Archived Blog Posts

Navigating Storm Season: Common Weather Hazards in North Carolina

4/15/2024 (Permalink)

Living in North Carolina means being prepared for the diverse range of weather hazards that can impact our homes and communities. From hurricanes to winter storms, understanding these common weather events is essential for protecting your property and staying safe during storm season.

1. Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

North Carolina's coastal location makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November. These powerful storms bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, posing significant threats to homes and infrastructure along the coast and inland areas.

2. Severe Thunderstorms

Severe thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence in North Carolina, especially during the spring and summer months. These storms can produce damaging winds, hail, and lightning, leading to power outages, property damage, and even injuries. It's essential to take shelter indoors and stay informed about severe weather warnings issued by local authorities.

3. Tornadoes

While tornadoes are less common in North Carolina compared to states in the Midwest, they still pose a threat, particularly during the spring and summer months. These fast-moving storms can cause widespread destruction, including significant damage to homes, trees, and infrastructure. Knowing the signs of a tornado and having a plan in place can help keep you and your family safe during a tornado event.

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

Hoarding disorder is an ongoing difficulty throwing away or parting with possessions because you believe you need to save them. You may experience distress at the thought of getting rid of items. You gradually keep on gathering a huge number of items, regardless of their actual value.

Hoarding is a disorder that may be present on its own or as a symptom of another disorder. Those most often associated with hoarding are obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression.

Excessive hoarding can lead to unsafe living conditions. Extreme filth, reduced air quality, mold and pests are just some of the consequences of hoarding.

SERVPRO of High Point is skilled at working in situations like this. We are very skilled at working in "challenged" environments. Dirt and grime can be cleaned fairly easily, and mold remediation is one of our main services. Air quality can be handled with a much needed duct cleaning. An exterminator will be recommended for the pests.

The Best In Marketing

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Why does SERVPRO utilize Salesforce Marketing? Salesforce is the #1 CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool in the world, used by more than 90% of all Fortune 500 companies. The account management and contact management tools compliment each other. The initial download of contacts and contact history is possible when utilizing Work Center Marketing. It offers task management and enhanced over site features to optimize team performance. It has an advanced route mapping feature, including automatic scheduling and routing functionality. The Salesforce Marketing calendar supports drag and drop functionality. The calendar also includes event scheduling and event ROI tracking components. It provides dynamic dashboard and reporting functionality. It interacts with Tableau and KPM reporting. Report creation and development capabilities are enhanced. It enables referral source tracking. Documentation is captured for completed sales calls. Salesforce Marketing allows users to identify new potential lead sources and centers of influence. SERVPRO utilizes the best tools available to ensure success!

Dalmatians As Fire Dogs

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

The breed's evolution to fire dog began as early as the mid 1700"s. They were used as stable guards and they also ran with the carriages to guard whatever was in the carriage, whether it was passengers or goods. The Dalmatians served as stable and carriage guards because they are unequaled as a companion. He can be broken as a pointer, he will even run a rabbit if need be. He will follow his master all day on foot, or after a carriage, and will be interested in everything going on. There is also a theory that their role developed from the breed's notable affinity towards horses. The ongoing curiosity about Dalmatians even led to a Harvard study to understand how the dogs were drawn to their coach positions. Certain dogs would automatically gravitate toward certain positions, whether it was the back or right under the horse. Dalmatians are natural born "fire dogs".

Pets And Fire Safety in the Home

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

Every year, 500,000 pets suffer from smoke inhalation and 40,000 lose their lives in home fires. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 1,000 home fires each year are started by family pets. As many pet parents know first hand, pets may become unsettled or anxious once a smoke alarm sounds, hiding rather than exiting. Pets who are already prone to anxiety when a smoke alarm sounds may become even more so when their owners are not at home. There are some simple safety tips that can make a big impact in protecting your family and pets. Like with human children, homes most often require pet proofing. Stove knobs and hot appliances can be knocked over or turned on by curious pets. Never leave a lit candle within reach of a pet. Consider attaching a decal to a window near entrances to let rescuers know how many animals are inside. Make sure to include your pets in your fire escape plan. Stay aware of their typical hiding spots and where they often nap in case you must evacuate quickly. And finally, when you leave home, consider confining them to a certain area to make it easier for first responders to remove them quickly.

Pets & Carbon Monoxide

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

According to a recent survey, 53 percent of pet owner's in the US aren't confident they could identify the symptoms of CO poisoning in their pets. If you suspect your pet may be experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, remove them from the environment immediately and contact your vet. They can perform a CO toxicity evaluation which is done through a blood test. And make sure to save contact information for your veterinarian in a place where you and other family members can easily access it. Also, be sure your pet's microchip information is current in case you become separated in an emergency. Here is a short list of symptoms that may indicate that your pet has CO poisoning: nausea, vomiting, labored or difficulty breathing, sleepiness or lethargy, uncoordinated movement, disturbances in gait, seizures, heart arrhythmia, coughing, deafness, blindness, and coma. Purchase CO alarms! Consider installing more than one alarm on each level of your home. Pay careful attention to rooms where you and your family spend a great deal of time including living areas, bedrooms and hallways.

Corporate Training Excellence

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO National Headquarters employs a training staff of over 75 people dedicated to helping SERVPRO Franchises achieve operational excellence.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been redefining and improving the mitigation and restoration industries. In 1992, the SERVPRO National Training Center was developed specifically to teach restoration and mitigation skills to insurance industry employees, as well as, Franchise owners. SERVPRO has been a state-approved Continuing Education Course location and an IICRC-approved school since 1997. SERVPRO offers WRT and ASD certification, exemplifying our commitment to providing great service.

SERVPRO is one of 15 organizations qualified to offer the Applied Structural Drying course. Not only is the ASD course available to SERVPRO franchises, it is also available to our insurance clients. The Applied Structural Drying course covers the effective, efficient and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. Using a comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, the course facilitates appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment. Students will experience hands-on use of instruments, extraction systems, drying equipment and cleaning products in an actual flooded building situation.

SERVPRO Validation Processes

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Through professional test cleaning before work begins, SERVPRO can determine the restorability of damaged structure and contents. We will identify what items can be restored, what items may not be restorable and what items will need the adjuster's input. This is called pretesting.

SERVPRO is IICRC validated. We can provide industry-standard proof that the proper amount of equipment was used on the job and that the job was dried properly and completely. We will be happy to show every customer the SERVPRO Drying Workbook!

Contents Claim Inventory Service provides itemized room-by-room loss inventory, allowing insurance agents and adjusters to document claim items and capture inventory items immediately. This helps ensure the policyholder gets a complete list and the insurance company can identify "like kind of quality".

SERVPRO's continuing education classes are an educational service provided to insurance clients to help them achieve credits quickly and easily while learning more about the science behind the cleanup and restoration.

How We Do It

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides Electronic File Documentation complete with loss reports. Our Claims Information Center has been a leader in reporting and validating mitigation performance since 1997. We provide these reporting and documentation services for no additional fees or cost to the insurance company.

With thousand's of trained crews and enormous inventory of commercial equipment and service vehicles, SERVPRO's Large Loss Response Teams can initiate response to any size loss in any part of the country within hours. We have the resources to get the job done fast so the insured can get back in business or back to work sooner.

SERVPRO has brand leadership assurance and consistency. As recognized leaders in cleanup and restoration, insurance clients know and trust SERVPRO to help make it "Like it never even happened." We maintain a professional appearance in uniform, equipment, vehicles and cleaning methods to help convey the professionalism the policyholders expect from us.

Emergency Fire and Water Damage Tips

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

In a fire damage situation, it is important to limit movement in the home to prevent further damage. Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on carpeted traffic areas to prevent more soiling. If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open. Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets and appliances then protect with a light coating of lubricant. Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces. Talk with your SERVPRO of High Point Franchise Professional. Do not attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting with your SERVPRO of High Point Franchise Professional. Do not attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire or water without consulting a repair service.

In a water damage situation, shut off the water source if possible. Remove excess water by mopping and blotting. Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs. Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature. Remove oriental or other rugs from wet carpeting. Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water. Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.

Commercial Property Meld Software

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Property management companies are automating their property maintenance process thru what is called "Property Meld". Property Meld is an easy to use property maintenance software solution powered by automation to reduce manual tasks and increase efficiency. SERVPRO of High Point recently partnered with a Company who utilizes Property Meld and it has proven to be a great way to do business.

There is never enough time in a day. Time is wasted keeping everyone accountable. Between missed calls, forgotten emails, and lost sticky notes, a 2 day request turns into a stale 2 week embarrassment. The mutual maintenance process is costing the property management companies. With the lack of oversight and control, repairs are overlooked. As a result, residents leave and the owners of the properties turn to competitors.

Property Meld allows you to do more with less. The web based software automates the process to create a positive maintenance experience. With Property Meld, you can reduce time wasted on manual tasks by 80%, allowing the property management company and the vendors to reinvest their time back into expanding their company portfolio and increasing productivity.

Our partnership with this property management company who utilizes Property Meld, has saved both of us time and money. It simplifies communication. It increases staff capacity. And it gives you powerful oversight.

Hurricane Season 2022: How To Be Prepared

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

North Carolina is one of the "at risk" states for a hurricane. Hurricane Preparedness Week is this week and every household should have a hurricane preparedness plan ready. You can create your plan by following these steps: 1) Review your home insurance policy. Check that all your valuable possessions are covered for natural disasters such as a hurricane. 2) Know where to get hurricane alerts and information from; make sure to have different ways to receive real-time alerts. 3) Choose an evacuation route. Your family should know the route and where to find the local evacuation center too. 4) Secure your home. Install storm shutters, secure loose exterior items such as bikes and plant pots, and cut large trees.

To be prepared for a hurricane, you should have essential items on hand. Your disaster supply kit should include the following items: Water (one gallon per person per day). Food (minimum 3 day supply of non-perishable food items). Flashlight and spare batteries. Battery-powered radio to listen to local updates. Whistle for attracting attention. Medication for at least 7 days. Well stocked first aid kit. Keep all items in waterproof containers and store securely. You must also keep your cell phone charged during hurricane season and have a spare battery and charger.

Faster To Any Size Commercial Disaster

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Timely mitigation is key to controlling damage, downtime and recovery costs. You and those who depend on your facility will appreciate the rapid response, and the training of your SERVPRO of High Point professionals will help limit damage and get your facility back in operation quickly. You can count on SERVPRO of High Point's mitigation and restoration services to help make you look good. What are the 1-4-8 service guidelines that makes our service so exceptional? Within one hour from notice of loss, the owner or myself will contact you to arrange for service. Within four hours of loss notification, we will be on site to start mitigation services. Within eight business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to you by a member of our SERVPRO of High Point team!

Commercial Loss Communication

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

You'll know what's happening every step of the way. From the first telephone call within the first hour following damage notification, until the job is complete, SERVPRO of High Point professionals are dedicated to effectively communicating with property owners and managers. You will be aware of job status and the progress toward project completion.

Jobs are documented with itemized estimates, digital photographs, signed work authorization forms and regular progress reports. SERVPRO of High Point utilize technology developed for documenting insurance claims, electronically collect and store project information which is accessible to you via a secure email link 24 hours a day. Upon project completion, a signed customer satisfaction form is the final piece of information entered into the file. SERVPRO of High Point professionals keep you informed from start to finish!

Full Line of Services

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Utilizing the right equipment and supplies, SERVPRO of High Point can handle all of your cleanup needs. In addition to the superior fire, water, and mold remediation and restoration services, SERVPRO of High Point provides cleanup services for those special needs that surpass the capabilities of your regular maintenance staff.

SERVPRO of High Point professionals are trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Biohazard includes servicing customers who have experienced a death where there are blood and bodily fluids present. Crime scene and vandalism cleanup are also considered biohazard and are handled specifically to their conditions.

SERVPRO of High Point can also inspect your HVAC system and ductwork. Cleaning services can be provided to help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate offensive odors and improve indoor air quality.

Floor care and cleaning, stain removal, odor identification and deodorization, and upholstery/drape cleaning are also services SERVPRO of High Point offers to their customers.

Training Excellence

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO National Headquarters employs a training staff in the hundreds who are dedicated to helping SERVPRO franchises achieve operational excellence.

SERVPRO is one of 15 organizations qualified to offer the Applied Structural Drying course. Not only is the ASD course available to SERVPRO Franchises, it is also available to our insurance clients. The Applied Structural Drying course covers the effective, efficient and timely drying of water damaged structures and contents. Using a comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, the course facilitates appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment. Students will experience hands on use of instruments, extraction systems, drying equipment and cleaning products in an actual flooded building situation.

First Notice of Loss

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

I'm thinking it may be interesting to know the process here at SERVPRO of High Point when we receive a water damage call, or a call for any of our services for that matter.

We take turns here answering the phone but the responsibility for most of the calls rests with Marianna. She is excellent with the customers and is very thorough when filling out the FNOL form - First Notice Of Loss. This form is utilized when taking any new call.

It requires that basic information be documented like Name, phone, email, if the customer is the same as the caller or if the caller is a tenant/occupant. We also try and ask how they heard about us so we can follow up with our marketing team.

Then there's the loss address, details of the loss, type and cause of loss, when the loss occurred, and what specific circumstances were in play when the loss happened.

Is there standing water? Is water available? Is electricity available? Has the source been stopped? Is there visible mold? What type of structure? Was flooring affected and what type of flooring is it? What actual areas were affected? Crawlspace, ceiling, walls, attic, contents? And is the job a self pay or an insurance job? It is important to get all the insurance information during this first contact as well. Insurance company name, claim #, deductible amount, and name/phone number of adjuster.

There is a small area on the bottom right side of the form that says "Loss Notes". This gives Marianna a chance to ask what exactly happened in the loss. This is key as the technicians focus on this area to understand what equipment etc. is needed for the job.

It is important to catch as much of this information as possible. Water losses can be very frustrating for the customer and asking thorough questions not only shows empathy, but also helps all involved to be on the same page.

A Necessary Part of Life

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

When we think of water, what comes to mind? What comes to me is the fact that it is a necessary part of life. It's actually extremely important in the lives of every single person. The main goal for each of us is to keep the water where it is supposed to be. Water damage happens when water gets "out of control" and leaks or flows from an area that is supposed to be a containment area. Pipes, toilets, faucets are a few examples of where water resides on a property.

Having a home with defective pipe can be a nightmare. I own a home that was built with Quest recalled pipe. I've had multiple pipe bursts over the years, and one as recently as a couple months ago. I'm used to having water where it's not supposed to be! Possibly even worse, is having a burst pipe under the slab. This may run undetected for days, making the water bill extremely high. This is what happened to me recently, and my bill was $880. Luckily, the City of Winston Salem agreed to credit most of it except for charges that would be typical of two month's water use.

How To Prevent Water Damage

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes the cause of water damage is beyond our control but sometimes we can take simple steps to prevent accidental water damage.

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Today, we are seeing many churches creating their worship facilities within commercial buildings. Large commercial structures have ample square footage and open space that can easily be reconfigured. Commercial properties also tend to have sufficient parking and landscape, as well as an at-grade pathway to a gracious entrance. With an abundance of vacant office buildings across the country and a growing need for cost effective solutions for houses of worship, repurposing office space for churches makes a great deal of sense. And with a creative selection of materials and design features, there is great potential in helping religious organizations to achieve their desired image and character in a setting.

High Point has several office buildings that were renovated to become places of worship. SERVPRO of High Point does business with several of these former office spaces turned into fellowship halls. There is often mold issues in these structures, especially if they've been vacant for a while. We enjoy helping staff and clergy accomplish their vision by helping them make their new environment safe and clean.

Water Damage Restoration/Reconstruction

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Now that we are actively pursuing not only mitigation work, but restoration and reconstruction work, I would like to explain exactly what this means to our customers.

Water damage restoration/reconstruction refers to the process of removing water from the home or business and restoring the property to its normal condition. Water damage restoration is more than cleaning or vacuuming as porous materials in the home or business absorb moisture quickly.

Whatever the cause of the damage, fixing it typically entails a five step process: inspection and assessment, water removal, drying and dehumidification, cleaning and sanitizing, and finally, restoration and water damage repair.

Restoration contractors like SERVPRO of High Point deal with the insurance companies to help get the parts of the property that are damaged by the water to be paid for by the homeowner's insurance company.

SERVPRO of High Point is very skilled and knowledgeable when working with insurance companies and knowing what repairs will be included in a covered loss.

Commercial Restoration/Reconstruction

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We take pride in being a one stop shop for commercial restoration services, which means if you need help with both mold and water damage, and other emergency services, we can help you with all of the above.

You can count on SERVPRO of High Point to get the job done efficiently and effectively. Our team is experienced, resourceful, dependable, and will provide you with excellent high quality work and customer service for your commercial property.

We know how to respond fast, manage the problem, limit and prevent future damage, work with insurance companies, restore properties, and get your business/building up and running fast.

Our team has the skills, training, and proper equipment needed to restore your business back to its original state with little to no disruption of your daily operations. SERVPRO of High Point is second to none in the commercial restoration industry.

The SERVPRO Network

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

It's all about teamwork. Customer satisfaction is our highest priority and the way we keep happy customers is to share the resources we have amongst each other. With 1,700 franchise locations nationwide, it is nearly impossible to have to turn away a job because a particular franchise is low on equipment, personnel, etc. Another SERVPRO location is minutes away, and always willing to help.

This is often the case with National Accounts as these commercial customers understand that there is a SERVPRO location at every one of their respective locations that can help service the account.

SERVPRO of High Point was recently tasked with helping a vape shop in the area that is a customer of another franchise in Florida. They had an employee test positive for COVID, and needed us to perform the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned cleaning protocol at their store. Team work really helped solidify their relationship with this customer.

Importance of Communication

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

When you have a commercial customer who has their Corporate office in another state, it may cause some problems when identifying who makes final decisions.

SERVPRO of High Point recently had a challenging situation with a local dental office that had experienced a water loss. There were two people who were key to this job, the project manager at their Corporate location, and the General Manager of the dental office. Oftentimes in these situations, the communication taken between the account's employees and what gets back to us from one or the other of them is convoluted.

In these situations, documentation and pictures are critical to moving the process forward. At the end of the day, we were able to successfully complete the scope of work approved by the project manager. In turn, the General Manager's vision for the work to be completed at her office was in sync with the approved scope of work.

Protect Your Water Pipes

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

If temperatures are expected to drop to 28 degrees or below for 4 hours or more, you should take precautions to protect your water pipes. Not only will a frozen pipe cut off your running water supply, but because water expands when it freezes it can cause metal or plastic pipes to burst. This is one of the greatest and costliest damages from a winter storm.

Pipes that run in unheated interior areas (such as those in basements, crawlspaces, kitchen cabinets, garages and attics) or against exterior walls are particularly susceptible to freezing.

To help prevent frozen pipes, let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes because running water - even when just a trickle - is less likely to freeze. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate near plumbing. Add pipe insulation to any pipes that are particularly prone to freezing. Do your best to keep temperatures inside your home or business no lower than 55 degrees.

Quest Recalled Pipe

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

My home was built with polybutylene pipe. Polybutylene pipe is also known as Quest pipe. It was pipe that was used in mobile homes mostly, but several builders used it in single family homes as well. This type of pipe was made with defective fittings, to where they would easily be compromised when water ran through it over a period of time.

I bought my home in 1995 from the original owners who had it built ten years prior. On the buyer's full disclosure report, this defective pipe was not noted. After our first six months in the home, we had our first pipe burst. Then over the next fifteen years we would have an additional seven pipe bursts. A couple were under the slab, behind the hot water heater, in the bathroom walls and ceiling. I came home way too many times to water everywhere.

I'm sure now that part of the reason this happened was so I would know what it feels like to have water damage. I can very much relate and empathize with my customers especially after they experience a water loss.

One Stop Shop

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage mitigation is one of our core services. In the past, we would extract all excess water and remove parts of the structure that were damaged by the water loss. After we completed this portion of the job, we'd often recommend another contractor to do the repairs, "put back", and reconstruction.

In an effort to simplify the process for our customers, allowing them a "one stop shop", we hired a Project Manager, Troy Lescalleet, to oversee and manage the job of putting the structure back together after the mitigation portion is completed. Troy has been with us almost a month now, and he is very knowledgeable in his approach to knowing how to work with the customer. The SERVPRO of High Point team continues to put the needs of the customer as priority one.

Preparing for a Storm - Part 1

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

There are eight simple things that you can do now to prepare your home and help reduce the potential damage cause by severe storms.

One: Maintain your yard and balcony. Secure or store items that could blow around in strong winds. Strong winds can pick up even large items such as outdoor furniture, causing damage to roof, windows, and cars.

Two: Clean your gutters, down pipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages. Clear leaves for the valleys of your roof. Keep the drains around your property clear to help surface water move away and prevent water from pooling and entering your property.

Three: Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property. Have a qualified arborist inspect trees every 2-3 years to identify and to identify any preventative action necessary.

Four: Fix any damage on your roof, including broken or missing tiles. Your roof should be checked every year for signs of damage. Fix any cracked, broken, or displaced tiles.

Preparing For A Storm - Part 2

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Five: Check your insurance policy is current and adequate. Make sure your insurance policy provides cover for the types of events specific to your location, these may include: flash flood, storm water runoff, associated landslide, and damage to properties by trees.

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

It takes a team to make a Company run smoothly. What protocols does your Company have in place to make sure all your customers are taken care of in a timely manner?

SERVPRO of High Point practices the 1-4-8 rule. In our business, time is of the essence. A lot of our calls are for emergency type situations, and require a quick response time. The rules are to respond to the initial customer call within a hour. To be on site within four hours. And to be in contact with an adjuster within eight hours. These times vary depending on each individual franchise and their workload at the time.

SERVPRO of High Point prides itself in returning a customer call within 10 minutes. Carlos and Susan work together when a call comes through after hours to make sure the customer is called back immediately. Depending on the severity of the loss, a crew will be dispatched to the site in less than 4 hours. The actual time that we respond here is more like 2 hours. That's staff coming from their homes, to the shop to get the necessary equipment, then to the job site. Those on call personnel always know to be available. Documentation and an initial call to the adjuster will be made within eight hours. This time also varies and is often shortened in order to get the necessary approvals to complete the clean up.

HPFD History

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

The High Point Fire Department was officially organized in 1890 as a volunteer membership, which was the beginning of a long tradition of service for High Point. The first paid firefighters for High Point operated from a residence. Mrs. Fuller's residence on Trade Street was where the fire horse was kept and cared for.

In 1915 the first motorized apparatus was purchased, a Studebaker hose wagon. This spurred great growth within HPFD, which rapidly continued to expand and grow. The Department is now 14 fire stations in size, employing 234 personnel, with more than 40 pieces of apparatus. Service to the city is the driving force of HPFD and the motto denoted this by saying, "Safety, Commitment, Excellence since 1890."

SERVPRO of High Point has worked with the HPFD over the years to the betterment of the community.

Fire Explorers Post 434

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Exploring is Learning for Life's career education program for young men and women who are at least 14 years old (and completed 8th grade) and not yet 21 years old. Fire and Emergency Service Exploring is a hands on program that exposes participants to many career experiences, leadership opportunities and community service activities. HPFD Explorer Post 434 is designed to instill the importance of teamwork. accountability and ethics in young men and women who become part of the explorer post. The goal of this explorer post is to be representative of the great city of High Point by involving a cross section of demographics and socio-economic status. Fire Explorers are always looking for enthusiastic and motivated teens to join their program. It could be a game changer for some at risk youths.

Importance of Reviews

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

Just about everything we do in life has consequences. It would be nice if we received positive feedback for our good actions, every time. But oftentimes, it's when we do something negative that we are "recognized" for our mistake. In business, whether you sell a product(s) or service(s), each end user customer has their own opinion on their experience with your Company. Due to the competition in most industries, it has become very important for most companies to frequently measure their performance by receiving regular customer feedback. At SERVPRO of High Point, five star customer reviews are critical to growing our business. We encourage all of our customers to give us a Google review to where we are rated according to our performance. It is best to leave a review shortly after your job is completed. Oftentimes, reviews are only given when the customer is very satisfied or very dissatisfied. It often becomes an outlet of emotion. Mistakes can be made where a customer has confused you with another company, or they just wanted to publicly "vent" in general and it really had nothing to do with the company's performance. A bad review can be devastating for your Company. Your "Google review score" is oftentimes the reason your Company gets additional business. Reviews are a very important part of our marketing effort at SERVPRO of High Point.

Sounds of Fire Safety

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

National Fire Protection Week is October 3-9, 2021.

This year's theme, "Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety"

will draw public attention to the different sounds that modern smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make, and what actions we should take when we hear them.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency report, working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a fire by more than half. The same report entitled "Smoke Alarms in the US" stated 41% of household fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarm or 16% in homes with alarms that failed to activate.

The key points of "Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety" include: !) Respond immediately to smoke or carbon monoxide alarm sound by exiting the home. 2) If your alarm begins to chirp, it means the batteries need to be replaced or the alarm replaced altogether. 3) Test all smoke and CO alarms on a monthly basis. 4) Install a bed shaker and strobe light alarms if someone in your household is deaf or hard of hearing. 5)Know the difference between the sound of a stroke alarm and a CO alarm - three beeps for smoke, four beeps for CO.

Class A and B Fires

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Class A fires are the most common type of fire and the kind that most of us are familiar with. They involve solid combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, trash, or plastic. You might start Class A fires intentionally when lighting a match or starting a bonfire. Class A fires are the easiest to extinguish. It is recommended to use a water or foam fire extinguisher. You can also use water to douse the fire, as it can remove the fire's heat supply. Class B fires involve ignitable liquids or gases like petroleum grease, alcohol, paint, propane, or gasoline. These types of fires might occur anywhere flammable liquids or gases are stored or used. It's very important NOT to use a water extinguisher on a Class B fire. The stream of fire might spread the flaming material rather than extinguish it. Class B fires should be extinguished using foam, powder, or carbon dioxide extinguishers. These types of extinguishers work by cutting off a fire's oxygen supply.

Class C, D and K Fires

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Class C fires involve electrical equipment. This type of fire might be started by old wiring in walls, frayed electrical cords, worn out breaker boxes, or faulty appliances. Electrical fires are most common in both homes and industrial settings. The first thing you should try to do if an electrical fire starts is to disconnect the appliance or item from its power source only if it is safe to do so. If possible, you should try to extinguish the flames using a carbon dioxide or dry powder fire extinguisher. If and when the power source is disconnected, the fire can become a different class of fire, typically Class A.

Class D fires are oftentimes caused by alkali metals such as potassium, magnesium, aluminum, and sodium, as these can ignite when exposed to air or water. Although you're unlikely to face a Class D blaze in your home, it is advised to extinguish these types of fires with a dry powder extinguisher ONLY.

Class K blazes include cooking oils. Because of the high flash point of cooking oils and fats, Class K fires often start when a pan is left unattended for too long on a stove. You should extinguish a Class K fire with a wet chemical extinguisher. These are mandatory in many commercial kitchens, and are a good investment if you do any amount of cooking at home.

The SERVPRO Difference

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has some very unique features and capabilities that make us different from other competitive Companies in our industry.

Being a locally owned and operated franchise with under 20 employees, it is very important to have a cohesive group of people working towards the same goal. And that goal is providing service excellence in all areas of the business.

What makes SERVPRO of High Point unique? The work culture is driven by a very involved Owner. Carlos conducts morning meetings that start at 8:00 where all jobs and scopes are discussed in detail. He works with production on key estimates and goes on critical scopes with the lead techs. There is no part of any job that is unfamiliar to him.

SERVPRO of High Point practices "minimal invasion" when working on all jobs. We will do only what is absolutely necessary to get the customer back to preloss condition. Additional walls/sheetrock will not be compromised in order to make for a larger claim. Honesty and integrity is critical when working on a person's home or business.

We are always well prepared for the hurricane season because SERVPRO corporate provides what is called "large loss teams". These teams represent 10,000 trained personnel, over 140,000 pieces of restoration equipment, and over 7,000 vehicles. The support we receive from the SERVPRO folks in Gallatin, Tennessee is unmatched in the industry.

SERVPRO recommends an Emergency Response Profile (ERP) to be created for commercial accounts. An ERP is a no charge program that identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin. (Who in the organization should be notified.) It also provides facility details such as shut off valve locations, etc. in preparation for emergency relief. And most importantly, it identifies SERVPRO of High Point as their disaster mitigation specialist!

Additional Services

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

In addition to our well known capabilities mitigating water, fire and mold, SERVPRO of High Point also provides some maintenance services that help maintain the integrity of any property.

Other services that are provided include air duct cleaning, odor identification and deodorization, biohazard clean up, specialty cleaning, upholstery and carpet cleaning, and dryer vent cleaning.

Most of these services are self explanatory, however, there are a few I'd like to discuss.

Air duct cleaning should be done every 3 to 5 years. The frequency of these cleanings depends upon how much the HVAC system is used, and whether there are family members with respiratory problems or allergies.

An ozone machine may be utilized in the deodorization process of properties that have a strong cigarette and tobacco smell.

Lastly, a biohazard situation can range from a deceased body clean up to a program that addresses the spread of COVID-19. (This program is discussed in detail in other blogs.)

Giving Back

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO encourages all their franchises to be involved with the community in as many ways as possible. In several areas of the country, SERVPRO volunteered to clean and disinfect first responders vehicles, namely, police cars and fire trucks. This no charge application of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned was very well received by all parties involved in the campaign.

SERVPRO of High Point continues to support several organizations in the community. We are an active member with the American Red Cross, Guilford Economic Development Corporation Alliance, High Point's Art's Council, High Point Chamber of Commerce, High Point Economic Development Corporation, Hospice of the Piedmont, Y's Men Group, and the YWCA Latino Family Center.

SERVPRO of High Point continues to look for opportunities in the community where we can give back. The relationships we've built while volunteering our time has been instrumental in defining what the word SERVPRO means.

Best Practices, SERVPRO of High Point

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of High Point you may ask? There are many reasons for choosing our Company and our franchise! First of all, our Company is one of the most recognized and appreciated brands in the country! Who hasn't heard of SERVPRO? We have an amazing support team in Gallatin, TN who supports us at every turn. Excellence in product selection and availability, excellence in training, excellence in communication, excellence in national accounts, excellence in providing large loss teams to insure that every community has mobile disaster relief personnel on call!

SERVPRO of High Point compliments the services already provided by Corporate with a few no charge services. There will be no charge on most scopes and estimates. Estimates will be presented within 24 hours. We also provide a no charge disaster plan to commercial accounts. This will help businesses to have quick access to critical information needed in the case of an emergency.

We also practice minimal invasion. Which means that we'll only do what is absolutely necessary to get homes and businesses back to their original condition. There will be no demolition that is not absolutely required, keeping restoration costs to a minimum.

And finally, response times continue to be a priority! SERVPRO of High Point will respond to after hours calls within 10 minutes. We will be on site within 2 hours. And we'll be following up with the property owner and/or adjuster within 8 hours.

How To Keep Your Roof Safe

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

The National Storm Damage Center says that trees that are damaged by severe weather cause more than $1 billion in property damage in the United States each year. It is highly recommended that you prepare your roof for hurricane season with a thorough inspection and then addressing any issues. But, even if your roof is in pristine shape, other extraneous factors could damage your roof. It is a good idea to go around your yard and check for trees that could damage your roof. While they may look innocuous, during a storm they could wreck havoc. Check trees for overhanging branches or broken limbs. Trim them away, clearing a 10 foot radius around your house. Always keep your roof free of excessive leaves, needles, and other debris. Make sure water moves unobstructed. Excessive pools of water can rot wooden eaves and support beams. Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of debris. Check the integrity of all the trees in your yard, no matter their size. They could have hidden rot or other diseases that make it vulnerable during a storm.

Commercial Dryer Vent Cleaning

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Does your business have a clothes dryer? If so, you have a hidden hazard! Dryers, especially those that are used frequently for commercial use, can collect excess lint and debris in the vent line. This excess lint is the most common source of ignition for dryer fires, which account for 15,500 fires every year. In addition to the risk of fire, excess lint and debris can lead to clogs and decreased efficiency, as well as additional energy use. SERVPRO of High Point provides professional commercial dryer vent cleaning services to a wide variety of businesses with clothes dryers.

Our commercial dryer vent cleaning services offer business owners many benefits. First and foremost, by having your dryer vents cleaned by our experienced technicians, you can be sure that the risk of dryer fire in your building is minimized. In addition to removing the fire hazard, our services will ultimately save your business time and money by increasing your dryer's efficiency.

Leading appliance manufacturers recommend having your dryer vent inspected and cleaned by a professional once a year.

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

In the winter, you may think that low humidity is all you have to worry about in your home. This would be a mistake. One of the biggest issues with moisture that homeowners face during the winter months is window condensation. If you notice moisture forming on the inside of your windows, you may feel tempted to brush it off. But you shouldn't. Doing so could encourage the development of mold, which can be seriously harmful to your respiratory health. Commercial dehumidifiers are an easy way to take some of the humidity out of the air. They are commonplace in stores and online, and you should have little trouble finding one that fits your aesthetic preferences and budget. In this area, the lack of color outside during the winter can take its toll on you. For this reason, many people try to compensate with houseplants. If you have a ton of houseplants and are noticing window condensation, you might have gone a little overboard. You may want to give some of them away to friends. And finally, do you air dry your laundry on a drying rack? This is an excellent, energy-efficient choice for the environment, but it might not be such a good idea if you have too much moisture in the air. Machine drying your clothes instead could help to stop window condensation.

Why Is My Water Bill So High?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Water is a major utility in any city, making it a significant concern for homeowners, renters, and commercial property owners alike. A high water bill is troublesome not only because of the financial cost, but also because it indicates that precious water may be going to waste somewhere. According to the EPA, the average household's leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water each year, and ten percent of homes leak 90 gallons or more per day. When your water bill is higher than normal, it's important to track down the cause and correct it as soon as possible. There are 8 reasons for a high water bill: 1) Leaky/Running Toilets. In most cases, these leaks will be caused by a faulty flapper in the toilet tank. 2) Leaky Faucets and Fixtures. The most common cause of a faucet leak is a faulty rubber washer in the faucet handle. 3)Irrigation Leaks. This type of leak becomes evident in your lawn where there are unusually damp patches or areas of grass that are more lush than their surroundings. 4) Lateral Line Leaks. In some cases, one of the underground pipes feeding water from your metered connection to your home may have a crack or loose joint. 5) Old, Outdated Fixtures and Toilets 6) Recent Changes In Water Use. One small change in your water use habits or household situation can have a big impact on your utility bill. 7) New Water-Consuming Equipment. Pools, sprinkler systems, washing machines, freezers, and other new equipment can result in a sudden increase in your water bill. 8) Bad Water Wasting Habits. Lengthy and unnecessary shower times. Running water to thaw meats and frozen foods. Washing dishes by hand. Keeping water running while brushing teeth or shaving.

What is Hygroscopic Material?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

A hydroscopic material is one which readily takes up and retains moisture. As the humidity increases, hygroscopic materials take on more and more water until they reach equilibrium with the environment. This increases substantially above 60%Rh. If water evaporates too quickly into warm interior air without a corresponding humidity reduction, the result increases the chance for microbial growth, thus damaging hygroscopic materials. Therefore, hygroscopic materials, previously undamaged by liquid water, can become damaged if the humidity is not controlled. This is referred to as secondary damage and is what occurs when air movers, which increase the rate of evaporation (adding humidity), are placed without setting up an adequate dehumidification capacity. The humidity will rise rapidly and can cause secondary damage to hygroscopic materials. A very important point is that the rate of evaporation is directly proportional to the vapor pressure differential between the surface of wet materials and the adjoining air. This indicates that the capacity for dehumidification should actually exceed the rate of evaporation. This "abnormally dry" air mass insures an even greater rate of evaporation.

An Open or Closed Dehumidification System?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

The open drying system uses ambient outdoor air to reduce the indoor humidity. The most appropriate outdoor conditions for using an open drying system are when the temperature is high and the relative humidity is low. Always take an outside reading to check your dew point temperature. The open system is thus utilizing the principle of dynamic equilibrium for indoor humidity reduction. However, considerations must be made for energy loss and cost, building security, changing weather conditions, and all psychrometric data indoors and outdoors. The closed system utilizes air movers, dehumidifiers and psychrometrics to artificially control the indoor environment. The acceptable range of allowable humidity in an indoor environment for health and comfort is between 30%Rh and 50%Rh. The use of dehumidification equipment should always be considered in sealed structures to prevent equilibrium. In a flood damaged structure the Rh always seeks equilibrium and then the evaporation process stops. The vapor pressure equalizes in the contained space until the maximum humidity is reached or there is no more available water to evaporate. One of the best times to utilize a closed drying system and create positive pressure inside the building is when the outdoor humidity is high.

Structural Drying

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture content in structural components must be a concern in all water damage situations. After evaluation of carpet and pad, a careful evaluation of structural materials must be done. Replacement of structural components if damaged beyond repair will be much more costly than replacement of contents such as carpet and pad. Thus, consideration and inspection of any structural component that has the remotest possibility of being wet is vital. If moisture is detected, rapid drying of the structure must be the primary concern. The use of a hygrometer to measure air space moisture in attics and crawl spaces and the use of a moisture meter to measure the extent of saturation of porous materials is considered standard procedure in all water losses. The permeance of a structural component should be considered when determining drying procedures. Vinyl-covered drywall may require holes to be drilled into and air forced through them for drying due to possible vapor barrier. Wet baseboards act as a moisture barrier and should be removed to drill holes to speed up the drying process. Since this is the molding that covers the joint between a finished wall and the floor, when it is replaced it will cover the holes.

Importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Many people have carpeting throughout their home. Ideally, carpets should be deep cleaned every six months to keep them looking brand new. It also helps to get the grime, dirt, and debris out of the carpets which can help reduce allergies, smells, and stains. No matter how you look at it, the professionals have better and more powerful equipment when it comes to cleaning carpets. The type of steam and deep cleaners that you can rent or buy at a local store are generally not as strong as what the professionals use. After all, they typically spend hundreds to thousands of dollars on the equipment that they have. When some people take carpet cleaning into their own hands, and they don't necessarily know what they are supposed to be doing, it leaves some real potential to cause some damage to the carpets and flooring under them. If you were to accidentally make your carpets too wet, not only can it soak your carpets and make dry time almost impossible, but it can seep through to the padding and floor underneath. It is always best to hire a professional carpet cleaner like SERVPRO of High Point to ensure that your carpet cleaning is done properly.

Navigating Commercial Building Losses

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Claims involving commercial structures can present a number of challenges to the claim professional. Multiple stakeholders, unique building construction, and the financial impact of business interruption are among several issues that may add complexity to commercial building claims. Recognizing and understanding those specific issues and taking a systematic approach to loss adjusting for commercial buildings helps cut through potential issues and may ultimately control indemnity and claim expenses for insured parties. When examining commercial losses, adjusters must take into account major considerations. There are multiple stakeholders. Multiple property owners and tenants; primary leases and subleases; mortgages; and liens all impact the investigation of a building loss and are therefore essential considerations in the adjusting process. There is also major consideration to construction uniqueness. Commercial building structures are classified by commercial underwriters into occupancy categories. These occupational categories include habitational, office, institutional, mercantile, service and manufacturing. Each type of occupancy is comprised of unique construction principles and methods. In addition, buildings within each category can greatly vary in terms of size, HVAC, alarm and fire systems, interior finishes, trade fixtures, and tenant improvements.

Adjusting A Commercial Loss

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Adjusters must be aware of business interruption. Because of the nature of occupancy and exposures, commercial policies may have coverage for business interruption, including business income and extra expenses. Delays in evaluation and assessment of damage to the commercial structure by the adjuster can directly impact the time element of these claims and increase indemnity costs. One of the first essential steps in adjusting any loss is confirmation of policy information. Securing a valid copy of the declaration pages and entire policy form and endorsements will establish the ensured entity and other interested concerns, policy limits, valuation approach, insurance to value requirements, and endorsements that either extend or limit coverage. The adjuster must confirm the extent of insurable interests in the commercial property. The adjuster must identify the type of property ownership and its use to ensure proper evaluation of coverage and assessment of damage covered under a commercial policy. A party who sustains a financial or monetary loss when the commercial structure is damaged or destroyed may be considered to have an insurable interest. An insurable interest in a property is required before asserting a claim. The adjuster must identify the insurable interest under the policy and access claim payments to the extent of the insurable interest.

Assessing And Evaluating A Commercial Loss

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

A systematic approach to accessing commercial building damage will help efficiently determine the claim settlement for the insured. Relevant floor plans or blueprints must be secured of the building areas that sustained damage. The customer may have copies of the tenant build-out, fire escape plan, or a recent sales brochure that will document the commercial building space that sustained damage. And of course, if they have an ERP, an Emergency Ready Profile from their professional SERVPRO representative, this will help during this process as well! The wall, floor, and ceiling construction must be properly documented in each damaged area of the building. Trade fixtures or improvements within the damaged areas of the building must also be identified. Items that are unique to the commercial structure must be identified such as alarm systems, fire suppression systems, and commercial kitchen and mechanical equipment. A cost estimate for the damages, including a proper accounting of all measurements, quantities, labor hours, and material allowances must also be completed. Timely completion of the estimate is always important!

Storm Damage And Insurance

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by flooding is not covered by homeowners or renters policies because it is considered a gradual event rather than sudden or accidental. As a rule of thumb, if the water first touches the ground before entering your home, it is considered flood damage. Other examples of gradual water damage include: Water seeping though the foundation. Mold, rot or corrosion. Slow plumbing leaks that cause damage over time. Leaks stemming from clear negligence (disrepair of the roof, plumbing, windows, etc.) There are some instances when your average homeowners insurance will cover flood damage. For example, if a tree falls on your home during a storm causing heavy rains to damage the inside, this may be covered because it's a "sudden" event and the flooding did not come from the ground. Damage stemming from burst or faulty pipes, water damage that occurred while extinguishing a house fire, roof leaks or a damaged HVAC system could all potentially be covered as long as willful neglect isn't found to be the initial cause. Discerning the differences between normal flood damage and hurricane damage can be confusing. During a tropical storm, waters often rise so quickly that draining systems cannot keep up. Once more than two acres are "inundated with water", FEMA considers it a flood. The only time homeowners insurance will cover hurricane damage is if the storm itself was the reason for the flooding. For instance, if the storm broke a window and caused your home to flood. Conversely, if the damage was incurred due to a gradual buildup of groundwater, you will need flood insurance.

What Causes Thunderstorms?

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms form when an air mass becomes so unstable that it overturns violently. "Unstable" means that the air in the lowest layers in unusually warm and humid, or that the upper layers are unusually cool, or oftentimes, both. Pockets of rising near surface air in an unstable air mass expand and cool, and as some of the water vapor present condenses into a cloud it releases heat, which then makes the air parcel even warmer, forcing it to rise still higher in the atmosphere. If the lower level air is sufficiently warm and humid, and the higher altitude air is sufficiently cool, this process continues until a tall convective cloud - the thunderstorm - is formed. The result can be a storm extending as high as 40,000 to 60,000 feet (8 to 12 miles). The upper portions of the storm, even in the warm tropics, are made of ice. About 50% of the rain reaching the surface in a thunderstorm originated as ice in the upper reaches of the storm.

Fresh Water Damage Cleanup

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

As an industry standard, all flooding water must be surface extracted and removed from all wet content and building materials. Fresh water left beyond 24 hours should be disinfected from unwanted fungi and, when necessary, followed up with structural drying. This often involves removal and disposal of damaged pad and carpet, while attempting to salvage most carpeting. Wet floors, especially hardwood flooring and sub-floors are always extracted, air-dried and dehumidified in an attempt to salvage costly building materials. In most instances, wet drywall will dry out on its own or with drying equipment, but in some instances fungi are known to habitat inside wet drywall, studs, insulation and other wet building materials. If fungi becomes a building or occupant health concern, SERVPRO of High Point will ask the customer for written permission to open wet wall cavities in an attempt to clean, sanitize, and replace damaged building materials. Our main goal is to always keep the customer informed during every step of the process.

Restorative Drying

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

The restoring drying specialist may be asked from time to time to dry water damaged documents. While such procedures are not normally recommended because it is almost always impossible to produce "before loss" appearances, some situations involving irreplaceable items, such as original historical documents, items of sentimental value, original tax files, out of print books, etc. may necessitate an attempt. In some cases, simply drying out so the documents can be copied will provide a valuable service. Freezing or drying items such as books and papers saturated with Category 1 water within 24-48 hours can greatly reduce damage done by moisture. Transporting while frozen to an area where thawing and drying can be closely controlled and monitored will then give the restorer an opportunity to preserve the documents. Keep the items frozen until controlled drying can commence. If book pages are coated, wax paper is inserted between each page to alleviate pages from sticking together. When this need arises, SERVPRO of High Point has a resource within our own Corporate office in Gallatin, TN. They've restored documents for the Library of Congress!

Importance of Contents Claim Inventory Service

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

What most people don't realize is that there are a lot of factors that go into the proper clean up and restoration of fire jobs. For the property owner, it is a very stressful time as you can imagine, and SERVPRO of High Point takes the state of mind and feelings of the property owner very seriously. We always show extreme compassion when performing the clean up protocols. Not only is the property structure damaged, but so are their beloved contents. Part of the clean up process is what is called "contents claim inventory service". This entails detailed analysis of a property owner's treasured belongings. The process is as follows: taking photos of all household goods. Packing up all damaged contents. Transporting contents to SERVPRO of High Point facility. Sorting through all contents in determining salvageable from non salvageable contents. Photographing all non salvageable items for insurance purposes. Contacting property owner with non salvageable list. Encouraging property owners to come review, at our facility, the non salvageable items in case some of them may have sentimental value. Thoroughly clean all salvageable items, then carefully wrap them in packaging paper, putting them into new boxes. These possessions will be stored at our facility until the property is fully repaired and ready for move in. And of course lastly, SERVPRO of High Point will transport all salvageable inventory back to the property owner.

The Behavior of Smoke

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. SERVPRO of High Point professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of High Point professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows your SERVPRO professionals to focus on saving your precious items. Smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Our knowledge of building systems helps us investigate how far smoke damage may have spread.

Facts About Smoke

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

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. There are several types of smoke. Let's begin with wet smoke. This includes plastic and rubber. Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean. Then there is dry smoke. This includes paper and wood. Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, so smoke rises too. Next is what is known as protein fire residue. This is produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire. It is virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, and has an extreme pungent odor. In addition there is what is known as fuel oil soot. This is caused by furnace puff backs. While "puff backs" can create havoc for property owners, SERVPRO of High Point professionals can restore the contents and structure fairly quickly. And lastly, there is tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue which are considered special loss situations and require special care.

The Importance of Fire Extinguishers

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

A portable fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool when used correctly. In order to operate a fire extinguisher, the NFPA suggests remembering the word PASS. PULL the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. AIM low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire. SQUEEZE the lever slowly and evenly. SWEEP the nozzle from side to side. Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Encourage your family members and co-workers to do the same. And remember, extinguishers do have their limitations! It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your home and business. There are five classes of extinguishers. Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics. Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil. Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in. Class D: For use on flammable metals. Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These are generally found in commercial kitchens.

Facts About Fires

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires? Since the holiday season has begun, you will find yourself in the kitchen more often while hosting friends and family, and fire precautions should be top of mind. A property owner experiences a flood of emotions when fire ravages their business or home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the future of the property and their livelihood can be overwhelming to the property owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers the following eye opening statistics on structure fires: More than one quarter (27%) of reported fires occurred in homes within the last year. Even worse, 79% of fire related deaths were caused by home fires. On average, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 354,400 home insurance fires per year, resulting in $6.9 billion in direct property damage. Most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes: cooking, heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.

The Significance of the letter F

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Many of us who have lived in North Carolina for a while cringe when we hear that a tropical system with a name that starts with the letter F has formed. Some of the most destructive hurricanes that have hit the state in recent history have started with F. Hurricane FRAN was the last category 3, or major hurricane, to make landfall in North Carolina. It came inland on the evening of September 5, 1996 near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. Fran left a path of destruction from the coast to the central part of the state. Hurricane FLOYD's winds were not as strong as Fran, but its heavy rain caused more deaths and destruction than Fran. Hurricane Floyd caused an estimated $6 billion in damage and killed 57 people in the U.S. Thirty-five of those deaths were in North Carolina. More recently, hurricane FLORENCE caused flooding that was even more catastrophic than Floyd in some parts of southeastern North Carolina. Florence was a category 1 storm based on wind speed when it made landfall near Wrightsville Beach on September 14, 2018.

Serve Up Fire Safety In The Kitchen

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month and an excellent time to examine the emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year? Are you prepared for whatever happens? The National Fire Protection Association sets aside a designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10, 2020. The 2020 theme is "Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!" This topic works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen. Did you know? Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries, according to NFPA. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen. Once a fire alarm goes off, you only have less than two minutes to get out safely, yet only 8 percent of people surveyed said getting out was the first thought they had after hearing a fire alarm go off. Make a fire escape plan today!

Keep Fall Fire Free

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free. Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes. Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire. Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric. It is safest to use a flashlight or battery operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. Use extreme caution if using a real candle. And most importantly, as your follow these safety guidelines, make sure to have fun and enjoy helping all neighbors and friends to stay safe too!

Kitchen Cautions

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Each year, around the holidays, families gather together to celebrate by preparing a delicious feast. However, not everyone practices safe cooking habits. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It's important to be alert to prevent holiday cooking fires. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, do not use the stovetop or oven. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food. If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while the food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking. Keep anything that can catch fire, like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, or hand towels, away from the stovetop.

It's The Water You Don't See

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

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. SERVPRO of High Point professionals have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of High Point professionals will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Some of the equipment that our professionals use are moisture sensors, moisture meters, thermohygrometers, ultra low volume foggers, and thermal foggers. The bottom line is that SERVPRO of High Point has the training and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

Cooking Fires

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking fires are among the most common types of house fires, causing around 48 percent of all residential fires. They are often caused by greases that become overheated on a stove or in an oven. (About 600 degrees Fahrenheit, on average.) When it reaches that point, it's usually too late. Thoroughly clean your cookware to prevent grease from building up over time. Portable cooking appliances, such as toasters and electric griddles can also be a source of fires. Never leave these portable appliances unsupervised, and make sure they are cool to the touch when storing them away. Toasters should be regularly cleaned of crumbs that might ignite if they build up inside the appliance. During the outdoor cooking season, barbecue grills left unattended on a wooden deck or near the exterior walls of a home can also be a source of fire. A heated grill next to a wooden fence can easily cause fire, and grills have been known to ignite the exterior walls of a home or garage if positioned too close.

Electrical Fires

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Various types of electrical faults in home wiring cause about 51,000 fires each year, accounting for nearly 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and about $1.3 billion in property damage according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. Most typically, electric fires occur because of short circuits causing arcing (sparking) that ignites building materials, or from circuits that are overloaded with current, causing wires to overheat. Electrical problems account for about 10 percent of all residential fires, but this type of fire is often deadly, accounting for almost 19 percent of deaths due to home fire. This is likely because electrical fires often ignite in hidden locations and build into major fires before residents are aware of them. And such fires frequently may ignite while residents are sleeping. Properly installed electrical systems are very safe, with a number of built-in protective features, but old, faulty wiring systems can be susceptible to short circuits and overloading. It's a good idea to have your wiring checked out by a professional electrician, especially if you live in an older home.

Proactive and Emergency Response Program

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Based on the specific needs of your business, your location will undergo a thorough, expert deep clean rooted in the pillars of People, Process, and Product.

People. SERVPRO of High Point professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform.

Process. SERVPRO of High Point professionals are trained to perform proactive or emergency responsive cleanups that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. 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.

Product. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned has more than 100 exclusive cleaning products to meet any need including our proprietary, cleaning agent, SERVPROXIDE - a hospital grade disinfectant that carries the Environmental Protection Agency's lowest toxicity category and is National Sanitation Foundation certified for direct food contact surface use. All our products carry the Environmental Protection Agency's registered emerging pathogens claims and meet the standard set by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for hospital-grade disinfectant.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

For a business owner and homeowner, a worst case disaster scenario involving fire or water damage can seem unthinkable until it suddenly becomes a reality. In the aftermath of a disaster, a quick response time by a disaster recovery company such as SERVPRO can help minimize the property damage. Owners need to have a quick and convenient emergency disaster plan that connects them with vendors, necessary contacts, and pertinent information when disaster strikes. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) is a respected industry tool during a disaster event. An ERP is so valuable, that in the midst of the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, an owner or manager can be provided a sense of calm and clarity in reaching out for expert help. Make sure to identify your facility's greatest threats in order to assess the overall severity of the event. Document all vital information and establish clear communication activities. Conduct practice sessions to make sure everyone is clear on the process. Lastly, keep your information updated, having all necessary information communicated with your insurance company and emergency restoration vendors.

Tropical Storm Bertha

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm Bertha formed near the South Carolina coast on Wednesday, shortly before making landfall near Charleston. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from Edisto Beach to the South Santee River, and heavy rainfall is expected, the National Hurricane Center said.

The center said tropical storm conditions are forecast to continue near the coast over the next few hours.

"Bertha is expected to produce total rain accumulation of 2 to 4 inches with isolated totals of 8 inches across eastern and central South Carolina into west central to far southeastern North Carolina and southwest Virginia," it said.

The rain could lead to life-threatening flash flooding and aggravate ongoing river flooding.

Bertha is the second tropical storm to form this year before the Atlantic hurricane season's official start on June 1. Tropical Storm Arthur dumped heavy rain on the East Coast earlier this month after forming near Florida.

The Associated Press reports this is the sixth year in a row that a named storm has formed before June.

After it heads inland, Bertha is expected to weaken to a tropical depression later on Wednesday, according to the hurricane center.

SERVPRO of High Point responded to several calls for basement flooding over the past couple of weeks.

SERVPROXIDE Specifications

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROXIDE™ is an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide-based disinfectant and sanitizer. It is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces. It carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating making it safe for everyday use. EPA Registration # 82972-1-93012 RTU – No mixing required Apply the product using one of the following: Sprayer – Electric, Pump, or Trigger ULV misting device Dwell up to 10 minutes Refer to the product label for appropriate dwell times. Test fabrics in an inconspicuous area for color fastness. DO NOT use on wool. AREAS OF USE HVAC Homes, Daycares, Schools, Laboratories Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Restaurants, Refrigerated Storage Units, Vehicles, Ambulances, Buses, Airplanes, Trains, Boats, Cruise Ships, Gyms, Locker Rooms, Sports Gear, Veterinary Clinics, Animal Pens, Farms, Poultry Houses, Egg Processing Premises, Hatcheries, Federally Inspected Meat and Poultry Processing Plants, Swine Sanitation Premises, Carpeting, Fabrics, Natural Stones, Plastics, NSF rated (D2). No rinse required on food contact surfaces at full strength. PPE AND SAFETY PPE is not required for general use; however, it is recommended. Safety Glasses Chemical Resistant Gloves DO NOT allow the product to come in contact with vinegar or acid-based cleaners. Keep out of reach of children. Refer to the SDS for additional health and safety information prior to use. SPECIFICATIONS • pH: 8.5 – 9.5 • Shelf Life: 2 years • Color: Clear Liquid • Size: Gallon • Fragrance free with a mild odor that dissipates quickly under general ventilation. • Coverage: 1000 – 2000 ft per gallon

There Is No "Wonder" Product

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

“There are no EPA-registered products with label claims that they are effective against viruses over the course of hours to months (i.e., “residual” or “long lasting” efficacy claims).” The above is part of a new statement issued by the EPA that definitively advises against the use of products claiming to offer long term protection against viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. The full statement can be found on the EPA’s FAQ section of their COVID-19 disinfectant information page, here: https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/there-anything-i-can-do-make-surfaces-resistant-sars-cov-2. SERVPRO recently addressed long-term protection claims being made by competitors and manufacturers promoting “COVID-19 long term prevention” products in a memo that can be read here. This memo detailed why the use of long term COVID-19 “protectants”, such as the referenced nano quaternary ammonium organosilane class of products, was not an approved EPA method or product for the COVID-19 virus, SARS-CoV-2. Many competitors have been reckless, selling this application to uninformed customers through false and misleading claims. There have been many stories about this new “wonder” product. If you have a customer that is requesting this service either through a competitor or information they may have found on their own we recommend that you direct them to the EPA statement so they can be informed that these “wonder” products are not approved through the EPA. Instead, inform customers that when they use SERVPRO’s CSC program they can be assured they will be getting the utmost service to address their COVID-19 concerns using only EPA-approved products listed for use on SARS-CoV-2 and cleaning methods approved by the CDC.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

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.

Commercial Cleaning for COVID-19

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of High Point is being called by numerous business owners and community leaders to perform necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their facilities. Our cleanup procedures are in accordance with the CDC recommendations. 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 meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims. There are specifically two products that we stock here at SERVPRO of High Point that we use for sanitizing and disinfecting. Those products are Benefect Decon 30 and SERVPROXIDE.

We are here and ready to aid you in your time of need, providing these services so your facility can be cleaned and ready for business to resume. We are in this with you. Please continue to stay safe and maintain social distance as we all do our part to combat this and lessen the spread of this horrible disease.

Benefect Decon 30

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

Decon 30 utilizes Benefect's proprietary essential oil Active Ingredient instead of using traditional synthetic chemicals. Additionally, Decon 30 is formulated with a unique Optimized Dynamic Chemistry (ODC) surfactant system that boosts cleaning performance while still achieving hospital level disinfection. The ODC system also enhances mold killing and mildew prevention. The very pleasant light fragrance dissipates quickly leaving no harsh fumes or harmful residue. Decon 30 cleans and sanitizes in just 30 seconds, making it ideal for fast decontamination of equipment, PPE and even vertical surfaces like wood studs or concrete walls. This product is ideal for disinfecting, cleaning, deodorizing, decontaminating, preventing cross-contamination in residential and commercial buildings, food service, hospitals, medical clinics, schools and government buildings. It is a Ready To Use product with no health warnings that can be used for porous and non-porous surfaces.

Why EPA Lead Certification Is Important

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Buildings built before 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint. This paint has a heavy mercury-like substance that has been identified as a public health hazard. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put guidelines in place that help regulate the renovation of older homes that may contain lead paint. In April 2008, the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) was adopted to improve how painters and other contractors approach work in these older buildings. Companies with an EPA lead-safe certification have been specially trained to ensure that lead-based paint removal and handling is conducted in a way that is safe to your family. SERVPRO of High Point is proud to be an EPA certified contractor!

COVID-19; How SERVPRO Can Help

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of High Point 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

You need software that connects all the job functions you do in your business. Working with anything less will be detrimental to your financial well being. So, what does this mean to you and your business? In a nutshell, when you receive a loss, you do not automatically know what needs to be done, but you do need to know quickly. Unless your a new start up company, your company is running with several people who are responsible for doing different jobs. For that reason alone, the manager of the process needs to know what is going on at all times. If you use a software that works on a cell phone, information can be added to that software easily from the field. As different people load information remotely, it tells everyone in the company what has happened and what has not yet happened. Having information at the fingertips of the entire team means the person back in the office can easily review notes and find answers for anyone who might call with a question about a project.

Dedication To Education

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Education in the restoration industry is seeing a revival. While certifications and training have always held value, there are more educational opportunities and certifications available today then ever before. Within the last year, the restoration industry has started offering brand new advanced designations, the IICRC continues offering key certifications, and there are numerous other training events happening across the country on a weekly basis covering everything from drying to large loss to estimating and everything in between. None of that even takes into consideration the larger industry conferences, expos, and trade shows that offer a plethora of educational opportunities on a number of topics related to restoration. Since 2016, nearly 200 people have been nominated for awards in the field of restoration. Each year the field seems to become broader and more competitive , with nominations becoming more in-depth and elaborate. Each year's nominees include owners, VP's, project managers, technicians, operations managers, marketing and sales and more!

National Day of Service and Remembrance

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

In honor and memory of those who died on September 11, 2001, as well as the survivors and First Responders, National Day of Service and Remembrance was established in 2009 as a day of reflection. Led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, this is a day to come together as Americans following the events of 9/11 to help neighbors in need and to honor veterans and First Responders in your community.

On this day and everyday, SERVPRO of High Point salutes those heroes who arrive in the greatest times of need and stand strong in the face of disaster and adversity. These heroes are the First Responders who keep our communities safe in trying times.

Give back and make a difference in your community this year. There are many ways to volunteer and these avenues need to be explored in giving special reference to this day.

How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

An excess of CO, leading to CO poisoning, can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers or idling cars left running in garages. Taking some basic, precationary steps can help eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure to have fuel-burning appliances, like oil and gas furnaces, gas or kerosene heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves inspected by a trained professional every year. Open the damper for proper ventilation before using a fireplace. Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home. Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside to avoid CO poisoning. Keep the venting for exhaust clear and unblocked. If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueling engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials. Make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow and other debris. Only use barbecue grills outside, away from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings. Some grills can produce CO gas. Never use grills inside the home or the garage, even if the doors are open. And finally, use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas from all doors, windows, vents, and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering your the home.

Always Celebrate Safely

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

The fourth of July is a time to celebrate with friends and family at a barbeque or picnic. With traditions like fireworks and bonfires, there may be some potential dangers along the way. In order to celebrate safely when it comes to these events, consider the following tips provided by the U.S. Fire Administration. The best way to enjoy fireworks is to view public fireworks displays put on by professionals. If you plan to use fireworks, ensure that they are legal in your area. Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, directions, and a warning label, do not light it. Supervise children around fireworks at all times. Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a firework does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate. Pour water over it and dispose of it.

National Pet Fire Safety Day

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

National Pet Fire Safety Day is observed annually on July 15th. Just like fire drills, pets need consideration when preparing for unexpected fire emergencies. Our pets are as much a part of our family as any other member. This day stresses the importance of protecting them. Taking preventable measures now can both save your home and your pet. Many times our pets can cause a fire if we don't take the proper steps. Extinguish open flames. Pets are curious and certainly not cautious. Wagging tails haphazardly knock over candles. Curious kitties will paw at sizzling grease, quickly sending a kitchen up in flames. Remove knobs from the stove. When not in use, they can get accidently turned on. Consider flameless candles for ambiance and backup lighting in the event of a power outage. Replace glass water bowls with metal or plastic. Outside on wooden decks, they can heat up and actually start a fire. Store leashes and collars near the entrance of your home. When away, have your pets in the main living area for easy rescue. Secure young pets when away from home. This can help avoid fire hazards. Pet kennels or in a pet-proofed room are options. Fire alert window clings helps firefighters identifying the room your pets are located and identify the number of pets in the home. Add one to the window of the room you keep your pets when you are away. Keep it updated with the number of pets who reside with you and your current phone number. And finally, have a plan when you are home. Know which family members will be responsible for each pet.

What Causes Thunderstorms?

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms form when an air mass becomes so unstable that it overturns (convects) violently. "Unstable" means that the air in the lowest layers is unusally warm and humid, or that the upper layers are unusually cool, or oftentimes, both. Pockets of rising near-surface air in an unstable air mass expand and cool, and as some of the water vapor present condenses into a cloud it releases heat, which then makes the air parcel even warmer, forcing it to rise still higher in the atmosphere. If the lower level air is sufficiently warm and humid, and the higher altitude air is sufficiently cool, this process continues until a tall convective cloud - the thunderstorm - is formed. Thunderstorms can cause significant damage to property. Homeowners know to call SERVPRO of High Point for any water or fire related issues.

Disaster Recovery Team

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

As a leader in water damage restoration, SERVPRO knows fast mitigation is the key to limiting business interruption. With an unmatched national footprint of over 1,700 franchises, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team can provide trained crews faster to any size disaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage that water can cause. SERVPRO has the right equipment, procedures and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving the customer time and money. There are specific tasks that need to be completed for structural drying to be performed correctly. There needs to be containment of the damaged area to reduce in-flow of water. Shrink-wrapping also needs to take place to control the inflow of moisture. And finally, water extraction, moisture mapping, selective demolition, containment, evaporation enhancement, dehumidification, temperature control and post-dry cleaning are all steps incorporated into these important procedures.

Superior Structural Drying Techniques

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our professional team utilizes specific tasks in structural drying procedures. These tasks include: Containment of damaged area to reduce in-flow of water. Shrink-wrapping of structures to control inflow of moisture. Water extraction to remove excess water from the structure. Moisture mapping to determine impacted areas of a structure. Selective demolition to remove wet building materials that cannot be economically dried in place. Containment to assure potential contaminents do not spread. Evaporation enhancement to remove moisture content from building materials. Dehumidification to remove excess water vapor from the structures' environments. Temperature control to assist in dehumidification and to prevent the onset of mold growth. Post-drying cleaning to remove any potential contaminents from dried building materials. Of course, the process varies by job and is monitored on a daily basis by trained SERVPRO of High Point professionals.

The Emergency Ready Profile

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with the SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile, your business can receive the benefit of over 45 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in the water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back to working order. Did you know that 50% of businesses may never reopen following a disaster? Of the businesses that survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at piece 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.

Ethical Business Practices

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

When you choose to work with SERVPRO of High Point, you can rest assured that our team will only do what is necessary to get your property back to its' original condition. We follow strict ethical guidelines that dictate we only remove and or treat affected areas, as we operate as a Company that practices "minimal invasion". The goal is to create lasting partnerships with our customers so they will not only call us the next time, but also refer us to friends and family. The goal is to save the homeowner and insurance company as much money as possible. We work as a team with both the homeowner and their insurance company. While working on their property, we are in daily communication with all involved parties.

What is Hoarding?

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

According to The Mayo Clinic, "Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of items, regardless of actual value, occurs." Many people with hoarding disorder do not find their habits to be a problem. Hoarded items are often things others would throw away or look at as junk or garbage such as old newspapers, junk mail, or packaging. Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats, and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard.

Facts About Lightning

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are only 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck. Some lightning safety tips include being aware. Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available. It's also a good idea to go indoors. Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up. Be sure to avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. Lastly, avoid water. Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building's plumbing.

May Is National Building Safety Month

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month-in its' 39th year-is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 members across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on "what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy-efficient homes and buildings," according to the ICC website. The theme for 2019 is No Code. No Confidence. and highlights managing disasters, specifically natural disasters, in week one of this year's campaign. Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include disaster preparedness, construction professionals, and innovations in building safety. The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials "improve and protect the places where we live, work, worship and play," and this month can certainly improve that awareness!

Duct Cleaning Protocol

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of High Point uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins. Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system tranfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container. Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean. As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns. Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt. Finally, an HVAC company may be recommended for a blower wheel cleaning and evap coil cleaning.

Floods

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is always potential for flood damage. Floodsmart.gov reports, in the last five years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips: Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. Do you live in a potential flood risk zone? Check out FEMA's Flood Map Service Center by visiting msc.fema.gov, where you can easily enter your business, home, or other address to determine if your property is at risk for flooding based on a visual flood map.

Water Types

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminents to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. When dealing with black water, it is imperative to wear the proper PPE to insure proper safety practices.

Flooded Basement

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Unexpected water in your basement can damage walls and floors, destroy carpeting, ruin furniture, and lead - pretty quickly - to mold. And perhaps the most upsetting of all: As these places are so often used for storage, a wet basement can ruin irreplaceable items like photo albums, antiques, and family heirlooms. When you experience a flooded basement for the first time, it's imperative to determine if the water problems are going to recur or if it was a one-time event. Can you safely leave your property downstairs once you've got the mess cleaned up? Or does everything need to come upstairs immediately? What's certain is that if water in your basement is a consistent problem, it's time to start making decisions. Determining where the water is coming from is the first and most essential step in solving this problem. Beyond observable flooding around your home and in your neighborhood, there are four common sources of water entering basements: Surface water running down foundation walls. Groundwater in water-saturated soils being pushed into the basement by hydrostatic pressure. Storm sewer water from the municipal storm sewer system backing up into the home's existing perimeter foundation drain and leaking into the basement. Sanitary sewer water from a clog in your home's sewer line, the municipal sewer line, or the combined municipal storm/sanitary sewer system backing up into the home's drain system, causing sewer water to come up through sink drains and floor drains on lower levels. Each source has its own specifics and requires it own course of action. Find out more about your home's drainage system by consulting a contractor or plumber.

What is Sewer Backup?

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

While floods are probably best known for causing extensive water damage to homes and businesses, they can also cause sewage from sanitary sewer lines to back up into houses through drain pipes. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult and expensive to repair, but also create health hazards. Most homeowners and business owners may not realize that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral-the pipeline between the city sanitary sewer main, usually located under the street, and the building. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part that may extend into the street or public right of way. A cracked or deteriorated lateral or one filled with tree roots can allow groundwater to seep into the system, contributing to the sewer backup problems. To prevent backups in your lateral and in the city main you need to do several things. One is to dispose of grease properly. Do not wash grease down the drain with hot water. As the grease cools off, it will solidify either in the drain, the property owner's line, or in the main sewer causing the line to constrict and eventually clog. Another is to dispose of paper products properly. Paper towels, diapers, and feminine products can cause many problems in the property owner's lateral as well as in the city main because they do not deteriorate quickly, as bathroom tissue does. Next, you may want to replace your line with new plastic pipe. One way to prevent tree roots from entering your line is to replace your line and tap with new plastic pipe. If you still have problems with tree roots growing in your lateral, you may have to have roots cut periodically. Shrubs and trees seeking moisture can make their way into sewer line cracks causing extensive damage. They may start out small, getting into a small crack in the pipe; but as the tree or shrub continues to grow, so does the root. Tree roots can enter the service pipe at joints and cause blockages. Sometimes a blockage is the result of a combination of city and private trees. In this case, costs are split between the city and property owner.

Smoke Alarms

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom and on every level, including the basement. Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries. If you need help installing, testing, or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician, or the American Red Cross.

Emergency Ready Profile

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

With each new year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens" in 2019. in the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO Ready App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device putting help at your fingertips! Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don't wait until a disaster strikes, resolve to be READY!

Commercial Cleaning

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

A commercial cleaning service is more for those things that you will encounter in a business. Commercial waste clean up, or heavy cleaning are all things that define commercial cleaning. That is why some think that if you hire them for your home, they are going to clean better. The truth is that a commercial cleaning company cleans not better than a residential cleaning company, they only clean different things. When it comes to cleaning, the word commercial does not mean more industrial type cleaning, it literally means industrial cleaning and all it entails. Cleaning machinery, blank spaces, chemicals and other individual solvents, commercial cleaning services deal with a different type of condition and clientele. A residential cleaning service specializes in things around your home such as cleaning floors, bedrooms, and bathrooms. A commercial cleaning service cleans things such as offices, buildings, or retail stores. Commercial cleaning companies also focus on special event cleaning such as a fire or flood clean up. They have the industrial equipment needed to clean things that have succumb to severe water, or other types of damage. They are also the company that you call for construction clean ups, or after building renovations are done.

Property Management

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Property managers have a variety of responsibilities. They may be consulted on setting the rent, as they are familiar with comparable properties in the area. They of course, collect the rent, ensuring an optimal cash flow by setting a date to collect rent each month and strictly enforcing late fees. Property managers are also responsible for filling vacancies. They know where to advertise the rental and what to include in their ads. They also understand what attracts tenants, so they can offer tips to help makeover the property. They have a consistent screening process that includes running credit and background checks, which decreases their chances of being accused of discrimination. They handle leases and determine the amount of a security deposit. They handle complaints, emergencies, move outs, and evictions. Property managers are responsible for managing the budget and maintaining records. They can even be expected to assist the property owner in filing taxes for the property.

Facts about FEMA

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

If a home is destroyed in a storm that is later declared a disaster by the federal government and grants are made available, claims still need to be made through the homeowner's primary insurance company. Policyholders should understand that their home insurance is their primary source of coverage. Fema only pays AFTER insurance. When Superstorm Sandy hit the east coast in 2012, FEMA determined that there was enough damage to make an "individual assistance" declaration and they provided grants to homeowners to help them with temporary living expenditures such as finding food and shelter. The grants were not intended to rebuild their homes. The best practice is to review your insurance policy with your carrier on a yearly basis. This way you'll be current on what your coverage contains as it relates to the area where you live.

Catastrophic Claims

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

When storms hit, almost every homeowner affected files insurance claims immediately following the event. This means that insurance company adjusters are inundated with claims, phone calls and questions. Homeowners need to be patient with the process. In addition, during catastrophes, insurance companies may send in large teams of adjusters to deal with the high volume of claims. Catastrophe adjusters are often not permanent employees of the insurance company but rather contractors who are hired on a loss-by-loss basis to handle weather disasters across a nation. For that reason, they may only be available for a short time. They move on to other areas or go back home before claims are closed and then homeowners have to start again when the next group of adjusters arrive on the scene. Homeowners need to keep their own files and document everything so they won't have to start all over again when their file changes hands.

Apartment Management

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Usually apartment buildings with more than 20 units are managed by professional property management companies and those buildings with fewer than 20 units are usually managed by the owner and a live in property manager. Regardless of who is managing the apartment building it is important to follow some general principles and tips to make sure that operations run smoothly. The management of an apartment building should be efficiently run like any other business. The manager should look to improve the client-tenant living experience while minimizing costs and increasing profit opportunities whenever possible.They need to remember to follow the Fair Housing Rules, as well as, who is responsible for the repair and maintenance of the units. Many apartment complexes partner with SERVPRO of High Point in getting an Emergency Ready Profile completed. This helps cover the safety guidelines that they have to follow.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial carpeting can be very challenging to clean utilizing the hot water extraction method. The main problem is that there is no airflow under the carpet; commercial carpet is glued directly to the floor. In your home, this method usually takes about 4 to 8 hours to dry. Because there is no pad between the carpet and floor to allow airflow in a commercial building, it can take several hours longer to dry. Slow drying times usually cause a problem known as wicking. Have you ever had your carpets cleaned and they look great when the job is done, but in the next day or two all your spots and stains come back? That is wicking. When carpet dries too slowly it pulls stains from the backing of the carpet to the tips of the fiber. When cleaning commercial carpeting, wicking is a big challenge.

Dangers of Extreme Cold

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

While your home can get damaged due to winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health is also at risk. Fifty three people died and three were injured due to extreme cold in 2015. It is important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. The two main conditions to be aware of are frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite is caused when your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symtoms are white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm, or waxy numbness. Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone's body temperature is below 95 degrees F, seek medical attention immediately. To avoid these conditions, stay indooors if possible. If not, dress warm in layers and try to keep dry.

Frozen Pipes

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross: Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as, outside hoses. Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing. When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes. Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night. And call SERVPRO of High Point if you do experience a pipe burst that results in a water loss.

Source Containment

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Source containment may be used to address relatively small areas of mold growth, or in combination with other engineering controls to reduce the amount of spores released and dust generated. Source containment may be used alone when fungal growth is limited to small, visible, controllable areas where no hidden mold growth is anticipated. In areas where there is limited visible mold, and hidden mold growth is anticipated, a more extensive containment is recommended. Source containment methods may also be used within areas of more extensive mold growth in conjunction with other forms of containment. Examples of source containment methods include: taping polyethylene sheeting or using self-adhering plastic on the moldy surface or material before removing; and wrapping, bagging, and securely enclosing moldy contents or materials in 6-mil poly or comparable packaging.

Local Containment

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Local containment may be used when "moderate levels" of fungal growth are visible or suspected. A structural enclosure can be built to contain the work area and separate it from the unaffected section of a structure. PVC pipe, wood framing, or spring-loaded expansion poles can be used to build an enclosure, which then is covered with an appropriate poly material. Constructing structural support is not always necessary if the isolation barrier can be securely attached to wall and ceiling surfaces. One or two layers of 6-mil polyethylene sheeting may be used to cover the enclosure or to erect isolation barriers. HEPA-filtered air filtration devices are installed to create a negative pressure differential in relation to surrounding areas. For further information, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of High Point.

Prevention Strategies

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Fix leaks immmediately. Clean and dry wet or damp spots immediately. Remove mold-contaminated materials. Regularly inspect and maintain heating, ventilating, and HVAC systems. Routinely inspect and clean HVAC drip pans, check power flow and that drain is unobstructed. Maintain low indoor humidity, ideally 30-60%. Vent moisture-generating equipment to the outside, where possible. Increase surface temperature by reducing the humidity to prevent condensation that results when surface temperature is below dew point temperature. Keep gutters and downspouts in working order and ensuring that they drain water away from the foundation. Remove wet, absorbent structural items and cloth furnishings if they cannot be easily and thoroughly cleaned and dried within 48 hours. Replace with new materials as soon as the underlying structure is thoroughly dry.

Hurricane Florence Facts

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Florence was a powerful and long-lived Cape Verde hurricane that caused severe damage in the Carolinas in September 2018, primarily as a result of freshwater flooding. Florence dropped a maximum total of 35.93 inches of rain in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, becoming the wettest tropical cyclone recorded in the Carolinas and also the eighth-wettest overall in the contiguous United States. The sixth named storm, third hurricane, and the first major hurricane of the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season, Florence originated from a strong tropical wave that emerged off the west coast of Africa on August 30, 2018. Steady organization resulted in the formation of a tropical depression on the next day near Cape Verde. Progressing along a steady west-northwest trajectory, the system acquired tropical storm strength on September 1, and fluctuated in strength for several days over an open ocean. An unexpected bout of rapid intensification ensued on September 4-5, culminating with Florence becoming a Category 4 major hurricane.

Hurricane Michael Facts

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Michael was the third most intense Atlantic hurricane to make landfall in the contiguous United States in terms of pressure, behind the 1935 Labor Day hurricane and Hurricane Camille of 1969, as well as the strongest Atlantic hurricane to form in the month of October since Hurricane Wilma. It was also the strongest storm in terms of maximum sustained wind speed to strike the contiguous United States since Andrew in 1992. In addition, it was the strongest storm on record in the Florida panhandle, and was the fourth-strongest landfalling hurricane in the United States, in terms of wind speed. By October 28, at least 60 deaths had been attributed to the storm, including 45 in the United States and 15 in Central America. Hurricane Michael caused at least $14.58 billion in damages, and at least $3.3 billion in insurance claims.

October Is Fire Prevention Month

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month - a perfect time to examine emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year? The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) designates a week each October to focus on fire prevention awareness. The 2018 theme is "Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere." This theme hopes to create awarenes in the steps necessary to reduce the chance of a fire and how to react in the event a fire does happen. The NFPA states the following: "LOOK" for places fire could start. Identify potential hazards and take care of them. "LISTEN" for the sound of the smoke alarm. "LEARN" two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Cleaning Animal Stains

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Cats may be considered one of the cleanest animals and dogs may be man's best friend, but neither is necessarily a carpet's best friend. Neglected animal stains have always been a problem. Two types of reaction can take place between the chemicals in the urine and those in the fiber dye. Some dyes change color as soon as urine comes in contact with them. Often original color can be restored by immediate addition of a weak solution of ammonia and white vinegar. Pick an inconspicuous area of the carpet and test small amounts of solution to determine its effect on the fiber and dye. The other change develops slowly over a period of several months and results in permanent change of fiber dye. Along with the dye change, some fibers become weakened or destroyed. After cleaning, these areas are more obvious because the soil, which hid the true color, has been removed.

Stains

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes stains are hidden by soil and revealed after cleaning. These stains, which did not immediately cause discoloration, are usually from spilled liquids containing colorless sugar which remains on the fibers. After long exposure to the air, hidden stains change to insoluble brown stains, but are not always noticed because of dirt covering them. Other kinds of stains can be caused by water soaking through and absorbing sizing, browning or fugitive dyes from the backs of the material. Because the fibers act as wicks, moisture will rise to the surface and evaporate, and discoloration will be left. Carpet owners who try to remove stains by using the wrong cleaning compounds and procedures may make the stained areas more noticeable. To lessen the possibility of stain damage, immediate action should be taken. Call SERVPRO of High Point to learn how to remove the spot safely before it becomes a permanent stain.

BIohazard, Vandalism, and Crime Scene Cleanup

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider of hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO of High Point professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminents can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. The professionals at SERVPRO of High Point are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and NC State and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of High Point can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. These services include cleanup of bloodborne pathogens, methamphetamine labs, crime scene residues, arson, vandalism, sewage backups, black water intrusions, and mold mitigation and remediation.

What Not to Do If You Have Water Damage

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Don't enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. Don't enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrial equipment are exposed to water. Don't leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining. Don't leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining. Don't use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner. Don't use tv's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

What To Do If You Have Water Damage

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. Remove as much excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable and sensitive to moisture. Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors. Hang draperies and coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

What To Do If You Have Fire and Smoke Damage

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

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 and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor. Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. If heat is off during the winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs, to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures. Wash both sides of leaves on house plants. Change the HVAC filter, but leave the 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 system.

Reducing Mold In Your Property

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present. One study found that excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property value and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, SERVPRO of High Point can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrated materials or is allowing mold growth. Organic materials found inside a property, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Be diligent in your efforts to keep mold from growing within your property.

SERVPRO F1rst Responder Bowl

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

In a joint effort to honor the service and sacrifice of America's First Responders, the annual college football game played at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas Texas has been remaned the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl! Kickoff for the newly christened SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is set for December 26, 2018 at 1:30pm EST and will be televised by ESPN. The 2018 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is the ninth edition of the bowl game, formerly known as the Heart of Dallas Bowl, and part of the 89-year history of games being played at the Cotton Bowl Stadium. This bowl game partnership began last year during Hurricane Harvey. For the past several years, SERVPRO has been aligned with the American Red Cross to collectively contribute over $1.5 million to the effort. First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.

Destroy Odors With Deodorization

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the 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 hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of High Point provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of High Point does not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you suffer from a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of High Point. Whether it's fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Dangers Of Fireworks...

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

FIREWORKS SAFETY!!! It's fireworks season! According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), an average of 18,500 fires are started every year by fireworks. This includes 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. "These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage", says the NFPA. Do you think sparklers are the safe way to go ? NOPE: they account for about a fourth of emergency room fireworks injuries. STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER by paying close attention to children at firework events, and avoiding the use of consumer fireworks. It is always suggested to go to an approved fire works display as to minimize any harm that may come to you and your family.

CELEBRATE SAFELY WITH A RECIPE FOR SAFETY

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Each November, families father to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Keep anything that can catch fire, oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains, away from stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep door closed.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

DID YOU KNOW?

Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires, with three times the average number.

IS YOUR PROPERTY WINTER READY?

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not properly prepared. Whether it is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during fall. Leaves and other obstructions can lead to a damming effect, that can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawlspace. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.
Ask your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no cost assessment to your facility, and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.
When winter weather strikes, call your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to strike back.
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals help meet the real needs of insurers and property owners by supplying reliable and consistent service. The first steps taken in a disaster situation can mean the difference between recovery and total loss.

Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

Most everyone is aware that water problems can lead to mold growth…let’s look at some simple steps you can take to help prevent mold growth. We know that water is needed for the growth of mold, so I want to share with you the EPA’s Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips from their website, www.epa.gov.

Act quickly with water leaks or spills occur indoors. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases, you can prevent mold growth.
Clean and repair roof gutters regularly to keep outside water from penetrating inside your home and creating a moisture problem inside the walls and ceiling of your home.
Make sure the ground slopes away from your home’s foundation so water cannot collect or enter at the foundation
Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
Keep indoor humidity low (between 30 and 50 percent is ideal but anything below 60 percent relative humidity is good). Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument available at many hardware stores.
If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, act quickly to dry the wet surface. Condensation can
be a sign of high humidity.

Ways to reduce humidity and prevent condensation include:

Vent appliances (such as clothes dryers and stoves) to the outside of the house when possible.
Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering.
Use exhaust fans when cooking or running the dishwasher.
Cover cold surfaces such as cold water pipes with insulation.

Increase ventilation or air movement by opening
doors and windows (whenever practical) or using fan

Are You "Plugged In"?

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

A recent report from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) shows home electrical fires claim the lives of 280 Americans each year and also create over 1,000 injuries. Overloaded circuits and extension cords are the cause of most electrical fires in the home and workplace. December and January are the peak months for electrical fires. According to the USFA, the peak in fires is due to the increased time spent indoors, which also increases the use of lighting, heating and appliances. Many electrical fires can be avoided if the most basic safety precautions are taken.

Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately.
Replace any electrical tool or appliance if it overheats, shorts out, causes electrical shocks, or gives off smoke or sparks.
If an appliance has a three-pronged plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
Use electrical extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets.

Protein Fires Are A Unique Challenge

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

Protein Fire Pot

Contrary to most house fires that occur, the typical kitchen fire or “protein fire” produce little visible smoke residue. Protein fires create an especially unique restoration challenge. The low level of heat reduces the animal fat and food protein and leaves a thin layer of film on surfaces. Many homeowners mistakenly underestimate the damage as there may be little or no black residue that you would expect to see after a typical fire. The layer of film that is produced from these fires can create a rancid strong odor that also compromises the structure and contents. These protein residues penetrate cabinets, drawers, air ducts, furniture, clothing, draperies etc. Here are some important facts regarding this type of fire.

Protein fires generally leave little visible residue that can sometimes be overlooked at first.
They create a significantly more repugnant smell than most other fires.
The nature of the burn causes the odor to permeate structure and furniture even more completely than other fires.
Require extremely thorough cleaning by a trained professional to remove the odor.
Sometimes require a sealing agent or even repainting to completely eradicate the odor.
May require multiple attempts and methods to achieve customer satisfaction.

It is also important to recognize that perception of odor is highly individual. There are no tools available to “measure” smell, and as a result, a homeowner may perceive odors that technicians or even neighbors cannot. Often, because of the strong link between smell and memory, a homeowner may experience “phantom odors” where the memory of the event causes reproduction of the odor even after thorough cleaning. It takes extensive cleaning of walls, floors, ceilings and contents of the home to rid the home of these odors and should be handled by professional cleaning and restoration company no matter what size of job.

Fire Extinguisher Tips

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

Fire

Make sure when choosing a fire extinguisher for your home or business that you choose the right class of extinguisher for the job. Fire extinguishers are broken into classes and each class is designed to extinguish different types of fires. Here are the different classes of extinguishers:

Class A – This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.

Class B – Used on fires involving flammable liquids such as grease, gasoline and oil.

Class C – Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electrically charged or plugged in.

Class D – For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.

Class K – Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming more popular in the residential market for use in kitchens.

***Information provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

Holy Smoke!!!

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

Occasionally, you may have smoke damage in your home that seems harmless. Some examples of these incidents are burning a dinner, “puff-backs” from a furnace, smoke from a candle or lamp, or even a small fire from an appliance that you are to put out quickly with an extinguisher…but what about the smoke? Experienced fire restoration professionals know that areas seemingly unaffected by fire damage are still a danger to homeowners. Smoke can penetrate within cavities of the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Smoke can coat your entire home with soot and leave toxic residues that can act as an irritant if not properly cleaned and can cause health issues. Now, before I go further, I would like to point out that planning ahead to prevent fires in the home is the best thing you can do.

Here are some things you may not know about smoke:

Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
Smoke flows around plumbing systems, using holes around pipes and your HVAC duct work to go from floor to floor and throughout your home.
There are several types of smoke which affect how it acts and determines what type of cleaning process is required.

Types of smoke include:

Wet smoke – results from smoldering fires with low heat. Residues are sticky, smeary and with pungent odors. Smoke webs can be difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – results from fast burning fires at high temperatures. Residues are often dry, powdery, small, non-smeary smoke particles.
Protein Smoke – here’s your burning chicken. Virtually invisible residues that discolor paints and varnishes. Extreme pungent odor.
Fuel-Oil Soot Smoke – this is a result of a furnace malfunction (commonly known as a “puff-back”)

When having someone clean up smoke damage in your home, it’s important that they perform an inspection and do pretesting. A fire damage restoration professional should determine the extent of the smoke and fire damage, make sure unaffected areas are protected, determine which materials can be restored and which need to be replaced, and the most effective cleaning methods. These steps also allow the focus to be on saving precious items and keepsakes for you.

Plumbing Problems?

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage can be costly and a big inconvenience. It can occur as a result of many circumstances and you cannot control all of the sources or situations that may lead to water damage. However, there are things you can do to reduce the possibility of water damages occurring. Today we are going to focus on Plumbing as the cause. Here are the most common reasons for water damage in your home or business as a result of plumbing:

Faulty Construction
Malfunctioning Water Filtration System
Problems with Dishwasher Supply Line
Sink Malfunction
Problems with Ice Maker Water Supply Line
Toilet Overflow or Back-up
Malfunctioning Water Heater
Frozen Pipes – Pipe Breaks / Leaks
Problems with the Clothes Washer Water Supply Line

It is always good to keep a check on the plumbing areas you can see…toilets, sinks, refrigerators and washing machines to make sure they are in good running order. By routinely checking, you could find any small problem before it becomes a major problem. This could save you from having a major issue in your home.

Be Prepared

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Good News…Bad News

Good News Bad News...

Before you end up on the roof waiting for a ride…make sure you are prepared for whatever happens. We can help get life back to normal once the storm has passed but it helps to be prepared before it arrives.

Basic Emergency Supply Kit

In celebration of National Preparedness Month here is a list of recommended items for a basic emergency supply kit:

Water (one gallon of water per person per day)
Food (non-perishable – 3 day supply)
Manual can opener
Battery operated radio, preferably an NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries.
Flashlight and extra batteries
First Aid kit
Whistle (to signal for help)
Clothing
Dust masks or bandanas
Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities (if necessary)
Local Maps
Hygiene items
Important documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
Cash
Fire Extinguisher
Matches in a water proof container

Make sure you are prepared for whatever happens.

Basement Waterproofing

8/30/2017 (Permalink)

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Waterproofing is needed anytime a structure is built at ground level or below ground. Waterproofing and drainage considerations are especially needed in cases where ground water is likely to build up in the soil and raise the water table. This higher water table causes hydrostatic pressure to be exerted underneath basement floors and against basement walls. Hydrostatic pressure
forces water in through cracks in foundation walls, through openings caused by expansion and contraction of the footing-foundation wall joint and up through floor cracks. Hydrostatic pressure can cause major structural damage to foundation walls and is likely to contribute to mold, decay and other moisture related problems.

Warning signs that you have waterproofing problems in your basement can include:

Signs of Mold and Mildew Fungus - this can grow in damp or dark areas, and cause discoloration, or musty odors.
Moldy Odors - This is the result of the decay process from mold, and dry rot.
Peeling Paint – This is a sign that you have moisture problems and may have waterproofing issues.
Damp Spots on Walls – Water has absorbed through your walls and you need to confirm the source of the water.
White Substance on Basement Walls – This is a chemical breakdown of the bonding agent that holds your walls together. This white substance can be a sign of possible structural deterioration.
Cracked Walls – These should be inspected to determine the exact cause.
Rust on Appliances or Furniture Like furnaces – Rust is caused by a wet environment and can be a sign of waterproofing issues.

If you have on-going occurrences in your basement you may need to investigate on procedures to waterproof your basement. Mold remediation can be handled professionally but but if the source is not repaired you will be dealing with the various signs above over and over again. If any of these signs sound familiar please make sure you look into fixing the source of the water intrusion instead of fixing the affects of the water damage time after time. It may cost money up front but it will save you money in the long run and help to maintain the structural integrity of the home.

Hire The Right Contractor

7/31/2016 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning by the lowest bidder.

If this is your idea of a carpet cleaning…you may want to keep our phone number close at hand. Carpet cleaning is not expensive and should be done routinely but buyer beware…if you don’t hire the right company you can end up with too much water and chemicals left in your carpet which can lead to additional problems that you did not want. Hire the right company and you won’t have a problem. Hire this guy and you will have a bigger problem than stains on your carpet…you will have mold on your carpet! And mold is an entire different story altogether! Not only does it smell bad, but it can cause permanent damage to your carpet and it will need to be replaced!

A Leaky Roof Can Lead to Trouble

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

If you see spots in the ceiling like this one it may be time to have your roof inspected for a potential leak.

If you discover that your roof is leaking it is extremely important to take prompt action to have it repaired. Not doing so may put your entire home at risk. If your roof is leaking, even if it only appears to be a minor leak, this could be an indicator of a much greater problem. Even a small leak in your roof can cause a great deal of damage if it persists long enough, so make sure you do not let it continue once a leak is discovered.

Usually a roof leak will be noticed from inside of the home when water rings or ceiling stains form on the ceiling. A leak of any kind can create an environment that can lead to ceiling instability, water intrusion through cracks or electrical receptacles, deterioration of the structure and even mold growth. Water Damage can really damage the structure of a home and the repairs can be costly. Early detection and proactive maintenance can greatly reduce the damage and cost of these repairs. It may be difficult to readily identify the source of the water intrusion, which is why water rings or leaks should never be ignored. Roofs are one of the biggest protectors of our home and over time they can become damaged due to bad weather, harsh climates and poor maintenance. The strength and longevity of a roof can also be compromised due to poor quality materials or improper installation so make sure you hire a professional company with experience who stands behind their work.

Once a roofing company is contacted, they should do whatever is necessary

initially to protect the inside of your home from more moisture. Usually, a roofing company will use tarps to protect the interior of your home from further damage until the roof is repaired or replaced. Fortunately, a roof assessment can reveal if the damage occurred due to storm damage and sometimes insurance companies provide coverage for this scenario. When it comes to protecting your home, investing in quality materials and workmanship is always worth the cost!

Summer Safety

6/16/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of High Point wishes you a safe and happy summer!

Summer is a time to enjoy the great outdoors, but it is important to also keep safety in mind. Consider the following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to keep your family safe all summer long.

When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbeque grills; DO NOT add fluid after the coals have been lit.

When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.

When camping, always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp far away from the camp fire.

Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire. Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.

Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire. Only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

It's The Water You Don't See

5/15/2016 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoid costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of High Point has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry the unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable 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 just some of the tools we use:

Moisture Sensors which are used to detect moisture in carpets baseboards or walls.
Moisture Meters which are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. This allows us to monitor the drying process with accuracy.
Thermohygrometers which are used to measure the temperature and relative humidity of a structure. This allows us to create an environment most conducive for drying.

There are many other tools and equipment used to make sure we can discover the water you don’t see and make sure it does not become a problem for you in the future. The bottom line is your SERVPRO professionals have the equipment, technology, training, and experience to help make your fire, water and mold problems “Like it never even happened.”

Spring Is Here…Are Your Ducts Clean?

4/18/2016 (Permalink)

If you have not cleaned your ducts in the last year they might look like this one.

When the words “Spring Cleaning” become a common conversation topic everyone begins to think of cleaning out closets, cleaning the floors, walls, ceilings, garage, attic, and even sprucing up the yard. However, one topic that rarely comes up is cleaning out the HVAC ducts. On average Americans spend 93 percent of their time indoors which can be problematic if your home or work has poor air quality due to ducts that have not been cleaned. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) indoor air pollution levels are often higher than outdoor levels.

Dirty HVAC system ducts can circulate odors, mold spores, and dust particles throughout your home or office. Keeping your duct work clean not only provides fresh clean air but can also extend the life of the equipment by allowing it to consistently operate at peak condition. A certified professional can clean your ducts and provide you with a clean environment and a better performing HVAC system. An inspection of your HVAC system can save you money, provide you peace of mind and prolong the life of your equipment.

So contact your franchise professional today and add Duct Cleaning to your “Spring Cleaning” routine.

Remember – Green Means Clean!

4/7/2016 (Permalink)

If it has been a while since you have completely cleaned your home, there may be some surprises awaiting you. If you discover Mold please make sure you have it cleaned up by a professional company who specializes in Mold Remediation. It’s not just your home…it’s also your health that can be at risk. So call SERVPRO of High Point with the confidence that SERVPRO Green Means everything is Clean! SERVPRO of High Point follows IICRC standards and we make sure that all of our products are in line with these standards. Mold can be the result of a water intrusion that exists in the wall cavity and is not visible to you. Make sure if you have any musty odors present, that you call a trained professional.

Hello World

3/30/2016 (Permalink)

This blog was created for the purpose of providing meaningful and accurate information on Commercial and Residential Cleanup & Restoration. We hope to provide an educational (and sometimes fun) resource to inform you about important topics in the restoration industry. We also hope you find the information discussed within to be both beneficial and entertaining. Please check back periodically for updates and let us know what you think…your opinion matters. You can also check-out our SERVPRO of High Point Facebook page or follow us on Twitter @SERVPROHP. Your opinion is very important to us, and helps us improve in a variety of ways. It is input from YOU that keeps us improving, and thus, helps us grow and to keep our doors open. So please contact us at any time. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (336) 884-0063

Archived Blog Posts

Navigating Storm Season: Common Weather Hazards in North Carolina

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A Necessary Part of Life

How To Prevent Water Damage

Water Damaged Wood Floors

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Severe Storms and Their Clouds

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Protect Your Water Pipes

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Preparing For A Storm - Part 2

How A House Fire Spreads

Kitchen Fire: Ignition

And the Fire Continues To Burn, Part 1

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Six More Weeks Of Winter

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An Open or Closed Dehumidification System?

Structural Drying

Importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Navigating Commercial Building Losses

Adjusting A Commercial Loss

Assessing And Evaluating A Commercial Loss

Storm Damage And Insurance