Fire Damage: Prevention and Recovery

2/18/2025 (Permalink)

Fire can be devastating for homeowners. At SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach, we understand the impact of fire damage. Here’s a brief overview of common causes, prevention tips, and how we can help with recovery.Common Causes of Fire

• Cooking Equipment: Unattended cooking is a leading cause.
• Heating Devices: Space heaters and fireplaces can pose risks.
• Electrical Malfunctions: Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits are common culprits.
• Smoking Materials: Improper disposal of cigarettes can ignite fires.
• Candles: Unattended candles can lead to disasters.

• Install Smoke Detectors: Ensure they are in every room and functional.
• Create an Escape Plan: Practice it with your family regularly.
• Store Flammables Safely: Keep them away from heat sources.
• Educate Your Family: Teach fire safety and risk awareness.

1. Emergency Response: We offer 24/7 services to secure your property.
2. Assessment: Our team will evaluate the damage.
3. Cleanup and Restoration: We handle soot, smoke, and debris cleanup.
4. Content Restoration: We can restore damaged belongings.
5. Insurance Assistance: We help navigate the claims process.

Why SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach? Your Trusted Restoration Partner

2/18/2025 (Permalink)

 When disaster strikes your Virginia Beach home or business, you need a restoration partner you can rely on. You need someone who responds quickly, works efficiently, and understands the stress and disruption a fire, water, or mold damage can cause. That's where SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach comes in.More Than Just a Cleaning CompanyWhile we're known for our cleaning and restoration services, SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach is much more than just a cleaning company. We're a team of highly trained and certified professionals dedicated to helping our community recover from disasters, big and small. We understand the science behind restoration and use advanced equipment and techniques to ensure your property is restored to its preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."®Here's what sets SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach apart: 

• 24/7 Availability: Disasters don't wait for business hours, and neither do we. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to respond to your emergency.
• Rapid Response: We understand that time is of the essence when dealing with water, fire, or mold damage. Our team will arrive quickly to assess the situation and begin the restoration process.
• Highly Trained Professionals: Our technicians are IICRC-certified and undergo rigorous training to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to handle any restoration challenge.
• Advanced Equipment: We use state-of-the-art equipment, including air movers, dehumidifiers, thermal imaging cameras, and specialized cleaning solutions, to effectively restore your property.
• Comprehensive Services: From water extraction and fire cleanup to mold remediation and reconstruction, we offer a full range of restoration services to meet your needs.
• Insurance Coordination: We work with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and make the restoration process as smooth as possible.
• Local Expertise: We're a locally women owned and operated franchise, which means we're deeply invested in the Virginia Beach community. We understand the unique challenges our coastal environment presents and are committed to providing the best possible service to our neighbors.

Understanding Mold: What You Need to Know

2/4/2025 (Permalink)

Microbial growth is a common issue that many homeowners & business owners face, especially in areas with high humidity. At SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach, we understand the challenges microbial growth presents and are here to help you navigate through them. In this blog, we’ll explore what microbial growth is, its causes, and how SERVPRO® can assist in remediation.

What is Microbial Growth?

Microbial growth refers to the development of fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms in damp environments. It reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can settle on various surfaces and begin to grow if the conditions are right. Microbial growth can appear in various colors, including black, green, and white, and is often found in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Causes of Microbial Growth

Microbial growth requires three key ingredients to thrive:

1. Moisture: This is the primary factor for microbial growth. Leaks, floods, or even high humidity can create the perfect environment for microorganisms to flourish.

2.  Porous Material: Microbial growth feeds on organic materials like wood, drywall, and even dust.

3. Temperature: Warm environments accelerate microbial growth, making homes in Virginia Beach particularly susceptible during humid summer months.

How SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach Can Help

At SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach, we specialize in microbial growth remediation. Our team is trained to handle microbial infestations safely and effectively. Here’s how we do it:

1. Inspection and Assessment: We conduct a thorough inspection to identify the extent of microbial growth and determine the source of moisture.

2. Containment: To prevent the spread of spores, we contain the affected area using physical barriers and negative air pressure.

3. Microbial Growth Removal: Our professionals use specialized equipment to remove microbial growth and contaminated materials safely.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing: We clean and sanitize the affected areas to eliminate any remaining spores and help prevent future growth.

5. Restoration: Finally, we restore your home to its pre-damage condition, ensuring it’s safe and healthy for you and your family.

Important Note on Testing

SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach does not typically conduct microbial growth testing. If testing is necessary, we can facilitate an industrial hygienist to assess and provide an independent analysis.

Microbial growth is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. If you suspect microbial growth in your home, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach. Our team is ready to assist with expert remediation services, ensuring your home is safe and free from harmful microbial growth. Remember, when it comes to microbial issues, it’s better to be proactive than reactive!

For more information or to schedule an inspection, visit our website or call us today!

Why an ERP is Vital

1/24/2025 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Virginia Beach has 30 years of experience in restoring property damaged by fire, water & smoke. During those years, we have discovered that businesses that do not have an emergency plan in place, prior to a disaster, sustain much greater losses due in large part to the additional time it takes them to react and take proper emergency steps to mitigate damage after a loss has occurred.

The degree of damage not only increases with the length of time it takes to react, but dollars lost due to business interruptions also increase very rapidly. As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that do survive, many of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at giving you peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do, who to call and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the affects water and fire damage can have on your business.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile offers:

• A no cost assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO of Virginia Beach as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Give SERVPRO of Virginia Beach a call at 757-431-1400 to schedule yours now

Winter Storm Clean up

1/24/2025 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Virginia can be very unpredictable. Though snow has not yet been in the forecast this year, it will still prove to be beneficial to prepare your home, car and surrounding area for any impending storm. A few helpful tips for homeowners:

Salt pavement around your house: The city is pretty good with clearing the roads around your home, however any sidewalks and pathways are left up to the homeowner to clear. To make things easier on homeowners, once you are aware of any storm headed your way, spread street salt on your driveway and walkway. Placing salt down prior to any snow storm can reduce the ice that forms underneath piles of snow. 

Keep a steady drip: With snow comes freezing and sometimes below freezing temperatures leaving your pipes vulnerable and likely to freeze and in turn burst.  Having a slow but steady drip of warm water flow through will help keep your pipes from freezing during these conditions. 

Create a winter ready emergency kit: In the event of a snow storm, the strength of it is always unpredictable. To keep you and your family safe, create and keep a winter ready emergency kit available. A few things to keep in the kit; bottled water, batteries, a functioning radio, different layers of clothing, blankets and non perishable food items.

SERVPRO of Virginia Beach has a 24/7 emergency response team that is ready to handle all storm damage in Hampton Roads, 24 hour, 365 days a year, for any residential or commercial location in the Hampton Roads area.

Cold Weather Tips

1/24/2025 (Permalink)

As seasons change, so do property owners preparation checklists.  With winter weather upon us, it is important for homeowners and property managers to do everything they can do to reduce risks of costly water damage caused by frozen pipes. 

                When water freezes, it expands.  That’s why a can of soda explodes if it’s put into a freezer to chill quickly and then forgotten.  When water freezes in a pipe, it expands the same way.  If it expands enough, the pipe bursts and water escapes leaving serious damage as a result. 

                Pipes in attics, crawlspaces, and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow the cold, outside air to flow across the pipes.  Holes in an outside wall where television, cable or telephone lines enter can provide access for cold air to reach pipes. 

                The Red Cross warns that pipe freezing is likely to occur after consecutive days and nights of freezing (32 degrees) or below conditions.  Taking the following precautions ahead of time can help you prevent potential pipe catastrophes:

1. Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home. Allowing cold water to trickle from a faucet can alleviate pressure and prevent a rupture even if freezing occurs.
2. If a vacant home, keep the temperature above 65 degrees.
3. Cap outdoor water fixtures. By placing a cover on outdoor spigots and faucets, it reduces the possibility these fixtures build up with ice.
4. Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.

If you have done nothing to prevent frozen pipes and you have water leaking or you have no water pressure, it likely means your pipes have burst.  According to State Farm Insurance, this happens to more than 50 million families each year in the United States.  If a pipe has even 1/8” crack, it can release 250 gallons of water a day.

You must act fast to prevent further, and more costly damage.

1. This first step is to always shut down your property’s main water supply.  (Depending on the amount of water and location, you may want to first turn off electricity.)
2. If it’s heated water that’s coming from the broken pipe, you should also close the valve attached to your hot water heater.
3. After you’ve shut down the water, call a plumber for help with repairing or replacing the burst pipe.

Make SERVPRO of Virginia Beach your first call to help you and your local insurance agent assess the damage.  We will work for you to restore your property and your life to make it Like It Never Happened®.

The Ultimate Guide to Fire Damage Restoration: How SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach Can Help

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

Fire incidents are among the most devastating events that can occur to a home or business. The aftermath of a fire leaves not only visible damage but also hidden dangers that can affect the safety and well-being of occupants. At SERVPRO of Virginia Beach, we understand the urgency and complexity of fire damage restoration. Our team of experts is dedicated to restoring your property to its pre-fire condition quickly and efficiently.

Understanding Fire Damage

Fire damage goes beyond what is immediately visible. While the flames cause significant destruction, the heat, smoke, and soot can also cause extensive damage to the structure and contents of your property. Here are some common types of fire damage:

1. Structural Damage: The intense heat from a fire can weaken the structural integrity of your property, causing walls, floors, and ceilings to become unsafe.

2. Smoke and Soot Damage: Smoke and soot can permeate every nook and cranny, leaving behind a lingering odor and potential health hazards. These particles can also corrode metals and damage fabrics, electronics, and other materials.

3. Water Damage: Firefighting efforts often involve large amounts of water, which can lead to water damage, mold growth, and further structural issues.

The SERVPRO® Fire Restoration Process

At SERVPRO of Virginia Beach, we follow a comprehensive fire damage restoration process to ensure your property is thoroughly cleaned, repaired, and restored. Here’s how we do it:

1. Emergency Contact

Our restoration process begins the moment you contact us. We are available 24/7 to respond to fire emergencies. Our representative will ask a series of questions to understand the extent of the damage and dispatch our team immediately.

2. Inspection and Assessment

Upon arrival, our team conducts a detailed inspection and assessment of the fire damage. This step helps us create a tailored restoration plan and determine the resources needed for the job.

3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

To prevent further damage and ensure safety, we provide immediate board-up and roof-tarp services. This secures the property and protects it from the elements.

4. Water Removal and Drying

If water damage is present, we use specialized equipment to remove water and thoroughly dry the affected areas. This helps prevent mold growth and further structural damage.

5. Smoke and Soot Removal

Using advanced techniques and equipment, we remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and personal belongings. Our goal is to eliminate all traces of fire residue.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean and sanitize all restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. Our team uses a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to their pre-fire condition. We also use industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove odors.

7. Restoration

The final step involves restoring your property to its pre-fire condition. This may include minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or major repairs like reconstructing entire rooms or areas of the property.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Virginia Beach?

Expertise and Experience

Our team consists of highly trained fire restoration specialists with years of experience in handling fire damage of all sizes. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure thorough and efficient restoration.

Quick Response

We understand that time is of the essence when dealing with fire damage. Our rapid response team is available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance and begin the restoration process as quickly as possible.

Comprehensive Service

From initial inspection to final restoration, we offer a full range of services to address all aspects of fire damage. You can trust us to handle every detail, allowing you to focus on getting your life back to normal.

Customer Satisfaction

At SERVPRO of Virginia Beach, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We work closely with you throughout the restoration process, keeping you informed and addressing any concerns you may have.

Contact Us Today

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire, don’t wait—contact SERVPRO of Virginia Beach today. Our team is ready to help you navigate the restoration process and restore your property to its pre-fire condition. Call us at 757-431-1400 or visit our website to learn more about our fire damage restoration services.

Why Choose SERVPRO® of Virginia Beach?

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you need a reliable partner to restore your property quickly and efficiently. SERVPRO of Virginia Beach is your trusted leader in the restoration industry, dedicated to making it "Like it never even happened." Here’s why you should choose us:

Expertise and Experience

With decades of experience, our highly trained professionals handle any restoration challenge using state-of-the-art equipment.

Rapid Response

We’re available 24/7, ensuring immediate response to minimize damage and reduce repair costs.

Comprehensive Services

We offer fire, water, mold, and storm damage restoration, as well as commercial restoration services.

Advanced Technology

We use the latest technology and techniques for superior restoration, from moisture detectors to dehumidifiers.

Insurance Coordination

We work closely with your insurance company for a hassle-free claims process.

Local Commitment

As a locally owned business, we provide personalized and compassionate service to our community.

Customer Satisfaction

We prioritize your satisfaction with clear communication, transparency, and professionalism.

Proven Reliability

SERVPRO® is known for reliability and high-quality service with a proven track record.

Contact Us

For expert restoration services, call SERVPRO of Virginia Beach at 757-431-1400 or visit our website.

Hurricane Preparation: Tips from SERVPRO of Virginia Beach

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

Hurricanes can cause significant damage to your home or business, and being prepared can make all the difference. SERVPRO of Virginia Beach is here to help you stay safe and minimize damage with these essential hurricane preparation tips.

Create an Emergency Plan

• Develop a Family Plan: Ensure all family members know what to do and where to go during a hurricane. Designate a safe room in your home.
• Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate.
• Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan to stay in touch with family members during and after the storm.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

• Supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
• Important Documents: Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Include identification, insurance policies, and medical records.
• Personal Items: Don’t forget personal hygiene items, clothing, and any necessary supplies for pets.

Secure Your Property

• Inspect Your Home: Check for any structural issues and make necessary repairs.
• Board Up Windows: Use storm shutters or plywood to protect windows and doors.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and any other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Keep trees and shrubs well-trimmed to reduce the risk of branches causing damage.

Know Your Insurance Coverage

• Review Policies: Ensure you understand your homeowner’s insurance policy and what it covers in the event of a hurricane.
• Flood Insurance: Consider purchasing flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area.

Stay Informed

• Weather Updates: Monitor local news and weather channels for updates on the storm.
• Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities to receive real-time information.

After the Storm

• Safety First: Avoid floodwaters and downed power lines. Wait for official word that it is safe to return to your property.
• Document Damage: Take photos and videos of any damage for insurance purposes.
• Contact SERVPRO of Virginia Beach: Our team is ready to assist with cleanup and restoration to get your life back to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of Virginia Beach

For professional assistance before, during, or after a hurricane, contact SERVPRO of Virginia Beach at 757-431-1400 or visit our website. We’re here to help you weather any storm.

Stay prepared with SERVPRO of Virginia Beach. We’re dedicated to helping you protect your home and family.

Spring Cleaning Season Is Here

3/22/2024 (Permalink)

Spring is in the air! The first day of Spring is Sunday March 20th!  Spring cleaning can be a little overwhelming, so we decided to create a check list to get you started on your spring cleaning!

ENTIRE HOME                                                                                  

• Change smoke alarm Batteries                                                                
• Clean/polish fixtures
• Clean mirrors and glass
• Clean rugs, floors & baseboards
• Dust/ polish furniture
• Dust bookshelves; donate books
• Dust light fixtures & bulbs
• Replace old light bulbs
• Wipe walls and ceilings
• Wash curtains
• Wash light fixtures/ ceiling fans
• Wash Windows

OUTSIDE

• Clean Garage
• Clean gutters
• Clean house siding
• Clean patio furniture
• Clean porch/deck/patio
• Landscaping
• Seal driveway
• Wash/inspect light fixtures

BEDROOMS

• Clean out closets & donate
• Put away winter bedding
• Rotate mattress
• Wash Bedding

LIVING ROOM

• Clean garage
• Clean gutters

BATHROOMS

• Clean & sanitize sink
• Clean & sanitize tubs, shower & toilet
• Clean out Medicine Cabinet
• Clean under the sink
• Dispose of expired medications

KITCHEN

• Clean and sanitize sink

• Clean oven
• Clean appliances (inside & out)
• Clean pantry, toss old food
• Polish Stainless-steel appliances
• Wash Cabinets (inside &out)
• Clean refrigerator/ freezer

As always, If you are looking for a deep, professional cleaning of your home or business, give us a call, remember it is ALWAYS best to call directly  757-431-1400