Tornado Damage

9/26/2024 (Permalink)

Tornadoes aren’t something you usually think you must worry about. Typically, you think they mostly occur in places like tornado valley, but they can happen all over the country. In 2024 Michigan has had a total of 11 tornadoes so far, that may not seem like many but the overall property damage that these caused totaled over 50 MILLION Dollars. Overall, the state has had over 1200 recorded tornadoes causing over 1.3 billion dollars!

The most common ways homes get damaged by them is when the wind pushes up shingles and water is allowed to enter the home, or when flying debris damages gutters or siding when they make impact. Trees are also known to uproot and fall onto homes causing holes in the roof.

The question then becomes, “What happens if my home is damaged by one of these terrible twisters?” The answer is to call SERVPRO®! We can help with any water intrusions due to storm or tornado damage and make it, "Like it Never Even Happened!"

Cold Weather Ahead

9/19/2024 (Permalink)

With the seasons changing and cold weather approaching it may be a good idea to check a few things to make sure that there aren’t any issues during the winter months. Winter brings many challenges to keep your home safe when such things as freezing pipes, ice dams, roof leaks, and flooding happen.

Frozen pipes occur when a pipe is exposed to cold enough air while it still has water in it. This will crack the pipe when the water expands as it freezes causing it to leak into your home and possibly cause mold growth. The best way to prevent this is to have your pipes winterized and all water removed from them if exposed outside as well as make sure your home is well insulated and kept at a warm temperature.

An ice dam happens when melting water from snow melting on your roof gets under the shingles and re-freezes. As the snow melts in the sun and freezes overnight repeatedly, the ice will make the gap in shingles bigger and bigger until there is a sheet of ice underneath melting into your home. A good way to prevent this is to make sure your home is well insulated to keep the heat from your home from melting snow on your roof. You can also clear the snow from your roof and keep your gutters and downspouts clear of debris and leaves this fall.

Flooding can happen in your basement for many reasons during the winter. Several causes include cracked or faulty foundation, a faulty or frozen sump pump or even melting snow overwhelming the drain systems. These are things that should be checked and repaired before the weather gets too cold to ensure they are working properly.

Unfortunately things can happen even with preparation, Luckily if they do SERVPRO® can help.
Call the SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale (248)246-0790 if you have any issues these coming months.

Be Ready!

9/18/2024 (Permalink)

Is your company ready for any type of loss?

Whether is be a roof leak, basement flood, small to large fires, mold, or even if you just need a good cleaning, SERVPRO has you covered with our Emergency Ready Profile!

With an ERP you can be prepared for any unforeseen problems that happen, You will know exactly what to do. It provides all the information you would need such as where your water shut offs are, access points, and who you should call in the event of an emergency such as a plumber.

So Be Ready! Call the SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale (248)246-0790 to set up an ERP today to make sure you have everything you need to tackle any emergency. 

WATER DAMAGE AND THE EFFECTS IT CAN HAVE ON YOU AND YOUR HOME

8/30/2024 (Permalink)

Water Loss Causes

Broken pipes, Clogged toilets, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs and foundation problems are just some examples of water damage causing problems. Water can cause major damages to appliances, upholstery, plumbing, household items, and more. Starting water remediation right away if a water loss occurs with a team of professionals like SERVPRO® can help to try and minimize these problems, and increase the potential of saving these household items.

Water Damage Hazards

Water clean-up right away is very essential in the saving of our hard earned possessions. However, there is a major underlying issue of why immediate water extraction and clean-up is important. The issue is to try to prevent/stop the growth of mold, and any other organisms that can grow. Mold growth exposure can cause many health hazards especially in young children, or people with immune deficiencies. Mold exposure can also cause risk for those with medical issues such as respiratory diseases, along with aggravating allergy and asthma symptoms.

If you ever fall victim of a water loss give SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale a call at     248-246-0790. Let us take the stress of a water loss off your back. We work directly with any insurance company. All you have to do is make the claim, and let us do the rest!

Metro Detroit Water Damage ??

7/31/2024 (Permalink)

Metro Detroit Water Damage

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO®  provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 248-246-0790

Water Damage Timeline

 1 - 24 Hours:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale

SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. "Like It Never Even Happened"

Storm Damage Resources

7/31/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Metro Detroit, SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 2,000 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 248-246-0790

Smoke and Soot Damage

7/31/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate numerous cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. With SERVPRO® our smoke/fire damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

We are a Nationally Preferred Vendor for most large insurance companies. We will work directly with your Insurance carrier for you. 

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 Oak Park/Ferndale 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.

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 damaged property to its preloss condition.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care. Like It Never Even Happened

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Oak Park/ Ferndale Today at 248-246-0790

Mold Facts To Know

7/31/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is a Nationally recognized Leader in the Emergency Restoration Industry for over 65 years, specializing in Fire, Smoke, and Water damage. Oftentimes a water loss can lead to a mold situation.

While some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, this is a fallacy. Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level.

Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

SERVPRO of Oak Park / Ferndale is available 24/7, ready to help you with your mold issues. Call us at (248) 246-0790

Fireworks / July 4th Safety Tips 6/24/2024

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

With the Fourth of July holiday just around the corner, most people have started planning for the fun and entertainment. Many of us Michiganders will be lighting off fireworks in tradition and celebration of our country’s independence. In 2012, Michigan enacted a new firework law, allowing for state residents to purchase and operate bigger fireworks. Consumer-grade fireworks are now legal for purchase from state-authorized retailers, and must meet Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Including roman candles, bottle rockets, aerials, missile-type rockets, and reloadable shell devices, this law comes with more need for added safety to discharge these larger fireworks. Not only is there a heightened risk for bodily injury, with approximately 16,000 injuries caused by fireworks each year and 10-12 deaths, but fireworks are also responsible for over 2,000 reported structure and vehicle fires. It is important to know and practice firework safety, not only for yourself, but for your audience and guests, as well as your neighbors and all the personal property surrounding the ignition and viewing area.

SERVPRO®  is dedicated to keeping you informed and offering ways to protect not only your home, but your family as well.

If you plan on entertaining with fireworks this upcoming Independence Day, SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale recommends that you follow these fireworks safety tips:

• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance description prior to igniting.
• Know and obey all your local laws and ordinances regarding the use of fireworks.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles, as well as overhanging trees.
• A responsible adult should always supervise all firework activities.
• Children should never handle fireworks, even sparklers. Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle fireworks, under close adult supervision.
• Be careful when lighting the fuse. Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then quickly back up to a safe distance.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Don’t try to pick it up right away either. Wait at least 20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of a fire or other mishap, douse the spent device with plenty of water, or place it in a bucket of water for a few hours before discarding to prevent a trash fire.
• Use Common Sense. Never point or throw fireworks at any living thing. Never shoot them off in metal or glass containers. Wear safety glasses.
• Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix. Have a “designated shooter.”

SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale wants you to have a happy, fun, and safe 4th of July. But hey, accidents happen. If you find yourself in need of fire or water restoration, call us at (248) 246-0790. We are available to you 365 days a year, 7 days a week, and 24 hours a day. Call us any time, day or night and we will be there, SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster.

We Are Here To Help

6/18/2024 (Permalink)

Major storms often bring violent weather, and with violent weather storm damage usually always occurs. Strong winds either from a storm or a tornado can cause chaos for a home or business owner. Knowing how to handle the situation if storm damage happens to your home or business could mean everything. It also helps when it comes to protecting not only your belongings, but your safety and the safety of others.

Source

Storm damage can occur from a number of different things. Strong winds can cause shingles or tiles on roofs to become loose, and uproot trees. Wind is usually associated with rain. The damaged  roof  allows water or moisture to get inside of the home. This will cause damage to ceilings, walls, and even worse, cause the potential for mold growth. Hail during a storm can also cause significant damage to a roof. Then there is Lightning and what that can do.

**Handling the Issue**

Any type of damage to a home or business can be very overwhelming for anyone. Call a professional restoration company such as SERVPRO®, an Industry Leader in the restoration industry every year. SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale will help by acting quickly on getting the problem solved, and minimize the impact the damage has done to your home or business.

**Safety**

First thing a home or business owner should do with water coming inside from a roof leak is make sure the power to the home or business is shut off. Storm water can soak into walls reaching electrical wiring. This also could be done with the water supply if any pipes are broken, and or the sewage system is clogged or backed up.

**Assessing Damage**

This is where a professional restoration company comes into play. Our trained experts will do an examination of the home or business. We thoroughly check the property. We will work with your insurance company by taking photos of the damage for insurance purposes, and following insurance policies. SERVPRO is a Nationally Preferred Vendor to most Insurance companies and works directly with your Claims adjuster on your behalf.

**The Clean Up*

Once the roof is taken care of temporarily with a tarp or permanently, the clean up can start to happen. We will  clean up the water making sure every inch is dry using our professional expertise, using the right equipment needed to get the job done. Whether it is using vacuums and pumps to remove the water, dehumidifiers and air movers to stop mold and mildew before it even happens, to generators if needed to operate our equipment. We will also take the necessary steps in making sure everything is done correctly. We will remediate mold if the water has been sitting for any length of time. We will pull carpet or wet flooring if not salvageable, and disinfect hard surfaces, shampoo savable interiors, and deodorize to stop any odors.

When contacted as soon as the first notice of loss has happened we will be able to save your home or business from a bigger issue. Even the shortest of storms can do a big amount of damage. Our goal is to fix, clean, and get your property back to its preloss condition!! “Like It Never Even Happened!”

SERVPRO of Oak Park/Ferndale. Available 24/7   (248) 246-0790