Oven Catches Fire in Evanston

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

The quick reaction by the homeowner saved her home from further damage.

A woman in Evanston was getting ready to make her son some lunch, she got the food out, preheated the oven, and turned on her favorite tv show. A normal afternoon on all accounts, until she started to smell something burning. Instantly, she realized she had left a bag of potato chips in the oven which caught on fire. Luckily, she had a fire extinguisher near by and was able to put out the blaze before it got out of hand. However, there was still some smoke and soot damage to the kitchen and surrounding areas. She called SERVPRO to come out and begin the process of cleaning the damage and getting her kitchen back to normal. Along with the smoke and soot, there was residue from the fire extinguisher that would need to be cleaned as well. This would be no problem for SERVPRO as there is nothing we cant handle. In a matter of just a few days, SERVPRO was able to get her taken care of and she had her kitchen back in no time. This served as a quick lesson on why you should not leave your potato chips in the oven!

Smoke and Soot Cleaning

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Wall and All is the second step in the process and is responsible for removing the smoke damage.

Dealing with smoke and soot damage after a fire can be extremely frustrating. It seems to find its way into every nook and cranny. The aftermath of a fire can be almost as overwhelming as the event itself. Here at SERVPRO, we can take care of all of your fire cleaning needs. When it comes to fire cleaning, we utilize a process that allows for the most efficient work and turn around time. 

SERVPRO begins by packing out all affected content, this will be taken off sight to be cleaned. Depending on the amount of content, this can take 1 day or it can take 1 week. Once content is removed, SERVPRO will begin cleaning the ceilings and the walls. SERVPRO will utilize a 3-step process highlighted below:

Step 1- The first step is to dry clean the ceilings and walls. This will be done using chemical sponges. This removes any excess soot and will prevent smearing in the next steps.

Step 2 - The next step is to use Wall and All Surface Cleaner. Wall and All is used to clean smoke damage on any painted or washable surface.

Step 3 - The last step is to use Wall Rinse. Wall Rinse is a neutralizing and deodorizing agent used to rinse the walls following Wall and All. Wall Rinse will leave the walls neutral and film free. 

Leaking Spigot

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking water spigot can spell trouble for your home.

As we move closer and closer to summer, acts associated with using your outside hose become more common. Whether that be watering your grass, watering your plants, or filling up a pool. With this becomes the danger of discovering your outside water spigot froze and cracked, meaning the first time you turn on the water it can create major water damage in your home. Often times, most people do not realize there is a problem until after it is far too late. Having someone in the house on the other side of the wall where the spigot is located or in the basement can be crucial and lead to early detection. If you discover there is a leak, you should use the shut off valve located in the house to turn off the water supply. Immediately contact a plumber to have them out to inspect and take care of the problem before it gets out of hand.

National Hurricane Preparedness Week

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

These are the 21 storm names for the 2022 Hurricane Season.

May 1st, 2022 signified the start of National Hurricane Preparedness Week. Even though in our area of the country this is not something we have to worry about directly, the rainfall from hurricanes can travel hundreds of miles inland so it is still important to be informed and prepared. This blog is going to highlight important steps to take to prepare for a hurricane as well as its aftermath.

1. Determine Your Risk - Assess your area to determine possible wind and water damage and develop a plan of how you would handle them.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan - If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone or a flood prone area you will need to leave that area. Having a plan of where you will go can save you time and stress. Make sure to account for pets in your plan. 

3. Assemble Disaster Supplies - It is recommended that you have enough supplies to last each member of your family for at least 3 days. This includes food, water, medicine, and it is also recommended you have a battery powered radio and flashlights with you. 

4. Check on Your Insurance - Call your insurance agent to ensure that your coverage is enough to repair or replace your home and belongings.

5. Strengthen Your Home - Boarding up your windows and doors with plywood or aluminum panels will save them from breaking or being damaged. 

The time to prepare for a hurricane is not when it is at your doorstep. Starting your preparations early and having a plan can save you a lot of stress. Allowing yourself time to think out your plan will prevent you from having to make any rash decisions. 

Hurricanes and Their Names

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

This image shows the 6 lists of 21 names that are rotated every 6 years.

Do you ever wonder how hurricanes get there names? Well if the answer to that question is yes, then you're in the right spot. When it comes to determining the names of hurricanes, that is the responsibility of The World Meteorological Organization, or WMO, located in Geneva, Switzerland.  The names are split into six lists that rotate every six years. So there is a possibility that some names may sound familiar due to them being repeated. However, if the storm was greatly destructive or deadly, they remove those names from the list such as Katrina, Irma or Dorian.

The names on the list are chosen from Spanish, French and English origins, since those are the languages spoken in the countries that are impacted the most by hurricanes. Each list consists of 21 names, and sometimes there are more than 21 named storms, there is an alternate list that they can turn to. In the past, they would use Greek letter names, but have since gone away with that because it was too difficult and confusing.

Broken Pipe Floods the Golf Club

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

This wall was affected by the water resulting in the need for it to be cut.

A broken pipe at a local golf course caused significant damage to multiple levels of the clubhouse. The pipe burst on the main level, flooding the ballroom as well as a majority of the hallway, and then went down to the lower level and affected the ceiling tiles as well as the carpet. As soon as the damage was noticed the golf course called SERVPRO and we responded right away, ready to get to work. The carpeted areas needed to be extracted because the water had saturated the carpet, extracting it will aid the drying and allow it to dry faster. In addition to the carpet, there were a few walls on the main level that were affected, resulting in flood cuts to remove the wet insulation. Once all of the affected materials were taken care of, SERVPRO used their Dry Book technology to determine how much equipment they would need. The golf club was extremely happy with the quickness and professionalism of SERVPRO.

IICRC Certified

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston is an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of Evanston is an active member of the IICRC. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is the leader in industry standards when it comes to restoration. In addition to setting the standards, they also provide training and certification to restoration companies. Here at SERVPRO of Evanston we proudly display the IICRC logo on all of our vehicles as well as in the entrance to our office. 

When you are a member of the IICRC, there are certain things that you must do, among them are the following;

• Require at least one technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and has passed all required tests.
• Present accurate information to customers and maintain integrity and honesty.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect everyone involved in the event of an accident.

There are a few other requirements to be met in order to maintain your status in the IICRC, but those are three of the major ones. SERVPRO of Evanston is a proud member of the IICRC and we ensure we will represent them in the best way possible. 

Condo Disaster

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

The pipe break caused this drywall to become saturated and ultimately collapse.

Recently SERVPRO of Evanston was called to an after hour loss after a pipe had broken in a condo building. The pipe broke in the hallway, so luckily for the tenants no rooms were affected. The loss occurred early on a Saturday morning, but the condo associated did not hesitate and they called us as soon as they found out. Our on call crew responded right away and they were able to get there and begin the mitigation process once the plumber was finished. The pipe break was caught rather early, saving the condo association from more damage had they waited to call SERVPRO. You can see in the image that parts of the ceiling began to fall, creating some safety issues for the tenants of the building. It was imperative that SERVPRO remove any potential safety issues first so that they can work in a safer environment. SERVPRO was able to remove any affected materials and set drying equipment in a matter of just a few hours. It doesn't matter the time of day or type of place, whether it is residential or commercial, make sure you call us at SERVPRO of Evanston for all of your restoration needs. 

Attic Mold

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

A poorly ventilated attic led to this serious mold growth.

Often times when mold is in your home, you might not even know it. It can be behind the drywall, under your carpet, or in the case of this blog, in your attic. People don't go in their attic much, so this mold can be left unnoticed for months, even years. 

There are a couple reasons that mold may begin to grow in your attic, with them being ventilation issues, improper bathroom fan exhaust, or roof issues. 

Ventilation issues may stem from blocked soffits or vents. It is common for them to be blocked by insulation. Having too few vents in your attic can also lead to mold growth.

Bathroom fan exhausts are meant to pump moisture out of your home and into the outside air. It is important to check this and make sure the moisture is properly being sent outside and not in the attic.

Roof issues, such as leaks, can be a major factor in having mold in your attic. Often times the mold will tend to grow near where the leak is occurring. If you notice mold in a centralized spot, there is a good chance that is where the leak is occurring. 

Tornadoes Hit Texas, Oklahoma

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Tornadoes touched down in central and northern Texas as well as southern Oklahoma.

Just last week we highlighted tornado season and some ways that you can be prepared in the event of a tornado. Well right on que, tornadoes touched down in both Texas and Oklahoma. A total of 20 tornadoes were reported on Monday night, 19 of them being in central and northern Texas. A number of businesses and homes suffered severe damage resulting in roofing and siding being ripped off. To go along with the strong gusts of wind, hail the size of golf balls was reported causing significant damage. Additional tornado warnings have been declared for parts of Louisiana, Arkansas and Texas as the same storm makes its way east. An event like this that can span multiple days shows just how important it is to be prepared in case the worst case scenario happens. There is no doubt that SERVPRO will be there to help when they are called upon.

Commercial Business Emergency Preparedness Tips

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Battery powered radios can relay important information that can be crucial to your safety.

Emergencies can strike anywhere, even at your commercial business. When something goes wrong or you find yourself in an emergency type of situation, it is important to be prepared.  This post is going to outline some supplies that will come in handy if you ever find yourself in one of these situations. 

1.Emergency Lighting - Having a light available to you is extremely important in the event of the power going out. Knowing where flashlights are is key. Candles can help too, however you need to be cautious as they are a fire hazard.

2. First Aid Kit - Having a stocked first aid kit is imperative. Injuries are possible and you need to be able to properly address them when they occur. 

3. Tools - Having an assortment of basic tools at your business can come in handy in event of needing to perform an emergency task. (Screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, etc.)

4. Battery powered radio - A battery powered radio will be a huge help if you are left with a dead phone or no service. The radio will allow you to stay updated on the current situation at hand and let you know what's going on.

Being prepared is half the battle. Being prepared can take a lot of the strain and craziness out of the situation. It allows you to remain calm and handle the situation head on without panicking. 

Commercial Real Estate

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Major flooding will put these businesses out of commission for weeks, perhaps months.

Commercial real estate is a very lucrative business, bringing in billions of dollars ever year. However, a recent study has shown that the threat of flooding in commercial real estate will only intensify, leading to billions of dollars in damages. Over 700,000 retail units and offices face a major risk annually of flooding. According to a study done by the First Street Foundation, structural damage from flooding is projected to cost over $13.5 billion in 2022. If you think that number is high, the study predicts that number could rise all the way up to $16.9 billion by 2052. Those are astronomical numbers and it really puts into perspective just how much water damage occurs on a yearly basis. This study does a great job of highlighting how commercial properties often face the same flooding problems as residential homes, perhaps even worse. It is important that whether damage occurs at a commercial property or residential problem, calling SERVPRO as soon as possible can be the difference in saving you thousands of dollars.

Smoke Damage In Your Home

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

This apartment suffered significant smoke damage as a result of a fire in the unit below.

When a fire occurs in your home, there is more too it than just the flame you see. Even in a minor fire that is put out rather quickly, you still have to worry about the damage that smoke and soot can cause. Often times smoke and soot can creep into cavities in your home causing damage that may not be easily seen.

There are two different types of smoke, wet and dry. Below is some information about both kinds and where they may occur:

Wet Smoke -This is most commonly found on materials such as plastic and rubber. Wet smoke is more likely to occur at low heat, causing smoldering and melting. Wet smoke is often more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke -Dry smoke is associated mostly with paper and wood. These materials burn faster and at higher temperatures. Due to their intense heat, they give off more smoke.

It is important to have a trained SERVPRO technician out to test which type of smoke has occurred, as this will determine how they approach the restoration process.

Appliance Fires

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

This dishwasher caught fire and caused significant damage to the kitchen

When it comes to house fires, common appliances may not cross your mind as a cause. The reality is, appliances have led to over $7 Billion in property losses, according to the NFPA. There are some appliances that are more likely to cause a fire than others, and they are going to be highlighted below.

Refrigerator - An electrical short or an overheated compressor can lead to a fire. The plastic contained in the refrigerator can be fuel to the fire.

Dishwasher - Dishwashers contain elements that heat up to dry your dishes. These elements get wet, heat up and then cool down. If you have old or damaged elements, they can lead to a fire.

Dryer - Perhaps one of the more common appliance fires, one of the leading causes is the lint trap. Allowing lint to accumulate in the trap can be dangerous and it is recommended that you clean it out regularly. 

Microwave - Microwaves, although very useful and convenient, can be dangerous in their own right. Overcooked foods and metal pieces in food packaging are two of the leading causes. 

Tornado Preparedness

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

This tornado left these homes with severe damage. This shows how important it is to be in a safe location.

As we find ourselves in the middle of March, this usually means two things, warm weather is coming and so is tornado season. In the Midwest, tornado season typically runs from March to early June. Just last year, we had a tornado hit only a couple miles from where our office is located. When something like that happens right in your backyard it makes you realize how important it is to be prepared for the situation. Here are some tips to help you prepare in the event of a tornado;

It is important to identify the safest location in your house, this is usually a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest level of the home with no windows. If you live in a mobile home, make your way to the nearest tornado shelter or permanent structure. 

Putting together an emergency kit will go a long way in helping you through the event. The kit should contain things such as food, water, flashlights, batteries, and any medications your family may need. A radio is good to keep on hand so you can receive updates in the event that your phone dies or has no service.

Ensure your family knows how to get in touch with each other in the event someone gets separated. Develop a plan, whether that be meeting at a specific location, contacting a neighbor, etc. Relying on a phone call is risky due to the volume of calls and the possibility of the lines getting jammed.

Being prepared will go a long way in providing you and your family with safety and security in the event of a tornado. 

Flooded Basement Restoration

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was the result of an unplugged sump pump in a home in the process of being built.

Whether your basement in finished, unfinished, or is a new build, SERVPRO will be there when the water strikes. A basement can flood at any time, though most of the time it can be contributed to heavy rainfall. Being the lowest level of the home, they are the most vulnerable to flooding. Some reasons your basement may flood can include;

Heavy rainfall pooling around your home.

Sump pump failure.

Storm drain backup.

Foundation issues (cracks, sinking, etc).

The quicker the flooded basement is handled the better, this will lessen the damage and ultimately lessen the cost. Another important thing it will do is eliminate the risk of certain health issues such as having mold or mildew in your home.

Whether the basement is finished or not will determine the steps your SERVPRO technicians will need to take, with an unfinished basement being a little bit more straightforward. Ultimately, your SERVPRO technicians will have the knowledge and experience to handle any job at hand.

Getting Started With SERVPRO

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

It is our goal at SERVPRO to make the mitigation process as easy as possible for our customers.

We understand at SERVPRO that when you're calling us, it is in one of your greatest times of need. That is why we aim to make this an easy and understandable process from beginning to end. When you call the office of SERVPRO of Evanston, you will be greeted by one of our office professionals who walk through some basic things with you. They will ask several questions such as the ones listed below:

1.Your name and information (Phone number, email)

2.Home/Loss address

3.Insurance information (if applicable)

4.When and where did the damage occur?

5.What was the cause or the source of the damage? (If known)

Once we have this information, we can move forward with scheduling an inspection or skipping that and scheduling the work based on the situation. We ask these questions to get a better idea of the scope of work, what type of equipment is needed, and how many technicians are needed.

Step 2: Inspection

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

This SERVPRO technician is using a meter to determine the moisture level of the floor.

Our last "Why SERVPRO" blog highlighted the initial steps in the process of remediation. It discussed the initial call and what type of questions may be asked in order for us to get a better understanding of the job at hand. Well now comes time for the second part of the process, the inspection. After you give all of your information to us on the initial call, we will schedule a time for us to come by and perform an inspection to determine the scope of work. When we come to look at your home, we will do things such as check the walls, ceilings, and floors for signs of moisture. In some cases it is obvious what is wet or where the water is coming from, but in other cases we have to use our moisture meters to determine what is wet. Once we have figured out what needs to be done to do the job the correct way, we will send you an estimate. The estimate will contain everything we plan on doing, broken down line by line. After the estimate is reviewed by the homeowner and the job is scheduled, the next step in the process is to get started on the work.

Look Out Below!

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

A flood in the unit above spelled trouble for this first floor apartment.

Imagine this, you've had a long day at work, you're tired, and all you want to do it go home, make some dinner and relax. Well, unfortunately for you, your neighbors upstairs have other plans. As you stand in the kitchen getting ready to cook, you notice some drips coming from the ceiling. Then before you know it, your kitchen ceiling begins to fall! In a panic, you run upstairs to see what was going on. When you get there you find out that your upstairs neighbors' 3 year old turned the bath tub on and let it run for a while before anyone noticed, and by the time they did it was too late. This was the reality for one woman in Evanston, as her bad day got even worse. But luckily, she did the smart thing and called SERVPRO of Evanston who responded in no time. They were able to take care of the wet drywall to insure no more would fall down, eliminating the risk of anyone getting hurt. SERVPRO of Evanston took all of the necessary steps to begin the mitigation process and then placed drying equipment to ensure the kitchen would dry properly. The quick reaction time of this woman went a long way in saving her from any further damage.

Preventing Frozen Pipes In Your Commercial Building

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

This frozen pipe has burst open. This could be avoided by following the steps highlighted in the blog.

It is important to remember that commercial properties can have some of the same problems found in residential homes. One of the biggest shared problems is frozen pipes. In both occupied and unoccupied buildings, the problem usually isn't noticed until the damage has already been done. This blog is going to highlight steps you can take to minimize the chance of frozen pipes striking your commercial building. 

The first thing you can do, and probably the most simple, is to consistently check for leaks. Areas such as kitchens, bathroom, or maintenance rooms are some of the most susceptible locations. 

Insulating pipes is a good precautionary measure to take in your building. Proper insulation of the pipes will go a long way in keeping your pipes from freezing. 

Circulating air in the building allows the heat in the building to be distributed. Opening cabinets located under the sink will allow warm air to get to the pipes. In addition to doing this, opening doors to unused rooms that have pipes in them can keep them from freezing. 

Any Service, Any Time

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO with any restoration needs!

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston, we take pride in being able to help with all of your restoration needs. We offer 24/7 emergency services for when disaster strikes at the worst of times. The team at SERVPRO of Evanston aims to provide professional service while doing the job in the most effective and efficient way possible. The services we provide include, water mitigation, fire restoration and clean up, general house cleanings, carpet cleanings, and sanitizing/disinfecting of residential and commercial properties. We provide all of these services and would love the opportunity to assist you with any of the above, however the two services that we deal with the most are water mitigation and fire restoration. If either of these ever strike your home, SERVPRO will have things back to normal in no time by following this process:

Water -

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment 

Step 3: Water Removal/Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration 

Fire - 

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board Up and Roof Tarp Service (If Needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (If Water Damage is Present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from all Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration 

Flood at Local School

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

The sprinkler broke in this room and you can see where the water came rushing down the walls.

A broken sprinkler head caused two levels of a local school to suffer significant water damage. Luckily for them, the break occurred near the back by the maintenance area, so it is made up of mostly concrete floors, walls, and ceilings. There was one wall made up of drywall that was effected and needed to be cut. Even though most of the structure was unharmed due to it being concrete, there was a lot of standing water that needed to be dealt with. SERVPRO used their water extraction machine to get rid of the water and make the environment more suitable for drying. Any content that was effected by the water was removed from the room and placed in another room where it could be properly dried. SERVPRO was able to effectively save and dry out numerous important documents for the school. With the smart decision of the school to call and the quick response time by SERVPRO, they were able to get things under control and keep the damage to a minimum. 

House Fire Preparedness

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to know how to react when a house fire erupts.

A fire is one of the scariest things a family can face inside of their home. It is very important that if this situation ever arises in your home, you and your family members are prepared to act accordingly. This blog is going to highlight how your household can stay prepared.

1. Install the proper number of smoke alarms in your home. Be sure to test them a couple times a month to ensure they're working properly.  

2. Make sure all members of the household know at least two ways to escape from the home and set up a planned meeting spot away from the home.

3. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like so that they can recognize it and are aware of what is going on when the situation occurs. 

4. This one sounds simple, but it is still very important. Make sure every member of the house knows how to dial 9-1-1. This will go a long way in ensuring everyone's safety. 

Avoiding Fall Water Damage

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

A clogged gutter allows water to sit in there which can lead to damage to your home.

With Fall fully in swing, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure the protection of your home from potential water damage. The falling leaves are nice to look at, but they come with some serious consequences if they are not tended to. This article is going to provide you with some steps to take to put your home in the best position possible this fall.

1. Clean gutters and downspouts – Cleaning your gutters will stop them from experiencing any sort of blockage or ice dams. This is important because any standing water up there can lead to potential roof damage and over time begin to cause major problems. Another important thing to remember is to clean your downspouts. Having a clean downspout will allow water to flow freely without and problems. Make sure your downspout drains away from your home.
2. Maintain Trees and Vegetation – Although your trees may provide a pretty scene, it is what you cannot see that may give you trouble. The roots from the trees can wrap around the pipes and break them. It is important when landscaping to try to minimize planting near your home. Removing plants or trees that have become too big may be necessary.
3. Disconnect Hoses -Disconnecting your hoses from the faucet should be on your fall to-do list. Standing water in a hose can freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that – in a best-case scenario – stops your water flow and, worst case, may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor, and foundation.
4. Investigate and fix leaks in a timely manner. The quicker these leaks are discovered can have a direct impact on the amount of damage that may occur. Finding and tending to the damage as fast as possible can make a significant difference overall. You need to remove the wet materials and begin the drying process to eliminate the possibility of growing microbials such as mold. Call your local SERVPRO if you experience water issues that are too large to handle on your own.

Welcome Home! (To your Flooded Basement)

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

The carpet pad was removed and the carpet was floated to properly dry it.

Recently SERVPRO was called out to a home to inspect a basement that had suffered water damage. The homeowners were on vacation and came home to the carpet in their basement absolutely soaked. However, these smart homeowners did not panic, they did not fret, they remained calm and did the right thing and called SERVPRO. The result of the loss was the sump pump not kicking on, allowing the tank to fill up and eventually overflow into the basement. SERVPRO responded in a timely manner and was ready to tackle the job ahead of them. SERVPRO ended up removing the effected carpet pad as well as the effected baseboard on the walls. The carpet was able to be dried out and saved. Although it was not the return home they had hoped for, they handled it accordingly. We were able to perform the necessary work and begin the drying process in just a couple of hours time. 

Faster To Any Disaster

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

The wet carpet in this office required extraction.

Disaster struck at One Main Financial last week as work being done in a neighboring unit caused three offices in their unit to flood. Luckily, they were quick to call us. The wet carpet in the three office rooms required extraction which not only removes the water but also helps eliminate the possibility of any odors due to the water if it is left to sit. Our technicians rushed over and took care of the problem. With the extraction and equipment used, we were able to dry them out and have them up and running by the time the weekend was over. This serves as a very good reminder that water damage can happen anywhere at any time, it is not exclusive to residential homes. 

Storm Season

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

A hurricane forming in the Gulf of Mexico

This storm season follows up one of the most active storm seasons in recent memory. Last year we saw 30 named storms, and although this year doesn't project to be as active, we will still see a healthy amount of storms. We are expected to have between 13 and 20 storms. They officially become storms once winds reach over 39 mph. According to the NOAA, the average storm season brings about 14 named storms, which means the predictions for this year could be spot on or we could see a couple more. Obviously it is very hard to predict these storms so it is good to always be prepared, especially if you live in areas near the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. 

Here To Help

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston, we are committed to providing the best service possible to all of our customers. Something very important to us is known as the IICRC, which provides certifications in specific areas. The IICRC stands for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. The IICRC offers certification courses in areas such as water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, odor control and various other topics. We encourage our employees to participate in these courses because it not only strengthens them but it strengthens us as a franchise. By completing these courses, our employees are able to take the knowledge learned in the classroom and directly apply it to the current job at hand. When you call on SERVPRO, you can have confidence that the employees doing the work have the best training and know what it takes to effectively and efficiently handle all of your restoration needs. 

It Starts At The Top

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

This customer has some serious water damage

A customer recently experienced some water damage from a leak in their roof. It not only effected a room upstairs, but leaked down and effected the ceiling in the living room, as shown in the picture. Once we assessed the damage, it was determined that the effected flooring and ceiling upstairs as well as the effected ceiling downstairs needed to be removed. Before performing any demolition, the customers content was removed and moved to a safe and secure place where it could not be damaged. All items that were left on sight were covered with plastic to ensure they would not be covered in dust. Once the project is concluded, the customers content will be moved back and placed where it was when we began, making it seem as if it never even happened. 

Choose SERVPRO

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is committed to helping the community.

With over 40 years of business in the cleaning and restoration industry and more than 1600 franchises, SERVPRO representatives have the right tools for the job.  Our technicians are trained on the newest and most up to date techniques and equipment. Our technicians and crew chiefs go through training to become IICRC certified, ensuring they have the appropriate knowledge to do the job the right way. 

We work smarter, not harder with the goal of putting our customers back to normal in as short a time as possible. By choosing the right equipment, we can shorten drying times and decrease mitigation costs.  We can also minimize the need for some demolition which will allow our customers to return to normal quicker than our competition.

Here at SERVPRO, our goal is to put our customers lives back together as quickly and efficiently as possible. We aim to address all needs and provide answers to any questions our customers might have.

Choose the right tool. Choose SERVPRO.       

Hurricane Season

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

A hurricane forming in the Atlantic Ocean

The official start of Hurricane Season is June 1st and runs all the way through November 30th. Here at SERVPRO, this can be a very busy time of year for us. Last year, a record breaking 30 storms developed in the Atlantic, with 13 becoming hurricanes and then 6 becoming major hurricanes, according to the NOAA. 

These storms can bring a large amount of damage and devastation. Peoples homes will flood and their belongings will be destroyed, that is where we come in. We travel to these places along with dozens of other SERVPRO franchises to help out and take some of the workload off of the local franchises.

This year the NOAA is predicting 13-20 storms, 6-10 of which could become hurricanes. So if things go according to their predictions, this could be another very busy summer and fall for SERVPRO's all over the country. 

Firepit Safety This Summer

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Here is an example of what a safe fire pit looks like.

With summer on its way you might find yourself spending more time around the fire pits. Here are some safe practices that could help save you and your home from a fire this summer. 

1. Never build your fire under an awning or any sort of overhang. This also includes trees, bushes, or umbrellas.

2. Always be ready to extinguish the flames. Whether that be when the party is winding down and it's time for bed, or in case of emergency. Make sure you have an extinguisher handy so your party doesn't crash and burn. 

3. Never leave your fire unattended. Something as simple as a wind gust can put your entire home in jeopardy. Checking the wind conditions is another thing you should keep in mind when building your fire. If the wind is blowing towards your home or other flammable objects, you might want to save the fire for another day.

Summer Storm Prep

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Tornado in Illinois

As we get ready to enter into summer, we want to make sure our community is well prepared and informed of what to do in case the storms get way out of hand. To ensure you and your loved ones are safe during this upcoming storm season, read along for these tips on what to do to be storm safe:

1. Know Your Risks: One the most important things you can do is understand how susceptible your area is to bad weather. Being informed of the likelihood of how a storm, can affect your area by keeping up to date with weather announcement and local and governments 
2. Build an Emergency Kit: This one sounds simple, but it is often overlooked. Keeping an emergency kit that is stocked with water, canned foods, non perishables, and comfort items such as blankets and toys could be the difference between a disaster and an inconvenience. 
3. Review And Gather Documents: Review your policies ahead of time to see what is covered and if flood insurance is available to you. Gather important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, birth certificates, deeds, or even sentimental documents and keep them in a fireproof and waterproof safe. 
4. Be Informed: Knowing where to go and who to call is key to staying safe. Having an evacuation plan in place in the event of a disaster ensures members of your household know what to do in case home isn’t the safest place to be. Have a planned route and an alternate route to get to a safe place away from the storm.
5. Strengthen Your Home: Taking a look around your property to see if you are vulnerable in the event of a hurricane is a key factor in minimizing your risk of damage. By looking for vulnerable areas, you’ll be able to address them and fortify and susceptible areas around the home or property.

Implementing these tips will help you face this storm season and minimize the risk of your property being a victim of the elements. Keep SERVPRO of Evanston in mind for all your storm damage restoration needs. 

How to Handle Storm Damage to Your Property

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can lead to a multitude of damage to your home or business.

Our team at SERVPRO of Evanston is prepared for the storms that will hit the Chicagoland area this summer. There is potential for severe weather and with this comes overwhelming precipitation, wind speeds, and debris that can expose weak points in construction like gutters and downspouts. You may find it necessary to clean up water damage in your home. Fortunately, there are many professionals who can help. Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues. Here are a few helpful storm tips you may wish to know before you begin the cleanup process 

1. Follow Safety Procedures - It's important to follow safety procedures before you proceed with storm cleanup. For example, turn off any electricity before entering a flooded area, and only use properly rated equipment when removing water.

 2. Contact Your Insurance - You may also wish to contact your insurance about the damage to your property. Repairs can begin before your agent arrives on the scene, but you may find your insurance company has a couple of recommendations for local storm damage restoration companies, like SERVPRO of Evanston, you can work with.

 3. Contact a Professional Quickly - Another among many commonly recommended storm tips, is to contact a professional for any repairs that need to be made. This will help ensure that the restoration is conducted properly, and in some cases can help your insurance claim as well. 

4. Wear Safety Gear - It's also important to wear the proper safety gear when entering the space. This may include work gloves, a face mask, clothing that covers the skin, proper shoes, and depending on the damage type a work helmet. 

5. Cover Over Damaged Areas - Another step many professionals recommend is to cover over any damages until repairs can be made. This will help prevent further damage and help keep animals out of your home.

Remember to follow these helpful storm tips when restoring your home. Always follow safety procedures such as turning off any electricity and wearing the proper safety equipment. It's also wise to contact a professional to perform any repairs, as well as your insurance company for any recommendations they may have. You should also cover over any damaged space until the repairs can begin in the area. Our team at SERVPRO of Evanston is part of the larger, national Brand of SERVPRO Industries. In the event of damage from this storm, our teams have the ability to call in reinforcements. Know that you can trust SERVPRO of Evanston to put your home or business back together, “Like it never even happened.”

What to Expect When You Call SERVPRO

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

What should be expected when you contact us?

First and foremost, expect our 24-hour availability! Whether you are calling day or night, weekday or weekends, and even during the holidays, you can always expect to speak with a real person about the emergency you are experiencing. SERVPRO of Evanston is the top choice for many insurance agencies in the Chicagoland area. Our availability and quick response time speaks to that!   

Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting SERVPRO of Evanston: 

Quick Response - When a building has been damaged, the response time is an important factor in how time-consuming and how costly restoration will be. SERVPRO is always open, so you can expect to hear back within an hour after you have contacted them about the emergency. Once you have provided them with the necessary information, we will begin preparing to address the needs of your client. Arrive Time - Our technicians can be on-site to begin the restoration process within four hours. This fast response can make the difference if your home or commercial business has suffered a great deal of damage. Beginning the process more quickly will result in less damage overall which can end up costing the insurance agency less money. Inspection/Verbal Briefing - Once the damage restoration specialists have arrived, they can inspect the home to determine the extent of the damage and decide on the best course of action moving forward. Our team has the ability to let you know in the emergency is claim worthy or not as well. They will provide a verbal briefing so that you are aware of what will happen next. Our team's quick 24-hour response will allow us to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before we begin work on necessary repairs.

Whether it be flooding, fire, or mold SERVPRO of Evanston will respond quick and help you get your home or business back fast!

Tips for Commercial Cleaning

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Spring and summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deep cleaning projects.  Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well.  The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria and messes start to grow.  A good clean helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment. Additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning cleaning:   

OUTSIDE

• Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet most crucial areas to keep clean.  Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals.  Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking that caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term. 

• Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business.  Now that grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape.  Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes.  Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business. An appealing exterior can help to attract customers. 

• AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system.  Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing.  Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside.  Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts.  It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period.  

• Pest Maintenance

Along with the re-birthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests.  Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem.  It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems each year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in. 

INSIDE

• Dusting

Simple and effective.  Even if you already dust on a regular basis, now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas.  

• Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up.  Don’t let this grime buildup in your building. Buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean. 

• Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts.  The first is the organizing of all the previous years files into a consolidated area for ease of access.  Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed.  The second is the reorganization of the office itself. Ideally, this is a continuing process year round.  If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up and breathe some fresh air into the workplace.  Depending on your type of business will help determine what type of cleaning takes priority. If you need extra help or an even deeper clean call SERVPRO to help!

Why to Board Up After a Fire

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

If your property in the Chicagoland area has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.   

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to our experts at SERVPRO of Evanston, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful.

Fire Prevention Tips

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Changing batteries

The best kind of fire is one that never starts. Fires can be devastating if severe enough. Not only are priceless items lost, but your sense of comfort and stability is also at risk if your home becomes severely damaged. There are many ways to be cautious and prevent fires to ensure the safety of your family and home. 

The number one thing every home should have to prevent fires is well-maintained smoke detectors. On matters this serious, you need to make sure that you are regularly testing your smoke detectors, changing the batteries as needed, and making sure they are working properly. You also need to make sure that you have the right number of smoke detectors for your home. 

Other things like planning an escape route, determining a family meeting point, and knowing who to call after 911 are also very important to establish with your family in case of a fire. Always remember that you can never plan too much. Being prepared is never a bad thing.

Stay Safe, SERVPRO of Evanston

Vacation Tips to Avoid Disaster

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

A working sump pump is crucial to protecting your home.

Vacation time, arguably the best time of the year. You've been looking forward to getting away and relaxing. No worries, no responsibilities, what could go wrong? Well, when it comes to your home, a lot can go wrong while you're away. Here are some tips to help you avoid disaster. 

1. Complete a thorough check- Before you leave, make sure to inspect your home for any leaks or damages throughout the house. Check out all of the pipes underneath your kitchen and bathroom sinks. You should also check any hoses and lines that run to appliances such as your refrigerator, washing machine and dishwasher as these can be easily overlooked.

2. Test The Sump Pump- Testing your sump pump before you leave will not only tell you if its working properly but also bring you piece of mind while you're away. The sump pump will take care of any ground water that may enter the home. A great way to test your sump pump is by filling the pit with a bucket of water and then from there you will be able to see if it is actually pumping out the water or not. 

3. Ask Someone To Check On Your Home- Whether you're going to be away for a couple days or a couple weeks, it's smart to ask a family member or friend to check in on things at your house. Having someone check on your house gives them a chance to spot any leaks or water damage quicker, resulting in less damage occurring.

Fireplace & Wood Stove Safety

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and Happy Holidays!

Follow these heating safety tips to help keep your home fire safe this winter.

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from your fireplace or wood stove.
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace or wood stove.
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned each year by a professional.
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid. Place the container outside at least 10 feet from your home.

Fireplace safety

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fi replace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out.
• Make sure fireplace “on” switches and remote controls are out of the reach of children.

Wood stove safety

• Make sure your wood stove has been tested by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Keep the doors of your wood stove closed unless loading or stoking the live fire.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and

Happy Holidays!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Higher Level of Clean

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward. Employees may be hesitant to return to work, and customers may wonder whether the businesses they patron are safe.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When an establishment chooses Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, employees, customers, and the community can rest assured that they have selected a higher standard of clean.

Consult

Not all spaces and facilities are the same, which is why we will assign a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who works to understands the business and create a custom COVID-19 cleaning program to meet your specific needs. SERVPRO has worked in a wide variety of industries with businesses ranging from start-ups to global, multinational organizations. That is why we know to start such a critical cleaning process with a consultation.

Each specific program will be developed based on a range of factors including business type, size of space, amount of high-frequency touch points, foot traffic, and congestion points. As a result, clients will know that Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is not just an industry leading standard in clean, the cleaning is customized to each facility’s need.

Clean

Each location will undergo a thorough, expert deep clean rooted in the pillars of People, Process, and Product. Combining our proprietary training, cleaning solutions, and processes creates an industry-leading solution that will help provide businesses, employees, and customers the peace of mind that they are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

People. SERVPRO Professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, including COVID-19 cleaning, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform.

Process. SERVPRO professionals are trained to perform proactive or emergency COVID-19 cleaning 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 the facility can 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, which is 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 EPA’s registered emerging pathogens claims and meet the standard set by the CDC for use to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Certify 

We’re going to extend our credibility as a premier biohazard cleaning company in the country to each participating business—delivering an assurance to employees and customers that only SERVPRO can provide.

Today, reopening your business means committing to a higher standard of clean. SERVPRO is equipped to give your customers, your staff, and your community the confidence and security they deserve with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

SERVPRO of Evanston

(847)763-7010

What to do after a Commercial Fire

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ready to help when you need us most!

Thousands of businesses are affected by commercial fire damage each year due to a wide range of causes. Whether it's a restaurant that encounters a fire, an office in a building that was affected by a nearby disaster, or a severe storm that sparks flames, such an event is never easy to deal with. 
 
Few proprietors are prepared to grapple with the aftermath of a fire because it's not something that most business owners expect will happen to them. Entrepreneurs who suffer commercial fire damage may feel at a loss when it comes to picking up the pieces and resuming business as usual. Here are three key steps you should consider taking after a fire has shut down your business. 
 
1. Get in contact with your insurance company right away. 
Not only will this be one of the most relevant steps to getting back open and serving your customers, but also your insurance company will provide the funds needed to make repairs to your business. We know how to navigate the commercial claims process, and any repairs that we complete will meet or exceed your insurance provider's requirements. We do emphasize that we are not an insurance company.
 
2. Secure the remaining equipment and property in your building. 
Unfortunately, commercial fire damage increases the likelihood of vandalism and theft, as your building will be left vulnerable and less secure. Patching up walls, doors, and windows, even temporarily, can go a long way towards preventing further problems. The experts at SERVPRO have the experience and tools needed to secure your business's exterior and interior quickly. As a result, your property will be safeguarded, and any further damage to the building will be minimized. 
  
3. Be mindful of smoke damage. 
Even if it appears that your business was only minimally affected by commercial fire damage, the building likely has lingering smoke that will destroy your equipment, documents, and inventory over time. When you call SERVPRO, we'll thoroughly inspect your business for smoke damage and effectively clean it up, eliminate odors and restore satisfactory indoor air quality.
 
The team at SERVPRO of Evanston  knows how devastating commercial fire damage can be, and we're committed to helping you get your business back up and running. To obtain a quote or get more information about our fire repair and restoration services, call us 24/7 at 847-763-7010.

SERVPRO Professionals

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Faster to any size disaster!

Faster to Any Size Disaster

With more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry, and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO franchise professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provides 24 - 7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained, Certified IICRC, Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Industry with more than 1,700 Franchises
• Preferred Vendor for Many National and Local Insurance Companies

SERVPRO of Evanston

Is just one member of the larger organization that is SERVPRO.  As such we are committed to provide the best cleaning and restoration services which truly help people in their time of need.

Your house has a Flood or Fire?

Call SERVPRO of Evanston

847.763.7010

Frozen Pipes?

Call SERVPRO of Evanston

847.763.7010

Clean Mold or Mildew

Call SERVPRO of Evanston

847.763.7010

Put a freeze on Winter Holiday Fires

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Wishing a Safe and Happy Holidays from SERVPRO!

Put a freeze on Winter Holiday Fires

• Half of the home decoration fires in December are started by candles.
• More than 1/3 of home decoration fires are started by candles.
• Christmas is the peak day for candle fires.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
• A dry Christmas tree can burn very hot and very fast.
• More than 1 in every 5 Christmas tree fires were caused by a heat source too close to the tree.
• Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Make sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles, or heat vents. Also, make sure your tree does not block exits.
• Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Evanston, be safe, and Happy Holidays!

Restoring Your Evanston Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Your Problem, Our Solution

Flooding and water damage events at Evanston commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Evanston

SERVPRO of Evanston specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

Want to know more about us?  Click the link!

www.SERVPROevanston.com

When Storms or Floods Hit, Evanston SERVPRO is ready!

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Evanston, IL!

SERVPRO of Evanston 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 Evanston IL, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 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 847.763.7010

Call SERVPRO for basement extraction and cleanup

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for basement extraction and cleanup!

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.763.7010

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Evanston and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 847.763.7010

Detect and Prevent Water and Mold Damage

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage? Call SERVPRO! 847.763.7010

Standing water on the floor is easy to see. Less obvious signs of problems include:

• Unexpected increases in your water bill
• Stains on walls, floors or ceilings
• Damaged or warped flooring
• Warped bottom panels in under-sink cabinets
• Peeling paint or wallpaper
• Corrosion on plumbing valves and fittings

Deal with problems as you find them. Clean up any water or moisture, locate the source and make repairs. Tracking down a leak isn't always straightforward — water can travel along components in the building structure, so the indications of the leak may be in a different part of the home than the leak itself. If necessary, contact a professional roofing contractor, plumber or water damage restoration specialist to help with identification and repair.

In addition to the damage that water causes, it can encourage the growth of mold on walls and floors — where it's readily visible — and in duct-work, attics and crawl spaces — where you might not notice it. A musty odor is a sign that mold may be present.

Mold can cause damage and lead to health problems — deal with it quickly. If the affected area is larger than 3 feet by 3 feet, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends you find a professional mold remediation contractor. For smaller areas, you can clean nonporous surfaces with commercial cleaning products, soap and water or a solution of a cup of bleach to each gallon of water. Follow the instructions and safety precautions for the cleaning product you use and wear appropriate safety gear. Porous surfaces such as drywall need to be replaced. For more information on mold in the home and how to clean it up, see A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home on the EPA's web site.

Inspecting common sources of water leaks and taking some simple preventative measures can be an effective way to reduce the risk of water damage and mold.

Containment protects what you value

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Containment protects what you value!

When a SERVPRO team comes to work at the customer's house or place of business, most of the times there will be places that are unaffected. When this is the case, the crew does not wish to spread any dust or mold or whatever it may be to that area. The way to prevent that is containment. Containment is the process of protecting unaffected area with plastic. In this case for example, it was around Christmas and the tree was set up. It was in an area that was unaffected. So the SERVPRO team set up containment so the dust in the working area would not get into the tree or on the gifts. This is a step all SERVPRO members take. No matter how big or small, satisfaction is our top priority!   

Preventing Frozen Pipes

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Chicago winters can do a lot of damage on your home or property. It is important to take the proper precautions when the time comes to prevent all the damage you can. Frozen pipes are the culprit behind some of the worst winter-time water damages we see here at SERVPRO of Evanston. While extremely common, frozen pipers are also preventable. Our team at SERVPRO of Evanston has compiled some tips to help you prevent frozen pipes when winter comes. Below Consumer Reports listed some ways to help prevent your pipes from freezing and what you should do to minimize the damage if it does occur. 

How to prevent frozen pipes

Some of the steps experts recommend may go against your better instincts of conserving water and heat, but the extra expense is nothing compared with a hefty repair bill. Here’s what to do: 

• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)
• Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during day and night. Again, during a cold snap is not the time to set back the thermostat at night to save a few bucks on your heating bill.
• If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
• For the long term, add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in those areas. And to prevent drafts, seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates, where the house rests on its foundation.

What to do if frozen pipes occur

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. If a pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the mainline enters the house. If the water is still running and no pipes have burst, you can take the following steps. (Of course, if you suspect a more serious problem, call a plumber.) 

• Turn on the faucet. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. As tempting as it may be, do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, a charcoal stove, or any device with an open flame; the high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see whether you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

And don't forget . . . you can always count on SERVPRO of Evanston for all your frozen pipe and water damage needs. Give us a call at 847-763-7010. We are here to help. 

Signs of Water Damage

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes in the ceiling caused extensive water damage to this customer's home.

Water damage can have detrimental effects on your home or business, and the longer you wait the more damage occurs. This can lead to extensive and costly mitigation. When you do have water damage, the best thing you can do is shut off the water source to prevent further damage. Contacting a plumber is also a good step if the water is coming from somewhere you are unable to turn off yourself. These are just the first steps to preventing further damage and mitigating the problem. The next step is to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Evanston to come out and assess the problem. We have the trained technicians and years of experience in the field to get your home or business looking “Like it never even happened.”

While the experts at SERVPRO of Evanston have the knowledge and experience to spot water damage before it gets too bad, the average home or business owner may not. Because of this, we have compiled a few signs you can look for to spot early water damage. 

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls.
• Soft or sagging on your ceiling or walls.
• Wet or soggy carpets.
• Warping in your wood flooring.

When you see these signs, the best thing you can do for your home or business is call the experts immediately before the problem gets worse. Our highly trained technicians are waiting for your call so we can help. 

847-763-7010

HVAC Leaks

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

A leaking HVAC can quickly cause extensive damage to your home or commercial building.

Hot summer temperatures and high humidity levels mean more condensation from your HVAC. When your HVAC creates condensation, the water needs to drain somewhere and can quickly clog the lines. This can lead to a broken emergency line or drop pan overflow which can cause water damage to your home or building if not treated properly. So . . . what should you do if this happens and causes water damage? Here’s a few things!

• Call an HVAC company to service your unit. This is probably the easiest and most efficient method, but unfortunately the most expensive.
• Check to make sure your primary condensation line, usually located near the ground outside the home in an area of high foot traffic, is slowly dripping water when your HVAC is on.
• If your primary line is not dripping check the secondary line, usually located somewhere like above a window or door as to be more noticeable when dripping.
• If the primary, or both lines, are not dripping while the unit is on, find a way to flush out or remove the potential blockage. The cleanout will usually be located close to the HVAC main unit. Make sure you thoroughly research how to properly clear your lines before attempting to!
• Check your HVAC unit drip pan, make sure it has no holes or rust around it. If it is damaged you may need to have it replaced.

And . . . the next thing to do is call SERVPRO of Evanston. Our team will come out to do a moisture inspection on your residence or commercial property to verify whether or not any damage has occurred. If there is damage, our trained technicians will develop a mitigation plan to efficiently solve the problem and correct any damage. If you have an HVAC leak, call SERVPRO of Evanston at 847-763-7010. 

Firework Safety this Summer

6/27/2020 (Permalink)

Firework safety can prevent accidents and injury.

With the beginning of the summer and Fourth of July not too far off, we are gonna start seeing a lot of something: fireworks. While the National Safety Council does encourage everyone to enjoy firework displays put on by professionals, it is advised that we leave it only to the professionals. You really should not attempt to light off fireworks on your own, even if they are legal in your area. Fireworks can cause serious burn and eyes injuries to children and even adults if they malfunction or are not handled properly. SERVPRO of Evanston knows the danger and devastation fireworks can cause if you end up accidentally starting a fire. To help keep you safe this summer, we have compiled a few tips on how to safely use or be around fireworks this summer if you choose to do so. 

Safety Tips 

• Never allow children to handle fireworks. 
• Do not use fireworks if impaired by drugs or alcohol. 
• When using fireworks or standing nearby, protective eyewear should be used.
• Never light fireworks indoors and use them away from people, houses, and flammable materials. 
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person. 
• Have a bucket of water or hose nearby. 
• Do not try to make your own fireworks. 
• Never relight a dud. 
• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the garbage. 
• Do not use illegal fireworks. 
• Do not shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers. 

In the tragic event of a fire from any cause, SERVPRO of Evanston is always ready to help. With a quick response time and efficient work, we can make it “Like it never even happened,” in no time so you can get back to enjoying your summer. 

Levels of Commercial Losses

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

One area SERVPRO of Evanston specializes in is handling damage on commercial properties whether it be fire damage, water damage, or even property damage due to natural disasters. We know that no matter the cause of damage, downtime due to damage on your property can be costly to both your business and your customers. 

One tool we use to assess property damage to begin the mitigation process is a grading system. Commercial property damage can be graded on a scale of one to three based on the size of the area and the extent of damage present. 

Level 1

Level 1 commercial losses typically involve affected spaces of 15,000 square feet or less. A level 1 loss may be a small, stand-alone establishment such as a restaurant, small church, small warehouse, or daycare facility or it could be a small portion of a larger structure. 

Level 2

A level 2 loss usually involves anywhere from 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. These buildings are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces that may include  small multi-family homes, midsize churches or schools, a small shopping center, or a midsize warehouse. A level 2 loss may also be a portion of a much larger structure. 

Level 3

Level 3 commercial losses typically involve more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. These may include, but are not limited to, large multilevel structures such as hospitals, schools, or universities. A level 3 commercial damage is officially considered a “large loss.” 

Leading Causes for Commercial Fires

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

The best kind of fire is one that never happens.

Our SERVPRO of Evanston team has seen the catastrophic damage that can occur when a fire ravages a commercial building. A fire in your commercial building can cost your business large amounts of money in downtime and inventory loss, not to mention possibly put the lives of your employees at risk. Being prepared is the key to preventing fires and minimizing the damage when they do occur. The United States Fire Administration has compiled data to put together a list of the top five causes of fires in commercial buildings from the last decade. We hope that being conscious of these can help your business in planning and prevention. 

Top 5 Causes of Fires in Commercial Buildings

1. Cooking. Fires that began in the kitchen and escalated out of control contributed 30,900 fires to the past decade. Remind your team that it is important to be careful and aware of your surroundings in the kitchen
2. Unintentional and careless behavior. This category includes accidents which lead to fires and contributes around 10,900 fires. 
3. Arson. Arson, or intentionally set fires, accounted for 9,800 fires. Talk about an unhappy customer. 
4. Electrical malfunction. Electrical or wiring problems resulted in around 7,000 fires.
5. Heating problems. Issues with HVAC systems lead to around 6,000 fires in the last decade. 

Prevention is very important to avoiding a fire, however sometimes they are inevitable. As a business itself, SERVPRO of Evanston knows that time lost is money lost. We are equipped and ready to help you restore your business in the event that a fire does occur so that you can get back to work. For emergency fire services, you can contact us 24/7 at 847-763-7010. 

Tornado Season

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to be ready for a tornado.

Living in the Midwest, we are at an increased risk for tornadoes already. On top of that, according to the AccuWeather forecast for 2020 the United States should experience about 1,350 to 1,450 tornadoes this season -- more than the normal average. The U.S. tornado season typically runs from March through November, and as May is coming to a  close, we are right in the heart of it. 2020 has already been the deadliest tornado season since 2011 and it is nowhere near over yet. While we cannot control the weather, it is important to make sure we are prepared for when the worst comes. There are a number of ways you can be ready for a tornado if it comes. 

Being Ready Ahead of Time

• Know when the area you live in is at risk. 
• Know the signs of a tornado (rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, a loud roar). 
• Sign up for your community's warning system. 
• Pay attention to weather reports. 
• Identify a safe shelter. 

Safety During a Tornado 

• Immediately go to your safe location. 
• Shield your head and neck with your arms or by putting furniture or blankets around you. 
• Listen to local weather stations for emergency information and instructions. 
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle. 

Staying Safe After a Tornado

• Keep listening to the weather channel for updated information. 
• If trapped, cover your mouth with a cloth of mask to avoid breathing in dust. Send a text, bang something on a wall, or whistle instead of shouting for help. 
• Stay away from fallen power lines or broken utility lines. 
• Do not enter a damaged building until you are told they are safe. 

And remember that in the event of a tornado, SERVPRO of Evanston is always ready to help with the cleanup. 

Sump Pumps and Sump Pump Backups

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Sump pump maintenance can prevent backup.

A sump pump is a small pump installed into the lowest portion of a basement or crawlspace serving the purpose of keeping the area under the building dry. It pumps water under the building away from it to prevent flooding. Clogging or loss of power are two things among many that can lead to back up from your sump pump. When a sump pump backs up it can cause flooding that can possibly lead to thousands of dollars in damage and mold if the area is not dried properly. 

Proper maintenance and routine inspection can help to prevent the problems that occur when a sump pump fails. Cleaning your sump pump is one way to extend its life and make sure that it stays working properly. Running a vinegar solution through the pump can be done to clean it. Removing any dirt or debris and making sure all vents and air holes are clean can also help to ensure it stays in working order. 

In the event that cleaning and maintenance does not prevent sump pump backup, SERVPRO of Evanston is prepared to help you in situations of flooding, water damage, and mold from water backup into your home. Our team is equipped with the proper training and equipment to quickly resolve the problem, minimizing the stress that flooding in your home can cause.

The Problem with Mold

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth due to excessive moisture.

Mold is a common finding throughout many homes and buildings, and it is most common in or around areas that contain a lot of moisture. These may be areas around leaks, roofs, windows, pipes, or areas where there has been previous flooding. Mold is able to thrive on a number of surfaces including paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, wallpaper, carpet, and upholstery -- all things very common throughout the average home. 

If you have an ongoing moisture problem in your building, it is important to be on the lookout for the following signs: 

• The presence of visible mold. 
• Strong musty odors that might indicate mold is present. 
• Any evidence of past moisture problems. 
• Excess humidity. 

Aside from being just plain annoying, mold can have a number of adverse health effects on you or your family when it is growing inside your home. The health effects make it very important to resolve a mold problem when one is present.  

Here are a few things you can do to help prevent mold growth: 

• Control humidity levels.
• Promptly fix leaky roofs, windows, and pipes.
• Thoroughly clean and dry after flooding.
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

For help with a mold problem in your home, you can call SERVPRO of Evanston. 

847-763-7010

We Do the Dirty Jobs Too: Biohazard and Crime Scene Cleaning

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

You should never attempt to clean biohazard yourself. Leave it to the professionals!

Biohazard and crime scenes can often hide dangerous contaminants. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can put occupants, employees, and owners at risk for serious adverse health effects. We know this is something no business owner wants to be responsible for. 

BLOOD

One example of a biohazard you should never attempt to clean yourself is blood. Blood can house a number of transmissible pathogens including HIV, HBV, and HCV. C. diff and MRSA can also be easily transmitted through blood causing deadly infections. Because of this you should never attempt to handle or clean up some elses blood. When attempting to clean blood, there is also significant risk of just diluting the contaminants, instead of eliminating them all together. Any blood spills, whether they be from accidents or crimes, require professional biohazard cleaning that the average person is not trained to perform safely. 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to properly remove and dispose of harmful bodily fluids including blood. SERVPRO of Evanston is equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products to help restore contaminated environments so that they are safe to live and work in once again.

SERVPRO of Evanston has the training and expertise to handle a number of biohazard and crime scene cleanup services including: 

• Bloodborne pathogens 
• Methamphetamine labs 
• Crime scene residues
• Arson 
• Vandalism 
• Sewage backups 
• Black water intrusions 
• Mold 

Grill Safety

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Grill fires can cause extensive damage and injuries. It is important to practice safe grilling this summer!

With summer and grilling season approaching, our team at SERVPRO of Evanston thought it was important to compile some tips for safe grilling as well as what to do in the event of a grill fire. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, an average of 19,000 patients end up in emergency rooms due to grill-related injuries each year. Gas and charcoal grills also cause approximately 4,200 house fires per year. 

Here are a few grilling safety tips we thought it may be helpful to share. 

• Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors. 
• Keep your grill clean to prevent fires. 
• Start a gas grill with the lid open. 
• Do not leave a grill unattended. 
• Never apply lighter fluid to hot coals. 
• Light charcoal in a charcoal chimney. 
• Keep your grill stable and give it plenty of space. 

In the event that there is a grill fire, here's what you can do to safely put it out and get help. 

• Turn off the burners on a gas or propane grill if you can safely reach the knobs. 
• Throw salt, baking soda, or sand on the fire to smother it. 
• Never put water on a grease fire -- it will only make it worse. 
• Close the grill lid to starve the fire of oxygen. 
• If the propane tank is involved in the fire, evacuate the area and call 911 for help. 

Remember, in the event of a fire SERVPRO of Evanston’s Franchise Professionals are available 24 hours, 365 days a year to help. 

For fire cleanup and restoration, call (847)-763-7010. 

Clean Homes Sell Faster: Why Sellers and Realtors Should Choose SERVPRO of Evanston

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Clean homes sell faster. SERVPRO of Evanston has a variety of services to get your home ready to sell.

It is indeed a fact: clean, fresh smelling homes sell faster. Dirty ducts can circulate odors and contaminants like mold and dust throughout your home. Leaks from pipes, roofing, and other overlooked areas can cause water damage that goes unnoticed for periods of time. All of these can lower the value of a home and make it harder to sell. 

Veteran realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in top condition for a few very important reasons: 

• Increased market value 
• Reduced list to sale conversion times 
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales 

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston, we know that the real estate market is hot right now. We also know that you want to sell fast so you can get your money quickly. No matter the size of the job, our SERVPRO Professionals are equipped to get your home in top condition so that it can sell quickly and you can make the maximum profit. 

SERVPRO of Evanston offers a variety of services to prepare homes for sale, including but not limited to: 

• Carpet, upholstery, drapery, and blind cleaning 
• Ceiling, wall, and hard floor cleaning 
• Deodorization 
• Duct and HVAC cleaning 
• Mold mitigation and remediation

Whether you are a homeowner looking to sell fast or a realtor seeking a reputation for quality listings, SERVPRO of Evanston is here to help. For inquiries about services related to cleaning houses for sale call (847)-763-7010. 

Lead Paint: Get Your Facts Straight

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Lead paint can cause harm if the proper precautions are not taken. SERVPRO of Evanston knows how to safely handle projects involving lead paint.

The Facts About Lead Paint

• Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes until it was banned for residential used in 1978. 
• Lead can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems. This can lead to reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. 
• Lead in dust is the most common way people are exposed to lead. Exposure may also occur through soil or paint chips. 
• Projects that disturb lead-based paint can create dust and endanger you or your family. 

Older homes, child care facilities, schools, and other older buildings are more likely to contain lead-based paint. The percentages of homes likely to contain lead are as follows: 

• Built between 1960-1978: 24% 
• Built between 1940-1960: 69% 
• Built before 1940: 87% 

The Environmental Protection Agency requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities, and schools be certified by the EPA. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are aware of the guidelines involving lead paint and will go to great lengths to ensure the necessary precautions are taken according to the current laws. SERVPRO of Evanston Franchise Professionals have been trained and certified to follow lead-safe work practices while performing renovation and repair projects. 

Here’s what you can do to protect your family from lead in pre-1978 homes: 

• If you rent, notify the landlord of peeling or chipping paint. 
• Clean up paint chips immediately. 
• Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces. 
• Use a mop, sponge, or paper towel with warm water and a general all-purpose cleaner or cleaner made specifically for lead to clean. 
• Thoroughly rinse sponges and mop head after cleaning dirty or dusty areas. 
• Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often. 
• Keep children from chewing window sills or other painted surfaces. 
• Clean or remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil. 

Standing Water Precautions

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Standing water due to recent storms in Bolingbrook, IL.

When flood water intrudes into your home or commercial business it can cause what is called "standing water". This can be very dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. These are some important precautionary measures to take into consideration when dealing with standing water that  SERVPRO of Evanston took some time to compile.

Don’t drive through standing water -- turn around, don’t drown. 

• Always follow warnings signs about flooded roads and take detours to avoid driving through standing water 

Floodwaters may contain many things that are harmful to your health. Be cautious of this. 

• Downed power lines 
• Human and livestock waste 
• Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste (chemical, biological, radiological, etc.) 
• Lumbar, vehicles, debris 
• Wild or stray animals (rodents or snakes) 

Protect infection of open wounds or rashes.

• Avoid exposure to flood water if you have an open wound
• Cover clean open wounds with a waterproof bandage 
• Wash wound with thoroughly with soap and water 
• Seek medical attention if signs of infection develop (swelling, redness, discharge) 

Avoid electrical hazards inside or outside your home. 

• Shut off electrical power and natural gas or propane tanks in your home to avoid fire, electrocution, or explosions
• NEVER touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report fallen power lines
• Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities
• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water
• If you believe someone has been electrocuted, call 911

In the event of standing water or flood water in your home or business, SERVPRO of Evanston is happy to help make it "Like it never even happened." 

The Do's and Don'ts of Storms

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

Damage to home due to recent storm in Woodridge, IL.

These photos show damage to a home after torrential rains came down in full force in a Woodridge, IL neighborhood.  We were onsite to assist with the clean up.  

It is important to know what to do and what not to do in the event of flood damage.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (847)-763-7010

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Ready for the Storm?

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

Summer storm season.

Summer in Illinois can bring rain and thunderstorms. It is important that you are prepared and have a plan in the event of disaster. 

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston we are always prepared and ready to help you. When you don't have a plan, we do. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will arrive on sight promptly, ready to help. 

In case you find yourself in severe weather, here are some tips on what you can do: 

• Get in: if you are outside, get inside. 
• Get down: get underground if possible, or at least to the lowest floor of the building. 
• Cover up: cover yourself or others with pillows, blankets, helmets, etc. to help protect from flying or falling debris.
• Plan: have a plan in place with your family of what to do in a storm or disaster. 

What To Do in Event of a Storm

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

Damaged church due to bad thunderstorm.

About Thunderstorms

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

 Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. 

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

How to Prepare for Thunderstorms

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm
• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches
• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home
• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods
• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies
• Put together an emergency preparedness kit
• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

Responding Appropriately During a Thunderstorm

• Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates. Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or increasing wind.
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur. Many people struck by lightning are not in the area where rain is occurring.
• If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, take shelter in a substantial building or in a vehicle with the windows closed. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning. If thunder roars, go indoors! The National Weather Service recommends staying inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
• Avoid electrical equipment and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.
• Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Keep away from windows.
• Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.
• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.
• If you are outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground; water; tall, isolated trees; and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.

Take the Appropriate Steps to Stay Safe

• Never drive through a flooded roadway. You cannot predict how deep the water may be.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

If Lightning Strikes

Follow these steps if someone has been struck by lightning:

• Call for help. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Anyone who has sustained a lightning strike requires professional medical care.
• Check the person for burns and other injuries. If the person has stopped breathing, call 9-1-1 and begin CPR. If the person is breathing normally, look for other possible injuries and care for them as necessary. People who have been struck by lightning do not retain an electrical charge and can be handled safely.

Let Your Family Know You're Safe

If your community has experienced a disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well website to let your family and friends know you are safe. You may also call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.

Fire Readiness

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

It is important to be prepared in case of a fire.

SERVPRO of Evanston knows that a fire can be stressful for homeowners. We also know that timely response and thorough mitigation can alleviate the concerns that come with a fire. 

Here’s what you can do to be prepared in case of a fire: 

• Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.        
• Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. 
• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
• Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire“ to alert everyone that they must get out.
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire. 

When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Evanston at 847-763-7010.

Call the Fire and Water Professionals

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

This house fire was caused by a cigarette and lead to extensive damage to the entire house.

The fire was caused by a cigarette. The house was vacated and sat empty for a year. SERVPRO was asked to remediate the various damages to this home and provide the reconstruction for the portions we could not restore. As shown, the soot and smoke damage was pervasive. Rectifying these issues required the proper cleaning materials and significant elbow grease. 

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston, we know the devastation a house fire can bring to a family and we are eager to help. 

Here's what you can do to minimize the damage before help arrives: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading 
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery 
• Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet 
• Do not waste any walls or painted surfaces 
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery 
• Do not clean any electrical equipment 
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor 

In the event of a fire, call the fire and water professionals. Call SERVPRO of Evanston. 

847-763-7010

SERVPRO Will Weather the Storm for You

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

This basement has water damage from a recent storm.

This residential basement was filled with water after a storm in Evanston, IL. This image shows part of the drying process that SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are trained to manage. Using proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, SERVPRO can ensure that your building is thoroughly and properly dried to help prevent further water damage in the future. Remember, the faster the water is removed and the area is dried, the less likely it is that there will be serious damage to your home or facility.

SERVPRO of Evanston is here to help you make it "Like it never even happened." 

847-763-7010

We Are Cleaning Experts!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

One of our experienced technicians fogging a commercial building

SERVPRO 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

Specialized Products

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 carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Woodridge/Bolingbrook/Evanston 630-771-1720

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

SERVPRO Cares!

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Ready for Delivery!!

When disaster strikes the last thing you want to worry about is if your belongings are being taken care of and handled properly , With SERVPRO of Evanston you don't have to worry about that.

SERVPRO of Evanston takes all the proper steps and precautions to make sure all of your belongings will reach the destination safely.

We start the process by taking photos and taking a detailed inventory of all items being removed from the structure. The crew member then begin to wrap all items that need to be protected from breaking using bubble wrap, moving blankets and cardboard boxes. 

Once the items are in our facility the cleaning process begins. First all of the contents will receive a deep cleaning and once cleaned it will be placed in the ozone chamber so it can properly be deodorized. All of the items are once again carefully wrapped and stored in a storage container in our facility only this time all the items were finished with a clear wrap to protect from any dust or debris it might get from being stored.

Once the customer is ready we gladly return all the contents to the home or business.

Clean Water loss in a Commercial building

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Is it noisy in here?

No loss is too big or too small for SERVPRO of Evanston. On this particular loss the call came in after hours and SERVPRO of Evanston responded promptly arriving on site 2 hours after receiving the call. The crew chief will begin by doing a brief walk through and assessing the damages once the damages and all potential safety issues are addressed the crew will begin to extract water. 

This initial after hours visit will consist of the water extraction and leaving it in a safe condition to begin the drying process so on this particular loss the crew extracted all standing water and carpets and removed the baseboard and cored holes on all affected walls. They carefully started to place drying equipment  throughout the affected areas making sure there was no trip hazards or any falling material that may cause injury. Call us for your emergency needs At SERVPRO of Evanston 847-763-7010

What's That Smell?

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Hydroxyl Machine taking care of a nasty smell in a structure.

Sometimes in the case of smoke and fire damage it can travel through out a building in no time.

In this particular case , a fire broke out in the apartment on the first floor and all of the apartments on the floors above were affected with smoke and fire damage.

In cases like these we still take the same steps as if the fire happened in the apartment.

We take our time cleaning the contents and the structure to ensure there is no soot or harmful contaminants in the air.

We also place the proper equipment to help the process along, one of the important components is an air scrubber.

The air scrubber filters the dirty air via a hepa filter and releases clean breathable air.

We also use a hydroxyl  which purifies the air and helps get rid of the smoke smell.

SERVPRO of Evanston will ensure the job is done right and in a timely fashion to get you back living in your home as soon as possible.

Helping Out is a Sweet Gig!

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Staged Equipment Ready for Set Up !

No matter the size of the loss big or small SERVPRO of Evanston will be ready to respond. 

There was a substantial pipe break at a nearby sugar factory that unloaded thousands of gallons of water.

SERVPRO of Evanston was on sight and ready to go within 2 hours with boots on the ground the experienced technicians quickly began extracting water.

The technicians simultaneously while using portable extraction units and our trusty truck mounted extraction unit were able to extract the water in a very timely fashion. 

Once extraction is complete the technicians begin to place air movers and dehumidifiers in the best areas to start the drying process all while making sure all the power is balanced to prevent popping and breakers and causing any more damage. 

Please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Evanston for any future issues 847-763-7010

Accidents Happen

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a commercial business in Evanston, IL

Accidents happen and here at SERVPRO of Evanston we completely understand. 

Here are some emergency fire damage tips-

1.Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking

2. Keep Hands Clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork

3.If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor

4.Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets,trim and appliances

5.Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting you SERVPRO Franchise professional

6.Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances ( TV sets, radios,etc) that may have been close to fire , heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.

7.Don't attempt to shampoo carpets, rugs, or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO franchise professional.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Main Lobby of a Law Firm Before Water Mitigation was performed.

After receiving an after hours call in regards to a commercial pipe break at a law firm SERVPRO of Evanston was quickly on the scene.

Our experienced technicians first do a walk through to inspect for all damages and to put together a plan of attack.

Once they have a plan the crews quickly begin to provide emergency services which includes water extraction of affected areas , removing baseboard and setting up equipment.

After the initial visit the technicians do a more thorough inspection checking all walls for moisture as well as any other materials or content that might be wet.

The technicians will check the progress of drying everyday to ensure the prevention of mold as well as any microbial growth. 

Once drying is complete SERVPRO of Evanston will do a thorough cleaning of all affected areas to leave it like it never even happened.

No loss is too big or too small for SERVPRO of Evanston and with 24 hour emergency services we make sure to be there when you need us most.

Are you ready?

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Ready or not...

Summer weather in Illinois can be pretty unpredictable. Today's forecast calls for heavy wind and rains. Are you prepared to weather the storm?

Here at SERVPRO of Evanston we are always prepared to help.

Should you fall victim to flood  or storm damage, don't hesitate to call our team of professionals at (630)771-1720. We offer 24/7 emergency response to help mitigate the damage caused by water intrusion into your home. Our team of professionals can provide on site estimates or work directly with any insurance carrier to ensure that your home is restored to its preloss condition.

Our goal is to minimize the damage and frustration of storm loss to your property.

We hope to make it "Like it never even happened."

Always Here to Help

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Find Yourself Under Water

Illinois is fortunate enough to experience all four seasons.

Some of our seasons are a little bit milder than others. Summertime generally seems to bring harsher weather and storms.

When disasters such as roof leaks and flooded basements should occur due to storms make sure to call the team that has 13 years of experience helping customers walk through confusion and frustration.

We are here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Evanston is here 24/7 365 to help you, call us at 630-771-1720

Like New Condition

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

No match for SERVPRO

This commercial facility fell victim to some mischievous vandals. Graffiti and vandalism are no fun to the victims involved. Fortunately out team of trained professionals are equipped to handle a multitude of different problems.  In this case, our technicians professionally removed the graffiti and cleaned the stained gate to like new condition. A little training goes a long way. Our products identified the correct product and used SERVPRO's patented graffiti remover to destroy the stain without damaging the finish. Our team then cleaned the gate to make it shine. Taking pride in our work is one of the things that separates our professionals from our competitors. We our proud to have polite, well trained technicians representing our brand hear at SERVPRO of Evanston.  

Like it never even happened.

Water damage in Wilmette, IL

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Call the Pros at SERVPRO

Water leaks can be very troublesome to homeowners.  This home in Wilmette, Illinois was damaged by a leaky water line underneath the kitchen sink that went undetected for a period of time. Unfortunately the water made it's way through the cabinet and into the subfloor. It damaged the walls and ceiling below as well. If left untreated this type of water damage can cause even bigger problems for those living in the home. This particular homeowner had the smarts to call SERVPRO of Evanston and allow our crew of trained professionals to mitigate the issue.  Extraction of water, removal of unsalvageable building materials, and treatment on the structure with anti-microbial agents will help to prevent further damages.  

Having this home professionally cleaned and dried will keep the problem from getting out of hand.

Can you stand the rain?

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Window collapse due to weight of water.

When flooding happens, it can pool up and damage trees, cars,  and sometimes bust though a window. This is what happened to this home Evanston, Illinois.The weight of the water collecting in the window well caused the window to burst and water to flood into the home. Glass , mud, and debris saturated the carpet and walls. SERVPRO of Evanston was onsite in short order to begin cleaning the mess.

Any wet items were thrown out or cleaned and placed into a new box at customer's request. All the carpet was removed as well as wet insulation. The baseboards were detached with holes cored beneath the trim line to help dry the basement fully. All floors were cleaned and disinfected. The customer was very happy with the work done.

"Wow.It's like water never got into the house".  

Carpets to Catastrophes

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing a dining room china set after a thorough cleaning

Our scope of services here at SERVPRO of Evanston runs the gamut from carpets to catastrophes.  We specialize in putting homes and lives back together. However, no job is too big or too small.

One of our many services provided includes contents pack-out, cleaning, storage, and move back.  Our specialists here at SERVPRO of Evanston pride themselves in taking the burden off our customers.

In the photo depicted, our technicians are in the process of returning cleaned content to a customer complete with re-setting the items to their original location.

When packing out SERVPRO uses as much protection to the items. Insuring that no items are harmed in the process of pack-out.   

We are always pleased to go above and beyond for our loyal customers.

Please call 847 989 4403 if we can be of assistance.

Don't Take Matters Into Your Own Hands...

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Look out below!!

Sometimes it's best to let the professionals handle it.

This water damage photo from Evanston, IL depicts trapped water in a drywall kitchen ceiling caused by water leaking from an upstairs bath. The elderly couple involved had the good sense to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Evanston to assist with the removal of this ceiling and drying of their home.

Attempting to remove this ceiling without weep holes to drain the water and excess weight could result in collapse and even injury.

Fortunately our technicians are well versed in safety procedures and were able to remove this ceiling without incident or injury.

SERVPRO takes special care when it comes to demo. Protection the floor and any items around the area. 

Please don't hesitate to call 847 763 7010 with all your restoration needs.

Who Wore It Better?

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Stay Safe vs Stay Puft

In today's match-up of twinning styles we pit SERVPRO of Evanston Crew Chief John Mims verse the marshmallow man.

John is sporting a 2019 Tyvek onesie complete with hoody and booties accessorized by nitrile gloves and a 3m full faced respirator.

The marshmallow guy is wearing ...

a hat, a kerchief, and a scowl.

While we have every designer outfit under the sun to choose from, it's inevitable from time to time to choose the same ensemble.

While both look scary at times, SERVPRO outfit is safe and is designed to keep our characters safe and make sure your home or business is safe from any disasters. 

You decide: Who Wore it Better?

For the latest beauty and style trends in the restoration industry, contact SERVPRO of Evanston at 847 763 7010. 

Downtown Extraction.

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Extraction being done on a Chicago White Sox Rug!

With the recent storm on Memorial Day this year. Many homes and businesses were affected. As SERVPRO of Evanston, we go across the way to the great and beautiful city of Chicago. In this picture/job. The customer was a huge sports fan. Worried that this collectibles would be damaged. A SERVPRO crew went to clean up the mess. Extraction was needed but all of the sport memorabilia was protected and safe. With our extractor unit, it will remove any standing water from carpet or concrete. From there we add drying equipment. We use air movers and dehumidifiers to take the moisture from the room. Doing this insures we give you the top of the line during the drying process.  

SERVPRO of Evanston is trained and prepared to handle any job with the top care and professional needs.      

Containment containment containment!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

1 Mil plastic containing items from dust and other particulars.

When water hits your homes I may affect an area with your belongs and items. If so SERVPRO of Evanston is trained and uses special care to be sure all of your belongings are safe and out of harms way

In the picture shown, if water gets into the walls during a flooded basement. Walls might be needed to come out due to wet insulation. If the case items in the basement will need to be protected. SERVPRO does this by putting everything into the center and putting 1 mil plastic on top of all the items. By doing this no dust or contamination will get to the items.

SERVPRO of Evanston uses top and professorial care to make sure all items and belongings are safe and protected!

Flood Cut!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Flood cut of a wood panel.

Water in the basement can cause many problems. However SERVPRO of Evanston is here to solve those problems.

During a flood, your basement can be affected. If this happens, water can get within the wall and affect the insulation or in this case the bottom of the wood paneling. The wood paneling was rotted and had mold from water sitting on the floor. A SERVPRO came and cut 2 feet of the wood paneling. Doing this made sure no mold would grow up and also removing the rotted wood and smell. Flood cutting is the best way to insure drying and less the risk of mold.

SERVPRO of Evanston will provide professional and high quality work to be sure your home is same and back to its normal self. 

Extractor truck for the big jobs!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

This is the extractor truck. Inside is the built in truck mount. It also has a lot of space or any other equipment.

A big part of SERVPRO of Evanston is our extractors. Extractors are machines that are made for getting water out of a home or business. Another big part of SERVPRO is our trucks. So having two in one is a big deal.

Our Extractor truck has a built in truck mount extractor. The truck mount is very powerful and with a 250 foot hose to get anywhere inside the house or business its one of our top machines with dealing with water mitigation. As a bonus its also a hot water extractor, so we can carpet clean with it as well. 

With the plus of having a truck mount inside the truck. The size of the truck is great for the company as well. We are able to add more items and if needed more garbage. 

Evanston 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (847) 763-7010

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Evanston has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Evanston

SERVPRO of Evanston 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.

Evanston Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

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 Evanston 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 – (847) 763-7010

Does Your Evanston Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

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. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. 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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (847) 763-7010

Restoring Your Evanston Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Evanston commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Evanston

SERVPRO of Evanston specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

Evanston Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Evanston basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 847-763-7010

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Evanston and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 847-763-7010

Evanston Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Evanston for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Evanston specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (847) 763-7010

When Storms or Floods Hit Evanston, SERVPRO is Ready!

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston 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 Evanston, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 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 847-763-7010

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialist Can Restore Your Evanston Home

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Evanston

SERVPRO of Evanston 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

For Immediate Service in Evanston. Call SERVPRO

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Evanston. 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-Sized 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 – (847) 763-7010

Residential Services

Whether your Evanston 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 Evanston 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. Call us to learn more about our commercial services.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Are You Being Exposed to Mold?

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is one of the most dangerous materials we deal with. The danger lies in the fact the mold is often not easy to find. It likes to hide and can be harbored in any cool, damp place inside your home or place of business. Most people only think of showers and bathrooms as harboring mold, but truthfully, it can hide in attics, crawlspaces, closets, even inside the walls or under the floor.

Molds reproduce by forming tiny spores that are not visible to the naked eye. Mold spores are very hardy and can survive under conditions in which mold cannot grow, such as in dry and harsh environments. These spores travel through outdoor and indoor air. When the mold spores land on a surface where moisture is present, mold can then start to grow.

If you think this is something you have been experiencing in your home or place of business, call SERVPRO of Evanston for an estimate. Don't spend another day suffering inside your own home.

How A Water Restoration Technician Assists After Disaster

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

A water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a home is affected by excess moisture or fluid. Certified professionals in the industry can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated fluids, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A certified water restoration technician will usually be on call around the clock, except for those times when an entire community has been affected by a major disaster. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If fluid has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The home will be dried using a configuration of heavy duty air movers and dehumidifiers, and while it dries, the firm will move through the building and look for any evidence of mold or pathogen contamination. If pathogens or mold are present, they will be eliminated using special  procedures. This will ensure the home is safe to return to, and with concerted drying efforts, the building will as good as new once professionals have completed their work.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/blog/tag/water-damage-restoration

Damage From Water Should Be Cleaned By Certified Professionals

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by homeowners. Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a home is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a homeowner can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most homes, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the home for structural problems, will dry the home quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the family can return to a safe home, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/blog/tag/water-damage-restoration

Always Call A Water Damage Service For Repairs

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

A water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/blog/tag/water-damage-restoration

Flood Damage Restoration Recommendations for Uninsured Losses

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

As we are still watching Houston residents escaping the floodwaters of Hurricane Harvey, it is never too soon to start to consider what steps need to be taken especially when you don’t have adequate insurance for water damage.

The following recommendations assume a flooding situation with horizontally traveling Category 3 (unsanitary) water containing silt and other contaminants have infiltrated into homes and businesses to a depth of a few inches or feet and remained for multiple days.  When structures are completely submerged or remain substantially flooded for several weeks, more elaborate procedures may be required.

1. Foremost, consider safety:
   1. Evacuate potentially respiratory or immune-compromised, or non-essential persons (e.g., children, the elderly, pregnant women; those recovering from extended illness or surgery, or those on regimens of prescription drugs or chemotherapy). When medical questions arise, consult with public health professionals.
   2. Before entering a heavily flood-damaged structure, open windows and doors and air it out thoroughly. Ventilation must be maintained during and following the restoration effort.  This reduces but does not eliminate, the potential for inhaling pathogenic (disease causing) microorganisms.  Also, allow as much sunlight into the structure as practical, since fresh air and ultraviolet light help inhibit microorganism growth.
   3. Consider the structural integrity of a damaged building before entering. Wear protective clothing, boots with steel or fiberglass shanks, and a hard hat.  Have the building checked by a qualified builder or structural engineer when in doubt.
   4. Ensure that electrical shock hazards have been eliminated. Consult a licensed and qualified electrician when questions arise.
   5. Protect yourself from pathogenic microorganisms. Wear protective gloves before handling contaminated materials.  Splash goggles should be worn to protect and prevent microorganism entry through the eyes.  A vapor respirator (paint respirator) should be worn to prevent inhalation of most microorganisms or spores.
2. Remove quantities of debris (silt, vegetation, floating objects) with shovels, rakes or any safe means practical. Clean and sanitize all tools when complete.
3. Remove and dispose of drywall (Sheetrock^®), paneling or other wall materials up to a point 15-24″ inches above the visible water line. If practical, stay within four feet of the floor to salvage as much wall material as practical since drywall is usually installed horizontally in 4’x8’ or 4’x12’ panels.
4. Remove and dispose of insulation materials exposed during wall removal. Look for evidence of moisture wicking up insulation materials.  Leave only materials that are durable, dry and minimally porous, and which can be cleaned and decontaminated with relative ease.
5. Remove and dispose of carpet, cushion, pad, felt and sheet vinyl, or laminate flooring materials. Porous materials may absorb considerable quantities of water and contaminant, and non-porous materials may trap moisture to prolong drying.  The inevitable result will be rapid microbial growth, along with associated odor and potential health hazards.  Solid wood flooring should be removed since contaminants and moisture collect underneath in hollow areas between the wood and subfloor. The following procedures may require the assistance of a professional water-damage restorer, who has specialized biocides, and application and extraction equipment, if available.
6. While maintaining ventilation and respiratory protection, liberally spray durable salvageable materials (e.g., studs, decking, joists) with appropriate biocides. Household chlorine bleach (e.g., Clorox^®) mixed 1 part bleach to 11 parts water (½%) may be used on durable, colorfast surfaces.  Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or strong acids!
7. Following application of properly diluted biocides, brush agitate all areas to remove visible soils and to encourage biocide penetration into cracks and crevices. Professional restorers use pressurized spraying to accomplish this step.
8. When fresh water is restored within the structure, flush contaminants from salvageable surfaces with a water hose or pressure washer. Work from top to bottom and from walls to flooring.
9. Wet vacuum or mop up excess rinse water from flooring materials immediately. Thoroughly flush all contamination from wall frames.  Pressure washing, if available, is specifically recommended to flush contaminants from hard-to-access areas, following contaminated water removal with industrial wet vacuuming equipment.
10. Repeat steps 6-9 as necessary, until all surfaces are clean and contamination is physically removed.
11. Lightly spray a final application of an approved non-chlorinated disinfectant to all salvageable surfaces.
12. Dry structural components with plenty of air circulation, while maintaining constant ventilation (weather conditions permitting). If practical, take advantage of low outside humidity (check local weather reports).  Use oscillating or box fans, moving them around the structure every few hours.  Avoid temperature extremes that might slow drying or promote microorganism growth (68-86^oF/20-30^oC is ideal for growth).  Rent high-volume professional drying equipment (airmovers and dehumidifiers) if available, especially in areas where ventilation is not possible (sealed buildings, security issues).  All electrical components that were below the water line should be checked for operational safety by a qualified contractor.
13. Leave cleaned structural surfaces exposed for several days or even weeks, or until you are sure that they have returned to within four percentage points of normal moisture content (generally the normal moisture content of structural wood is around 10%). Otherwise, subsequent structural damage and health hazards can result after wall and flooring materials have been replaced or painted.
14. Durable, colorfast contents (e.g., washable clothing, dishes, glassware, furniture) might be salvageable if washed in warm detergent solutions. Common sense and caution should be used in determining contents salvageability.

Where financial resources permit, comprehensive restoration should be accomplished by trained, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Water Damage Restoration Technicians.  They may be located by calling the IICRC referral line at 844.464.4272 (www.IICRC.org).  To prevent mold growth on structural materials, property owners should consider hiring a professional restorer to evaluate moisture levels in structural materials before reconstruction.

Source: http://www.IICRC.org/blog/2017/08

Fire Prevention Week a great time to check on your Smoke Alarms

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke Alarms should be replaced every 10 years

“Don't Wait: Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” is the official theme for this year's Fire Prevention Week campaign, October 9-15, 2016. 

Per the National Fire Protection Association, the decision to focus on Smoke Alarms for the third year in a row was based on the fact that recent studies have shown that only a small percentage of people actually know the age of the smoke alarms in their own home.  Much less, a majority of people were completely unaware that a smoke alarm should be replaced every 10 years.

Because a large portion of the public is unaware of this requirement, many homes most likely have smoke alarms far past their expiration date, which puts people at a much greater risk in the event of a fire.

Because Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, we here in Chicago, should make sure to heed the advice of the NFPA. 

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FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER | SERVPRO | LIKE IT NEVER EVEN HAPPENED

3rd Wettest July on Record for Illinois

8/10/2016 (Permalink)

3rd Wettest July on Record

According to the National Weather Service (www.weather.gov) July 2016 was the 3^rd wettest July on record for the state of Illinois.  Closer to home, this past month was the 13^th wettest July on record for the City of Chicago, since 1871! 

After the third wettest July on record in Illinois, the NOAA Climate Prediction Center released their latest August outlook this past Saturday. They have the northern two-thirds of Illinois in this region with an increased chance of above-normal rainfall in August.  If you wish to see a map of their prediction, check out the link below (See first map, green shading):

https://climateillinois.wordpress.com/2016/08/02/august-forecast-wet-for-illinois/#more-8673

The message in all of this is that July was pretty wet, and August looks to be more of the same.  Now, while rainfall is certainly good for farmers and your home’s landscaping, it can do quite a bit of damage if it manages to get down into to your basement. 

If your home suffers flooding or a back-up, every moment counts.  The sooner you get it dry, the better, as you avoid secondary damage. 

When you need help fast, call SERVPRO of Evanston, anytime, 24/7, @ 847.763.1541.

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FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER | SERVPRO | LIKE IT NEVER EVEN HAPPENED

SERVPRO of Evanston | All 10's

7/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston Customer Satisfaction Survey completed on June 27th.

Whether it is Fire, Water, Mold, Biohazard, or Odor, any delay in starting the restoration process can lead to additional/secondary damage, as well as extra expense for the property owner.  As such, SERVPRO prides itself on being “Faster to Any Size Disaster.”

But there is certainly much more to disaster restoration than simply showing up quickly.  Once we are on-scene, we make it our mission to treat each and every property (home and/or business) as if it were our own.  We know that our customers are allowing us access to what is probably their most valuable asset and we treat it as such.

One look through our files shows that our customers seem to appreciate our efforts. 

From the office staff, to the crews in the field, our goal on every job is the coveted “All 10’s,” which is a Customer Satisfaction Survey where every item is rated as “Strongly Agree.”  Perfection doesn’t always happen, but as the old saying goes, “Shoot for the stars, and at least you will hit the ceiling.”  Or in our case, shoot for perfection, and at least every customer will be happy they called SERVPRO.

When you have a need for restoration services, call SERVPRO of Evanston, anytime, 24/7, @ 847.763.1541.

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SERVPRO | LIKE IT NEVER EVEN HAPPENED

Restoring Your Evanston Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges.

Flooding and water damage events at Evanston commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges:

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Evanston

SERVPRO of Evanston specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

Does Your Evanston Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

In Evanston, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.

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.

If You See Signs of Mold,

Call Us Today – (847) 763-7010

Evanston Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Evanston 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 Evanston 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 - (847) 763-7010

Evanston 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Evanston provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service in Evanston.

SERVPRO of Evanston is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help.

Call Today – (847) 763-7010.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Evanston has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect:

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information

• Your insurance information (if applicable)

• The street address of the water-damaged home or business

• When did the flooding or water damage occur?

• What caused the water damage (if known)?

• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Evanston:

SERVPRO of Evanston 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.