage cleanup companies such as SERVPRO do, you can start the dry out process right away. Properly drying out an area will help lessen the damage.

#4: Remove Damaged Materials

Avoid mildew by removing materials such as rugs and insulation that have become waterlogged. Consider focusing on floors and ceilings first, as these areas are the most at risk of causing serious structural damage. 

#5: Disinfect the Area

Water in your home is an open invitation for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. Once you remove the damaged materials, disinfecting the area is important to prevent mold and other potentially health-damaging issues before the restoration process fully commences. Spray surfaces with bleach and wipe them down. 

Get Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in York

If you are looking for guidance or professional help with water damage beyond what you can handle on your own, contact the professional SERVPRO of York for 24/7 support. When your property has suffered water damage, we’re here to get it cleaned up and restored ASAP, saving you on stress and expenses. Don’t wait — get started today! 

With proper care, we can restore your home back to normal. We follow the comprehensive SERVPRO Method for water restoration. Don’t let the expenses or the health hazards become too great — call us now to get the support you need for your home!

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Bonfire Safety

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call us for all your fire needs

Bonfires can be outdoor fun no matter the season. Residents of York County can often times have their very own small bonfire. There are times when a Permit is required, check out this link to apply for a permit Open Burning Regulations | York County, VA

Follow these helpful tips for a bonfire:

Approved bonfire permits typically require that the bonfire be located at least 50 feet from any structure on the permittee property and not less than 250 feet from any structure on adjacent property. Bonfires shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A minimum of one portable extinguisher (minimum size 3A40BC) or approved on-site fire extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, and garden hose shall be available for immediate utilization. Other conditions may be established as determined during the permit review and approval process.

Check out this site for more information

https://www.yorkcounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/704   

 Homeowners can burn small piles of yard debris, leaves, and brush as long as they meet these requirements: Between February 15 and April 30, State forest laws prohibit open burning before 4:00 p.m. (may burn only until 9:00 p.m.).  check out this site for more information

 https://www.yorkcounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/706

• The burning pile is 50 feet or more away from the dwelling.
• It is in a controlled pile where there is no opportunity for fire spread.
• The burning pile must not contain any refuse of plastics, rubber, hazardous materials, or petroleum products.
• Any pile larger than normal household brush clearance MUST have a permit issued from the Fire Marshal's office, especially burning for the purposes of land clearing. If a permit is required, it MUST be obtained by the Fire Marshal's office at least 14 days prior to the start of burning.

There are also some general safety precautions to bonfires in general:

• Check the weather. Never build a bonfire on a high-wind night.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case the fire begins to spread. It is important to be prepared in case of emergency.
• Keep a close eye on the bonfire as well as children nearby. This will help protect others around you.
• Do not burn aerosols, canisters or anything containing foam or paint. These types of chemicals have extremely flammable ingredients that can cause fire to spread or produce toxic fumes. Containers of these products could explode, causing injury.
• Ensure the wood you are burning is dry and seasoned. This means no railroad ties, nothing coated or treated and no furniture should be thrown in the fire.
• The pile shouldn't be bigger than 5' x 5' to keep the flames containable.

The most important part of a successful bonfire is making sure that it is put out properly. After the bonfire is done, turn over the charred materials with metal shovels and rakes, and douse the area with water. Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool. Leave only when they’re cool to the touch.

Follow these safety tips to have a fun and successful bonfire.

Customer Satisfaction

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

We strive for excellent service

It’s a great day at SERVPRO of York, James City County, & Poquoson we are proud of the reviews we receive from our customers. We strive for excellency and 5-star reviews in everything we do.

Here are some recent reviews from google.

"SERVPRO has given me their full attention which I needed during this time. Throughout the many interactions with the office staff and the onsite crew everyone was patient!"

"SERVPRO always goes above and beyond to take care of their clients. The staff is always friendly and they are always willing to explain each step of the process. We appreciate their hard work!"

Call us today!

When you need emergency services for your home or business, we are only a call away.

757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

https://www.SERVPROyorkjamescitycountypoquoson.com/

Hidden Water Damage

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Call us with any water damage needs

Call Us For Your Water Damages!

Our technicians  are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your home or commercial business. SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson are here to help. Call us at 757-229-3442.

SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson have been restoring water damages in the area for years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Here are some examples of the types of technology and equipment we use to help our customers save time and money:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• We use infrared cameras to identify water locations for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

How Do We Handle Water Damages

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Let a PROFESSIONAL help you today

If you experience a water damage, it’s important to call professionals. Contact SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson at 757-229-3442 to get the help you need. We’re available 24/7 to serve you.

Residential water damage requires professional assistance to limit damage to furniture and other belongings, as well as guarding against mold growth and odor issues. Excess water in a home can be the result of a leak after heavy rainfall, a broken pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance. In some cases, the amount of water can cause problems with your flooring or other structural components of your home. SERVPRO has trained technicians who are ready to assess the damage and bring your home or business back to normal safely.

Water damage assessment

When you call in the water remediation specialists at SERVPRO, we immediately get to work assessing the extent of the damage. We determine if damage is limited to belongings, or if the damage is more widespread such as walls, flooring, roofs, etc. We determine the scope of your water damage, inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and establish how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Water removal and extraction

 Time is of the essence to keep damage to a minimum, the water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water that is visible. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove substantial amounts of water from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. Once the water is removed, we then focus on drying.

Drying impacted areas

The goal of the drying process is to dry the affected area thoroughly. We use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business. Lingering odors commonly dissipate once the area is dry. We use portable extraction units to remove and dry water. Dehumidifiers can help to replace moisture with drier air as well as removing it from fabrics. Finally, we can use spray deodorizer on surfaces to ensure the offending odor is neutralized while they dissipate.

Cleaning damaged items

The cleaning process comes next. We focus on cleaning fabrics, rugs, or walls while the surface texture is still wet. The likelihood of a successful restoration of upholstery is higher before stains are allowed to set. Using agitative cleaning methods, alongside foam cleaning for sensitive fabrics SERVPRO can target the damage before it becomes a permanent issue. We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Addressing remaining damage

In some cases, the water damage is substantial and restoration to get it back to what it was pre-water damage. Restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home. A SERVPRO professional will review all substantial damage assessments and recommendations prior to any work beginning so homeowners are always in the loop.

Water Damage at Home? Give us a call

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a water event in your home please call us to help get your home back in order.

We have more than 50 years of experience in repair and restoration so you can trust us to help you develop a water damage restoration plan to help ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Our customer-focused professionals will assess the residential water damage to your property. Then, we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your home. Our top-notch people use the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson today for any water restoration needs 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

We Are Here for Poquoson Businesses

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today at 757-229-3442

While water damage can be dreadful for homeowners it is equally inconvenient for business owners. Unexpected leaks can be disturbing to the average work day for many.

SERVPRO is here! Not only do we help our fellow small businesses but also large commercial warehouses and everything in between. We try our best to get your business back up and running. No matter the cause you can be sure that we are here to aid in the recovery.

It is very important that as a business owner that any water damage is addressed quickly. Prolonged delays in mitigation can result in further damage to your property specifically microbial growth or in other words mold. Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. 

Fact: There are thousands of known mold species, they all require moisture for growth.Molds reproduce by producing large numbers of small spores

If your business is experiencing any water or mold damage give SERVPRO of York, James City County, Poquoson a call today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold

Sewage Back Up, Why?

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

call us today if you have a sewage backup at 757-229-3442

A sewage backup is one of a homeowner's worst nightmares. Caused by clogs or blocks in the sewer line, sewer backups occur when the sewage system gets overloaded, and waste is pushed backwards through the line and back into the home. Backups are commonly found in basement drains, toilets, and bathtub drains.

One of the most common homeowner insurance claims is because of sewer backups. This ends up being a nasty, messy catastrophe in your home, but what is the cause of it? There are a multitude of reasons why you could experience a sewage back up, but here are a couple of the most common.

• Tree Roots
• Clogged Drains
• Sewer Main Blockages

Once a tree root has grown into a sewer line, the line will need to be replaced and often times the tree roots removed or trimmed down. This will be a big project involving digging into the ground and replacing the existing sewer lines.

Clogged drains are one of the most common reasons for a sewer backup. Improper use of toilets and sinks can cause a main sewer line to become clogged. Flushing cleaning wipes, diapers, napkins, and many other hygiene items can cause a sewer line to become clogged over time. Sewer lines are filled with a volatile combination of hair, soap, and dirty water, adding things such as grease or excess kitchen waste can clog the drain and lead to a sewer backup.

These types of issues can occur as a result of clogs that build up over time much like the typical clog you may experience in your household line. With household clogs, you will generally have an issue with specific drains in the house. For example, your toilet may not flush correctly, or your kitchen sink may be draining slowly. With sewer main blockages, the majority of your plumbing will not be draining throughout the house. It's common for water to be flooding back into your home from drain openings. Remember, the first thing you should do to minimize damage is to shut off all water supplies of your home and attempt to block all the drain openings.

SEWAGE back up can be very overwhelming to you as a homeower, SERVPRO is here to help!

Call SERVPRO today! 

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

Do you ever wonder why Fire and Water Damage Restoration Professionals use Air Scrubbers on many of their jobs including fire or water clean-up jobs?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

This picture shows one air scrubber that can be used to help remove gasses, particles and or odors from affected area.

This specialty piece of machinery creates a safe working environment for the crews that are working in the damaged environment. Air scrubbers can also prevent damage from spreading to other structural building materials and limits contents from absorbing the odors. 

These devices are utilized to clean the air from the odors and toxic gases that are left over after the fire has been extinguished or the residual odors from a water loss. 

This is achieved by changing over the air in the damaged structure at a minimum of three to four times per hour.  We accomplish this by setting up the machines under positive air flow or negative air flow.  Which type of air flow needed is determined by the situation and or the severity of the job.  This specialty piece of equipment helps  our crews reduce or eliminate smoke or soot residue, ash particles and any other residues which are present after a fire or water damage. 

Some may ask? 

Will an Air Scrubber Help With Bad Odors?

It sure will. When an air scrubber “scrubs” pollutants from the air, it essentially obliterates them – along with their unpleasant odors. Air scrubbers can help eliminate common household odors associated with pets, cigarette smoke, paint fumes, mold spores… and even burnt food!

If you have questions or need help with any deodorization, please call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002

Fire Extinguisher Take 2

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration suggest that users use the P.A.S.S. technique.

Hopefully you will never be in a situation where you will need it, but it is important to understand the proper techniques for fire extinguisher use in order to keep your home safe and be able to respond in case of emergency.

 With the holidays in full swing, it is important to be aware of your surrounds and keeping an eye out on candles, gas logs, cooking elements and overloaded outlets.

Extension cords should not be connected to another extension cord. When decorating this year, it is important to distribute the outlet usage and not plug too many items in one.

Everyone loves to burn candles while entertaining guest or family or friends just some tips to remember this year Make sure you never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire. Keep burning candles away from furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.

With candles also remember children and pet, always keep them out of reach and remember to trim candlewicks each time before burning recommend ¼ inch

 Check your Fire Extinguisher frequently to make sure it's in proper working order because most fire extinguishers do not come with an expiration date.

If you find yourself in need to use a fire extinguisher remember to P.A.S.S

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Also R.A.C.E

RESCUE, ALARM, CONFINE, EXTINGUISH/EVACUATE.

SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson want you to be prepared and know the importance of fire safety!  If something happens and you need our help, we are a phone call away. 757-299-3442 or toll free 800-889-5002

Do You Have A Storm Emergency Kit?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Every family should have a Storm Readiness Kit, and it's never too early to prepare your family and your home for hurricanes, severe weather or natural disasters. Use this how-to guide to help you prepare storm kits ranging from 48 hours to 1 week or more without electricity. Every family should have a storm readiness kit.

The Basic Kit: 48 hours

This storm kit will get your family through 48 hours without electricity and basic services and help you deal with storm- related emergencies.

Include all of these items in the basic kit:

•  Plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a waterproof duffel bag This will hold your kit.
• General First Aid Kit Bandages, antiseptic wipes, aspirin and non- aspirin pain relievers, gauze, small scissors, antacid, laxatives, anti-diarrhea medication. Many preassembled kits are available at Lowes.
• Large tarp
• Rope or tarp tie-downs
• Flashlights One per family member is best, plus extra batteries.
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• Plastic garbage bags
• Extra propane for gas grill or other cooking device
• Roll of plastic sheeting
• Light sticks
• Blankets One per family member. Sleeping bags are a good alternative.
• Whistles One per family member, to help locate each other.
• This Storm Guide, with important phone numbers filled in.
• Important papers A copy of your insurance policies, health insurance cards, your IDs, government benefit eligibility documents, etc.
• Cash Include small bills.
• Adapter for car cigarette lighter to recharge cell phone
• Map showing shelter locations
• Personal items Toilet tissue, toothbrushes, toothpaste and denture needs, feminine hygiene items, paper towels, hand wipes. If you have a baby in the house, include a supply of diapers, wipes, formula, and any other special needs.
• Paper and pencils
• Non-electric can opener
• Food Two days worth of packaged meats, fruit and vegetables, canned or bottled juice, energy/high- protein bars. Baby food and pet food, if necessary. Check dates and replace expired items every six months.
• Have a three-day supply of water.
• Allow one gallon per person per day. If you have been warned of severe weather and have sufficient time, fill sinks, tubs and buckets with water. This water can be used for hygiene and the water in your kit can be saved for consumption. Ceramic water filters or purification tablets, such as those used by campers, are also great for emergency water purification. Replace water supply every 12 months.
• Prescription medications and other medical needs.

The Upgraded Kit: 3-4 days

If you’d like to feel more comfortable about your ability to survive a severe storm and you have the resources, consider an upgrade of the basic storm kit. The upgraded kit will help you through three to four days without electricity and other services.

Include all of the items in the basic kit plus add the following items:

• Pliers or Multi-tool
• Duct tape and scissors
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses
• Water jugs For additional drinking/hygiene water.
• Wrench if needed to shut off water or gas
• Blankets. At least one per family member.
• Whistles
• This Storm Guide, with important phone numbers filled in
• Important papers
• Cash
• Adapter for car cigarette lighter to recharge cell phone
• Map showing shelter locations
• Personal items
• Paper and pencils
• Non-electric can opener
• Food
• Water
• Prescription medications and other medical needs
• Clothing
• At least one complete change of clothes per family member. Remember to keep current with the temperature conditions.
• Additional Toiletries
• Shampoo, soap, razors, vitamins, contact lens supplies, sun block and insect repellent.
• Rain gear. Enough for at least one family member.
• Books and games. For children and adults.
• Additional food. For two additional days.
• Additional water. For two additional days.

The Ultimate Kit: 1 week or more

If you live in a remote area, care for an elderly or physically challenged child or adult, or if you simply want maximum preparedness, this is the kit for you. It will help you through one week without electricity and basic services, or through catastrophic conditions.

Include all items in both the basic and upgraded kits plus add the following:

• Fire extinguisher
• Paper cups, plates and plasticware
• Dust masks. One per person.
• Additional tarp and rope
• Disinfectant (bleach)
• Ceramic water filter or water purifying chemicals
• Pillows, earplugs and eye covers that may help you sleep
• Matches in waterproof container
• Portable air cleaner with HEPA filter
• Signal flare

For more information and to print your storm guide please visit Make Your Own Storm Kits (DIY) | Family Handyman

What about a Car Emergency Kit? Do you have one?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

We talk about preparing your homes and business for storms & emergencies but many people overlook being prepared in their vehicles too. Since some of us spend hours in our vehicle its important to always be prepared for an emergency.

Here is a list of items you should have in your kits.

Survival Car Emergency Kit

• First Aid Kit
• Water
• Non-perishable foods
• blankets
• seat belt cutter & window breaker tools
• fire extinguisher
• cell phone & charger
• duct tape

Road side Emergency Kit

• flashlight
• toolkit
• road flares or reflective triangles
• tow strap or tow rope
• antifreeze/coolant
• jumper cables
• tire gauge
• spare tire
• tire iron & jack
• aerosol tire sealant

Winter Car Emergency Kit

• non-clumping kitty litter
• ice scraper & snow brush
• foldable shovel
• hand warmers
• emergency blanket

Store your car DIY car emergency kit in an easy-to-grab duffel bag or plastic bin in your trunk or backseat floor, or a built-in toolbox, if you have one.

Food should be stored in a food-grade bucket or plastic dry cooler, which you can include inside your car or as a separate container with your car emergency kit. Be sure to check your kit every 6 months to update expired items.

SERVPRO Of York, James City County & Poquoson wants to make sure that you are prepared in case of a storm or emergency while on the road.

source: The Complete Car Emergency Kit List + [Printable] (utires.com)

Can mold grow on any surface?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today if you suspect mold at 757-229-3442

Yes! If the conditions are right mold can grow on any surface.

How to know if you have mold in your home

• smell

If mold is present, you can smell it, if the smell is worse in a certain room, then mold growth is present.

If you only smell mold when you use your HVAC unit then the mold source could be inside of the vents, ducts or the unit itself.

Mold growth in your home may cause some  issues. 

Places to look in your home for mold

• Laundry Room
• Window Seals
• Refrigerator drain pans
• Chimneys
• Basements
• Attics
• Bathrooms
• Dishes
• Under Carpets
• Toothbrush holder
• Potted Plants
• Outdoor/Indoor rugs/mats

Fact: There are thousands of known species of molds, They all require moisture for growth.

If you suspect there is mold in your home but are unable to locate it, have a professional inspect your home. Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson today  at 757-229-3442 or toll free 800-889-5002!

Reference Fact: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold

Choose Us! Some Ask Why?

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442

SERVPRO strictly adheres and lives up to our motto, “Like it never even happened.”

Our motto implies that we strive to make it seem like it was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never caught fire, like it never leaked, like it never smoldered – whatever the case, our mission is to make it “Like it never even happened.” No matter what “it” is.

Our brand is outspoken! Our brand is legendary. We have established a great relationship with the community. 

We want to improve engagement. 

We want to build a strong relationship with the community and our client. 

We want to capture attention. 

We want to improve brand recall! 

We want to tell you the why? Why this brand? Why this company? Why this service? 

Why this company/service? We have the key to success. We are experts on mitigation. We restore and resolve situations that the ordinary business may not have the knowledge or man power to do so. We train our guys effectively and thoroughly.

Testimonial From a customer: SERVPRO came to our home when our kitchen caught fire. This was the first time my wife and I had ever went through something like this. The technicians were professional and polite. The office answered all of our questions and made us feel like we were in good hands moving forward with the repairs to our home. Without SERVPRO I'm not sure what we would have done. I would highly recommend them to anyone that has to go through a disaster in their house.

Testimonial From A Customer: We are owners of a Townhouse in Williamsburg,Va we had a water damage and your team came out and immediately stated the cleanup process SERVPRO was extremely helpful in removing our furniutre and restoring it and returning it after our hardwood floors were complete. We can't say enough about SERVPRO and how pleased we are. They made this disaster easier to cope with Amanda was our contact person who was wonderful to put up with our calls and questions and scheduling the team to accomplish the various tasks. A special mention to the great team they were efficient, courteous and extremely helpful to us when we were very frustrated with this type of disaster. 

These customers resided in Williamsburg VA. We were so happy to receive this review! We try our best on every single job to achieve greatness. We love getting feedback and that includes the bad as well. We want to become better than we were yesterday. Reviews, communication and constructive feedback help us all in this process

Call us if you are ever in need. If you have any questions, concerns or want more knowledge about our franchise! 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002!

Every Business Needs a ERP!

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James County & Poquoson not only handles residential damage and restoration, but commercial damage as well.

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

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

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

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

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

Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002

Commercial Damage Levels

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James County &  Poquoson not only handles residential damage and restoration, but commercial damage as well.

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

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

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

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

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

Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002

Natural Cleaning Products

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Natural Cleaners

Although it is easy and relatively cheap to buy cleaning products today, here are some natural solutions you can use to bring a new fragrance into your home.

Coffee Grounds

I love a good cup of coffee in the morning, or any time of the day. Many do not think of coffee ground as a natural cleaning solution. Do you want a new tasty smelling air freshener? You can place new or used coffee grounds in a bowl or container and place in cupboards, car trunks, or the refrigerator for a fresh smell. You can sprinkle on vomit let it set and the coffee will absorb so you can easily vacuum or sweep up.

Baking Soda

One of the most versatile products for cleaning, baking soda can be used on almost anything to get rid of odors and clean up stains. My favorite hack for baking soda is to sprinkle on top of a egg, it will absorb it and you can sweep it up easier. You can also use a heavy amount of baking soda on your carpets, leave for a few hours and vacuum up late for a refreshed new smell and feel to your carpets. Sprinkle some at the bottom of the garbage can to get rid of the odors. Use half a cup of baking soda in two quarts of water to scrub down appliances, inside your fridge, and other surfaces like tiles, toilets, and showers.

Lemon juice is another natural substance that can be used to clean your home. High in citric acid, lemon juice is one of the best natural cleaners due to its low pH and antibacterial properties. It can be used to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits, and it's great for shining brass and copper. Lemon juice can also be used to treat stains given its natural bleaching qualities, but that can also be a drawback. It's a good idea to test it out on a hidden area first.

Lemon cleaning applications include:

• Mix lemon juice with vinegar or baking soda to make a cleaning paste.
• Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut section of the lemon. Use the lemon to scrub dishes, surfaces, and stains.
• Mix 1 cup olive oil with 1/2 cup lemon juice to use as a furniture polish for hardwood furniture
• Put a whole lemon peel or orange peel through the garbage disposal—it freshens the drain and the kitchen.

Source https://www.thespruce.com/homemade-and-natural-cleaning-products-1900456#:~:text=1%20Using%20Vinegar%20to%20Clean.%20Vinegar%20cleans%20and,a%20few%20other%20options%20for%20natural%20cleaners.%20

James City County Commercial Water Loss

5/15/2021 (Permalink)

A water incident can strike at your James City County commercial property without notice at any time. The impact of such water damage can be devastating for any business owner, but our trained technicians at SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson can be there fast to get to work as soon as possible. We handle each step of the water removal process through to drying and then disinfecting all affected areas. With one call, we can be there to start in so that your commercial space is “Like it never even happened.”

What Do I Need to Do?

Once you call us at SERVPRO, we send out a team quickly to begin the assessment. If you or your maintenance team can shut off the area to a burst pipe or put towels or blankets down with a flooding incident to keep water from migrating, do so. You can then contact your insurance agent to inform them of the event. We take care of detailing every step of the project to turn everything in for your insurance claim.

Water damage may occur at your Williamsburg place of business at any time. Some of the leading causes include:

•    Frozen or broken pipes
•    Storm floods
•    Natural disasters
•    Leaking roofs
•    Sewage backups, and more

Do you need help with water damage to your commercial property? SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson is available. Give us a call 757-229-3442.

Why SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO CARES

Never fear. SERVPRO is here. Storm damage can be devastating. Heavy rains and winds can contribute to a great deal of damage to your York home. That is why our company has dedicated ourselves to being there for our customers when they need us the most. Rain or shine we are always open 24/7 to answer your calls.

As a homeowner or business owner it is important that you are aware of what range of storm damage your insurance policy covers. Policies usually cover against storm damage. Some include coverage of outside fences, garden sheds, gates and hedges while others may only include the home. At SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson we will make the process as seamless as possible with our trained staff.

Feeling overwhelmed? Set back and relax and allow SERVPRO to help in your time of need.

Experiencing any water or wind damage due to an unpredictable storm? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442!

Know Who to Call in James City County After a Storm

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 James City County, 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.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson acall 757-229-3442.

York Homeowners Stay Up to Date on Storms

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Wireless Emergency Alerts or WEAs are emergency messages sent by authorized government alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. Government partners included local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. Alerts received at the right time can help keep you safe during an emergency with WEA, alerts can be sent to your mobile device when you may be in harm's way, without need to download an app or subscribe to a service WEA may share:

• Extreme weather warnings
• Local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action
• AMBER Alerts
• Presidential Alerts during a national emergency

In case of an emergency SERVPRO of York, James City County, Poquoson is here. Give us a call at 757-229-3442.

A WEA will look like a text message on your mobile device. The WEA message will typical show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take, and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters.

Sever Weather in York

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Do's and Don'ts to Help Minimize Storm Damage

Storms can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americas cope with an average of the following intense storms:

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

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disaster 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.

Know Your Risk.

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action.

Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example.

Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire other to do the same.

Experiencing any damage due to wind or rain? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson at 757-229-3442.

Source: Newport News Storm Ready Community

We Stand with Poquoson Business

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002 for a quote and scheduling options.

Combating COVID-19

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson can help you stop the spread within your Poquoson business or home. Last Year many communities were greatly impacted and plagued by COVID-19. Resulting in the formulation of SERVPROXIDE. SERVPROXIDE is an EPA registered product that helps to protect local businesses, staff, customers, and families alike to regain sense of safety through disinfecting and sanitizing. Many  businesses have fought back through protecting their staff and customers using SERVPROXIDE application. The demand for SERVPROXIDE greatly increased in the winter months. SERVPROXIDE has several types of application options, most popular is our electrostatic fogger.

SERVPROXIDE is a one step germicidal disinfectant cleaner and deodorant designed for general cleaning, and disinfecting of hard, nonporous inanimate surfaces.

Electrostatic Fogging of SERVPROXIDE

SERVPROXIDE is an EPA registered product and using our electrostatic fogging equipment, it can be applied as a very fine mist. The fine mist is attracted to all hard surface areas, even the tightest of spaces. This helps to hit all hard-to-reach surfaces including all high-touch point areas such as: light switches, door handles, keyboards, desk chairs, countertops, and many more. These high-touch point areas are more likely to have come in to contact with the COVID-19 virus.

Conducting Proactive and Reactive Cleanings

We offer two types of sanitizing and disinfection options. Proactive Cleaning, this is determined by recognizing there was not been any knowledge of contamination from COVID-19 and is strictly preventative. Reactive Cleaning is conducted when there has been a confirmed active case of COVID-19 virus in the space, thus SERVPROXIDE is needed to be applied to help disinfect the virus upon contact.

Fast Response Times

Not only do we offer precautionary steps and reactive steps towards the fight against Coronavirus, but we also conduct wipe downs of all hard surfaces as an extra precautionary measure known as washing. Our team is available to give you quotes and an intended schedule for a professional sanitization or disinfection conducted by SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson crews and technicians.

Get a Quote. Call SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson at 757-229-3442,  for a quote and scheduling options.

When Storms or Floods hit James City County, SERVPRO is ready!

5/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 James City County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,900 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson a call 757-229-3442.

Get to Know Our Tools

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

• Moisture Sensor: used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls
• Moisture Meters: used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing us to monitor the drying process.
• Thermo Hygrometers: measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra Low-Volume Fogger: these will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Thermal Foggers: these dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles.

Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Vandalism

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

For many commercial properties like hotels, apartments, or offices there are a range of every day disasters that can strike that don’t include fire or water damage.

Vandalism 

Vandalism is tragically a common issue faced by commercial buildings. Webster dictionary defines vandalism as willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or private property. When an incident occures we are here to help.

SERVPRO professionals are recognized as experts at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damages but also when vandalism happens. It is commonly assumed that you just paint over the graffiti or other methods used. That however is not the case. SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson professionals come in and provide general vandalism cleaning and deodorization services for graffiti, egg and spoiled foods, and human or animal waste. Our professionals are have specialized chemicals that SERVPRO produces to rid a property of smell and remove the cause of the smell.

Are you having any experience with vandalism?Give SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquson a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

We Are Here for Poquoson Businesses

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call today

While water damage can be dreadful for homeowners it is especially inconvenient for business owners. Unexpected leaks can be disturbing to the average work day for many.

 SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson is here! We do not only help our fellow small businesses but also large commercial warehouses and everything in between. We try our best to get your business back up and running. No matter the cause you can be sure that we are here to aid in the recovery.

It is very important that as a business owner that any water damage is addressed quickly. Prolonged delays in mitigation can result in further damage to your property specifically microbial growth or in other words mold. Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. 

If your business is experiencing any water or mold damage give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call 757-229-3442!

FACTS: There are thousands of known species of molds, mold thrives in a moist environment.

REF: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold

Pollen Has Arrived!

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

As the season finally warms pollen is close behind it. Often times it is nowhere near as welcomed as the warm weather. Running noses and itchy eyes do not seem like a dream come true but they are a reality for most people suffering from allergies. Common seasonal allergies include oak, western red cedar, sycamore, maple, elm, birch, ash, cypress, walnut, hickory, and poplar tree pollen and well as a number of weeds and grass varieties. Various symptoms include sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes, ear, nose, as well as throat. To combat this many homeowners, believe that they will be safe from such allergens inside.

Dirty duct work however can cause allergens to follow you inside your home as well. A professional duct cleaning by SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson can be effective at removing potentially disturbing allergens from persisting in your home.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson call at 757-229-3442 

Tips While You Wait - Water Damage

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

call the professionals when you have water damage in your home at 757-229-3442

Sometimes it takes homeowners or business owners as soon as few minutes to a few days to notice. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews. These tips are for clean water sources such as cold supply lines, etc.:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a professional to do so.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water as electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

• Move any painting, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture.

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushion to allow more even drying.

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.

• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet: don’t enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.

• Call insurance company
• SERVPRO cares we can help with any water damage
• we are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Experiencing water damage? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

Having water damage at your home can be stressful and overwhelming, let SERVPRO help get your home back to normal

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

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can hide in unseen places

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 York, James City County, and Poquoson 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.

Call About Our Mold Remediation Services

Basic Mold Information

• The key to mold control is moisture control.
• If mold is a problem in your home, you should call a professional in like SERVPRO clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.
• It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 – 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Homeowner Fire Prevention Tips

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Have a plan

If there is one common practice that everyone was taught in school it was to stop, drop, and roll in the case of a fire. While this common practice has been all but drilled into us in childhood there is one piece of information that is often forgotten in the midst of a fire, preparation. Being prepared in the case of a fire is your best bet for keeping yourself and your family safe. Here are five tips to prevent a fire.

Make sure that all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functional in your home.

Just having a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in your home is not enough. It is extremely important to verify that these instruments are working how they are intended too.

Invest in fire extinguishers and sprinklers.

It is important to have fire extinguished and sprinklers in the home as they can help prevent the spread of small fires. A fire extinguisher should be used when a fire is confined to a small space. Remeber these acronyms when you are using a fire extinguisher

R.A.C.E. RESCUE, ALARM, CONFINE, EXTINGUISH/EVACUATE.

P.A.S.S.

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Stay alert while cooking.

Kitchen fires are very frequent causes of fires. It is important to know how to put out a grease fire. Grease fires is not to be doused in any kind of liquid. A liquid on a grease fire will only work to expand the already growing fire. A better method is if the fire is in a pan to cover it completely with a metal lid or a baking sheet. It is best to also call 911.

Have a plan.

It is very important to not only be avidly working to have a preventative plan in case of a fire but to also to have an up to date backup plan. An escape plan is crucial to ensuring that individuals are calm and not panicked.

Despite how prepared one might be there are still events that result in fires that are uncontrollable. That is where SERVPRO steps in to help. Fire clean up should be left up to a professional that can aid in minimizing the fire damage as much as possible.

If you need any help with fire clean up give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call.

757-229-3342 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

SERVPRO cares and are always here to help!

Be Safe With Your Space Heater

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Be Safe With Your Space Heater

Space heaters are designed to supplement cold rooms and must be used with extreme caution. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home heating fires occur during the peak months of December, January, and February.

According to NFPA - Space heaters are the type of heating equipment most often involved in home heating fires, figuring in two of every five of these fires and accounting for 86% of associated civilian deaths, 78% of civilian injuries, and 54% of direct property damage.

General Guidelines for Space Heater Safety

There are several ways people can prevent accidental fires in their homes. One of the most important is to select heaters that have been tested and certified by testing laboratories. Also, keep areas around the heat source free of paper and trash.

When choosing the placement of the heater, remember the three feet safety rule by keeping everything that can burn at least three feet away from the heat source. Only use the heaters to heat the small space. 

Place the space heater on a hard level nonflammable surface, never on carpet, blankets, or rugs. Never use a defective heater or one that is missing its heating element guard. Make sure you use the proper size space heater for the room.

When purchasing a new space heater, look for a model with an automatic shut-off in case the heater is left on too long. In addition, a tip-switch will automatically cut off the heat if the unit topples over. Even with the safety features, never leave the heater on when sleeping, out of the room, or away from home.

If you use space heaters please use with caution and make sure its not being used inappropriately.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

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

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

call us today to help with your water damage needs at 757-229-3442

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 Poquoson 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
• Sump pump failure
• Inproperly installed downspouts
• Debri in the gutters

SERVPRO is highly trained in water damage restoration including basement and crawlspace flooding. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to remove the water and dry your basement properly.  Our water removal and drying process emphasizes monitoring and documentation to validate your property is dry.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists
• Locally Owned and Operated

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

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 York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

SERVPRO can help get your home or basement back to normal after a flood.

4 Places Mold May Hide

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Know the hiding places of MOLD

Mold is a disaster! Unseen mold can be even worse. These three places are often forgotten about, but are very common for mold growth in homes.

Underneath or behind refrigerators.

Most people do not think about their fridge as anything more than a place to store food. This goes to show that it is very unlikely that anyone is checking behind or even under there refrigerator for anything. Here at SERVPRO we get several calls a week regarding water lines to refrigerators that burst. Sometimes these calls are regarding huge amounts of water coming out, but there is still a percentage that face smaller leaks. These smaller leaks can go undetected for days if not weeks. That constant moisture is a breading ground for mold.

Household plants.

Overwatering indoor plants is a huge cause of mold growth. Not all household plant pots have the proper drainage that is important to keep that plant healthy.

Window Air Conditioner Units.

As the weather in Virginia decides that it is ready to transition into the cold, many residents in New Kent, Williamsburg, and Northern Neck beginning to take their air conditioning units out of there windows to put into storage. There may be a horrid surprise waiting. Air conditions can grab moisture from the air and trap it until it possibly grows into mold that may be seen around ducts and drain pans and potentially on coils.

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.

If you see any visible or suspect any mold in your home give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002. Schedule your mold estimate today!

SERVPRO is only a call away in your time of need

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/14/2021 (Permalink)

a home in williamsburg with soot damange

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 York, James City County, Poquoson 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 – SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

SERVPRO cares and we are here to help with any of your fire, smoke or soot needs.

Four hidden places where mold grows

3/13/2021 (Permalink)

Know the hidden places where mold grows

Mold is a disaster! Unseen mold can be even worse. These three places are often forgotten about, but are very common for mold growth in homes.

Underneath or behind refrigerators.

Most people do not think about their fridge as anything more than a place to store food. This goes to show that it is very unlikely that anyone is checking behind or even under there refrigerator for anything. Here at SERVPRO we get several calls a week regarding water lines to refrigerators that burst. Sometimes these calls are regarding huge amounts of water coming out, but there is still a percentage that face smaller leaks. These smaller leaks can go undetected for days if not weeks. That constant moisture is a breading ground for mold.

Household plants.

Overwatering indoor plants is a huge cause of mold growth. Not all household plant pots have the proper drainage that is important to keep that plant healthy.

Window Air Conditioner Units.

As the weather in Virginia decides that it is ready to transition into the cold, many residents in York, James City, Poquoson beginning to take their air conditioning units out of there windows to put into storage. There may be a horrid surprise waiting. Air conditions can grab moisture from the air and trap it until it possibly grows into mold that may be seen around ducts and drain pans and potentially on coils.

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.

If you see any visible or suspect any mold in your home give SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson a call 757-229-3442. Schedule your mold estimate today!

SERVPRO cares and are here to help

Commercial Loss

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO.

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Municipalities
• Warehouses
• Office Buildings

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, we are prepared for the unpredictable.

Should a storm or major event strike, call SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response

SERVPRO cares and are here to help!

Conditions In Poquoson Might Be Right For Mold

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Call us if you suspect your home has mold issues

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson for mold remediation services. 

When in doubt stay out! Call SERVPRO the professionals for any and all mold need.

FACT There are thousands of known species of molds, it loves moist areas.

REF:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold

Not All Fires Are The Same

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Soot Damage in Kitchen.

There are five main categories of fires and their extinguishers. As a homeowner or a business owner it is important to be aware in order to prevent fire damage. 

Class A

These are the most common type of fires. They involve combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, trash, or plastic. Fire extinguishers under Class A use a water and or various types of dry chemicals to either absorb heat or coat the fire. These are the easiest of the classes to extinguish.

Class B

These involve ignitable liquid or gases such as grease, alcohol, paint, propane, or gasoline. Fire extinguishers under Class B work best on oil or fuel-based fires.

Class C            

These involve electrical equipment such as old wiring in walls, frayed electrical cords, worn out breaker boxes, or faulty appliances. Fire extinguishers under Class C release materials that stop the conduction of electricity.

Class D

These are fairly rare. They involve metals igniting commonly in laboratories and industrial settings such as potassium, magnesium, aluminum, and sodium.

Class K

These involves cooking oils and fats and usually occur when a pan is left unattended for too long on a stove. They are often lumped in with Class B, however the US Fire Administration states that it is in a category of its own. Fire extinguisher under Class K release an alkaline agent to create a foam that traps vapor to put out the fire.

Make sure that you properly use a fire extinguisher with the PASS Method. 

Make sure that you use the RACE method 

RESCUE, ALARM, CONFINE, EXTINGUISH/EVACUATE.

If you experience any fire damage in your home and need remediation give SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442 of toll free at 1-800-889-5002.

SERVPRO is here to help in your time of need

Sources:

https://www.safety.com/types-of-fires-and-extinguishers/

Risk Management for Your James City County Business

2/21/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today if any property loss events occur 757-229-3442

There are numerous hazards to consider. For each hazard there are many possible scenarios that could unfold depending on timing, magnitude and location of the hazard.

More than ever, property owners and managers are seeing the value of performing a risk assessment for their building and their business operations. Assessing potential risks and building a Business Impact Analysis (BIA) can be important tools to prevent costly damage, interruption to business, or safety hazards incidents. 

The BIA should identify the operational and financial impacts resulting from the disruption of business functions and processes. Impacts to consider include:

• Lost sales and income
• Delayed sales or income
• Increased expenses (e.g., overtime labor, outsourcing, expediting costs, etc.)
• Regulatory fines
• Contractual penalties or loss of contractual bonuses
• Customer dissatisfaction or defection
• Delay of new business plans

Here at SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson, we understand the value that mitigation and prevention hold, so we wanted to share some valuable knowledge about risk assessment with our commercial partners!

The steps to risk assessment:

1. Compile a list of assets (people, facilities, machinery, equipment, raw materials, finished goods, information technology, etc.).
2. For each asset, list hazards that could cause an impact. 
3. For each hazard consider both high probability/low impact scenarios and low probability/high impact scenarios.
4. As you assess potential impacts, identify any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the asset that would make it susceptible to loss. These vulnerabilities are opportunities for hazard prevention or risk mitigation. Record these opportunities for prevention and mitigation.
5. Estimate the probability that the scenarios will occur on a scale of “L” for low, “M” for medium and “H” for high. We’ll call this measurement “Probability of Occurrence."
6. Analyze the potential impact of the hazard scenario. Rate impacts “L” for low, “M” for medium, and “H” for high. 
7. Remember to estimate potential financial, regulatory, contractual, and brand/image/reputation impacts.
8. The “Overall Hazard Rating” is a two-letter combination of the rating you determined in step 5, the “Probability of Occurrence,” and the impact analysis determined in step 6.
9. Carefully review scenarios with potential impacts rated as “moderate” or “high.” Consider whether actin can be taken to prevent the scenario or to reduce the potential impacts.

If you’d like to learn more about risk assessment and access a Risk Assessment Table provided online via Ready.Gov/Business, visit their website.

If a property loss event does occur in your business, know that SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson understands the value of controlling hazards to prevent negative impacts, such as secondary damage. Give us a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Property Management Damage in York, James City County, and Poquoson

2/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today at 757-229-3442

When property managers need to get water damage removed quickly, SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson is here to make it “Like it never even happened.” Our team of quality technicians who focus on excellent service can help mitigate the damages. 

Property Management companies are a top priority for water mitigation services. Here’s an overview of our Emergency Damage Process Overview: 

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson professional will contact you. 

Detailed Explanation: A trained, uniformed and equipped crew chief will walk you through the job process explaining what to expect. 

Pretesting: A SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson will pretest for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward. 

Cleaning and Restoration: Our team will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure the property is taken care of the first time. 

Final Walkthrough: After the work is completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure satisfaction. 

When it comes to water mitigation and property management, SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson will do what you need to get you back to business quickly.  

we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call 757-229-3422 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

How to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

2/13/2021 (Permalink)

Got frozen pipes? Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

These Five Tips Can Keep Your Pipes From Freezing This Winter!

1. Allow the faucet to drip:When pipes freeze, the pressure created by the blockage and faucet causes the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open and drip will relieve pressure in the system. If the faucet has both hot and cold water pipes, turn both handles slightly so that each pipe is open. If it is a single-handle faucet, turn it to warm.
2. Keep the Heat On:Always keep the heat on in your home to keep your pipes warm and prevent the water from freezing. If you leave for a long period of time, keep your home between 50-55 degrees. 
3. Apply Heating Tape:There are two types of heating tape for water pipes. One turns on and off by itself when it senses that heat is needed. The other type requires a plug when heat is needed. Heating tape acts as an electrical blanket for pipes during cold spells. These can be very useful when you do not want to think about keeping your faucets dripping. However, much like space heaters, these products can be dangerous so you must use safety precautions.
4. Seal Up Cracks and Holes:Seal the gaps and holes that are letting cold air where pipes run through walls or floors. You can use spray foam insulation or caulk to fill the gaps. If possible, it is best to seal the holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor.
5. Add Extra Insulation:Pipes that are located in attics or basements that may not be insulated will likely require extra insulation to keep them warm. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. 

6. Close garage doors

   Make sure garage doors stay closed if pipes run through the garage.

7. Open cabinet doors

   Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets allows warm air to reach the plumbing and will help stop your pipes from freezing.

Ways to help avoid frozen pipes while on vacation

Always be sure to winterize your home thoroughly. Before you leave, take measures to protect your home so you can enjoy the time away, rather than worry about pipes and security. A few things to remember include:

• Check the thermostat. Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius). Also be sure to replace the battery in your thermostat.
• Ask for help. Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to make sure it's warm enough to prevent freezing.
• Shut off the water. Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it may be deactivated when you shut off the water.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poqouson a call if you experience any water damage due to frozen or burst pipes. 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

Have you Heard of the P.A.S.S Method?

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

fire extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher in you home can be very useful for preventing any extensive fire damage. Though it is important to also know how to properly use it. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration suggest that users use the P.A.S.S. technique.

Pull: pull the pin

Aim: Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire

Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent

Sweep: sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If it re-ignites repeat steps 2-4.

Inpsect your fire extingusher at least once a year to make sure it hasnt expired, when it has expired replace and expose of the old one properly.

If you experience any fire damage in your home and need remediation give SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442.

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

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Don't Wait CALL today

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 SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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

MOLD BASICS

• The key to mold control is moisture control.
• If mold is a problem in your home, you should call a professional like SERVPRO to clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.
• It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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.

Give us a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002.

When in doubt stay out, Call SERVPRO the professional for any mold issues

James City County's 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 - SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, overwhelmed and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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)?
• How many rooms are affected?
• What kind of flooring does the rooms have?
• Are the walls and ceilings affected?
• Once all the information is gathered we will put it in our Work Center program and our scheduler will call and schedule technicians to come out

About SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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.

Give us a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

Water Damage Timeline

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

please call us today if you have water damage and need our help at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

Water damage always requires immediate attention, even liquid spills should be cleaned up immediately to help prevent damage to your home, If an appliance fails homeowners can quickly respond by shutting off the water.

About SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson

SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson 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.

If you need any help with water damage up give SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson a call.

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

3 Tips for Homeowners to Prevent Water Damage

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO cares call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

While some water loss situations are unpreventable there are still ways to prevent others. Here are a few tips to prevent water damage in your home.

1. Regularly check on in home appliances. Water heaters over time occasionally begin to rust and then leak. Dishwasher, washing machines, and refrigerators often have wear and tear on the water lines resulting in a leak and ultimately water damage.
2. Test your sump pump. Sump pump failure is a very common cause for water damage and one that here at SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson get calls about frequently. It is generally recommended to check the sump pump once a year.
3. Check your roof. Visual checks of the roof allow for the prevention of rain water creeping in. Any signs of cracks, curling or missing shingles should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent any further serious damage. Make sure to keep gutters clean,Although you might only consider gutter cleaning necessary once or twice a year, your home can really benefit from a monthly gutter cleaning.

It is also extremely important to note where your main water valve is located. During a leak it may be necessary to have to turn your water off having the knowledge of where your main water valve is will save you in the long run.

In case of any water damage call us today! SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson offers 24 Hour Emergency Service just for our customers so any issue can be “Like it never even happened.” We are waiting by the phones 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

Important Items for a First Aid Kit

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Accidents happen often times unpredictable and out of our control that it why it is important to stay prepared in case of something as minor as a small cut or as large as a natural disaster. These are some important items to include. It is imperative to regularly check the kit and keep it well stocked. Some larger homes may even benefit from having multiple kits readily accessible.

• 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches) 
• 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
• 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch) 
• 5 antibiotic ointment packets
• 5 antiseptic wipe packets 
• 2 packets of aspirin
• 1 emergency blanket
• 1 instant cold compress
• 2 pair of nonlatex gloves
• 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets
• 1'3 in. gauze roll bandage
• 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide) 
• 5'3 in. x 3 in. sterile gauze pads 
• 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)  
• 2 triangular bandages
• Tweezers
• Emergency First Aid guide

Do you have a first aid kit? How many of these items do you currently have in your home in case of an emergency. When prevention cannot be implemented, then being proactive in response is key.

Source:

Red Cross

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

11/15/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. 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 cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson today at  757-229- 3442 or Toll Free @ 1-800-889-5002 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

We are Cleaning Experts

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

We make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Reactions

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

DON'T FEAR SERVPRO IS HERE

Not only does the thought of having mold scare most people, due to the fact they think it’s toxic. For some people it can be harmful unsafe to breath in mold. Mold comes is different strains, colors, textures, and growth rates. That's why you should leave it to the SERVPRO Professionals to come in and decide the best plan of action if you think there is a possibility of you having mold.

If you think have mold in any part of your house or place of business, DON'T FEAR SERVPRO IS HERE TO HELP, give our office a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002. We’ll send an estimator out for a $155 fee to tell you where the mold is coming from if you do in fact have mold. Also our SERVPRO professional estimators will draw up a detailed plan to rid the structure of mold.

ERP

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Considering creating an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) with a skilled SERVPRO technician. Your business needs to be prepared in case of an uncontrollable emergency. SERVPRO now offers a free app that allows you to create a profile for what you would do during a fire and water damage.

The app allows for SERVPRO to be able to accurately provide your business with a personally created plan. Questions include: where the water, electrical, gas, and computer server shut offs are located in you building. It also houses the contact information for key members in the company that would need to be contacted in case of an emergency.

A SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson will send out a technician to get a very detailed and accurate approximation on the best way to protect your commercial business from any future water or fire damage.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442!

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Fire Damage - tips for while you wait

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Got SOOT? We can help with that!

When fire damage happens at your home or property it is a terrifying moment, because you don’t know what to do once everyone has made it out safely. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet

• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork

• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas

• If electricity is off, empty freezer/fridge completely and prop doors opens to help prevent odor

• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim, appliances then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant

• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes

• Change HVAC filter; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system

• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC

If you have a fire event in your home please reach out to SERVPRO at 757-229-3442 so we can help get your home back to normal

Water Damage - tips while you wait

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

While water damage can be very stressful for homeowners, it is possible to restore your home back to normal with the right steps.

When water damage happens you could know about it a few minutes or days after it starts. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property if the water source is clean:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a professional to do so

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water as electrical shock hazards may exist.

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items

• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushion to allow more even drying

• Move any painting, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner

• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet: don’t enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water

Experiencing water damage? Give of York / James City County / Poquoson a call (757)-229-3442!

Damage from Water?

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. We have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measureable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by us:

• Moisture Sensors

• Moisture Meters

• Thermo hygrometers

• Ultra Low-Volume Foggers

• Thermal Foggers

• Infra Red Camera

Read our next blog to see what these tools do.

Call a Professional for Your Water Damage Restoration

Need Help? Call us today! 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 1-800-889-5002!

Hurricane Season

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Here are some stats and safety tips

The peak time of the year for hurricanes here in the Atlantic region is June-November. One the pacific the peak time of year is May- November. Our franchise has traveled all across the country cleaning up after hurricanes. No distance is too far for us.

• Did you know the force of a hurricane is from 74-155+ miles per hour?

The cost of hurricane damage is usually a couple million per storm. Hurricane Sandy though caused nearly $62 billion in damages once it hit the USA. Our franchise spent a month in New Jersey doing storm work. $128 billion in damages was caused by Hurricane Katrina. Our owner Joey and another franchise spent over 5 months together in Louisiana cleaning up after Katrina.

Mold Estimate

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today for an estimate

When you contact our franchise about mold we usually start with an estimate. This means we schedule for a certain day and an estimator will come out to your building or home to see where you think there is mold. The estimator always tries to identify what is causing the mold to form if there appears to be any.

Some causes of mold can be high humidity, moisture in the walls, leaking pipes, or etc. We trust our highly certified estimator AJ to make the call on where the mold is coming from, as he has been with the company for several years. AJ also holds the IICRC certification for mold. This means he has taken and will continue to take classes related to mold in order to keep his certification valid.

Once our estimator comes out and finds the source of the mold growth and has an idea of what is happening in the space, he'll come back to the office to form an estimate for the property owner. This estimate details line item by line item what our SERVPRO will do to rid the property of mold. The total cost for job is also then disclosed to the paying party.

After the estimate is reviewed and approved for work our technicians are scheduled. During the mold remediation process the property owner is updated regularly to make sure that they don't have any questions.

Call SERVPRO of York,James City County, and Poquoson today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

Crazy Deer

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

December of 2015, we received two phone calls from customers that stood out to our SERVPRO franchises. We had a residential home and an insurance agency office on the same day have a deer jump through a window.  Both of these deer proceeded to track blood all throughout the structures in their dazed state of confusion.  After being in business for over 20 years we have done many different types of blood clean ups. Deer blood is included in our variety of experience for Bio Hazard Remediation.

What Would Your Office Do?

When it came to the insurance office with the deer jumping through the front window, they knew exactly who to call. SERVPRO was out on site the same day as the loss occurred. There were a total of six areas affected when the deer finally stopped running around. Everything from the office entry way to desks, printers, floors, ceilings, filing room, bathroom, break room, hallways, and main office had to be cleaned and sanitized.

            As the insurance company expected, from previous claims we had work with them on, SERVPRO had them back up and running in only 3 days. That time frame included the first day of work where we received the emergency call around 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Though the insurance agency wished they never had to go through something like this, SERVPRO made it "Like it never even happened." for them.

Is this Reality or a Murder Show?

Now the equally dramatic if not more terrify phone call about a window jumping deer was from homeowners that called us in to clean up blood. The wife walked in their home late in the evening and she immediately saw blood everywhere. Logically the homeowners called 911, thinking that someone was in their home. The police sent officers out to clear the home for entrance, only to find out there had been a deer trapped in the home.

            Our on call crew got the call late at night about the Bio Hazard Clean Up and was out there that night. The deer ran through a total of six rooms in the home, leaving a trail everywhere it went. After four days of cleaning the homeowners were back in their home. The structure had been disinfected and cleaned so it was "Like it never even happened."

What goes into a Water Damage

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fallen ceilings caused by water damage call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

A pipe burst in the attic of an older woman's home while she was away on vacation. When she returned her home was completely flooded. The homeowner had no idea how long the pipe had been dumping water into her whole house.  There was standing water at least an inch deep throughout the main level. This was after the water had traveled from the third story attic through the second story of the house saturating all the ceilings and walls.

Thankfully the woman’s daughter knew exactly who to call when her insurance company let her choose the restoration company to take care of her mother’s loss. SERVPRO was out onsite the morning of their return home. Our crews quickly went to work extracting the standing water. Putting equipment into place to start the structural drying of the home. Cleaning up debris as ceilings were falling due to the weight of the drywall being water saturated with water.

The contents from the home was cleaned and packed away while the restoration of her home was going on. The carpet and flooring had to be demoed as everything was ruined by the standing water.

Even though there was demo happening most people would ask why it is necessary to have drying equipment on site? When demoing a whole house water damage that had been sitting for a long period of time you remove the ruined materials: drywall, tile, hardwood, baseboards, and so on. Once the saturated materials are removed SERVPRO dries the framing other materials that are savable. With drying the materials that are left in the house SERVPRO can help insure that mold will not be an issue once the home is put back together; with hanging drywall and replacing flooring

Call a Professional for Your Water Damage Restoration

Need Help? Call us today 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 800-889-5002!

Step to Coordinating Your Water Damage

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call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Water damages initially have more going on behind closed doors than you think.

1. The loss occurs, water is flowing from unknown source or visible source

2. You call SERVPRO or your Insurance company, that then, gives you SERVPRO’s number

3. SERVPRO then walks you through a few questions, a main one being have you turned off the source of damage. If the answer is you can’t turn it off yourself, we set up a plumber or other professional to turn off the damage causing source

   We will also asked how many rooms are affected, what type of flooring each room has, are walls or ceilings affected as well

4. Meanwhile our 24/7 on call company sets a crew in route towards your loss with a ready truck that has been preloaded with all the equipment needed to take care of your loss

5. When arriving an authorization to perform services is signed

6. After that our crews go to work drying out your home or buildings

Need Help? Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 800-889-5002!

Deodorization

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Soot from the fire place

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hared to reach places. Unless fast professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in periodically resurfacing odors.

SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Any restorable item in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including: furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceiling, HVAC air ducts and more.

SERVPRO professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Ask SERVPRO professionals to explain the carious deodorization methods available and which will work best for you. 

If you suffer fire damage – or some other accident – and require deodorization services, contact us at 757-229-3442or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

ASK US ABOUT AIR SCRUBBERS AND HOW THEY CAN HELP

Whether its fire, water or mold damage – or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away – we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Candle Fires

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Always use caution while burning candles

The U.S. Fire Administration released a Topical Fire Research Report in July of 2006 entitled, “Candle Fires in Residential Structures”, which examines the causes and characteristics of residential candle fires. According to the report, candles are responsible for an estimated 23,600 residential structure fires annually resulting in $390 million in direct property loss. Candle sales and usage increase during the winter and holiday season and peak in December. Almost 25% of candle fires occur during December and January. The number one cause of candle fires is placement near combustibles. Typically, the items initially ignited by candles include furniture, curtains, bedding and cabinetry. In December, holiday decorations are the first to ignite. Most candle fires result from accidental error and negligence, such as leaving burning candles unattended. Caution, common sense and attention to your surroundings can help reduce the risk of candle fires.

Some Tips for Candles Usage:

• Ensure lit candles are in sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic candle holders and are placed where they cannot easily be knocked down

• Keep candles out of reach from children and pets

• Extinguish candles after us

• Blow out all candles before napping or falling asleep

• Never leave burning candles unattended

Always use caution while burning candles

Experienced fire damage? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call.

757-229-3342 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

General Fire Facts

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General Fire Facts

Fire Preventative Tips:

• Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and every level of a home

• Check smoke alarms once per month an change the batteries at least once per year

• Plan an escape route and practice it at least twice per year

When our SERVPRO franchise arrives on the scene follow a fire, their first step is to calm the customer’s fears. The second step is to pre-test smoke to determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their behavior patterns is crucial.

Are you aware of the different types of smoke?

• Wet Smoke – Plastics & Rubber: low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smears.

• Dry Smoke – Paper & Wood: fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore the smoke rises.

• Protein Smoke – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire: virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.

  Smoke and soot residue can damage carpet, upholstery and contents if not removed quickly and efficiently. In a fire-damaged structure with soot on the walls and other surfaces, cleaning and restoration is less disruptive and more cost-efficient than replacement. Replacement may also mean a longer disruption time than restoration. For a company waiting to open for business, this downtime can present an enormous hardship.

  Pre-testing helps to determine:

• The most effective cleaning and restoration processes

• Pre-existing conditions

• The extent of the loss

• Overall costs of the restoration process

• Replacements

• What is restorable and what must be replaced

If you find yourself in a fire event please reach out to SERVPRO and let us help you 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

Clean it OUT

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Divide Your Workspace Into Zones:

Determine how you want and need to use the space that you have. Then set up zones for your daily functions.

You may require a workspace for your computer, a library area for your reseach, a storage area for supplies and a filing area for your archives. This will provide a foundation for a more efficient use of space.

Keep Only What You Need At Arms Length:

Boxes of pens, stacks of papers and old coffee cups need to go. Rid your desk of visual clutter by paring down the items on top to the essentials only. Supplies, paperwork and personal items should be kept in the zones you've established for them.

Sort Your Catch-All Drawer:

Use drawer dividers to give everything a place, like compartments for paperclips and rubber bands. Go through the drawer every six weeks and clear out anything that is out of place or isn't being used.

Eliminate Digital Clutter:

Digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical clutter. Organize digital files and your e-mail inbox just as you would paper files - with a system of logical and clearly labeled folders. Also, keep the icons on your desktop to a bare minimum, and trade in sticky notes on your monitor for calendar reminders.

Need a general cleaning for your home or office? Give SERVPRO of York, James City, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442.