Recent Posts
Spring Cleaning Season Is Here
3/6/2023 (Permalink)
The first day of Spring is right around the corner, March 20th to be exact. It's time to start Spring cleaning. We all know 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 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 SERVPRO Of Virginia Beach a call, remember it is ALWAYS best to call directly 757-431-1400. Always Here to Help!
When Water Strikes in Virginia Beach
10/13/2022 (Permalink)
When Water Strikes in Virginia Beach
If you are looking to prevent damage to your home, staying ahead of water damage is crucial. Water damage leads to rotted wood, insect infestation, peeling paint and weakened roofs and siding, Mold or Mildew
Check for leaks and cracks where water can enter, such as windows and doors, especially around corners. Clean and caulk these leaks immediately. Look for broken shingles and cracks in exterior walls. Repair or replace any broken shingles that are allowing water in, seal all cracks and holes in your home’s foundation, joints, and exterior walls. Ceiling leaks can be dealt with by measuring the location of the leak from the nearest outside wall, then locating this point in the attic with a measuring tape.
Check your home for leaking faucets, sweating pipes, bad drainage systems, and clogged drains—all of these can lead to water leaking, pooling, and causing damage. Keep an eye on your water heater for signs of leaking water or rust. If you have a wood home, look out for termite damage. To prevent future leaks, install flashing around doors, windows, thresholds, chimneys, and roofs—it prevents water from penetrating places where two different building surfaces meet.
Maybe you are just dealing with a burst pipe, or worse yet you have a flooded basement. Regardless of how bad the initial damage is, you cannot afford to wait to start the water cleanup process. Within just a single hour up to a day after your home has been exposed to water, it will begin to cause damage. This is when drywall begins to bulge and break, furniture begins to swell and crack, and metal surfaces begin to tarnish
Water spreads very quickly and will get absorbed into the floors, the walls, your furniture, and other areas in your home. Once you have stopped the actual leak, you need to immediately start the process of water mitigation, which is the process of preventing or reducing the amount of water damage, to prevent additional damage so time is of the essence. If water damage persists for more than a week, mildew and mold growth, structural damage and biohazard contaminants may pose serious risks to you and your family. The delay in restoration time may also significantly increase the cost to repair water damage.
Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Virginia Beach at 757-431-1400 we strive to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Preparing for winter weather and avoiding water damage from Frozen Pipes
10/6/2022 (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:
- 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.
- If a vacant home, keep the temperature above 65 degrees.
- Cap outdoor water fixtures. By placing a cover on outdoor spigots and faucets, it reduces the possibility these fixtures build up with ice.
- 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.
- 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.)
- If it’s heated water that’s coming from the broken pipe, you should also close the valve attached to your hot water heater.
- 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 even happened."
Fire Restoration
6/15/2022 (Permalink)
While it’s true that a house fire can be an extremely difficult and overwhelming experience, professional fire restoration companies are available to help you deal with the aftermath. When fire damage is the result of fire in our home—one of the scariest and most devastating events we can face—it can make us feel panicked, vulnerable, and helpless. The good news is that you don’t have to deal with it alone when you have the right fire restoration services to guide you.
What professional fire restoration companies do is a science designed to provide the most effective restoration and resolution after a fire to get your home back to its original condition and get you back to life as you know it.
Here are 3 amazing facts about fire restoration, and #3 just might surprise you:
#1: With a House Fire, Smoke Goes Everywhere
Even if you have a tiny kitchen fire with minimal damage, you will experience the smell of smoke and have the potential for smoke damage throughout other areas of your home, or maybe even throughout your entire home. Smoke travels everywhere. It’s made up of particles of the fuel that burned in the fire combined with chemicals and particulates that become airborne during the fire and then move throughout your house.
Smoke damage restoration is one of the primary concerns during fire restoration. If smoke damage is not treated properly it can cause more and more problems as it sits on surfaces throughout your home. And the odor lingers long after the fire is out and can make a home unlivable if it isn’t dealt with successfully. It takes the proper tools, equipment, products, and know-how to get rid of smoke damage.
#2: Fire Damage Is Often More Extensive (and More Dangerous) than It Looks
When the fire is out and the smoke has cleared, the danger isn’t necessarily over. Fire damage is often more extensive than it first appears. A small fire can damage not just the surface where the fire occurred but can damage the interiors of walls and ceilings and can affect the electrical and the structure of your home in unexpected ways.
When fire burns, the temperature and ferocity often depends on the fuel. In a home fire, that often includes lots of synthetic and petroleum based products like carpet and flooring, toys and furniture, and plastics and artificial laminates. This type of fire creates smoke and soot residue that is greasy and smeary and can be difficult to remove as well as toxic to handle.
When there is a fire against a wall, it can also burn the interior support structure and the floor below. This is another danger you could be facing if you choose to enter the home before it’s deemed safe by the fire department. Use caution when dealing with the interior of your home as well as the residue left behind by the fire. Call in a professional before you do anything.
#3: House Fires Lead to Water, Water Everywhere!
One of the most damaging things about a house fire isn’t necessarily the flames but the water used to extinguish them. Surprised? You’re not alone. Most homeowners expect to find fire damage after a fire, not water damage. The truth is that water can often cause more damage after the fact than the fire itself.
The water, though essential to put out the fire, is used in massive quantities and will run down through your home, pooling in the lowest areas of each floor. Not only can this cause damage to your belongings and the structure of your home, but it can cause an even more dangerous situations.
Fire damage is something we all hope we never have to deal with, but if you should be faced with a fire in your home, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with and why you should put the care of your home in the hands of a restoration company.
Contact SERVPRO for any restoration needs at 757-431-1400.
Flooding can happen ANYWHERE
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
It seems appropriate to write a little about flooding since we are smack in the middle of Hurricane Preparedness Week
According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as
- Flash Flooding
- River Flooding
- Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical systems
- Burn Scars/Debris Flows (caused by wildfires)
- Ice/Debris Jams
- Snowmelt
- Dry Wash (caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
- Dam Breaks/Levee Failure
Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for polices in the low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).
When Catastrophic water damage (or any water damage) happens to you, SERVPRO of Virginia Beach professionals can help. It is always best to call SERVPRO of Virginia Beach directly at 757-544-6027
Choosing The Right Fire Extinguisher
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
Choosing the right fire extinguisher
Here's a tip... Choosing the appropriate Fire Extinguisher
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 energized 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.
SERVPRO of Virginia Beach is quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is a van full of clean! It's always best to call our office directly! 757-431-1400
Water Damage Do's and Don'ts
4/4/2022 (Permalink)
Experiencing a water damage is no fun. The Key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Virginia Beach has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. When time matters, technology, and equipment and experience must be counted on to perform. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to help you until help arrives.
STOP the source of water.
REMOVE as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.
WIPE excess water from wood furnishings after removing any contents lying on the surface.
Clearly designate wet area with floor signs and safety tape.
Pad or block wood furniture to prevent permanent staining of carpet.
Carefully remove colored items in affected areas, especially those in contact with carpet and upholstery
Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for even drying
Isolate areas where sewer or black water exposure has occurred
Be aware of potential electrical hazards. DO NOT attempt to vacuum up water with standard vacuum equipment.
DO NOT turn on Ceiling fans or light fixtures is ceiling is wet. Avoid standing beneath sagging ceilings.
It is always best to rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Virginia Beach. It is always best to call us directly at 757-431-1400
Spring Cleaning
3/8/2022 (Permalink)
Spring cleaning collage
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 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 SERVPRO Of Virginia Beach a call, remember it is ALWAYS best to call directly 757-431-1400. Aways Here to Help!
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 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 SERVPRO Of Virginia Beach a call, remember it is ALWAYS best to call directly 757-431-1400. Aways Here to Help!
How SERVPRO of Virginia Beach Saves Damaged Documents
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage can not only affect the structure of your property but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Virginia Beach specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help save you money while preserving precious keepsakes, furnishings and clothing that can’t be replaced.
If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Virginia Beach can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Each item is carefully packed up and transported to our facility for cleaning. We use several methods of cleaning your contents: dry cleaning, used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning; wet cleaning, an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues; spray and wipe, effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning; foam cleaning, used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned; abrasive cleaning, involves agitation of the surface being cleaned and emersion cleaning, where contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
After cleaning, we meticulously re-wrap the contents in fresh packing material and place them in new boxes, which are stored, until building restoration is completed.
Five Things That You Need To Know About a Water Damage.
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
When a pipe bursts, a drain backs up, or a flood occurs in your home, it can be hard to see past the mess. A million questions will run through your mind.
There is no doubt about it. Water damage is extremely stressful, and the more you know about it, the better you will be able to decide how to address it. Here are five things that every homeowner needs to know about water damage.
- There are different insurance policies for flood damage and water damage.
You might think that water is water, whether it is from flooding or a burst pipe, but flood damage is not covered under homeowner’s insurance. If you live in an area likely to experience flooding, you will probably already have a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Policy (NFIP). When you report the claim to the insurance company, make sure to specify whether the claim is for water damage or for flood damage, so they can begin adjusting your claim correctly.
- Not all water damage is covered by your insurance.
It is a good idea to look over your insurance policy and familiarize yourself with any exclusion to your water damage coverage. For instance, most policies cover sudden damage, like water damage from a really bad storm or from an overflowing washing machine. On the other hand, any water damage that happens because you didn’t maintain the property may be excluded, as well as gradual leaks that caused water damage over time.
- Once water damage has happened; the clock is ticking before it gets worse.
When your property has been water damaged, you don’t have the luxury of waiting around for a convenient time to start the cleanup. Secondary damage from mold growth can present serious health effects associated with mold in the living environment.
Mold spores are everywhere, but they need moisture and a nutrient source to grow. And that is exactly what your wet carpet or drywall offers.
To prevent mold growth, you will need to get your property completely dry again within that 24-48-hour window. To do this, you will need to contact a company that specializes in water damage restoration and emergency water extraction. They will have the professional water removal equipment and drying equipment to get the job done as quickly as possible. Many have 24-hour a day emergency hotline, so you can start recovering your property almost immediately.
- Your insurance company needs to know right away.
It is a good idea to call your insurance company right away when you discover water damage. Your insurance agent can start the claims process immediately, as well as guide you through the first steps you will need to take to protect your property from more damage, like stopping the source of the water at the main water turnoff.
- The pollution level of the water is important.
Water damage is categorized as one of three levels by how polluted the water source was that caused the damage.
Category 1: Water from a clean water source, like a freshwater line for a dishwasher. This water will not cause illness or any ill effects.
Category 2: Water that may cause illness through contact. It may have bacteria in it,
Even though water may start out as Category 1, that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. Any contamination that the water touches, such as dirty carpeting or soil from the ground, can change water damage Category to 2 or even Category 3. And since standing breeds bacteria, the longer the water is around, the worse the contamination of your property.
More contamination can mean that the restoration team will have to use more aggressive measures to clean your structure and property, and it might mean that soft furnishings, like your carpet and the carpet pad, may have to be discarded for your safety.
Water damage can be dangerous and expensive, so preventing water damage is an important part of home maintenance. But if you know the basics of what to do once it happens, you can prevent it from doing its worst.
SERVPRO of Virginia Beach is always here to help, it is always best to call us directly at 757-544-6027.
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