Carpet Delamination

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can delaminate carpets quickly.

Heavy rain, flooding, or malfunctioning appliances can cause a great deal of damage to your home and property. Ruining hardwood floors, paint, furniture, and carpet, especially carpet. We receive many calls asking what steps can be taken without having to use a professional restoration and mitigation service. The answer is “a lot.” But, the benefits of using a highly trained, experienced, and accredited service provider significantly outweigh the savings of a DIY effort. One of the most significant benefits is the proper treatment and drying of materials, including carpet. Quick and correct action can be the difference between spending a little now and paying a tremendous amount later because some of the effects of water damage are not instant, some take their time. And if not accurately handled they can accumulate a cost many times of the original incident. One such issue is Carpet Delamination.

What is it?

Carpet delamination is when the primary and secondary backings of a carpet separate.

How does it affect carpet?

After a carpet becomes delaminated, it is no longer securely attached to the floor. In fact, it is technically two sperate elements: the top layer, which is the visible portion of the carpet, and the bottom layer that contacts the pad or another flooring. Since the layers are no longer secured to each other, they can shift and move apart. This causes wrinkles or the carpet to pull away from the wall, or other non-aesthetic issues like safety hazards.

What causes it?

There are many causes of delamination including improper installation, heavy weighed traffic, and moisture. We are going to focus on the various moisture related instigators of damage to carpet.

Flooding

Whether it comes from heavy rains, plumbing, or an appliance, over saturation of water on carpet can end up being devastating. And it is not just the immediate damage of the standing water that requires concern; pollutants in the water can negatively affect the adhesive that bonds the primary and secondary backing. Cleaning solutions such as dishwasher liquid, laundry detergent, and other cleaning products can dissolve adhesive, sometimes quickly based on concentration. Microbial growth from absorbed water can feed off the adhesive, breaking it down over time.

Urine

If any of your furry family members have an accident on the carpet it paramount to take action as fast as you can. Urine starts out acidic and eats away at the carpet fiber and latex. But over time it turns alkaline and causes even more damage to the threads and glue.

Cleaning Supplies and Treatments

Cleaning solutions that come from malfunction appliances are one thing, but what about the chemicals that you often use on your carpet? You know the ones that you use to clean up pet or wine accidents. It just as important to properly utilize those items and follow the directions and recommended treatment times. If you leave a spot remover on too long, it can begin to dissolve the adhesive, even if it is only that spot. Powdered odor remover can lead to issues as well, foot traffic can push the powder to the base of the carpet, making it harder to remove and that can potentially become food for microbial growth even in the smallest amounts of water. If you clean your carpet yourself, it is a must to make sure that it is dry, there isn’t a lot of light that gets between the layers of carpet making it ideal for microbial growth if there is moisture.

Knowing some of the causes of carpet delamination can make you feel like you have to be vigilant 24/7 and not allow anyone or pet on your carpet. But it does not have to be that way. Proper care for your carpet, including the occasional cleaning by a professional, can extend the life of your carpet and prevent it from being cut short. If you there is a water event in your home or office contact an experienced mitigation specialist to ensure that carpet and other materials reach the dry standard and focuses on restoring what can be saved. Now relax, take your shoes off, clench your toes and feel the carpet between them. After all, it isn’t there just for looks.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

When storms come rolling in and disaster strikes call the team that is faster to any size disaster.

When disaster strikes someone's home or business there is an incredible amount of unforeseen burden that is immediately placed upon that person. So many questions directly come to mind. Where do I start? How long does it take to clean this up? What is the long term problems? Who do I call? Call SERVPRO of East Greenville County, the name that is faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of East Greenville county has crews that are not only available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year; they are trained with the knowledge and experience to help take the burden off your shoulders. They uphold the 1-4-8 policy that has been implemented. 1 hours to contact you, 4 hours to be onsite to start cleanup, 8 hours to have verbal communication with your insurance company. But above all else they will help guide you thru the disaster recovery process. 

We are already working for you

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Ready and Standing by.

SERVPRO of East Greenville county is collectively training, studying and building now to best serve you when disaster strikes. SERVPRO of East Greenville County is training on a daily basis to help ensure all crews are properly trained to respond to any type of loss. SERVPRO of East Greenville County is actively studying the science of drying and training the in the newest forms and techniques the restoration industry has to offer. SERVPRO of East Greenville County is currently building software using the latest technology to help giving the onsite crews the best information to help them make the proper decisions in the field to help address any situation that may arise. This technology will allow real time data sharing for those that need at no delay. SERVPRO of East Greenville is putting in the work now so you don't have to. 

Meet our Fire and Odor Restoration Team Leader!

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Meet our Fire and Odor Restoration Team Leader

Why SERVPRO?

Meet our FIRE Restoration team leader, Lisa Finney.  She has been working in cleaning and mitigation for 17 years.  Lisa holds 2 IICRC Certification one in Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration.  This certification covers training on documentation, scoping, cleaning, mitigation, deodorization, subrogation and spoliation of commercial and residential fire and smoke damaged structures and contents. Lisa also has the Odor Control Technician certification. This certification covers the theory of odor control, equipment usage, odor sources, olfaction and odor chemical or cleaning supplies and applications.

Lisa loves helping others because of this she is loved by our customers and works hard to exceed their expectations while taking care their specific needs.

Lisa has been married for 22 years and has 4 grown children and 2 grandsons. Lisa enjoys being outdoors. She also has fur babies that make her heart smile.

We are thankful for Lisa and are glad she is part of our SERVPRO of East Greenville County team.

Thank you, Lisa, for all of our hard work and dedication to our team.

https://IICRC.org

Meet our Water Restoration Team Leader!

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Meet our Water Restoration Team Leader, Courtney Morganelli.

Why SERVPRO?

Meet our Water Restoration Team Leader, Courtney Morganelli.  Courtney has been working in the restoration business for approximately 3 years as a Water Damage Restoration Technician. Courtney holds her IICRC Certification as a Water Damage Restoration Technician. This certification teaches restoration technicians that perform remediation work the concepts of a water damage, it’s effects on the property and the techniques to property dry out the structure.  This course also educates technicians so they understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backups and mold contamination in a residential or commercial setting.  

Courtney enjoys helping others because of this she is loved by our customers and works hard to exceed their expectations while taking care their specific needs.  She also likes to learn new things and, in this industry, there is always something new to learn.

Courtney love’s spending time with family as well as her fur babies. She has 2 dogs that she adores.

We are thankful for Courtney and are glad she is part of our SERVPRO of East Greenville County team.

Thank you, Courtney, for all of our hard work and dedication to our team.

Why Restore vs. Replace? | SERVPRO of East Greenville County

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

When your home has been damaged water damage or fire, our goal at SERVPRO of East Greenville County is to make your property "Like it never even happened," quickly and at the lowest cost to you.

Part of restoring your home and belongings is determining what structures and items can be saved utilizing our state-of-the-art restoration techniques and equipment. Insurance and restoration industry studies have concluded that restoring property after water damage and fire is less expensive than replacing those contents. Restoring property is also less disruptive to our clients, often allowing them to remain in their homes during the process and resume life as quickly as possible.

As a preferred mitigation and restoration vendor for most major insurance companies, our SERVPRO Team is highly trained to determine when restoring can be accomplished with the high-quality results that our clients expect and deserve. This "restore" versus "replace" mentality can save money while preserving family keepsakes, heirlooms, and other items that are impossible or cost-prohibitive to replace.

If your home or business has been impacted by water or fire damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of East Greenville County today at 864-292-3495.

Emergency Ready Profile | SERVPRO

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Are you Ready? Contact SERVPRO of East Greenville County today to have your ERP set up! It's free!

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The

SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start-up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important buildings and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Why SERVPRO: Real Quotes from Real Customers

5/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Greenville loves its customers!

SERVPRO of East Greenville County prides itself on excellent customer service from the moment we receive your call to the moment the job is finished. We want our customer’s experiences to speak for themselves so here are some quotes from our past customers that prove exactly why the company you should call for your restoration needs is SERVPRO of East Greenville County.

Merry A. | November 24, 2019

“The SERVPRO staff was awesome. Very quick to respond. They were kind and efficient.   They went above and beyond to help us. Highly recommend. ”

Faith S. | March 14, 2019

“We had a flood in our home. A situation that could have been horrible were it not for SERVPRO. They came immediately. They were very responsive, kind, understanding, helpful, yet very professional, thorough, efficient, and accommodating! Cannot speak more highly of SERVPRO’s work and efficiency. True Professionals who care about their work. It’s a pleasure to recommend them.”

Iris P. | March 8, 2019

“Being in the corporate industry I know how important it is to provide good service. Jonathan Evatt and his staff has been outstanding and went above and beyond what anyone could ever ask for. They took extremely good care of my home due to sewage flood. Very trusting, I left my house key with Jonathan as they did their job and never once was I concerned about anything. I highly recommend SERVPRO of Greenville Eastside. I know you can depend on Jonathan.”

Why SERVPRO – Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring storm and flood damage to businesses and homes is the cornerstone of what we do here at SERVPRO of East Greenville County.

Restoring storm and flood damage to businesses and homes is the cornerstone of what we do here at SERVPRO of East Greenville County. Our highly trained technicians use specialized equipment to efficiently restore your Upstate South Carolina property to its pre-storm condition.

SERVPRO of East Greenville is locally owned and operated, meaning this is our home too! We are proud to offer Greenville our services because:

We are faster to Any Size Disaster

            We ensure a quick response to storm and water damage emergencies. We understand that when something happens to your business or home you don’t always have time to wait. Which is why we not only strive to offer a fast response but a response that lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the cost.

We are Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

            We are leaders in the storm and water damage industry, and with that comes a reputation of advance training and expertise as well as a vast amount of hands-on experience. We use this experience and training to quickly dry and restore your home just "Like it never even happened."

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

            In addition to our own resources, we also have access to equipment and personnel from over 1,700 Franchises across the state and country.

Why SERVPRO- We Are IICRC Trained Restoration Specialists

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Greenville is proud to say that our techicians are IICRC Certified.

Our staff here at SERVPRO of East Greenville County are highly trained in the restoration process. Not only do they go through corporate training, they also receive IIRC industry certifications. Each one of our technicians goes through an extensive training program including:

• IIRC Training: The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification certifies and sets standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our technicians study these standards and the best practices in water, fire, and mold mitigation as well as carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• Employee Certification Training: This is a self-paced program designed specifically for SERVPRO technicians. It covers crew training, fire restoration, water restoration, and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Once the technician completes this training they are awarded certification.
• Initial Franchise Training: This is a 15-day hands-on course offered at our SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility and is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. During this program our technicians are trained on fire restoration, water restoration, mold mitigation, and carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• E-Learnings: Every member of our staff has access to web-based training. This is a voluntary, and self-paced program that focuses on coaching our employees. Videos and trainings are followed by knowledge test at the end of each module. This allows our staff and technicians to stay up to speed on all industry standards.

Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork | SERVPRO of East Greenville County

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

For over 10 years SERVPRO of East Greenville County has been dedicated to providing 24-hour emergency service to Greenville and the surrounding areas.

Of course, you’ve heard people say, ‘teamwork makes the dream work,’ and you’ve probably immediately dismissed it as meaningless corporate poster banter.  Maybe you think it’s a repetitive cliché, but could there be more to the phrase?  As it turns out, there’s a lot to be said in favor of this popular mantra.

Teamwork really does make the dream work, especially in the restoration industry.  At the end of the day, everybody’s time, work, and input matters, and there’s plenty of evidence to back it up. A company is only as good as its people which is why you’ll find no company better to work with than SERVPRO of East Greenville County.

Why Teamwork Matters

Teamwork DOES makes the dreamwork.

Not only do we help one another get things done, but we each bring something unique and valuable to the table.  This is where the ‘team’ part of ‘teamwork’ comes in, and this is why the team must come together to make it happen. 

Why It Makes the Dream Work

Teamwork makes the dream work because leaders share a common vision with employees.

A strong team builds an atmosphere that’s conducive to success.

Good relationships in a business environment can be beneficial at work and elsewhere. When everybody gets along, people are more inclined to help one another without expecting anything in return. 

Here’s why our teamwork makes the dream work. When our team collaborates effectively, works for a common goal, and puts in their very best effort, we get everybody on the same page about and find a successful outcome to every single job we have.

For over 10 years SERVPRO of East Greenville County has been dedicated to providing 24-hour emergency service to Greenville and the surrounding areas. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency no matter how large or small. We are locally owned and operated, but also have the support of SERVPRO’s nationwide network of restoration and remediation equipment and experts. No matter if it is water, fire, smoke, mold, or any other unfortunate and unexpected event, SERVPRO of East Greenville County is here for you.  Let our teamwork make the dream work for you!  Call us today at 864-292-3495!

Why Choose SERVPRO of East Greenville County?

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Greenville County is an IICRC Certified Firm. Join us as we congratulate our newest IICRC WRT Certified Technician.

SERVPRO of East Greenville County is an IICRC Certified Firm that believes in training our team members with the knowledge needed in our industry to respond quickly and efficiently to your Water Damage Emergency.

We are an IICRC Certified firm which holds us accountable to a Code of Ethics set by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification.  A complete list of the Code of Ethics can be found on their website at https://www.IICRC.org/page/IICRCCertifiedFirm .

As an IICRC Certified Firm SERVPRO of East Greenville County continues to develop our team.  We promote education and training for our technicians to enhance their proficiency on each job. 

Please help us as we congratulate our 2 newest IICRC WRT Certified technicians Jacen McGarity.   We are excited for their accomplishments and the value that each of them add to our team. 

Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our SERVPRO team.

Meet Our Newest Office Team Member

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Meet our newest office member Sarah!

Our goal at SERVPRO of East Greenville County is to help minimize the interruption to your life and make it “Like it never even happened.” To enhance our ability to serve you best, we have added a new smiling face to our team. Read more about our new office member below!

Sarah Hannah | Administrative Assistant at SERVPRO of East Greenville County

Sarah is a recent graduate of the USC Upstate located in Spartanburg, SC. Sarah has a passion for advocacy and was searching for a job where she could use this passion to help others. Sarah is currently 20 years old and has plans to pursue her law degree. Sarah enjoys spending her free time horseback riding, being with friends and family, and finding new places to travel to and explore.

We are excited about our newest team member. They are a great fit for our team, goals, and are wonderful to work with. Should you ever have any water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or any other mitigation needs, give our location a call (864.292.3495) and we will be happy to serve you.

Why SERVPRO - Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

9/12/2020 (Permalink)

Whether it is your home or business that has suffered damage from a storm, SERVPRO is who you should call for help.

Our staff here at SERVPRO of East Greenville County are highly trained in the restoration process. Not only do they go through corporate training, they also receive IICRC industry certifications. Each one of our technicians goes through an extensive training program including:

• IICRC Training: The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification certifies and sets standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our technicians study these standards and the best practices in water, fire, and mold mitigation as well as carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• Employee Certification Training: This is a self-paced program designed specifically for SERVPRO technicians. It covers crew training, fire restoration, water restoration, and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Once the technician completes this training they are awarded certification.
• Initial Franchise Training: This is a 15-day hands-on course offered at our SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility and is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. During this program our technicians are trained on fire restoration, water restoration, mold mitigation, and carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• E-Learnings: Every member of our staff has access to web-based training. This is a voluntary, and self-paced program that focuses on coaching our employees. Videos and training sessions are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This allows our staff and technicians to stay up to speed on all industry standards.

Water Damage: "Like it never even happened." | SERVPRO of East Greenville County

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Water Damage Mitigation Drying Equipment.

Your home has suffered water damage and you call the best in the business, SERVPRO of East Greenville County, but now what? During the initial phone call you were probably asked a series of questions in regard to the loss at your residence or business. But what can you expect to happen when the technicians knock on your door?

1. Initial Inspection: Our technicians are first going to assess the damage and put a stop to any continuing leaks or damage that needs to be stopped. They will also take pictures of any affected areas.
2. Demo: Demo is the next stage. This is where our technicians will remove any standing water and wet materials. Standing water can lead to further damage, so by removing it we can expedite the drying process without risk of continuing problems such as mold which can occur after water damage.
3. Dry Dry Dry: SERVPRO uses dehumidifiers and commercial grade dryers to not only pull out the visible water but also the moisture that can be felt in the air.
4. Sanitize: Just because the water is gone doesn’t mean our job is done. Items that may have been affected by the water damage are also part of what we do. We do this through the application of an antimicrobial sanitizing agent.

If your home or business has been affected by water damage call us at SERVPRO of East Greenville County at 864-292-3495 Today!

Maintain a Healthy Living Environment | SERVPRO of East Greenville

5/2/2020 (Permalink)

Smells and odors can be uninviting. Let our team recreate your space by cleaning your carpet!

Why is carpet cleaning important? What does it do for your home and for you? These may be questions you’re asking yourself when you move into a new home or begin to notice an odd smell in your home. Cleaning your carpet helps remove dust, dirt, gases, animal hair and other grime, which in turn creates a clean and healthy environment to live in. Maintaining a healthy living space is why it is important to clean your carpet every six months or year. Not sure what kind of carpet cleaning you need? Here is a list of cleaning services we offer:

Need Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning?

We also offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

We at SERVPRO of East Greenville have a qualified team to serve you. If you have any questions, give our location a call and someone will be ready to help you! 

Call Today – (864) 292-3495

We are Cleaning Experts | SERVPRO of East Greenville County

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our specially trained team will assist to ensure you feel safe during this time of need!

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 East Greenville County, 864-292-3495

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

Faster to your Greenville Water Damage Event

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Greenville County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Greenville County, SC

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 864-292-3495

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of East Greenville County

SERVPRO of East Greenville County 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. https://www.SERVPROeastgreenvillecounty.com/company-profile

Resolve to be Ready!

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Lose the excuses, resolve to be ready this new year.

This year, resolve to be prepared.

Join our team at SERVPRO of East Greenville County and make a Resolution!

SERVPRO of East Greenville County offers practical emergency preparedness tips individuals can practice each day leading into the New Year.

• Make an emergency plan: choose a safe place to meet, learn evacuation routes, and establish an out-of-town contact.
• Take a current photo of you and your pet together in case you get separated during a disaster.
• Get to know your neighbor and invite them to be a part of your emergency plan.
• Snap photos of important documents and save them in a secure place or online.
• Set up group text lists so you can communicate with friends and family during emergencies.
• Take a class in CPR and first aid.
• Keep and update emergency supplies; remember to include cash.
• Have back-up power sources available to charge devices in case of a power outage.
• Snap pictures of your property for insurance purposes.
• Check your insurance for coverage on disasters like floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
• Sign up for alerts and warnings. Download the FEMA app to get real-time alerts, safety tips, and locate open shelters.
• Save for a rainy day! Start and grow your emergency fund.

Why choose SERVPRO of East Greenville County?

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Greenville County is an IICRC Certified Firm. Join us as we congratulate our 2 newest IICRC WRT Certified Technicians.

SERVPRO of East Greenville County is an IICRC Certified Firm that believes in training our team members with the knowledge needed in our industry to respond quickly and efficiently to your Water Damage Emergency.

We are an IICRC Certified firm which holds us accountable to a Code of Ethics set by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification.  A complete list of the Code of Ethics can be found on their website at https://www.IICRC.org/page/IICRCCertifiedFirm .

As an IICRC Certified Firm SERVPRO of East Greenville County continues to develop our team.  We promote education and training for our technicians to enhance their proficiency on each job. 

Please help us as we congratulate our 2 newest IICRC WRT Certified technicians Brittany Sanders and Jeremy Williams.   We are excited for their accomplishments and the value that each of them add to our team. 

Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our SERVPRO team.

Carbon Monoxide: Silent Killer

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

At high levels, carbon monoxide can kill people in minutes.

You can’t see it, smell it or feel it but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes. Often referred to as CO or the Silent Killer, it is found in fumes produced any time you burn fuel in cars or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces.

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) CO can build up indoors and poison people and animals who breathe it.

It has no smell and you can’t see it, so how would you know when you come in contact with Carbon Monoxide?

SYMPTOMS:

• Dull Headache 
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Shortness of Breath
• Confusion
• Blurred Vision
• Loss of Consciousness

According to the CDC, it is estimated that more than 400 Americans die a year due to unintentional CO poisoning.

Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning. Infants, the elderly, people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems are more likely to get sick from CO.

Ways prevent CO poisoning in your home:

• Have your heating system serviced annually
• Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home
• Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters indoors
• Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum, or something else
• When using a generator, use a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector in your home

How can I avoid CO poisoning from my car or truck?

• Have a mechanic check the exhaust system of your car or truck every year
• Never run your car or truck inside a garage that is attached to a house even with the garage door open 

SERVPRO of East Greenville County is dedicated to helping you keep your home safe. For more information about Carbon Monoxide go to cdc.gov.

ICC Building Safety Month Week 2

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

The Building Safety Industry is a field ripe with opportunities for those looking for a new career. The ICC has many tools to help you get started.

Week two of the International Code Council Building Safety Month’s theme is Ensuring a Safer Future Through Training and Education. The week highlights the various careers that are a part of the building safety industry and the education and training paths that are available to join the industry.

In 2014 the National Institute of Building Sciences conducted research and determined that the building industry will lose 80% of its skilled workforce over the next 15 years. So, there is a tremendous opportunity for job seekers to start a successful career. There are many specialty positions in the building safety industry including:

• A building inspector inspects structures to determine compliance with the various building codes and standards adopted by the jurisdiction.
• A building official manages the development, administration, interpretation, application, and enforcement of the codes adopted by their jurisdiction.
• A special inspector provides a specialized inspection of structural material fabrication and placement, such as poured concrete, structural steel installation, and fasteners, etc.
• A permit technician assists in the issuance of construction and development permits to ensure compliance with the provisions of a jurisdiction’s adopted regulations and codes.
• A fire marshal develops and delivers fire prevention and implements public fire safety programs that provide for inspections of occupancies for life safety and fire issues in accordance with codes and standards adopted by their jurisdiction.
• A plumbing inspector inspects the installation, maintenance, and alteration of plumbing systems complete with their fixtures, equipment, accessories, and appliances.

The International Code Council also has several tools to help you learn about the various careers and see which one is right for you.  

When Do You Replace The Batteries In Smoke Alarms

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Testing a smoke alarm once a month will help to determine when the batteries need to be replaced.

Daylight Saving Time began a few weeks ago, and hopefully, you and your family have adjusted by now. Everyone is feeling as rested as they can, eating at the “right” time, and felling “normal.” But do you have a nagging sensation that you have forgotten something? Have you changed the batteries in your smoke detector since the time change? Since the last time change? In the past 365 days? When was the last time you changed the batteries or at least checked them?

There once was the idea that you should change out the batteries in your smoke detector every six months, and you used the changing of the clocks as a reminder. But batteries have changed, and smoke detector technology has also changed. So, are every six months guidelines even applicable anymore? That depends on who you ask.

In 2015 Consumer Reports answered a reader’s question about how often they should replace their smoke alarm’s batteries, and the answer was a little vague: “It’s true that a lithium 9-volt battery will probably last longer than an alkaline 9V (which in turn should last longer than a carbon-zinc 9V). But how much longer depends on a smoke alarm’s power drain.” But they also stated that the conservative six-month time frame was out of caution and safety and that is why it still a good idea, and if the old battery still has power use it for something that is not related to safety. That is good advice; you are still changing out the batteries but saving cost elsewhere. But you may want something a little more concrete for an answer.

On the other hand, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have a few different recommendations and best practices to maintain the smoke detectors in your home. They recommend replacing the batteries in smoke alarms with removable batteries at least once a year, and smoke detectors with non-removable ten-year batteries are completely replaced after ten years. Testing the alarms once a month is recommended to ensure that they are working correctly, no matter what type of smoke alarm you have. And if you hear a smoke alarm chirping that indicates a low battery and it needs to be replaced (not just removed, so the chirping stops).

So the “every six months” rule may be antiquated because of changes in technology, but safety doesn’t change. Testing the batteries once a month and replacing them once a year can help to ensure your family’s safety and peace of mind. Besides, you can still use the beginning or end of Daylight Saving Time to schedule the replacement.

Carpet Delamination: A Serious Secondary Issue

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet delamination can be caused by not correctly treating materials after a water damage event in your Greer, SC home or business.

Heavy rain, flooding, or malfunctioning appliances can cause a great deal of damage to your home and property. Ruining hardwood floors, paint, furniture, and carpet, especially carpet. We receive many calls asking what steps can be taken without having to use a professional restoration and mitigation service. The answer is “a lot.” But, the benefits of using a highly trained, experienced, and accredited service provider significantly outweigh the savings of a DIY effort. One of the most significant benefits is the proper treatment and drying of materials, including carpet. Quick and correct action can be the difference between spending a little now and paying a tremendous amount later because some of the effects of water damage are not instant, some take their time. And if not accurately handled they can accumulate a cost many times of the original incident. One such issue is Carpet Delamination.

What is it?

Carpet delamination is when the primary and secondary backings of a carpet separate.

How does it affect carpet?

After a carpet becomes delaminated, it is no longer securely attached to the floor. In fact, it is technically two sperate elements: the top layer, which is the visible portion of the carpet, and the bottom layer that contacts the pad or another flooring. Since the layers are no longer secured to each other, they can shift and move apart. This causes wrinkles or the carpet to pull away from the wall, or other non-aesthetic issues like safety hazards.

What causes it?

There are many causes of delamination including improper installation, heavy weighed traffic, and moisture. We are going to focus on the various moisture related instigators of damage to carpet.

Flooding

Whether it comes from heavy rains, plumbing, or an appliance, over saturation of water on carpet can end up being devastating. And it is not just the immediate damage of the standing water that requires concern; pollutants in the water can negatively affect the adhesive that bonds the primary and secondary backing. Cleaning solutions such as dishwasher liquid, laundry detergent, and other cleaning products can dissolve adhesive, sometimes quickly based on concentration. Microbial growth from absorbed water can feed off the adhesive, breaking it down over time.

Urine

If any of your furry family members have an accident on the carpet it paramount to take action as fast as you can. Urine starts out acidic and eats away at the carpet fiber and latex. But over time it turns alkaline and causes even more damage to the threads and glue.

Cleaning Supplies and Treatments

Cleaning solutions that come from malfunction appliances are one thing, but what about the chemicals that you often use on your carpet? You know the ones that you use to clean up pet or wine accidents. It just as important to properly utilize those items and follow the directions and recommended treatment times. If you leave a spot remover on too long, it can begin to dissolve the adhesive, even if it is only that spot. Powdered odor remover can lead to issues as well, foot traffic can push the powder to the base of the carpet, making it harder to remove and that can potentially become food for microbial growth even in the smallest amounts of water. If you clean your carpet yourself, it is a must to make sure that it is dry, there isn’t a lot of light that gets between the layers of carpet making it ideal for microbial growth if there is moisture.

Knowing some of the causes of carpet delamination can make you feel like you have to be vigilant 24/7 and not allow anyone or pet on your carpet. But it does not have to be that way. Proper care for your carpet, including the occasional cleaning by a professional, can extend the life of your carpet and prevent it from being cut short. If you there is a water event in your home or office contact an experienced mitigation specialist to ensure that carpet and other materials reach the dry standard and focuses on restoring what can be saved. Now relax, take your shoes off, clench your toes and feel the carpet between them. After all, it isn’t there just for looks.

Winter Weather May Make Its Return to Greenville, SC

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

2019 is two weeks old, and it still feels like 2018 for some reason. I think because it has been wet. Well, brace yourself Greenville, because this weekend looks to be a re-run. Or is it?

Currently, meteorologists are saying that there may be a slight chance of snow. Not sleet, not freezing rain, not ice, but the fun stuff. The stuff that you can make forts, people, and projectiles out of. The stuff that is less likely to knock out your power so you can still binge watch that show about the dragons and drink hot chocolate. You know SNOW.

So, let’s all get prepared folks. Buy your milk, bread, and eggs. Order your sleds online with express shipping. The more we hope and prep the higher the chances are right, right? Slim chance or not, like Han Solo said: “Never tell me the odds.”

Just do not forget to make preparations in your vehicle and around your home or office. Check out some of our past blogs for vehicle essentials and tips on how to help keep your pipes from freezing. If it does snow, focus on enjoying it rather than worrying.

In the event that something goes wrong making the hot cocoa,  your kids track so much snow onto your carpet, or if your pipes do freeze and burst, give us a call. We’ll be #ready no matter rain, sleet, and yes even in the snow.

Celebrating Safety During the Holidays in Greenville, SC

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

It is the beginning of December, and we are seeing some fantastically decorated homes for the holiday season. From the tasteful white lights on a few trees to enough lights and color to be seen from space, it is all wonderful. We can’t wait to pack the family the car and tour various neighborhoods and enjoy all of the hard work and start to feel festive. But the desire to have the best-decorated house on the block can lend itself to a few safety issues.

The American Red Cross has several holiday safety tips on their website to help ensure that your holiday season is a safe one. What’s great is that they think of things that are easily overlooked during the winter season (New Year’s Eve fireworks anyone?).

Three is the magic number! Place all trees, candles, and other decorations at least 3ft from fireplaces, portable heaters, and other heat sources.

Make room. Cooking for family gatherings or parties can be a “stressful joy,” but be sure to keep flammable items like oven mitts, food packaging, and paper recipes away from the stove top. It may be a good idea to invest in a tablet to store classic family recipes, just remember that they are flammable too.

Stay away from frays. During the arduous process of untangling the lights, be sure to check each string for frayed electrical cords. You may have to toss them out and replace them, but it is less costly than any disasters that may happen.

The designated walker. It is a great idea to assign a someone the honor and duty of walking your property to make sure all candles and lights are extinguished each evening or after guest leave holiday parties.  

The same rules apply in the cold too. If you plan to celebrate the new year with fireworks, keep the same safety precautions in mind. Just because its cold outside doesn’t mean that a stray spark can start a fire and you have to invite the fire department to your New Year’s Eve get together. Keep the display away from buildings and outside decorations.

Emphasizing safety during the holidays can give you the chance to enjoy them worry-free. And even if something was to go awry, SERVPRO of East Greenville County’s team is always #Ready. Any day. Any time.

Portable Generator Safety in Greenville, SC

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

If you followed along with our blogs last month, you would remember that the theme was National Preparedness Month. One of the blogs was about making a plan, and I practice what I preach. So with the changes that were happening daily to the projected path of Hurricane Florence, I jumped the gun and purchased supplies. In fact, I went overboard. Water, food, first-aid, pet supplies; I bought it all, including two generators. Luckily, Greenville was spared from the torrential rains, at one point meteorologists were calling for 6 inches and a foot, and I didn’t need any of the emergency supplies (and I hope that you did not as well). All the food, water, and other supplies will be put to use, “Winter is Coming” and all that, but what am I going to do with two generators, because the location at which I purchased them is strictly adhering to a “No returns on emergency supplies” policy, even if said supplies are unopened. Now I am twice as prepared.

Keeping in line with being prepared I researched how to properly and safely use a generator so here are some safety tips from the American Red Cross.

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

Please keep these tips in mind if you have to use a generator due to severe weather, and I guess now that goes double for me.

National Preparedness Month Week 4: Save For an Emergency

9/24/2018 (Permalink)

The FEMA app is an excellent source of information like real-time alerts and locations of emergency shelters.

You have put in the effort, and you have the supplies, you have the skills, and you are adequately insured for a disaster. But are you financially ready for the challenges that go along with recovering and rebuilding after an emergency?

Financial planning is more than just setting money aside; it also means keeping essential documents and records in a safe and secure place. Ready.gov has a guide to make securing and retrieving these documents easier, the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK), that when used along with a secure mobile app, safety deposit box, or external hard drive, makes starting the recovery process even faster. Take advantage of these services to safeguard your critical documents:

Household

• Photo ID to prove the identity of household members
• Birth certificate to maintain or re-establish contact with family members
• Social security card to apply for FEMA disaster assistance
• Military service
• Pet ID tags

Medical Information

• Physician information to provide doctors with health information if medical care is needed
• Copies of health insurance information to ensure existing care continues uninterrupted
• Immunization records  
• Medications  

Legal and Financial Documents

• Housing Payments to identify financial records and obligations
• Insurance policies to re-establish financial accounts
• Sources of income to maintain payments and credit
• Tax statements to provide contact information for financial and legal providers & apply for FEMA disaster assistance

Preparation is a very time-consuming process, and you may miss crucial items if you wait until the last minute to start. Staying prepared will prevent you from having to get prepared, and will allow you to be able to handle any emergency that comes your way.

National Preparedness Month Week 2: Learn Life Saving Skills

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Mini first aid kits like this one are perfect for keeping in vehicles and can assist you if an emergency during travel.

Think back to your high school days, (way back for some of us), did you ever have nightmares about a test that you had not studied for? I’d wake up in a panic, and scramble to study more and be as prepared as I can be. Full disclosure: I still have these things, and I graduated high school in 1998. But the anxiety that caused the nightmares stemmed from a feeling of being ill-prepared, and that same anxiety can cause you to freeze or panic during an emergency. The best way to overcome the sense of not being prepared is to learn as much as you can so that you can handle anything.

Week 2 of NPM focuses on learning life-saving skills so that you can be able to quickly respond to and assist with emergencies with the proper knowledge. Taking the correct action right away, until medical help arrives, can save a life. Follow these steps from Healthfinder.gov now to be prepared in the future.

Know when to call 911

Even if you are fully trained in first aid or CPR always alert 911 right away during an emergency situation including:

• Fire
• Serious injury
• Sudden violent illness (poisoning)

911 operators are trained to assist in any way possible, so it is important to answer their questions as best as you can, listen to them carefully, and do NOT hang up.

Take a class

Several types of courses available will teach first aid, CPR, and how to utilize an AED correctly. The American Red Cross’ website has a tool to help locate classes based on your city, and help you learn to handle:

• Cuts, burns, head injuries, and broken bones.
• Someone who cannot breathe
• When a person’s heart suddenly stops beating

Make a First Aid Kit

First aid kits have all that you need for rapid response to many situations to treat those that require medical attention. It is incredibly important to have a kit nearby including in your home, at work, and even in the car.  A well-stocked first aid kit should include the following:

• Directions on how to treat basic injuries and when to call for more help
• Bandages
• Tape
• Scissors
• Gloves to prevent contamination risks
• Antiseptic solution or wipes
• And more.

Be sure to check and restock your first aid kit regularly.

The knowledge and experience you will gain from learning these skills can empower you to make the right decision and take swift action in the event of an emergency.

National Preparedness Month Week 1: Make a Plan

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

The only certain thing about disasters is that nothing is certain about disasters. Natural or manmade, a disaster can happen at any time, and your family may not be together when they strike. Having a plan in place can help your family reconnect with one another and maximize their safety. But you have to plan to make a plan, and Ready.gov has the steps that you need to do so.

Step 1: Answer these questions

• How will we receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is our shelter plan?
• What is our evacuation route?
• What is our family communication plan?

The discussions that these questions will lead to can build the foundation of your family’s disaster strategy.

Step 2: Know the needs of your household

Your family’s daily living needs can dictate parts of your plan. Do you have pets or service animals? Do any family members require special medication or medical equipment? Etc.

• Dietary needs
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Disabilities

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan and Practice

You have worked hard with your family to create a plan, but it is paramount to have the plan written down and that all of the family members are comfortable with it. There are examples of Family Emergency Plans on Ready.gov’s website. And make sure to schedule family practices regularly, this will make sure that every member of the family knows the plan or you can find and overcome obstacles that may cause problems.

Disasters cannot be prevented, but planning can make sure that your family or employees are as #ready as they can be.

SERVPRO of East Greenville County Observes National Preparedness Month 2018

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month (NPM), and it is a month dedicated to the idea that preparation is a critical factor in protecting ourselves and our families. NPM has been celebrated since 2004, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) dedicates the month to educating and promoting information that helps Americans take action to prepare their schools, communities, businesses, and homes. The information provided by FEMA helps the general public be prepared for and ready to respond to emergencies such as natural disasters.

National Preparedness Month 2018’s overall theme is: Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How. Each week will focus on different ways that you can prepare for disasters.

• Week 1: September 1-8  Make and Practice Your Plan
• Week 2: September 9-15* Learn Life Saving Skills
• Week 4 September 16-22 Check Your Insurance Coverage
• Week 4: September 23-29 Save For an Emergency
• September 15 is National Day of Action

Make sure to follow SERVPRO of East Greenville County on Facebook and Twitter as we will be sharing information provided by Ready.gov all month long.

Understanding Soot Deposits in your Taylors, SC Home or Property

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Chains of ionized particles called soot webs can build up in your home after a fire.

Recently we assisted a family in Taylors by cleaning up their home after a small grease fire. The family took swift action and was able to contain the fire damage to the kitchen. But, smoke, soot, and extinguisher deposit can quickly disperse through a home. Which is where SERVPRO of East Greenville County comes in, we safely remove the smoke and other chemicals from your property so that your family can rest easy and focus on getting things back to normal after a fire.

While our team was doing a pre-clean walk through and taking photographs of impacted the impacted structure, furniture, and other belongings, one of the homeowners looked up into the ceiling of a stairwell and began to cry out. “Please don’t think I keep a dirty house! Both my mother and my grandmother would be so angry with me if they were to see this,” she had seen black cobwebs clinging to the walls. “I am so embarrassed. The smoke from the fire has colored the cobwebs and dust and now I can see that I was not cleaning my house well enough.” But what she did not realize was is that black cobwebs after a fire is not just smoke and soot attaching itself to cobwebs that are already there. They are something else entirely.

Black cobwebs, smoke webs, or soot webs are actually a side effect of the smoke and debris of a fire. As materials burn their particles disperse into the air and they become ionized or develop a positive or negative charge, they then attract other molecules that have the opposing charge type. The airflow can carry these small bonds throughout an entire house can they will grow and attract more particles. And often deposit themselves in cooler spaces and do NOT require preexisting cobwebs to form. Soot webs are not the only type of particle distribution patterns that you may see after a fire.

Many variables impact the deposit pattern, and there are a few different types:

Nail Pop: An optical illusion when charged soot particles are attracted to metal nails and deposit on the outside of building materials.

Ghosting: The Shadowly outline around electrical outlets or other wall mounted items form when the hot, kinetically charged air moves to cooler air, depositing the particles around the objects as it slows.

No matter what type of soot pattern you may see, please do not attempt to clean or disturb them, as they may have trace deposits of harmful chemicals from burnt materials of extinguishers. Please contact a professional like SERVPRO of East Greenville County to make sure your home is properly cleaned after a fire no matter how big or small.