Flash Floods

9/21/2023 (Permalink)

Every year, flash floods affect every state in the US, making them the number one weather-related killer in the country. According to The Weather Channel, floods, which are often characterized as high flows or overflows of water from rivers or similar bodies of water, occur over a longer period of time than flash floods.

Flooding can be caused by various factors. Winter or spring rains, combined with melting snow, can rapidly fill river basins. Additionally, torrential rains from decaying hurricanes or tropical systems can lead to river flooding. An example of this is the Mississippi River Flood of 1993, which resulted from weeks of heavy rain from thunderstorms.

On the other hand, flash floods are sudden and quick-rising floods triggered by heavy rainfall within a short period, sometimes lasting only a few hours. They can also occur due to ice jams on rivers during winter or spring thaws, or even from dam breaks. The influx of water causes a dangerous overflow that can sweep away vehicles, dislodge boulders onto roadways, uproot trees, destroy buildings, and wash away bridges. The speed at which the water rises is particularly alarming.

Coastal flooding, on the other hand, occurs when strong onshore winds push water from the ocean, bay, or inlet onto land. This can happen during tropical storms and hurricanes, resulting in storm surges, or even during non-tropical storms like "nor'easters."

SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside specializes in flood and storm damage restoration, which forms the foundation of our business. With extensive training in water damage and storm restoration, we are equipped to swiftly restore your home to its normal state.

Guide to Mold Control

9/21/2023 (Permalink)

According to the Healthy Indoor Air Research Center at the University of Illinois, mold spores are ubiquitous and can grow on any organic surface if the right conditions are present. These conditions include organic matter for food, moisture, warmth, and oxygen. To prevent mold growth, it is important to keep all surfaces clean and dry, as well as ensure adequate ventilation.

Moisture is a key factor for mold growth, so it is essential to address any sources of moisture such as flooding, leaky pipes or windows. Areas with excess moisture like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are particularly prone to mold growth.

Mold spores also require a source of food, which can include various materials found in the environment.

Optimum temperatures for mold growth range between 32 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures around 70-90 degrees being the most conducive for mold proliferation.

Author Michael Pugliese, in his book "The Homeowner's Guide to Mold," highlights three conditions that favor mold growth: a relative humidity of around 50% or higher (which can be monitored using a hygrometer), damp or dusty conditions (avoiding the accumulation of mold food sources like piles of rags or clothing), and stagnant air. It's worth noting that tightly sealed homes designed for energy efficiency can sometimes experience mold issues due to a lack of adequate air circulation.

If you discover mold in your home, it is recommended to contact SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside at 708-240-4873 for assistance.

What to Do During a Broken Pipe

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

A broken pipe can be a major inconvenience and costly to repair. It is important to take action quickly to minimize the damage. Here are the steps to take if you have a broken pipe:

1. Locate the shutoff valve. The shutoff valve is the main control for the water supply to your home. It is usually located near the water meter, inside or outside your home.
2. Turn off the water. Once you have located the shutoff valve, turn it off to stop the flow of water.
3. Open all faucets. This will help to relieve the pressure in the pipes and minimize the amount of water that comes out of the break.
4. Drain the water. If possible, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible. You can also use towels or buckets to soak up the water.
5. Remove non salvageable damaged materials. Any porous materials that have been wet  and permanently damaged by the water should be removed as soon as possible. This includes things like carpet, drywall, and furniture.
6. Set up fans and dehumidifiers. This will help to dry out the area and prevent mold growth.
7. if possible call in a professional like SERVPRO La Grange Park/North Riverside to determine extent of damage and best course of action to minimize secondary damage

Preventing Broken Pipes

There are a few things you can do to prevent broken pipes:

• Insulate your pipes. This will help to keep them from freezing in the winter.
• Check your pipes for leaks regularly. If you find a leak, fix it immediately.
• Avoid using sharp objects near your pipes. This could damage them.
• Have your pipes inspected by a plumber every few years. This will help to identify any potential problems early on.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent broken pipes and the damage they can cause.

Here are some additional tips for dealing with a broken pipe:

• Take pictures of the damage. This will help you to document the extent of the damage and make it easier to file a claim with your insurance company.
• Be prepared to provide proof of ownership of your home. This could include a copy of your deed or mortgage.
• Keep all receipts for repairs and materials. This will help you to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
• Be patient. It may take some time for your insurance company to process your claim and approve the repairs.

By following these tips, you can minimize the stress and hassle of dealing with a broken pipe.

For Immediate Service in Broadview, Call SERVPRO

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of La Grange Park/North Riverside provides 24 hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster near Chicago's southwest suburbs. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (708) 240-4873

Residential Services

Whether your near Chicago southwest suburban home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Chicago southwest suburban commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: https://SERVPROlagrangeparknorthriverside.com/

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Berwyn Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Berwyn Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of La Grange Park/North Riverside will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (708) 240-4873

The month of natural readiness is September.

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

September is the month of Natural preparedness. National preparedness month was designed for The Department of Homeland Security to educate the public on the importance of disaster preparation. There is a plethora of disasters both Natural and Man-made. With this being said there are a number of strategies you maybe be able to come up with and a number of governmental websites that may help you prepare such as FEMA, and the Center of Disease Control and Prevention. 

As such SERVPRO offers an Emergency Readiness Profile for such events. In the case of an emergency in which your home suffers from things such as fire damage, water damage or mold damage etc. We’ll provide you with tips to minimize damage until help arrives and we are able to begin your mitigation and reconstruction process.  SERVPRO works with many insurance companies so many insurance companies may also have information you can use to prepare. Insurance companies encourage families to prepare for disasters because it allows them to properly evaluate if the property is insured and makes the recovery process a bit easier. When extreme weather destroys homes, families with less savings are more prone to housing insecurity.  

September is National Preparedness Month

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM). NPM is FEMA's national annual preparedness outreach. It is managed and sponsored by FEMA's Ready Campaign. The Ready Campaign, in conjunction with the Ad Council, aims to educate and empower Americans during NPM and through the year to prepare for and respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. National Preparedness Month culminates on September 30th with National Preparedness Day, the National Day of Action. The theme for 2022 is: A Lasting Legacy. The life you've built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family. SERVPRO® is proud to spotlight National Preparedness Month this year. By doing so, we want to make sure you are prepared in case of a disaster? whether natural or man-made. If you haven't taken the time to think about how different disasters could affect you, then we challenge you to take the necessary steps to become informed and develop an emergency plan for before, during, and after an event for yourself and your family. IN THIS ISSUE of the Restoration Newsline:

• Why is NPM observed in September?

• What 2 states experience the most tornadoes?

• Preparedness steps that could save your life

• What to include in an emergency supply kit We must work together to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready for the unthinkable.

Begin preparing vital information now so you can address the unique needs of your business during an emergency situation. Contact your local SERVPRO® team of professionals to find out more preparedness planning tips and how you can minimize business interruption with SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile®.

Using your insurance in conjunction with SERVPRO

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes your property, it is important to know who to call! SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst is highly trained and experienced in disaster restoration and cleanup. Our team is the trusted leader in the restoration and cleaning industry, and we offer a wide variety of services for your residential and commercial properties. Water damage, fire damage, and mold damage don't stand a chance against our team! Locally owned and operated, we are dedicated to being "Faster to any size disaster!" Available 24 hours a day, days a week for your emergency.

When you experience an unexpected disaster in your home, you may not know how to handle it. After the shock is over, your first thoughts are “what am I going to do?” and  “How am I going to pay for this?”. These are two very common questions homeowners ask themselves given the high cost of repairing water, fire, mold or trauma damage. Good news for you, our team of professionals is here to help eliminate that concern.

Here at SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst set ourselves apart from other restoration companies with our seamless design to work directly with most insurance companies while keeping property owners in the loop. Our dedicated team of professionals understands the insurance industry. From knowing how the claims process works, to getting your claim submitted and your repairs documented correctly. One major advantage we use is our advanced technology that allows us to perform very accurate estimates with detailed reports on replacements. Many of our team members have worked directly with insurance agents and adjusters.

As one of the largest restoration and damage remediation companies in the country, we work with hundreds of insurance companies to help our customers get their claims processed quickly and fairly. Many insurance companies know that SERVPRO handles losses professionally and often recommend us to their policyholders.

If you have any questions or are in need of emergency services, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of La Grange Park / North Riverside, Arlington Heights/Prospect Height, and Elmhurst team a call!  

Podcast from the U.S. Fire Administration

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Life is getting busier, the days are seemingly becoming shorter, and many Americans are struggling with time management. During times like these it may be more difficult to get your daily news. However, many are combating the concept of time with strategic planning and multitasking. 

Many years ago during my studies as a marketer many marketing professionals noticed a decline in audio advertising. This decline had been made consistent and many advertisers began to look for other sources to market their products and services. Them the boom of Podcast begun. Podcast are extremely popular because of multiple reasons. The first being that podcast are readily available during anytime of the day.   

No more struggling to get your daily fire prevention and safe new as The U.S Fire Administration releases its eight episode on https://www.usfa.fema.gov/podcasts/. The U.S. Fire Administration Podcasts are dedicated to getting the right message out to the folks on a time crunch. No more will you have have to struggle making it near a radio or television for important news on fire, emergency services and more. The U.S. Fire Administration Podcasts have audio as well as written versions of their podcast online and available at anytime. The podcast can be found at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/podcasts/ or on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcast apps and websites. 

Central Illinois and surrounding areas are flooded by storms.

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Severe storms have been traveling through Central Illinois and Missouri recking havoc on residents leaving hundreds homeless or displaced with flood damage. Historic rainfall began July 25^th, 2022 shattering a the 100 year old record. Additional rain and isolated thunderstorms continue to threaten the St. Louis and central Illinois area. Mayor Tishaura Jones declared the city in a state of emergency which should help gain resources the city needs for recovery.

These severe storms and rainfall cause a significant amount of property damage. Luckily, However SERVPRO is on the case. There have been over 30 franchises and 90 crews dispatched on-site in the Illinois and Missouri areas. SERVPRO franchises have traveled from as far a 7-8 hours gaining help from surrounding midwestern franchises. We are all-hands-on-deck in helping the over 2000 new calls for help.

Our highly trained Disaster Recovery Team specializes in property damage restoration, water damage restoration and fire damage restoration. Our team utilizes advanced technologies alongside The Institute of Inspection’s cleaning and restoration industry standards to provide exceptional service. We believe in continuous training from initial and on-going training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC industry certifications. Rest assured our staff is equipped for any of your clean-up, restoration, and construction needs.

References:

Woytus, A. (2022, July 26). Historic rainfall in St. Louis shatters 100-year-old record. St. Louis Magazine. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://www.stlmag.com/news/historic-rainfall-st-louis-floods/

Hays, G. (2022, July 28). Historic rainfall in St. Louis raises questions about flooding and climate change. PBS NewsHour. Retrieved April 8, 2022, from https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/historic-rainfall-in-st-louis-raises-questions-about-flooding-and-climate-change