The Role of Plumbing Inspections in Preventing Costly Repairs

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Our local SERVPRO restoration team is here to help! Whether you live in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, or anywhere in between.

A well-maintained plumbing system is essential for any home or business, as it directly affects the functionality, comfort, and safety of the property. Regular plumbing inspections can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your plumbing system. In this article, we will discuss the role of plumbing inspections in preventing expensive repairs and why it's essential to schedule routine inspections for your property.

1. Early Detection of Potential Issues A key benefit of regular plumbing inspections is the early detection of potential issues. When you schedule an inspection, a professional plumber will examine your plumbing system for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. By identifying potential problems early on, you can address them before they escalate and cause costly damage to your property. Early detection of issues like leaks, clogs, and faulty fixtures can save you a significant amount of money on repairs and replacements.
2. Preventing Water Damage Water damage is a common and costly issue that can arise due to problems in the plumbing system. Leaks, burst pipes, and overflowing fixtures can all lead to water damage, which can be expensive to repair and may require professional water damage restoration services. Regular plumbing inspections help prevent water damage by ensuring that all components of your plumbing system are functioning correctly and identifying any issues before they lead to more extensive damage.
3. Maintaining Optimal Efficiency A properly functioning plumbing system is essential for maintaining the efficiency of your home or business. Issues such as leaks, clogs, and damaged fixtures can all contribute to increased water consumption and higher utility bills. By scheduling regular plumbing inspections, you can ensure that your plumbing system is running optimally, which can help save you money on your water bills and reduce your environmental impact.
4. Extending the Lifespan of Your Plumbing System Regular plumbing inspections can help extend the lifespan of your plumbing system by identifying and addressing any issues that may cause damage or decrease its efficiency. By investing in routine inspections and maintenance, you can prevent the need for premature replacements and costly repairs, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
5. Ensuring Compliance with Local Regulations For commercial properties, regular plumbing inspections are essential to ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines and penalties, as well as potential safety hazards for employees and customers. Scheduling routine plumbing inspections can help you avoid these issues and maintain a safe, compliant environment for your business.
6. Enhancing Property Value A well-maintained plumbing system is a valuable asset for any property owner. Regular plumbing inspections can help you maintain and even enhance your property's value by ensuring that your plumbing system is functioning efficiently and effectively. When it comes time to sell your property, a well-maintained plumbing system can be a significant selling point for potential buyers.

Conclusion:

The importance of regular plumbing inspections for home and business owners cannot be overstated. By investing in routine inspections, you can detect potential issues early on, prevent costly repairs, maintain optimal efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. Ultimately, this proactive approach will save you money and ensure the comfort, safety, and functionality of your property. However, in case problems arise and water damage occurs – contact SERVPRO of Rutherford County today. Our team of experts has the knowledge an equipment to handle any type or severity of water damage. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your plumbing system is in good hands. We’re always here to help.

Commercial Odor Control: Best Practices for Maintaining a Fresh Business Environment

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rutherford County is here to help with all of your commercial cleaning and odor removal needs. Call us for a free estimate!

Maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling business environment is essential for creating a positive impression on customers, clients, and employees. Unpleasant odors can deter customers from returning and affect employee morale and productivity. In this blog, we will discuss best practices for commercial odor control, focusing on identifying and addressing common sources of commercial odors, fire damage odor control, implementing a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule, and the role of professional odor removal services like fire damage restoration and commercial cleaning services.

Identifying and Addressing Common Sources of Commercial Odors

The first step in effective odor control is identifying the sources of unpleasant odors. Common sources of commercial odors include:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Smoke damage from fires or cigarettes
• Cooking odors in kitchens and break rooms
• Pet odors in pet-friendly establishments
• Chemical odors from cleaning products or industrial processes
• Garbage and waste odors in dumpsters or trash areas

Once you've identified the sources of odors, address them with targeted cleaning and odor removal strategies. For example, regularly clean and sanitize high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, to prevent mold and mildew growth. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation and air circulation to prevent the buildup of stale air and lingering odors.

Managing Mold and Mildew-Related Odors

Mold and mildew are common culprits when it comes to persistent and unpleasant odors in commercial spaces. These fungi thrive in damp, humid environments and can cause not only unpleasant smells but also potential health issues for employees and customers. Here are some tips to help manage mold and mildew-related odors in your business environment:

Address moisture problems promptly

Mold and mildew grow in moist conditions, so it's essential to identify and address any moisture problems quickly. This could include fixing leaks, drying out water-damaged areas, and ensuring proper ventilation in high-humidity areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Regularly inspect your commercial space for signs of moisture issues to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Regularly clean and sanitize affected areas

To keep mold and mildew-related odors at bay, regularly clean and sanitize areas prone to these growths. Use anti-fungal cleaning solutions and follow up with a disinfectant to kill any lingering mold spores. Make sure to clean not only visible surfaces but also hidden areas, such as behind appliances or under sinks, where mold and mildew may thrive unnoticed.

Replace porous materials

Porous materials, such as carpets, drywall, or upholstery, can absorb moisture and provide a suitable environment for mold and mildew growth. If these materials have been affected by mold or mildew, consider replacing them with non-porous options or treating them with a mold-resistant sealant to help prevent future growth.

Improve ventilation and air circulation

Proper ventilation and air circulation are vital for preventing mold and mildew growth. Ensure your commercial space has adequate ventilation, especially in areas with high humidity levels. You can also use fans or air purifiers with HEPA filters to improve air circulation and remove mold spores from the air.

Seek professional help when needed

If mold and mildew growth is extensive or persistent, it may be time to call in professional help. A commercial cleaning service, such as SERVPRO of Rutherford County, can provide thorough mold and mildew remediation to eliminate both the source of the problem and the associated odors.

By implementing these tips and maintaining a proactive approach to managing mold and mildew-related odors, you can ensure a healthier and more pleasant environment for everyone in your commercial space.

Fire Damage Odor Control: Strategies for Neutralizing Smoke and Soot Smells

After a fire, lingering smoke and soot odors can be challenging to remove. These odors can permeate building materials, furniture, and textiles, making it crucial to address them as soon as possible. Here are some strategies for neutralizing smoke and soot smells after fire damage:

1. Remove damaged materials: Remove and discard any materials that have been severely damaged by fire or smoke, such as furniture, textiles, and insulation.
2. Clean all surfaces: Thoroughly clean all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and floors, using specialized cleaning solutions designed for fire damage restoration.
3. Deodorize: Utilize odor counteractants, air scrubbers, and ozone generators to neutralize and remove lingering odors from the air and affected materials.
4. HVAC cleaning: Clean and sanitize the HVAC system to prevent the spread of smoke odors throughout the building.
5. Professional fire damage restoration: If the fire damage is extensive or the odors are persistent, consider hiring a professional fire damage restoration company that specializes in odor removal and commercial cleaning services.

Implementing a Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule for Optimal Odor Management

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for maintaining a fresh and odor-free business environment. A consistent cleaning schedule should include:

• Daily cleaning of high-traffic areas, such as restrooms, break rooms, and entryways
• Weekly deep-cleaning of floors, carpets, and upholstered furniture
• Monthly inspections and cleaning of HVAC systems to ensure proper air circulation and odor control
• Regular garbage disposal and cleaning of dumpsters or trash areas to prevent waste odors
• Periodic professional deep-cleaning and odor removal services to address persistent or challenging odors

By implementing a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule, you can proactively address potential odor issues before they become a problem for your business.

The Role of Professional Odor Removal Services in Maintaining a Healthy and Welcoming Business Environment

In some cases, DIY cleaning and odor control methods may not be enough to address persistent or challenging odors. Professional odor removal services, such as fire damage restoration and commercial cleaning services, can provide specialized equipment and expertise to effectively eliminate odors and maintain a healthy and welcoming business environment. These services may include:

• Advanced deodorization techniques, such as ozone treatments, hydroxyl generators, or fogging

• HEPA air scrubbers to remove airborne contaminants and odors
• Deep cleaning of carpets, upholstery, and textiles to remove embedded odors
• Mold and mildew remediation to address odor-causing microbial growth
• Smoke and fire damage restoration to remove lingering smoke odors and soot residue

By utilizing professional odor removal services, you can ensure that your business environment remains fresh and inviting for customers, clients, and employees alike.

Conclusion

Maintaining a fresh and welcoming business environment is crucial for creating positive impressions and fostering a healthy workplace. By identifying and addressing common sources of commercial odors, implementing effective fire damage odor control strategies, maintaining a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule, and utilizing professional odor removal services when necessary, you can successfully manage odors in your commercial space.

If you're in need of professional fire damage restoration, odor removal, or commercial cleaning services, look no further than SERVPRO of Rutherford County. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle even the most challenging odor problems, ensuring your business environment is clean, fresh, and inviting. Call us today at (615) 731-4222 to schedule a consultation and let us help you make your commercial space "Like it never even happened."

Odor Removal: Eliminating Smoke Smells After a Fire

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration team is here to help you whether you live in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, or anywhere else in Rutherford County, TN.

A fire in your home or business can be a devastating experience, and even after the flames have been extinguished, the lingering smoke smell can serve as an unwelcome reminder of the incident. Proper odor removal is an essential aspect of fire damage restoration, as it helps you regain a sense of normalcy and makes your property comfortable to inhabit once again. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in eliminating smoke smells after a fire, highlighting the importance of professional assistance from a trusted company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County.

Assessing the Damage and Identifying the Source

Before beginning the odor removal process, it is crucial to assess the extent of the fire damage and identify the source of the smoke smell. This will help determine the most effective course of action for eliminating the odor. Common sources of smoke smells include soot residue, burnt materials, and smoke particles trapped in porous surfaces.

Professional Inspection and Cleaning

One of the first steps in the odor removal process is a thorough inspection and cleaning by a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County. Our team of experts will examine your property and clean all affected areas, including walls, ceilings, flooring, and personal belongings. This will help remove any visible traces of soot and smoke residue, making it easier to tackle the lingering odor.

Air Filtration and Purification

After cleaning the affected areas, it is essential to address the smoke particles still present in the air. Professional restoration companies use advanced air filtration and purification equipment, such as HEPA air scrubbers, to capture and remove these particles. This process not only helps eliminate the smoke smell but also improves the overall air quality within the property.

Deodorization Techniques

Once the air has been filtered and purified, it's time to tackle the lingering smoke odor. Professional fire damage restoration companies use a variety of deodorization techniques to neutralize and remove the smell. Some of these methods include:

• Thermal fogging: This process involves using a specialized machine to release a fine mist of deodorizing agents that can penetrate porous surfaces and neutralize smoke odors.
• Ozone treatment: Ozone generators produce ozone gas, which reacts with odor-causing molecules and breaks them down, effectively eliminating the smoke smell.
• Hydroxyl generators: These machines use UV light to produce hydroxyl radicals, which react with and neutralize odor-causing compounds in the air and on surfaces.

Sealing and Repainting

In some cases, smoke odors may still linger even after thorough cleaning and deodorization efforts. In these situations, sealing and repainting affected surfaces can help lock in any remaining odors and provide a fresh, clean appearance.

The Importance of Professional Assistance

While it may be tempting to attempt odor removal on your own, it's essential to rely on the expertise of a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County. Our team of skilled technicians has the experience, training, and equipment necessary to effectively eliminate smoke smells after a fire, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-fire condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Conclusion

Odor removal is a critical component of the fire damage restoration process, and it's essential to address smoke smells promptly and effectively to make your home or business comfortable once again. By enlisting the help of a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County, you can rest assured that your property will receive the care and attention it deserves. Don't let lingering smoke odors disrupt your life – contact us today for expert fire damage restoration services and let us help you restore your property to its former glory. 

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trailer Mount Dehumidifier at a restoration project in Smyrna, TN

Water damage can be a nightmare for any homeowner or business owner. It can cause extensive damage to the property, and the restoration process can be time-consuming and expensive. However, with the right equipment, such as dehumidifiers, the process can be made much easier and more effective.

What is Water Damage Restoration?

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring a property to its preloss condition after it has been damaged by water. The process involves several steps, including water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. The goal of water damage restoration is to prevent further damage and to restore the property to its preloss condition.

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration:

Dehumidifiers are an essential tool in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers work by pulling in moist air and removing the moisture from it, then blowing out dry air. They can be used in conjunction with air movers and fans to speed up the drying process.

Benefits of Using Dehumidifiers:

Using dehumidifiers in the water damage restoration process has several benefits. Firstly, they help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for occupants of the property. They also help to prevent further damage to the property by removing excess moisture from the air. In addition, dehumidifiers can help to reduce the drying time, which can save time and money in the restoration process.

What are Some Types of Dehumidifiers Used in Water Damage Restoration?

There are several types of dehumidifiers used in property damage restoration. Some common types include:

1. Refrigerant Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and removing moisture from it, similar to how an air conditioner works. They are commonly used for residential and commercial applications.
2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers use a desiccant material, such as silica gel or activated alumina, to absorb moisture from the air. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings.
3. Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers are similar to refrigerant dehumidifiers, but they are designed to handle lower moisture levels and can be more effective at removing moisture from the air.
4. Ventilation Dehumidifiers:These dehumidifiers work by exchanging moist air for drier air from outside. They are commonly used in areas where there is a lot of outdoor air available, such as in crawl spaces.

The type of dehumidifier used will depend on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, such as the size of the affected area, the severity of the damage, and the type of materials affected. That is why our SERVPRO restoration technicians are trained to calculate and install the right type and number of dehumidifiers needed for each specific project.

What is the ideal air moisture level to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth?

The ideal air moisture level in a home to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth is between 30% to 50% relative humidity (RH). High levels of humidity, above 60% RH, can promote the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, while low levels of humidity, below 30% RH, can cause dryness and discomfort for occupants. Maintaining the humidity level within the ideal range can help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, while also providing a comfortable living environment. Using a hygrometer, a tool for measuring humidity, can help homeowners monitor and maintain the ideal humidity level in their homes.

What is the average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project?

The average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the area, the severity of the water damage, and the type of dehumidifier used.

However, as a general guideline, a typical dehumidifier can remove 10-20 pints of water per day from a 500-1000 square feet area. This means that the moisture level difference between the input and output of air of a dehumidifier can be around 10-20 pints of water per day, or around 5-10 liters of water per day.

It is important to note that the actual moisture level difference can vary depending on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, and it is best to consult with a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County to determine the appropriate type and number of dehumidifiers needed for the specific project.

Conclusion:

Dehumidifiers play a crucial role in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air, prevent the growth of mold and mildew, and reduce the drying time. If you need water damage restoration services, make sure that the company you choose has the necessary equipment, including dehumidifiers, to ensure a quick and effective restoration.

Thankfully, our SERVPRO team has the right equipment for any type of project. So, whether your single-family home or multi-story commercial building experiences water damage, our SERVPRO team has the expertise and equipment to get your business restored quickly like it never even happened.

Call us at (615) 849-9794 for 24/7/365 support.

We’re always here to help.

Fire Damage: How It Affects Electrical Wiring in Your Home or Business

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how bad the fire damage may be, your local experts at SERVPRO of Rutherford County are ready to help you immediately when you need us!

If your home or business experiences a fire, the last thing you want to worry about is the electrical wiring and cables. Unfortunately, this is something that you will need to deal with as part of the fire damage restoration process. Electrical wiring can be damaged by high heat, smoke, and soot from a fire, and can cause dangerous situations if not repaired properly. In this blog post, we will discuss how fire damage affects electrical wiring and what you need to do to restore it safely.

In modern-day homes, you will most likely run into two types of electrical wiring. Copper is the most common type and is found in most homes built before 1990. Aluminum wiring was more popular in homes built from the 1960s to the 1980s, and is now less common due to its tendency to overheat and spark fire damage.

Copper melts at 1984°F, and the temperature of a house fire can reach temperatures as high as 3000°F-3500°F.

However, the real problem when it comes to electrical fire damage is the plastic insulation and jacketing that surrounds the wires and electrical cables. These are typically designed to survive temperatures up to 194°F, which is well below average temperatures in a house fire.

So as the temperature of a house fire rises, the plastic begins to expand, stretch out, and melt. This non-conductive plastic coating is meant to prevent wires from touching each other and causing a spark or short-circuit. However, once the coating is melted, it can no longer serve its purpose, and wires can easily touch each other, creating a dangerous spark.

This is why your local fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Rutherford County carefully assess property damage to determine how hot the fire could have become in different areas of your home. This way, our fire repair experts can be sure to remove exactly what is needed.

In addition to the fire itself, smoke from a fire can also cause damage to electrical wiring. Smoke contains soot and other debris that can coat the wiring and insulation, causing it to deteriorate over time due to smoke's naturally acidic nature.

That is why our trained fire restoration technicians make sure to carefully clean up all smoke damage after a fire because damage may occur much later on.

If your home or business has been affected by a fire, our technicians are ready to respond immediately.

Call today! (615) 849-9794

Tips to Stay Safe during Fire Damage: SERVPRO of Rutherford County

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how serious your property damage may be, SERVPRO of Rutherford County is your local expert for restoring your home or business.

It's that time of year again - fire season in Rutherford County, TN, and surrounding areas. Between February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires rises. A fire may start from a variety of sources, ranging from a faulty wire to an overloaded outlet to a kitchen mishap to a bonfire left unattended. It's critical to know how to react quickly and effectively if your home catches fire.

Here's What You Need To Know If A Fire Starts: 

The first line of defense against a house fire is to know how to use the proper fire extinguisher for the situation. This simple procedure can help save lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. If the fire spreads uncontrollably, evacuate immediately and stay away, then call 9-1-1. Leave all of your belongings where they are and save yourself and your loved ones.

If your clothing ignites, remember the old adage: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

It's critical to utilize the stairs if you live in a building with elevators in case of a fire. The elevator electrical system may be damaged by a fire, causing the shaft to operate like a chimney and rapidly fill up with deadly fumes.

Doors may be used to your advantage in a fire, potentially saving your life. If the doorknob or handle is hot, don't open it. If you can't exit through the primary route, look for another option. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

Close any doors that might obstruct your exits, lay a wet towel beneath the doors, and call the fire department or 9-1-1 if flames, heat, or fire block your avenues of escape. Tell them exactly where you are so they can find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Rutherford County. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!

Spring Storms and Weather Events in the United States | SERVPRO® of Rutherford County

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Rutherford County is a click away if you experience any damage.

Because the United States is one of the world's most significant countries, it has a vast and varied terrain. As a consequence, seasonal weather in the United States isn't uniform—different portions of the country face varying types of weather conditions, which leads to different levels of weather concerns for various locations.

Let's take a look at the weather patterns that can form as spring approaches and warm and cold air masses collide across the country—and what we may learn from them in Tennessee.

From December through April, the Pacific Northwest is prone to heavy rain, which might cause flooding and water damage. Snow will continue to build at higher elevations as the season progresses, bringing difficulties of its own owing to melting and runoff.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winter season, with temperatures remaining below freezing for the majority of it. People can anticipate ice storms, blizzards, and even significant snowfall until late spring or early summer in Maine to Minnesota.

Extreme heat waves, on the other hand, will be a major problem in the Southwest and southern West Coast. The possibility of tsunamis produced by tectonic activity in the South Pacific region, including Hawaii, will be high on watch.

From Iowa to Texas, the center of the country will need to be on guard for windstorms, derechos and the prospect of wildfires, which might swiftly spread due to strong winds and arid conditions. Tornado Alley is especially vulnerable to tornadoes, with a large part of this region being known as such.

Finally, throughout the Southeast, we can anticipate a wide range weather events, ranging from thunderstorms and tornadoes in low-lying regions to early-season hurricanes along the shoreline later in the spring. Late-season snow has hit numerous locations in Middle Tennessee.

Extreme weather can happen in any part of the United States. While it varies from state to state, being aware and prepared for severe weather is never a bad idea.

Help is only a phone call or an email away if extreme weather causes you property damage from water, fire, or other forces. For local, rapid, professional restoration, contact SERVPRO of Rutherford County. We are always Here to Help.

5 Types of Water Damage Testing Equipment: SERVPRO of Rutherford County

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rutherford County is ready to respond to your water damage restoration call immediately when you need us. Call today!

Because water damage can often reach areas you can't even see, our SERVPRO of Rutherford County technicians use several types of testing equipment to help you restore your property damage in Murfreesboro, TN and throughout Rutherford County "Like it never even happened." This equipment is used to analyze environmental conditions, test all types of building materials for potential water damage, and track the drying efficiency of the emergency water damage restoration process. Here are a few of the machines our team utilizes:

1. Moisture Meters: Moisture meters are one of the most common pieces of water testing equipment. These meters such as the Dri-Eaz Protimeter SurveyMaster measure the moisture level of an environment or material and provide a digital reading on the device's screen. By using moisture meters, our technicians can quickly test whether any materials in your home are affected by water damage so they can then begin taking steps to dry them out. They are used to test everything from drywall, wood, siding, tile, insulation, carpeting, and everything in between.
2. Voltage Meters: Because emergency water damage restoration equipment can require significant electrical power, voltage meters are used to ensure that the equipment is being operated safely. These meters measure the voltage of an electrical circuit and help our technicians avoid any potentially hazardous situations.
3. Thermometers: In order to better understand how water damage is affecting different areas of your property, our team uses thermometers to take temperature readings both inside and outside of walls, floors, the air inside and outside of the affected areas, and more. Temperature is an important part of our local water damage restoration process because it helps our restoration technicians determine and control the speed of the water damage drying process.
4. Infrared Meters: Because Infrared meters see temperature differences between different building materials, they are often used to scan for hidden water damage that might otherwise be missed. A common misconception about Infrared meters such as the Flir E6 is that they are used to see behind walls. This is not the case. However, our SERVPRO of Cherokee County technicians use them along with our other testing equipment to help demonstrate and determine the potential extent of water damage and required removal of affected materials. They can also be used to identify other existing electrical, mechanical, and building issues.
5. Air Sampling Equipment: Air sampling is also an important part of the local water damage restoration process because it helps our SERVPRO of Cherokee County technicians identify and quantify any biohazards in the environment, such as mold spores, lead, pollen, insect parts, skin cell fragments, fibers, and inorganic particulates. By taking air samples inside and outside of the affected areas, our technicians and indoor air quality experts can determine whether or not specialized restoration processes are required.

SERVPRO of Rutherford County is here to help you restore your property damage "Like it never even happened." If you have any questions about our water testing equipment or the emergency water damage restoration process, please don't hesitate to give us a call at (615) 849-9794. We're always happy to help!

4 Ways To Prevent Candle Fires

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Candles are a common cause of fires, particularly when an open flame is left unattended.

Reducing the Risk of Candle Fire

Candles are a common cause of fires, particularly when an open flame is left unattended. The best way to prevent a candle fire is to use a lighting or fragrance alternative without an open flame. Here are four tips for reducing the risk of a candle starting a fire at a residence in Blackman, TN.

1. Use Open-Flame Alternatives

No matter why you use candles, you can probably find a safer alternative. LED candles can be ideal substitutes for decorative or mood lighting purposes. If you enjoy a scent, consider using a candle warmer with your favorite wax candles or other fragrance alternatives such as reed diffusers.

2. Don't Light Candles In a Bedroom

Fires are prone to start whenever people light open flames in a bedroom. Two of the most common fire causes are lit candles and cigarettes. Do not burn anything in a room where you run the risk of falling asleep and leaving a flame unattended.

3. Blow Out Candles Before Leaving a Room

It is very easy to forget that a candle is burning before leaving a room. In addition to the risk of candle fire posed by an unattended open flame, a lit candle can endanger children or pets and pose an increased risk of accidental fire. If you light candles at the dinner table, make sure to blow them out when you clear the table.

4. Keep Combustibles at a Safe Distance

Keep any combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, papers, or upholstery at least 12 inches away from a lit candle. Most candle fires start when a flammable material makes accidental contact with an open flame.

These measures can prevent a candle fire from starting at a residence in Blackman, TN. If a home sustains damage as a result of a fire, contact a restoration service that specializes in fire and smoke cleanup.

Cleaning Up After a Burst or Broken Pipe

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Residential water restoration in Walterhill, TN.

Cleaning Up After a Pipe Burst or Break

Every homeowner winds up with a water accident sooner or later. If it isn’t a broken pipe or a water heater that gives out, it will be a leaky seal or backed up sump pump. That’s just the nature of homeownership. When you are cleaning up after a plumbing emergency that left water in your home in Walterhill, TN, it’s important to understand the steps you need to take to get yourself back on your feet again quickly.

1. Shut Off Your Water Main. Before you bother calling for a plumber to fix the pipe itself, make sure you turn off the water. This will stop incoming water and allow for cleanup if the problem is a plumbing emergency.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company. Most insurance companies cover cleaning services and repair for water damage from plumbing accidents. Your regular plan deductible will apply. Major carriers often preauthorize cleanup services to streamline billing, so give your carrier’s claims line a quick call.

3. Contact a Cleaning Service. Residential water damage cleanup involves removing the water in home areas and dry cleaning the carpet, furniture, and other items in the area. If you have multiple phone lines in your household, calling for a cleaning service in Walterhill, TN, on one line while a family member contacts your insurance company can speed up the entire process.

4. Remove Dry Items. Once you know that help is on the way, it’s time to take dry and unaffected items out of the water damaged areas of the home. That way, the cleanup crew can more easily get to the affected belongings in your home.

5. Contact a Plumber. Cleaning services are not usually plumbing services, so if you have experienced a plumbing emergency, you will need to call for a plumber to fix the problem before turning your water back on.

Remember, while it is important to take care of the broken pipe quickly, water in home living areas continues to do damage until it is properly cleaned up. That’s why it’s important to contact a dry cleaning service right away.