Flooding and Water Damage on The Eastern Shore

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

If Your Home has Water Damage from Leaking Pipes or Flooding Call The Lower Shore Restoration Team (410) 749-2221

Flooding and leaking pipes can be a serious threat to your home. There is one thing for sure, if you experience large scale water damage, it will leave behind a large-scale mess. The Eastern Shore has several areas that are known to flood on a regular basis. 

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the US, this is according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). There are some good reasons to see if you can improve your home’s chances during a flood. One inch of flood water can cause $25,000 in damages to your home.  

A few tips to think about: 

Consider replacing carpet with tile 

Floodproof basements (consider waterproofing compounds and a sump pump) 

Install flood vents in foundation walls 

Invest in a sewer backflow valve   

Call a Professional Restoration Team

If you have water damage in your home call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore (410) 749-2221. We are locally owned and operated, so we can get to you quickly. Don’t let a small mess become a larger, expensive problem. 

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore technicians use advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help them find the moisture and to remove it as fast as possible. The drying process can help avoid the spreading of mold. Water damage in your home can lead to mold in as little as 48 hours. 

The SERVPRO of The Lower Shore team is knowledgeable and experienced. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.  

You can learn more about our advanced water repair process.

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service (410) 749-2221.

Winter Weather Advisories and Damaging Storms on The Eastern Shore

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Snow scenes across the Shore can be beautiful, but heavy snow and wind can cause damage to your home. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore (410) 749-2221.

Winter has arrived on the Eastern Shore and with it comes Winter Weather Advisories. The individual advisories outline what emergency officials are recommending, depending on the weather event. For example, if a few inches of snow are being forecasted overnight, the advisory might ask you to slow down on your morning commute. The Winter Weather Advisories also warn about specific conditions like, "plan on slippery road conditions."

Winter weather can also mean storm damage. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore, specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  If your home or business is damaged by winter storms call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore (410) 749-2221.

Trained to Restore Your Home or Business  

Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. We believe in continuous training, from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

It's not just about our training and experience. It's also about being able to respond to your damage quickly. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore is available 24 hours a day for storm emergencies, large or small. We can also handle fire and water damage as well as remediate mold.

If you want to learn more about how our team can help if you have storm damage  

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore Storm Damage

If you have questions about storm, water or fire damage give us a call (410) 749-2221. Stay safe this winter and for the latest road conditions in Virginia or Maryland, call 5 1 1.

Flooding and Water Damage Can Be Dangerous and Costly on the Eastern Shore

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage or suspect mold call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore (410) 749-2221

When the state of emergency was recently declared in parts of Maryland, including counties on the Eastern Shore, people started talking about the potential of water damage to their homes. The potential for coastal flooding was beyond routine nuisance flooding. Flooding can be dangerous and water damage can be costly, especially if it’s not handled quickly by professionals. If you’d like to learn more about flooding check with Maryland's Department of Emergency Management.

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore is ready to help when your home or business is threatened by water damage. One of the concerns is mold. Our trained technicians are experts in handling mold problems. Response time is important, before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be taken care of, or the mold may return.

Why Our Team?

Our technicians specialize in water and mold damage restoration, we have advance training in restoration, the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your home or business.

Learn more about what we do and what makes us different. 

WATER DAMAGE

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore is also ready with other kinds of water damage. Maybe you suspect mold after problems with leaky pipes, we’re here to help. We can get to your damage faster because we are locally owned and operated.

Expertise is critical because every water disaster is different, from the amount of water to the level of contamination. The process we use provides validation and documentation that your property is dry.

When you have damage to your home there is already a lot of stress. Let our team work with your insurance during the claims process. 

From Ocean City to Centreville we have you covered 24 hours a day, every day of the year. If you have questions about water damage or restoration call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore (410) 749-2221.

Fire Safety Tips to Keep Your Family Safe During the Holidays

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

Have a safe and joyous holiday season

Every year there seem to be a lot of fire safety information that comes out as the holidays get closer. There are a few reasons for this. Did you know the top three days of the year for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve?  That’s according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). They are responsible for developing and delivering fire prevention and safety education programs.   (USFA) offers the tips below:  

• Only use decorations that are flame-retardant or not flammable.
• Check holiday lights each year for frayed wires or excessive wear.
• Don’t link more than three strands of holiday lights.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles.
• Keep your live Christmas tree away from heat sources and room exits.
• Water your live Christmas tree daily to keep it from becoming dry.

If you experience a fire during the holiday season, call the right team when the first responders have left your home or business. 

After the fire it’s important to call experts, that have the right equipment and training. Each fire damage situation can be a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.   

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore, Mid-Upper Shore and Talbot / Dorchester has the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your property with care.        

Training Matters When Selecting A Restoration Service  

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore 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. 

OUR TRAINING

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore, Mid-Upper Shore and Talbot / Dorchester, will respond quickly because we know the Shore. Our technicians will get to you quickly and we use advanced restoration and cleaning equipment.

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service (410) 749-2221.

6 Things to Teach Your Kids About Home Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

You’ve likely had a lifetime’s worth of fire safety education (although despite it all, the top cause of home fires is still ignoring food while it’s cooking, but we feel sure you’re working on that). However many years you’ve been alive, you’ve got that many years of fire drills, NFPA advertising campaigns and OSHA talks at work under your belt.

Your kids, though, are at a natural disadvantage, because while they may have had some education, they don’t have the years and years of engrained fire safety knowledge you may now possess. But their knowledge and reactions as it pertains to fire safety are certainly no less important than yours, so it’s crucial that you do everything you can to empower them to react quickly and safely in the event of a fire.

Here’s the basic knowledge you should go out of your way to impart.

The sound of a smoke alarm. Make sure your kids know this is the sound of warning, but that it should provoke action, not fear. Younger children especially may be tempted to run and hide.

What firefighters wear. Listen, if a person showed up in your bedroom in the middle of the night looking like Darth Vader with a big ax, you might be a little skittish, too. Get your kids acquainted with the look of firefighters who are actively in rescue mode and gear.

The way out. Kids need to know the escape route you have established as a family and two ways out of every room.

How to exit safely. Teach kids to test doorknobs with the back of their hand to ensure it’s safe to open, and make sure they know to crawl out under smoke to avoid inhalation.

Get out, stay out and meet up. Teach your young ones to move quickly to your family’s designated meeting spot outside the home, so that you and the on-scene firefighters know everyone is accounted for. Stress to them the importance of staying out of the house once they’re outside, and that they shouldn’t reenter the home for any pets, toys or other items.

Call 911. If your underage child happens to be home alone without a cell phone, make sure he or she knows to knock on a neighbor’s door to quickly call 911 to get first responders on the scene.

Hammering home this information can help your kids react quickly and safely in the harrowing event of a fire.

Fire can cause serious damage to your home, but we can provide serious restoration. Contact SERVPRO today if you need fire recovery.

Hail Is a Threat to Your Ocean City Business | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

You know how every superhero team has somebody who, though they may possess incredible powers and abilities, still gets viewed as kind of an also-ran? That’s the story of hail for many people.

Maybe it’s because other natural weather occurrences possess more spectacle or pizazz that they get all the headlines, but whatever the reason, hail is the Hawkeye of natural disasters. But hail deserves more respect—it’s actually one of the most damaging weather threats we face in the United States.

Hail causes an average of about $11 billion in damages every year, and it’s not surprising considering there were over 4,600 hailstorms last year alone.

And while Maryland isn’t exactly part of the Midwest’s “hail alley” (though the alley is widening), hail can strike anywhere, at anytime, when the conditions are right, and the conditions are right across the U.S. more often than almost anywhere else on the planet.

So as an Ocean City area business owner, what can you do to prevent hail damage and protect your valued assets?

Take care of your roof. Your roof takes a beating constantly from sun, rain, critters and their factors, but hail can cause acute damage, especially large hail. Always inspect your roof after any major storm, looking for broken or damaged shingles, or granules on the ground or in your downspouts. Don’t wait when you see damage or when your roof starts to show signs of wear—get it fixed or replaced to save yourself damage from invasive water.

Reinforce your windows. Impact-resistant windows are doubly helpful for coastal businesses, because they can minimize the potential impact of both hail and tropical storms. Large hail can definitely shatter standard glass, and of course you’re certainly aware of the power of hurricanes—installing stronger windows can help prevent breakages, and it may actually decrease your insurance costs in the process.

Keep assets covered. Some hail damage is preventable simply by moving some things indoors or under covers. Any outdoor equipment that can be moved inside or covered should be taken care of in an impending storm, and company vehicles can be moved to garages or carports for protection. Even if you have to pay a few bucks to park in a carpark, it’s worth it to keep from having to repair dents or broken windows. Keep important indoor assets away from windows during heavy storms as well. And of course, keep your most valuable assets—your team—safe during hail and thunderstorms as well, by keeping them indoors until it’s safe outside again.

Hail damage happens, but when it does we’ll be there to fix your business up. Contact SERVPRO today to see how quickly we can help you recover from damage of all kinds.

Grease Fire Prevention and Extinguishment | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

It’s pure instinct—when you see a fire, you throw water on it. Every cartoon you ever saw planted and reinforced this idea, so you can hardly be blamed for the initial gut reaction that occurs when the stovetop flares up.

It’s precisely because of this common instinct that grease fires are one of the scariest and most destructive kinds of home fire you may encounter. Considering that cooking fires are the top cause of both home fires and injuries, maybe we should take some extra care in considering the danger of grease fires.

Causes of a Grease Fire

Grease fires are caused by the overheating cooking oil or animal fat. When these cooking aids and byproducts become too hot, they begin to smoke, and then they ignite into a nasty blaze.

Animal fats will ignite at around 375 degrees, and vegetable oils do so at 450. Both of these benchmarks are well within reach of your stovetop, grill or oven, and there are several scenarios which could create this danger, including turning your burners too high initially, waiting too long to add ingredients or adding frozen food directly to hot grease.

But by far the most common cause of home cooking fires is unattended cooking. Left alone, your culinary creation can conflagrate into a colossal catastrophe.

How to Stop a Grease Fire

First things first: Go against your instincts and don’t put water on a grease fire. This will not only fail to extinguish it—it will cause it to spread.

Your best bet for putting out a grease fire quickly is to smother it. If it’s contained in a pan, you may be able to keep it from causing damage.

Turn off the heating element, and reach for a nearby lid or baking sheet that will completely cover the pan. Depriving the fire of oxygen will keep it from growing and eventually kill it.

A Class B fire extinguisher can also handle grease fires, as can a fire blanket.

If your fire breaks containment and spreads, call 9-1-1 immediately. Don’t try to fight a growing grease fire yourself.

If a fire, grease-based or otherwise, breaks out and causes damage at home, we’re here to make things right again. Contact SERVPRO® to get started.

What Causes Flash Flooding? | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that flash floods are the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States? Due in part to their unpredictability and also in part to the fact that humans are sometimes cavalier about their risk, this statistic proves that we may need some further education about one of nature’s most common weather threats.

Flooding in a general sense is the overflow of water onto normally dry land, and typical river or stream flooding is a more long-term occurrence that may last days or weeks.

Flash flooding, on the other hand, arises quickly, over the course of a few hours or even less. Flash floods are more prone to create the heavy, rushing sub streams that take over neighborhood streets and wash entire roads or bridges away.

These kinds of floods can have varying causes, such as:

Intense rainfall. Most obviously, heavy rains that either move slowly or come to rest over an area can cause flash floods. Similarly, repeated storms over short periods in the same area can overwhelm streams and nearby waterways, even hours after rainfall has ended.

Soil considerations. Different types of soil have varying capacities for retaining and soaking up rainfall. Sand, for example, can absorb water more readily than silt or clay. It stands to reason that saturated soil that reaches its maximum absorption level would then cause runoff and flooding to occur, but it’s also true that dry, thin areas of soil can be overwhelmed by rapid rainfall, which means certain areas are prone to flash floods even in drought conditions because of their soil type.

Urban growth. You might not have considered this, but larger cities experience flooding in downtown areas where everything is pavement and concrete, because these materials don’t soak up nearly the amount of rain that soil would. This is why flash flooding in urban areas is particularly dangerous—until the water finds an outlet, it’s unlikely to be slowed by gradual ground absorption.

Snowmelt and ice jams. In areas that experience long or heavy freezes, deeply packed snow and ice can be melted by springtime rains, which can produce flash flooding. Ice jams occur when frozen areas of rivers and streams melt with rain and jam up against bridges or other structures, causing water to rise behind them. If the water is suddenly freed, it can cause flash flooding as it overwhelms the stream’s capacity.

Structure failures. Dams, levees and other structures designed to hold back bodies of water do develop issues from time to time, such as the respective failures of the Lake Needwood and St Mary’s Lake dams in 2006 and 2011. Heavy rains and losses of integrity can cause rampant, rapid flooding over entire areas.

If flooding has invaded your home or property, we’re here to get you back in the dry. Contact SERVPRO today to get a local emergency team onsite right away.

Why You Can Trust SERVPRO to Help Your Business Measure Up | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

The unit of measure for businesses has changed.

The country slowly but surely is reopening, and while that’s welcome news to most of us, it doesn’t change the fact that many still have concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19, its variants and other viruses.

With businesses trying to navigate the new waters of a post-pandemic reality, business owners and managers must also recognize the need to provide a safe shopping or business experience for consumers.

Safety is the new foundation of customer loyalty, and it’s up to you as a business person to see to it that your customers can trust you with their precious health.

That’s why you should trust us with your business cleaning strategy.

Trust SERVPRO for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives you and your customers peace of mind by relieving all worries about cleanliness and sanitization. This is no regular janitorial service; no way—this is a hospital-grade cleaning only available to businesses that partner with us to go out of their way to put customer safety first.

Your customers will know before they ever hit the door that they’re safe in your hands, and they’ll reward you for it with loyalty and repeat business. You win in every possible way, because you’ve done the right thing to protect the lifeblood of your business, your valued customers.

We’ve perfected the craft of cleaning over a hard-won, 50-plus-year arc in the industry, through surges of innovation and refinement, and now you are the beneficiary of the Three C’s of a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

With hospital-grade solutions, carefully crafted and curated for your specific business location in the Lower Shore area, you’ll feel good about bringing consumers back in, and they’ll have invaluable peace of mind patronizing your business.

When added to the already incredible value of SERVPRO services for fire, water, mold and disaster recovery, the choice is clear: SERVPRO is the name to trust for businesses who want impeccable service, fast results and total recovery.

Here’s to your new reputation as the safest business in town.

The pros in green are ready to help you earn the trust of returning customers. Get in touch with SERVPRO today to get consultation for your custom cleaning solution or any of our other lines of service.

How Do Hurricanes Form? | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are well-respected as the most potentially dangerous storms we encounter in the United States, and the most violent storms on earth. Regularly causing billions of dollars in damages, hurricanes like 2005’s Katrina and the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 have wielded the destructive potential to threaten the future of entire major cities.

Here in Maryland we have encountered our share of Atlantic tropical cyclones and hurricanes, having suffered over 130 of them since 1950.

Most of the time, we likely don’t think about the formation of hurricanes—we just get a notification that something has already formed in the Atlantic, and we keep an eye on it to see where it goes and pray it doesn’t make landfall. But the formation of the storm itself is an interesting process, and worth examining.

It gives us insight into the nature of the storms, why they happen where they do and the future potential of rising global ocean temperatures.

Ingredients of a Hurricane

A hurricane needs at least three ingredients operating in harmony (or perhaps you’d call it dissonance?) to originate:

• A tropical disturbance. This is an official term, not a general one, for an accumulation of loosely-packed rain clouds that cause thunderstorms for a sustained period of at least 24 hours.
• Ocean conditions. Ocean depths of at least 150 feet and temperatures of slightly over 80 degrees make for the right setting for storm formation as ocean waters evaporate.
• A little wind. Calm winds, not extreme winds, are necessary to get these major storms started.

Formation of a Hurricane

The warm, moist air caused by the conditions listed above becomes the fuel that energizes and feeds a hurricane. It rises up and away from the surface, causing a kind of vacuum of low pressure (think of it as having less air) just above the surface.

High pressure air then sweeps in to try to fill this void, but the warm conditions just cause it to rise, too, and the cycle begins. The rising warm air cools in higher atmosphere, causing water particles to condense and form clouds. This pattern continues and grows in strength as long as the warm air and moisture are there to feed it.

The rest is just categorization. The storms grow from a tropical disturbance all the way up to Category 5 hurricanes depending on the abundance of atmospheric conditions.

Storms begin to dissipate when they reach land or areas of cooler water, but as we’ve seen, this doesn’t stop them from dumping massive amounts of rain and flood waters into the area.

When water of any kind causes damage to your home or business, we’re here to help. Click or call your local SERVPRO today to learn how we can assist in water damage recovery.

Top Causes of Home Fires | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know fires are the No. 1 cause of home injury? More than slipping in the shower, tumbling down the stairs or stepping on Legos, fires happening in the house cause bodily harm.

According to the National Fire Prevention Agency, there are an average of 358,500 structural fires in homes each year in the United States, in which over 3,000 Americans die. The Stanford Children’s Hospital reports that at least one child perishes in a home fire every day.

What’s causing all these fires?

Cooking

Cooking is by far the highest source of home fires. High temperatures, grease and sometimes open flame can create a scenario in which fires occur.

In the summer, grills on decks and near home walls can be a serious danger as well. The No. 1 way to prevent these 49% of home fires? Stay close and pay attention.

Heating Appliances

Around 12% of all home fires are caused by heating appliances, typically of the smaller nature. Things like baseboard heaters and space heaters can catch nearby fabric or curtains on fire, even igniting the upholstery of a couch or chair.

Kerosene heaters can explode, and any heater left running while you’re away from the house is a fire hazard. Twenty-five thousand home fires happen this way every year.

Electricity and Wiring Fires

Electrical issues like short circuits cause about 10% of residential fires, and account for approximately 18% of deaths from fire. Faulty wiring or short circuits cause sparks inside walls that catch building materials on fire, and these fires can grow quickly before being noticed.

If you live in an older home, your wiring is more likely to fail. Have a professional examine it, and install any necessary upgrades or circuit protectors.

Smoking

Smoking incidents, while only making up 5% of home fires, are the single most common cause of death in home fires.

Lit cigarettes and smoking paraphernalia are a dangerous ignition source, especially when people smoke in bed or otherwise fall asleep while smoking.

Chemical Fires

Fuel sources and chemicals release fumes that can ignite if they come in contact with sparks, and some can even spontaneously combust with the right mixture of oxygen and heat.

Always make sure gasoline and other chemicals are stored in approved, sealed containers.

No matter the cause, fire can be devastating to your home. Contact your local SERVPRO today to see how we can help you recover from fire damage.

How Small Business Owners Can Be Flood-Ready | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Sandy. Ivan. Irene. Do those names ring an unwelcome bell? (No offense to any actual Sandys, Ivans, or Irenes out there.) There are other names as well, but these have notorious significance in Maryland.

These are three of the top 10 most significant flood events of the last 40 years, and they all produced widespread damage in our part of the nation. Put together those three storms produced almost $12 billion in flood damage claims for home and business owners like you.

Flooding is nearly inevitable from time to time, especially in exposed, coastal areas like The Lower Shore. And when a freak event like Superstorm Sandy comes along, it seems there’s little you can do to protect your business.

But you can always prepare, and being ready can help you mitigate or even prevent some level of damage when the next storm comes.

Know Your Risk

Knowing where your business sits in the area’s Flood Map can give you a general idea of your risk for flooding. This information changes over time, so FEMA is working constantly to keep it up to date.

Keep up with local weather alerts (and the FEMA app can give you real-time alerts as well), especially during hurricane season, which lasts from June through November. Taking these risks seriously should hopefully motivate you to take action steps toward loss and property prevention.

Formulate a Plan

A major expected flood situation will almost certainly disrupt your business’s physical location, but a continuity plan can help minimize downtime and maximize protection.

This can include creating a flood response team with assignments given to turn off power, protect important assets and communicate with teams about flood protocols.

You may also do well to back up important files and have a plan for off-site operations (if that’s feasible for your business). Be aware of evacuation procedures for your building and for the city should these become necessary.

And don’t forget to train your teams and employees regarding flood safety, emergency kits, and the like. Don’t let yourself be the only source of knowledge when it comes to flood preparedness.

Flood-Proof What You Can

Before flooding occurs, you may be able to take steps like installing a battery-backed sump pump to pull water away from your building, installing valves in drainage systems to prevent toxic wastewater backup and raising the level of electrical outlets to heights that are typically above floodwater levels.

In a threat situation, flood boards can be useful for protecting entryways and windows, and sandbags and moisture kits are always helpful in soaking up some moisture.

If flooding should become a problem for your business, SERVPRO is here to help restore damaged property and recover important items and documents. Click or call today to find out how we can help in an emergency.

Helping Business Owners Thrive After Disasters | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

We know what it takes to operate a business here in Ocean City and the surrounding communities. Why is that? Because we’re a local business, too.

No business owner wants to plan for a disaster, but it’s a good idea for you to do just that. After all, you plan for a lot of different scenarios as a business owner. This is just one more.

We know you don’t like to think about what would happen if your business was impacted by a fire or flood. But it does happen—and it happens more than you think.

In fact, research suggests that as many as a third of all business owners will experience an event that could lead to an insurance claim.

Not every one of these claims would necessitate the need for a restoration team, but many of those that involve fires, flooding or wind damage will. And all of those make the list of the top reasons business owners have to file insurance claims during any given year.

So business owners definitely benefit when they have the right insurance and a solid plan in place to protect their investment.

When you choose your local SERVPRO as a partner, you can rest assured that you’ll get fast, responsive service. Because we are members of the community, we value what local businesses do for our economy and future. We want to be a resource to help you succeed.

Our teams use the latest technology and earn important certifications. Plus, we’re available at any time, day or night. That means if a pipe bursts at 3 a.m. on a Tuesday, you can get in touch with us to start the restoration process fast.

And when the process begins sooner, the damage can be contained and corrected sooner. That means you’ll be open for business again quickly.

If your business is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Taking the Guesswork out of Thunderstorm Preparation | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting your home during a thunderstorm can be difficult, but managing regular maintenance of your home all year means for a better peace of mind and potentially lesser impact from a severe storm.

If you take care of the upkeep throughout the year, you save yourself a lot of time and effort if a storm is approaching.

Prepare Your Home for a Severe Thunderstorm

These steps can help you protect your home:

Check the equipment. If you have a generator, check it intermittently throughout the year. Run it for a while to double-check that everything is in good working condition and make sure you always have gas on hand. Inspect your flashlights, making sure they work and have fresh batteries in them. Invest in surge protectors, and make sure your electronics and appliances are safe in case of a power surge.

Look for yard debris. Double-check your yard for fallen limbs and make sure they are picked up. If you have a trampoline or lawn furniture, tie it down or, if possible, move it inside when it’s not in use. Make sure to keep your fence pickets sturdy and secure. If they are wobbly go ahead and make the correction now.

Reinforce garage doors. Garage doors are nice, but they can easily succumb to windy conditions. You can reinforce these with grits and strengthen the wheel tracks. You could also help reinforce the door by placing things behind the door so that it has some extra support.

Prepare an emergency kit. Things you will need to keep in your emergency kit are: water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, a can opener, pet food, medications, blankets, paper and pencils.

Getting ahead of the storm by being as prepared as possible is the best way to limit potential damage to your property. But if the storm has caused damage to your home or business, we have the resources and training to help you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to find out how our processes and technicians can help.

Preparing for Maryland’s Thunderstorm Season | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

The weather is finally warming up here in Maryland. And that’s great news for kids and families who want to get outdoors and enjoy some warm, sunny days!

Life definitely gets sweeter on The Lower Shore when we can go outside and enjoy longer, warmer days. But this season also brings with it some weather risk that Marylanders need to be aware of, so they can prepare their homes and families for what to do—and be sure their homes are in the best shape possible to withstand anything the weather throws at them.

Flooding in Maryland

Storms, both tropical and otherwise, can bring a lot of rainfall to our region. In fact, two of the worst natural disasters in Maryland’s history happened because of flooding related to storms.

While both of these events were related to tropical systems, Maryland is prone to flooding on a smaller scale. So you need to be able to take the right steps to protect your home. Here are some things experts recommend to help you prepare for severe weather.

Be sure your roof is ready. The rains and winds that can bring flooding can also cause issues for your roof. Have it inspected so you can rest a little easier, knowing that leaks and missing shingles won’t be a problem.

Store your outdoor furniture (or secure it). In the right conditions, outdoor furniture that isn’t secure can become a hazard. Don’t let that happen! Work to make it secure instead. If you can’t, consider putting it away for a while if major storms are forecast.

Prepare your family, too. This is where an emergency kit and a disaster plan can make a difference. Talk with your family about how you will handle severe weather, what you need, and if your area is under a severe threat, the best places to take shelter.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

Protect your home from flood waters. l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding is the most common disaster in the United States. It can be very costly and can occur anywhere and anytime it rains, even if your property is not located next to a large body of water.

Homeowners should know their flood-zone. You can begin to evaluate your risk by checking at FEMA’s online Flood Map Service Center. Locate the base flood elevation (BFE) for your home, or the elevation at which your building has a 1 % chance of flooding in a given year. Structures should be at least 3 foot above the BFE.

It is recommended you speak with your insurance agent about flood insurance as it pertains to your policy as flood damage is not typically covered by a standard homeowner policy. Just a few inches of water can cost thousands of dollars with data demonstrating over 25% of claims coming from areas outside of the high-risk flood zone. The National Flood Insurance Program can help you locate insurance.

Steps to Prepare for a Flood:

• Make an inventory of personal belongings by taking photos as well as a video of your property, household items and valuables if possible.
• Keep certifications, passports, medical records and other important documents like insurance paperwork in a watertight box.
• Raise electrical components at least 12 inches above your BFE and have utilities like HVAC units placed at higher elevations such as second story levels or even roofs. Install a sewer backflow valve to prevent sewage from returning to the structure. Regularly check to make sure your sump pump is operational and has a battery back-up if available for your unit.
• Check your property’s slope, to ensure water runs away from your structure and that gutters are free of debris. Reducing impervious surface, like concrete and asphalt with green spaces that absorb rainfall are additional measures to reduce flooding.
• Anchor loose property and propane tanks to prevent property damage and contamination of the flood water from chemical leakages.

If a flood is expected, move your valuables to higher ground. Elevate or move furniture if possible. Stay alert, follow the guidance of local officials. Never drive into flood waters, regardless of the apparent depth as there may be unseen currents. Make sure you have a plan in place and a “go kit” (an emergency supply kit consisting of a waterproof tub filled with drinking water, dry or canned food, batteries and other essentials). Be prepared for potential long term power outages.

Once a flooding disaster has passed, contact SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore to obtain assistance with your remediation needs at 410-749-2221.

Is Your Lower Shore Business Ready for Disaster? l SERVPRO of The Lower Shore

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners are planners. After all, it takes a lot of work to open your own company.

While you’ve probably taken the time to plan for future revenue, employee expansion, the next five years of growth, and now, a pandemic, it’s important to have another type of plan, too.

What is it? It’s a disaster plan. And it’s something that no one likes to think about, but every business owner needs. The reason for that is simple. We can’t predict a disaster. But they’re more common than most of us would like to believe.

Pandemics are rare, but damages due to water, fires and floods are more common. Experts estimate that most business owners will, at some point over the next 10 years, need to file a claim for some damage. (Water is the most common cause.)

So, do you have a business disaster plan in place? If not, here are some of the things that experts recommend you consider.

Building a Plan for Disasters

Here’s what you need to consider when you’re putting together a disaster plan:

Your unique risks. This may sound like an odd suggestion, but it matters. It’s not just the risks you think about. There are risks specific to your industry (like fires in restaurants) and natural disasters specific to your area (hurricanes on the coast or tornadoes in the Midwest and South). Do your research about what can impact your area. Then build your plan to take those into account.

Document your plan. This can be an involved step, depending on what you do at your business. You’ll want to consider ways to store information and data in a cloud-based system. If you can do your business remotely or from another location, you’ll want to include that information, too.

Educate your team. Make sure everyone you work with knows their part in the plan, so you can help ensure things move as smoothly as you can.

If your business is damaged during a disaster, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our services and how we can help you

Helping Elderly Loved Ones Prepare for Disaster | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

A growing number of Americans have elderly relatives living in their homes. A recent study found that the number of families has risen by 14% over the past several years.
While many of these families are enjoying the benefits of having a grandparent in the home, adding an elderly family member means you have to keep special considerations in mind when you’re preparing your family to deal with emergencies like severe thunderstorms and other types of natural disasters.
No one likes to think about their home or community being impacted by a natural disaster. But millions of families every year find themselves in that position. That’s why it’s good to be as prepared as you can be for emergencies.
You’ll want to prepare a traditional emergency kit for your family, too. But taking these extra precautions for elderly family members living in your home can help them feel safer and more comfortable during an emergency.
Planning for Emergencies
Here are some tips experts recommend for family members helping an elderly loved one prepare for disaster situations.
Consider his or her unique needs. If your loved one needs a wheelchair, glasses, or other personal care items, they need to be accounted for in your emergency kit. When packing your emergency kit, be sure your loved one has at least a week’s worth of medication available. This will help him or her maintain good health during a disaster.
Locate the appropriate emergency shelters. You’ll want to call ahead and learn where accessible facilities are for your elderly loved one, so that he or she is able to get the care needed in the aftermath of an emergency.
Be sure there’s adequate food and water in your emergency kit. This is important for every single member of your family, but you’ll want to be sure any special dietary needs are met. For example, if your loved one is living with diabetes, you’ll want to be sure he or she has both the medication needed and food that will work for dietary needs.
If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Is Your Hebron Business Prepared for a Fire? l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners love to plan for the future and like to imagine the growth and success their business will find over the next several years. None of them like to imagine a future where their business is impacted by a fire.

But it happens to more business owners than you might think. In fact, as many as 10% of American businesses file some kind of fire claim every year. These fires vary in severity and the damage they cause, but the majority of them do damage that can interrupt daily business. The average claim is for about $35,000 worth of repairs and losses.

Knowing that a fire can happen to as many as one out of 10 businesses every year, it’s a good idea to be prepared if something happens to yours.

Tips for Business Owners

Here’s what the experts recommend:

Take steps to lower your risk. There are things you can do before a fire happens to make it less likely that you’ll have to deal with one at all. You’ll want to ensure you’ve disposed of all the paper and waste properly each day. It’s also a good idea to monitor equipment for fire risks (like frayed cords) and keeping them well-maintained.

Have the equipment you need. Fire extinguishers on every floor can help stop fires before they spread. Also, a timely evacuation plan that every employee understands and practices is essential.

Control crowds and other risks. You’ll want to ensure that all your employees understand basic fire safety and that you always follow guidelines related to things like crowd control.

If your business is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Is Mold Lurking in Your Home | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Is Mold Lurking in Your Home? | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

What are the factors that tend to allow mold to grow in your residence? Moisture, temperature, light, airflow and materials that mold can “consume” are the main reasons why mold will generate. When mold is allowed to fester (especially when it is hidden from sight), the spores will usually multiply rapidly. One of the most reliable ways to detect locations where mold may be susceptible to growth is by the use of a moisture meter. At SERVPRO®, we are able to utilize technology to help locate moisture in a variety of materials in your home quickly and with minimal invasion of the material itself.

As we start looking forward to the prospects of warmer weather with the usual spring-cleaning and home projects about to start up again, we at SERVPRO® would like to remind everyone to be diligent in reviewing the many different areas of their home. Homeowners should be extremely mindful of the unconditioned spaces such as attics and basements that may have been exposed to humid conditions where mold grows. As you enter these locations, be on the lookout for some of the most common areas of concern.

• Window sills where warm and cool air meet
• Washing machines, specifically around the valve box (where the shut off valves are) and the door gasket area on front loading machines
• Appliance drip pans, like those found on refrigerators and deep freezer units where there is limited air circulation
• Attics & basements where leaks often occur unnoticed for long periods of time and where the air is possibly stagnant due to lack of venting
• Central Air or A/C units with leaky condensation lines and drip pans that are not draining properly
• Carpets, padding, or any other type of flooring material that absorbed large spills or water over flows and were not properly mitigated
• Bathrooms, specifically the drywall around vanities, toilets and showers that have gotten wet or those that have a lack of proper ventilation due to a poorly operating or clogged exhaust fan

If you suspect or find mold in your home, contact SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore to assist with your remediation needs at 410-749-2221.

5 Tips When Dealing with a Renovation During a Pandemic l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Renovations and remodeling during the pandemic have increased nationwide as more homeowners are available to address needed projects. With so many “Do It Yourself” jobs underway and the limitations set forth on everyone due to COVID-19, material costs are on the rise along with extended shipping times and contractor shortages. One specific way to reduce the frustration and stress associated with home improvement projects is to let the specialists manage your home restoration needs. SERVPRO® can be your one stop shop as we are able to address your project from start to finish.

Before you begin any work in your home, here are few tips to consider;

1. Research the material and products you are interested in utilizing prior to speaking with your contractor. Make sure they are able to adequately answer any questions you may have and seem knowledgeable in all aspects of the project.
2. Have an agreed upon construction plan worked out in advance and secure a legally binding contract as well which includes rough time frames for completion and outlines the way in which communication will take place.
3. Ask questions about safety, including addressing COVID precautions, and settle any issues outside government regulations on how they might be handled. Will you allow access to a restroom? Will the contractor supply an off-site facility?
4. Determine a fixed budget, payment schedule and how you prefer to work out unforeseen issues. Do you have a contingency fund? Who is purchasing and providing the materials?
5. Be prepared for noisy days, possible loss of internet and electricity services and minor intrusions of your privacy. Make sure your plan allows for as minimal inconvenience as possible with items like zipper partitions, boot covers, masks, gloves and clearly designated off-limit areas.

Professionals, like SERVPRO®, will follow local, federal and state COVID guidelines, and will be proactive in assuring the safety of their clients and staff.

SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore provides services from mitigation to reconstruction and repair after a loss, which can greatly reduce the time and stress experienced. Contact us to find out more about our reconstruction services.

Your Local Resource for Home Restoration Will Be There Fast l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know how quickly water damage can spread through your home and begin to damage your valuable personal property, furniture and family heirlooms?

The answer is faster than you think.

Within just a few minutes, water contamination can begin to spread throughout your home. It will start soaking into wood and furniture, causing it to warp and making upholstered pieces begin to fade or stain. Additionally, it can begin to impact personal papers and photographs just as quickly.

It barely takes a day to notice wood warping and wet drywall. Mold can start to grow just as quickly, with a musty odor becoming noticeable, in some cases, within a few hours.

Water damage from storms, leaks and burst pipes is a common woe for homeowners. But knowing how quickly it can spread or worsen means that you know it’s time to take action if you notice it.

Your ²⁴⁄₇ Restoration Team

We know how important it is for you to move fast if your home starts to show signs of water damage. That’s why you can count on our team to be available to you ²⁴⁄₇.

We’re always here to help you during an emergency, and we pride ourselves on getting to the site fast. If you have an emergency, you can count on us.

Our technicians are highly trained and certified experts. You can trust that the team you work with will know how to restore your home best. They’ll be able to take the advanced technology SERVPRO offers and use it to create a restoration plan you can trust.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Staying Safe While Using Your Home’s Fireplace l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

If your family enjoys spending an evening by the fire, you’re not alone. For many people, a wood-burning fireplace is an attractive feature for a family living room. They’re especially popular during the winter months when long nights at home make a warm fire especially appealing.

Wood-burning fireplaces can be very safe if they’re used the right way. Before you start a roaring fire at your home, take steps to be certain your fireplace and chimney are ready to warm your family safely.

Fireplace Safety Basics

Before you light your fire, you’ll need to ensure your chimney is capped and doesn’t have any cracks. You can get your home inspected and your chimney checked to be certain that it’s ready to be used.

Here are a few more things to do before you start your fire:

Consider cracking a window. Even though it’s probably cold outside, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this step to ensure your family is getting adequate clean air.

Add a screen. Fireplace screens are important to help protect your family from the dangers that an open fire can represent.

Clean your fireplace. Don’t let ashes and debris gather. These can cause a fire hazard if you light fire after fire on top of them.

Keep your fireplace clear. Not only is what’s inside the fireplace important, what’s around it matters, too. It would help if you kept your fireplace area clear from rugs, wood, paper and anything flammable. Don’t let kids or pets too close, either.

Be prepared for the unexpected. Have a fire extinguisher handy. Also, be certain you have working smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help.

Hebron Families Can Protect Their Homes from Dryer Fire Risks l SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that clothes dryers cause more than 13,800 house fires every year?

This modern convenience that we rely on daily can indeed be a home fire hazard if it’s not maintained properly. Fires caused by dryers can really be boiled down to a couple of major causes. The first is an improperly vented dryer.

You can check your dryer’s vent against the standard safety regulations—they’re different for gas dryers and electric dryers.

The second is easier to prevent. If a dryer’s vent isn’t cleaned regularly, it can pose a problem. So the best way to lower your risk for this type of fire is to clean your dryer vent every time you use it.

While it’s smart to take steps to prevent problems like dryer fires, even the most diligent homeowner can be caught unaware sometimes. If that happens, it’s good to have a local team available to guide you through the restoration process.

We’re Here at Every Step

Families living in The Lower Shore can rely on us as a trusted partner during the restoration process. Here’s why:

We help with the whole restoration process. Depending on where it happens, fire can damage walls, upholstery and property. But that’s not all. The aftermath can also include water damage and smoke damage. Our team can repair and remediate all of these issues.

We work to restore your home first. It’s our goal to help you recover from a fire in a way that’s both logical and economical. We work with you through restoration and help you save money on repairs and insurance premiums. This often involves restoring or repairing rather than replacing.

We are locally owned. SERVPRO has locations all across the United States. But we’re also a Hebron-based business with a team of experts who live here in our community. That means we have access to the resources, equipment and training of a leading-edge company, combined with the benefit of knowing and understanding the area where we live.

We’re available to help at any time. Fires don’t always happen during regular working hours. Beginning the restoration process quickly is a vital step in getting your home back to its original state. Timing matters during an emergency. We make sure our team is available ²⁴⁄₇ you need us.

If you have fire damage in your home, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Our team is always ready to meet your needs and help you restore your home. Contact us any time to learn more about our restoration services.

A Look at Common Causes for Water Damage in the Home | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage feels like a nightmare for homeowners, but there are many different paths to the same outcome. Water damage can occur for a variety of reasons throughout a home, and being aware of all the possibilities is a must so you are able to plan ahead.

While planning for water damage may seem futile, when you consider how many households experience it in any given year, having a plan can be a major factor in how easily your recovery process proceeds. Below, we will be looking at some of the causes of water damage that can occur in the home so you are aware of the possibilities and what to look for if you suspect something is amiss.

Common Causes of Household Water Damage

Weather-related damages. When most people think of water damage, weather-related causes are likely what comes to mind first. This can include something mild, such as a roof leak during heavy rainfall, or something far more serious such as a flash flood. If you experience weather-related water damage, it is vital to reach out to your insurance company about coverage as each scenario can be handled differently.

Plumbing-related damages. Damages due to plumbing issues, such as burst or leaking pipes, can range from sudden and dramatic to slow and gradual. Experiencing a burst pipe can cause serious amounts of damage in a short amount of time, while a leaking pipe can lead to a much more gradual issue. Fortunately, plumbing issues are typically covered by insurance provided the issue is not due to any negligence on behalf of the homeowner.

Appliance-related damages. Leaking appliances can cause serious water damage without homeowners ever realizing it, as the leak will likely occur behind or below the appliance. Dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines are common sources of household leaks, so checking behind these appliances on a regular basis can help you discover these before they cause serious problems. Discoloration in areas, softening of walls or subfloors, and a musty smell are all signs that water damage may be present.

If you have water damage of any type, we have the expertise to be able to help. We are here for you ²⁴⁄₇ to provide a quick response and speed the restoration process along. Contact us today for more information.

How Can I Make Sure Severe Weather Does Not Pose a Risk to My Family? | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

As you think about all the ways to protect your family from harm, there are few things more important than considering a severe weather action plan for them. While severe weather may seem like an abstract and unpredictable threat, knowing what to do if you find yourself in its path can help you stay safer and even save a life in some incidents.

While there is no way to predict severe weather or to avoid it, there are plenty of ways that you can make a plan to keep your family safe from harm if it strikes. Below, we will look at some of the top ways that you can be certain your bases are covered in the event of severe weather so you and your family can achieve peace of mind.

Questions to Ask for Your Severe Weather Preparedness Plan

Do I have all the supplies I need at home? Severe weather can knock out power as well as cell networks and utility services, so it is always a good idea to make sure you have everything you need to be self-sufficient for at least a few days. Pack an emergency kit with enough food and water to last your family several days, and be sure to include other essentials such as first-aid supplies and comfort items as well.

Do I have a way to receive weather alerts? Staying tuned into the alerts issued by local officials can provide you with helpful information such as watches and warnings so you can be aware of the weather conditions that often change rapidly. Cell phones can be unreliable during severe storms, so having a radio or other low-tech method for receiving alerts is advised.

Do I have an evacuation plan? While staying put is typically the advised course of action during a severe thunderstorm, if heavy, sustained rain leads to the development of flash flood conditions, you may find yourself needing to evacuate to get to a safer spot. Make sure you have an evacuation plan in mind, complete with several different driving routes in case your preferred road becomes blocked by water.

If your home has damages due to severe weather of any kind, we are here to help. We can provide ²⁴⁄₇ restoration services so you never have to wait to give us a call. Contact us today to learn more.

Are You Confident That Your Business Is Prepared for a Disaster? | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

If a disaster struck your business, would you know what to do? Unfortunately, this is a question that many business owners are unable to answer.

Planning ahead is vital for businesses, but for those that are unprepared for a disaster, all that planning can be useless if an emergency does occur. While disaster planning may seem like another thing to add to your already-full plate, it is important that you think through the recovery steps to be certain a disaster does not ruin your livelihood as it does for many.

Simply thinking through all the steps required to prepare for and recover from a disaster is a great way to consider where there might be gaps in your plan. Simple things, like a first-aid kit or extra insurance coverage, can come in handy both for your safety and for your income should a disaster impact your business.

Be Confident in Your Business’ Disaster Preparedness Plan

Plan for the moments before a disaster. First and foremost, disaster planning should involve prioritizing the safety of yourself and the staff at your business. By planning for the moments leading up to a disaster, you can be sure to reduce panic and keep everyone safer when things turn dangerous. Planning your evacuation routes from the building, keeping your emergency kit stocked and handy and making sure there is a clear communications plan in place can help protect everyone when a disaster strikes.

Plan for the immediate aftermath. Once you discover that damage has been done to your business, it is important to act quickly to prevent further issues from arising. You will want to know how to contact your insurance company as well as your commercial restoration provider no matter the hour, so you can start filing a claim and have a restoration team dispatched to you immediately to begin working on restoring your business.

Plan for the long-term aftermath. Once the insurance claim and restoration processes are set in motion, you can begin the work of rebuilding your business operations. Determine if you will close completely for the time being, and if so, what your timeline for reopening will be. Also make sure to apply for the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan assistance program if you are eligible so you can receive funds towards your recovery.

If your business has been damaged in a disaster, you can depend on us for assistance. Contact us at any time of the day or night to report your damage and get a team dispatched to you quickly.

Make Sure to Prioritize Safety When Using Your Fireplace | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

As the weather turns cooler and the nights get longer, more and more of us will be making use of fireplaces to heat our homes throughout the winter. While this can be done safely, it is important to always use caution when an open flame is involved, even when it is mostly contained. It has been found that the majority of house fires occur during the winter months, many of which are due to issues related to fireplaces and heating accidents.

Fortunately, there are plenty of safety measures you can take to make using your fireplace a much less risky experience. You can have all the coziness of a warm, crackling fire without nearly as much of the risk thanks to these helpful tips below.

Helpful Tips to Make Using Your Fireplace Safer

The National Fire Protection Administration reports that half of home heating fires occur between December and February, but with safety in mind, you can reduce your chances of one happening to you. Here are some great tips for using your fireplace safely:

• Always have your chimney inspected before use each year.
• Never leave a fire unattended, whether you are going to sleep or leaving the house.
• Keep a three-foot buffer around the fireplace that is free from flammable objects, children and pets.
• Make sure to always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case embers do begin to spread.
• Avoid using a vacuum to clean up ashes, as they can still spark fires.
• Do not let ashes build up to be more than an inch thick in the bottom of the firebox.
• Be sure that no tree limbs or other debris have grown near your chimney, and always trim them back before using the fireplace.
• Use a metallic mesh screen or glass fireplace guard every time you start a fire.
• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are operational each time you use your fireplace.

If you have fire damage to your home, we are here to help with the restoration process from beginning to end. You can get in touch with us any hour of any day to report damage—contact us for more information.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

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 the Lower Shore, 410-749-2221]

Making Sure Your Business Is Protected in the Event of a Flood | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

This photo is of a clip board with a letter that says INSURANCE CLAIM.

Flooding is one of the most devastating types of damage that a business can endure from a natural disaster. FEMA reports that just one inch of water can lead to approximately $27,000 in damage—and unfortunately, many commercial policies do not extend any coverage to flooding-related issues. Understanding the details of flood insurance and what it means for your business can help you determine if it is an extra expense you can justify to protect your business.

Your Guide to Commercial Flood Insurance

Make sure to purchase your policy in advance. Flood insurance is something that business owners hope that they never have to use, but just in case you do, be sure to make your purchase well in advance. There is a mandatory 30-day waiting period for coverage to kick in on flood policies to prevent fraudulent policy purchases, so do not wait until a storm or other natural disaster is in the forecast to explore your options.

Know what is and is not covered. Though flood insurance provides many additional coverages for your business, it still does not cover absolutely everything. Flood insurance covers flood-related damages to both your business’s building, as well as the contents within. This includes floods from situations like broken dams, storm surges, blocked storm drains and prolonged rains, but to be considered a flood, the water must impact at least two properties or a minimum of two acres. However, property outside the building will generally not be covered, and if you would like protection for your commercial vehicles, this will likely need to be added to the policy.

Determine your flood risks. There is no sure way to determine how likely you are to experience a flood. While making use of the FEMA Flood Map online tool will provide more context for historical risks, floods are becoming more common even in areas that are traditionally not considered flood zones. It is wise to take a detailed overview of your flood risks and err on the side of caution when determining if you require coverage.

Has your business been impacted by flooding? We are here ²⁴⁄₇ to respond to water damage and begin restoration. Contact us to learn more.

Reasons to Take Storm Damage Prevention Seriously | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

This is a roof has a shingle that needs to be repaired before a storm hits to prevent from interior home damages.

Though there is no way to determine the type of damage that any given storm will do, taking storm damage prevention seriously is one of the smartest things for homeowners to consider when thinking of ways to keep their home resilient.

Severe weather can cause serious amounts of damage, but with the simplicity of weatherproofing, there is no reason to leave your household at risk. If you are still unsure about how important preparing for storm damage is, read on to discover why it is an important thing for all homeowners to consider.

Storm Damage Is a Common Cause of Insurance Claims

While we all hope that storm damage will not have an impact on our home, homeowners find themselves faced with storm damage quite frequently. In fact, storm damage accounts for around half of the insurance claims filed by homeowners.

While some storm damage can be claimed on insurance and therefore not be costly, it is still a difficult process that can be mitigated with advanced preparation.

Weatherproofing Your House Is a Fairly Simple Project

Implementing weatherproofing around the house is something that most homeowners can do over a weekend to keep their homes more protected during storms.

Simple tasks like checking your roof for missing shingles, cleaning out your gutters regularly to prevent standing water and installing weatherstripping around all the doors and windows of your home are things that do not take very much time but can significantly increase your home’s resilience to storms.

Severe Weather Can Be Unpredictable

There is no way to determine how much damage a storm can cause, so it is better to be prepared for all scenarios instead of waiting until you think a large storm is on the way to implement weatherproofing efforts.

A regular rain shower can turn into a severe thunderstorm in an instant if conditions are right, leading to high winds, hail and heavy rains that can damage a home instantaneously in certain scenarios.

If your home has been damaged by a storm, you can count on us for restoration. You can get in touch with us at any hour to have your restoration process started.

410-749-2221

Understanding Severe Weather Alerts | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Storms and flooding are some of the most common and most dangerous weather events that can occur. There are an estimated 16 million thunderstorms a year, many of which result in flooding and severe damages to people and property.

Because of how severe weather can escalate to be so dangerous so quickly, it is important to be informed about the various alerts associated with thunderstorms and flooding. These alerts are issued by national weather experts and can give you insight about when to be on guard and when to take action immediately, so you and your family can stay safe.

Thunderstorm Alerts

A thunderstorm watch and a thunderstorm warning differ in the following ways:

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: A severe thunderstorm watch is an alert that can cover areas as small as a county or as large as several states. These indicate that there is evidence that a severe thunderstorm could move into the area. Residents should be alert to any signs of bad weather and continue to monitor official alerts.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm warning indicates that a severe thunderstorm has been reported or is showing on the radar. A watch means that there could be serious hazards that are associated with thunderstorms present to those who will be experiencing the storm and residents should seek shelter immediately.

Flood Alerts

There are several types of alerts associated with flooding:

Flood Advisory: Occurs when rainfall levels are favorable enough to produce a flood, but it is not expected to be severe. It may mean flooding is in very isolated areas, but it is still important to be aware.

Flood Watch: If conditions are favorable for flooding, a flood watch will be issued. It is not guaranteed to occur, but residents should be aware and stay informed by listening to the weather and emergency updates throughout the period of bad weather.

Flood Warning. A flood warning is issued when flooding is occurring somewhere in the area and could begin to spread. Residents should take action by collecting their family members, pets and emergency kits and moving to higher ground.

Flash Flood Warning: If a flash flood is occurring or about to occur, a flash flood warning is issued. Because flash floods are so sudden, it is important to act quickly should this alert be issued.

Severe thunderstorms and flooding can be scary, but if you have home damage as a result of one of these occurrences, we are always here to help. Call our emergency line at any hour to learn how we can help restore your home.

(410)749-2221

A Guide to the Categories & Classes of Water Damage | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

While all water damage is scary to experience, the good news is that there are some instances of water damage that are less severe than others. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification provides restoration professionals with guidelines to understand the types and classes of water damage so they are able to make decisions on how to best restore them.

As a homeowner, whether you have experienced water damage firsthand or just want to be educated in case a surprise situation were to occur, it is important to be aware of the categories and classes involved in water damage in order to have a full understanding of the situation.

Categories of Water Damage

Category One Water. The first category of water is defined by its lack of threat to people and animals. It is generally called clean water or white water. While it does not inherently pose a risk, it can cause damages if allowed to remain untreated. Common sources of Category One Water would be an overflowing sink drain or a busted intake pipe.

Category Two Water. Commonly referred to as gray water, Category Two Water may lead to sickness when ingested due to the contaminants and bacteria it contains. It typically comes from broken toilets, leaking dishwashers or washing machines, or malfunctioning sump pumps. Category Two Water can also grow bacteria and transition into Category Three Water if left untreated.

Category Three Water. Another name for this category of water is black water, which, as the name implies, can be extremely dangerous. Black water can contain bacteria, chemicals and microorganisms that cause extreme sickness when ingested. Category Three water will typically result from sewage problems, toilet overflows or flooding in an area that contains hazardous materials.

Classes of Water Damage

Class One Water Damage. As the name implies, this is the least damaging class of water damage. As long as it is treated quickly and cleaned up by certified professionals, it should not create any lasting negative effects.

Class Two Water Damage. Class Two Water Damage is slightly more severe, causing materials like carpets and drywall to become soaked through. This can lead to deeper structural damage if left untreated.

Class Three Water Damage. This occurs when water comes from malfunctioning sprinklers or flooding, causing materials such as subfloors and structural elements to be fully soaked.

Class Four Water Damage. Class Four also refers to water damage that has fully soaked through structural elements but has also been left to sit, compounding the initial damage.

If your home has experienced any of the types of water damage mentioned here, we are always here to help! We have a team of certified water remediation experts that can respond ²⁴⁄₇ to your call.

(410)749-2221

Steps to Create a Fire Escape Plan for Your Business | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

While not every business is required to have a written Emergency Action Plan, every business owner should prepare for the possibility of a fire.

Though one would hope to never have to face a fire in the workplace, it is important for the safety of your employees and the longevity of your business that you know what to do should one break out.

How to Create a Plan

By planning thoroughly for how to escape from a workplace fire, you can be aware of exactly what to do should one occur. Here are the five steps to creating a fire escape plan for your workplace:

1. Brainstorm scenarios.While the majority of workplace fires are a result of cooking, it is important to consider other possible scenarios as well. Consider all possible areas a fire could break out in order to determine your execution of the next step.
2. Plan evacuation routes and escape procedures.It is important that all employees know exactly how to escape in a timely manner. Plan evacuation routes from every area of the building, ensuring each room has two methods of escape. Create a workplace evacuation mapand hang it prominently on escape routes and near stairwells to alleviate confusion.
3. Schedule drills often.Scheduling drills is one of the best ways to practice preparedness as you can rehearse your evacuation plan and ensure it is as efficient as possible. Let employees know in advance when a drill is coming, but be sure they know to take it seriously.
4. Ensure equipment is operational.It is important to regularly check your smoke alarms and sprinkler systems to ensure they are working, and inspect your fire extinguisher to be sure it is not expired.
5. Have a plan for the aftermath.While your chief concern should be helping all personnel get to safety in the tense moments of a fire, planning in advance for the aftermath is important. Keep copies of important business documents such as your insurance policy in a secure location such as a safety deposit box, and be sure you’ve done your research on commercial restorationso you can focus on reopening your doors quickly.

As leaders in commercial restoration, we’re always here to help if your business has suffered from a fire. Contact us today to learn about how we handle commercial restoration correctly.

(410)749-2221

Our Fire Restoration Process Can Help You Recover Faster | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

After a house fire, many people find there is a significant emotional impact in addition to the physical one. The quicker your home is back to its pre-fire condition, the quicker you can begin to heal.

After years in the restoration business, we understand how important rapid response time is. That is why when you call us after a house fire, we’ll respond quickly. Using our multi-step restoration process, we can help you reclaim your home and recover from a fire.

Our Step-by-Step Fire Restoration Process

1. Initial Contact

After a fire, call us right away. Thanks to our ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line, we will always have someone there to gather information about the damage and dispatch our response team.

2. Damage Evaluation

To develop our restoration plan, we thoroughly inspect your home to determine the extent of the damage, paying attention to where the fire, smoke and soot have spread.

3. Protection Service

If the fire has compromised your home to the elements, we will tarp and board up exposure areas to prevent adding to the damage.

4. Water Removal (if Necessary)

Fire damage will often involve water damage because it is typically how fires are extinguished. If this is the case, we begin the drying process to prevent further water damage, utilizing advanced tools to dry out the affected areas quickly.

5. Smoke and Soot Removal

Soot contains hazardous chemicals and can cling to nearly any surface of your home. For this reason, we take soot removal very seriously and bring highly advanced equipment to remove every trace of it.

6. Clean and Sanitize

Utilizing the industry-recommended cleaning techniques, we are able to restore a variety of belongings to their pre-fire condition by cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting them so they are safe for use. We will also clean lingering smoke smells and airborne soot particles from the air using air scrubbers.

7. Restoration

Restoring your home to its pre-fire condition is the final step in the process. It can range from minor tasks such as drywall restructuring or installing new flooring to major reconstruction. Regardless of what restoration your home needs, we can handle it all.

If you need fire restoration, get in touch with us today to learn more about our process and how we can help you.

(410)749-2221

Top Residential Fire Risks You Need to Know | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

While we are all familiar with the possibility of a house fire, many are shocked to find out just how common they are: It is estimated that firefighters respond to a fire every 24 seconds in the United States.

Though it is not a pleasant thought, understanding the ins and outs of house fires is a necessary precaution to make safer decisions at home and at work. By knowing the most common fire causes, individuals can be sure to implement proper safety measures where it matters most and reduce the risk that they will experience a house fire themselves.

While there are many things that can lead to a house fire, we have made a list of the top four so you can stay safe.

The Top 4 Causes of House Fires

1. Cooking
   Cooking is the No. 1 cause of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Because using the stove or oven is something many people do every day, the conditions are ripe for a fire to occur at any moment. It is important to always exercise safety in the kitchen and never leave the stove or oven unattended while cooking.
2. Electrical Malfunctions
   Though electricity is generally harmless, unsafe electrical practices lead to 24,000 fires each year. Overloaded outlets, frayed cables and outdated appliances are all common causes of electrical fires and something individuals should watch out for.
3. Heating
   Errors in heating are a leading cause of home fires, especially during the winter months. Though space heaters are useful for keeping your central heating bill reasonable, it is important to select models with safety features to prevent a fire from starting. Automatic shut-offs are the most important thing, so the unit will switch off if it tips over or begins to get too hot.
4. Candles
   Because candles are quite common in most homes, it is easy to forget just how dangerous they can be. The open flame of a candle can quickly spread if placed too close to surrounding flammable objects or if allowed to burn too long. Never leave lit candles unsupervised and never put them on a surface that could tip over or disrupt the candle in any way.

If your home has suffered from a house fire, we are here ²⁴⁄₇ to take your call and start the fire restoration process. 410-749-2221

Making Flood Preparations for Your Household | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing for floods is something that no one should take lightly. While flooding was once considered a fairly isolated incident, it has become increasingly common and is impacting more and more areas when it occurs.

To protect yourself and your family, knowing what to do in the event of a flood will be extremely valuable. Not only can that help you mitigate damage to your home, but it will also keep your family safe and ensure you can recover quickly after the flood water subsides.

Here’s what to know to make flood preparations for your household:

1. Know the Difference Between a Flood Watch and Warning

To stay aware of emergency flood alerts, knowing their definitions is extremely important. A flood watch means that flooding is possible and that you should be prepared to move to higher ground on short notice. A flood warning means that flooding is imminent or currently occurring nearby. In both cases, it is important to always listen to emergency broadcasts for instructions and updates.

2. Make Your Flood Evacuation Plan and Emergency Kit

Work with your household to create a plan for flooding that takes into account everyone’s needs (including pets, if applicable). Plan both for situations where you are instructed to stay at home and where you are instructed to evacuate—and make sure you are aware of area shelters that will take flood victims. Assemble a flood disaster kit that takes everyone’s needs into account so you can quickly grab it and leave if instructed to evacuate.

3. Know What You Will Do After a Flood

When the floodwaters recede and officials provide you with an all-clear to return to your home, it is important to have a plan of action. If your homeowner’s policy does not include it, consider purchasing flood insurance to help you recover. It is also helpful to research certified flood restoration professionals in your area so you can call them and begin the restoration process right away.

If your home has been impacted by a flood, you can call us ²⁴⁄₇ for restoration. We are certified professionals here to help you recover your home and belongings following water and flood damage.

Our Fire Restoration Process Can Help You Recover Faster | SERVPRO® of The Lower Shore

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

After a house fire, many people find there is a significant emotional impact in addition to the physical one. The quicker your home is back to its pre-fire condition, the quicker you can begin to heal.

After years in the restoration business, we understand how important rapid response time is. That is why when you call us after a house fire, we’ll respond quickly. Using our multi-step restoration process, we can help you reclaim your home and recover from a fire.

Our Step-by-Step Fire Restoration Process

1. Initial Contact

After a fire, call us right away. Thanks to our ²⁴⁄₇ emergency line, we will always have someone there to gather information about the damage and dispatch our response team.

2. Damage Evaluation

To develop our restoration plan, we thoroughly inspect your home to determine the extent of the damage, paying attention to where the fire, smoke and soot have spread.

3. Protection Service

If the fire has compromised your home to the elements, we will tarp and board up exposure areas to prevent adding to the damage.

4. Water Removal (if Necessary)

Fire damage will often involve water damage because it is typically how fires are extinguished. If this is the case, we begin the drying process to prevent further water damage, utilizing advanced tools to dry out the affected areas quickly.

5. Smoke and Soot Removal

Soot contains hazardous chemicals and can cling to nearly any surface of your home. For this reason, we take soot removal very seriously and bring highly advanced equipment to remove every trace of it.

6. Clean and Sanitize

Utilizing the industry-recommended cleaning techniques, we are able to restore a variety of belongings to their pre-fire condition by cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting them so they are safe for use. We will also clean lingering smoke smells and airborne soot particles from the air using air scrubbers.

7. Restoration

Restoring your home to its pre-fire condition is the final step in the process. It can range from minor tasks such as drywall restructuring or installing new flooring to major reconstruction. Regardless of what restoration your home needs, we can handle it all.

If you need fire restoration, get in touch with us today to learn more about our process and how we can help you. 410/749/2221

What to do when you spot mold

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

If you have mold in your property call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore.

When mold is first visible,do not disturb it. Mold can spread throughout your property and become airborne due to it releasing microscopic spores. 

Here are things that you can do:

• Stay away from all affected area until a professional has scoped out your property.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans in all areas.
• Contact SERVPRO to come a re mediate your mold.

Here are things you should not do:

• Do not spray bleach or any other solutions on affected areas before SERVPRO takes a look at your mold.
• Do not turn air or fans on because it will circulate the spores onto your contents and areas that aren't affected.
• Do not touch or disturb the mold.

To get more information and become more knowledgeable about what to do and what needs to be done for your mold, please call SERVPRO today! 410-749-2221

Crime Scene Cleanup

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

One of the hardest times in peoples lives can get even harder when you need to figure out how to clean up a crime scene. The questions is, how do you even go about trying to look into who to call and what the process is to get atleast your property back to normal.

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore is a remediation company. A lot of people know us for doing water, fire, and mold restoration. We also do bio clean ups.

We know it is difficult to pick the phone up and ask for a crime scene cleanup. Our professional office staff are here for you 24/7 to help you with your services. 

No matter what your disaster is, SERVPRO makes it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of The Lower Shore

(410)749-2221

Meet the crew

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

2018 Crew

Meet the Crew of our three SERVPRO franchises!

Our knowledgeable crew is staffed with Production Managers, Crew Chiefs, and Technicians that are highly trained and has the skills to provided the best SERVPRO job we can provided to any disaster. 

 SERVPRO is a company that provides services for the following services:

• Water Restoration
• Fire Restoration
• Mold Restoration
• Duct cleaning
• Carpet cleaning
• Dryer vent cleaning
• General cleaning

To get an estimate or to schedule for one of our knowledgeable crews to service you, please call now!

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore 410-749-2221

Winterizing your home

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

The cool, crisp days of fall are officially upon us, and with winter just around the corner, it’s time to put the memories of pool parties, backyard barbecues, and late-night summer soirées in the rearview mirror. But that doesn’t mean we have to swear off spending time outdoors until spring. With just a few adjustments, your alfresco space can get as much foot traffic as the rest of the home during the colder months.

1. Rearrange furniture

2. Opt for a muted color palette

3. Add accessories

4. Replace plants

5. Use a mix of materials

6. Invest in high-quality furniture that will last

7. Consider a larger-scale design project

Call your Franchise Professionals today. At SERVPRO of The Lower Shore, we make it "Like it never even happened." 410-749-2221

Duct Cleaning

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Have you had your duct work cleaned this year?

Duct cleaning is a simple solution to control the indoor air pollution that is with in your household or commercial business. Cleaning your ducts involves generally cleaning inside of all of your cooling and heating systems vents and returns that exchange the air in and out of the inside of your property. Over the months of dust, pollen or other debris, they begin to pile up and stick to the sides of all the HVAC work throughout your property causing over time, your air to be polluted. 

Although, microbial growth can not growth directly onto the inside of your duct system, microbial growth can attach itself to the dust, pollen, or debris within. When microbial growth takes over your HVAC system it can turn into disaster cause it to go airborne into your house and potentially cause damage to the inside of your property such as;

• Growth on your contents, such as your clothes and furniture.
• Growth spreading on the outside of your registers.
• Growth going as far as being spread to any porous material like drywall and partial board.

Being knowledgeable about air duct cleaning in the early stages is very important so you can prevent a disaster. 

Call SERVPRO today to get a estimate or to schedule 410-749-2221

Sump Pump Failure

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Failure

 A ‘sump pump’ is ‘a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basement of homes’. For the most part, sump pumps are relatively ‘unnecessary’, but when an emergency arises, you’ll be grateful you had it. A sump pump can easily avoid the crisis of having a flooded basement by draining all excess water back outside. However, when it fails, it’ll cost you a basement and thousands of dollars in water damage.

How does a sump pump fail?

It’s Installed Incorrectly

Instructions administered by the manufacturer must be followed diligently in order for the sump pump to be installed properly. Another issue is the size of the sump pump; while a small one can work just as fine as its larger counterpart, you must install the right size in order for it to function properly.

There Was A Power Failure

This is the most common cause of a sump pump’s failure, which renders this devise useless. A backup generator is always a good investment to make.

Problems With The Switch

This is the most common mechanical problem: a stuck switch. Debris can jam it and render it useless, or the pump can shift and the float can get stuck. A little cleaning and some adjustments to the sump pump’s position can go a long way to prevent this.

The Discharge Lines Are Frozen Or Clogged

Debris can clog the discharge lines, cause flood water to retreat back into the basement (to prevent this, be sure to install a grate at the opening of your pipe, preventing debris and even small animals from entering).

Prevention of frozen pipes is practically impossible. However, you can install an additional discharge line that continues to perform the original discharge line’s purpose when it is ineffective.

Age

Sump pumps can be worn down over time and cease to work after 7-10 years of use. It’s best to replace your sump pump every ten years.

 There Is No Air Relief Hole in Discharge Line

 Gravel or Dirt?

Gravel and dirt can interfere with your pump’s switch and float arm. If you are unsure about your pump’s installation, contact a professional.

Lack of Maintenance

Clean your sump pump occasionally to make sure that it’s operational.

You Might Have A Defective Product

It’s rare, but you could have had a defective sump pump. It’s best to test it upon installation to be assured that there are no defects.

Call us for help: SERVPRO of The Lower Shore

410-749-2221

Commercial Owners/Managers

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore specializes in commercial clean ups.  There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Queen Anne County, commercial property.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Clean Up

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At - (410)749-2221

Why SERVPRO??

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore services Residential and Commercial properties. We are an Emergency Service company that is open 24/7 that's ready to do any remediation or cleaning for your property.

We consider ourselves Professionals because

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Services
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• We have trusted Production Managers and Crew Chiefs to lead the way
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Preferred Vendor for many local Insurance Companies

We are here to assist you in any needs or questions you may have 24/7. Please call today!

(410)749-2221

IICRC Certified Firm

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of The Lower Shore

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Additional Certifications

• AQA - Indoor Air Quality Association Microbial Remediator
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• MWR - Master Water Restorer
• MTC - Master Textile Cleaner
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• Residential HVAC Cleaning
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program

Got Mold? Better call SERVPRO today!

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is one of our primary areas of expertise here at SERVPRO^® of The Lower Shore. We have the training and experience to contain the infestation, scrub health-threatening spores out of the air, remove the contaminated materials, and help prevent future microbial growth.

A Moldy Situation

Imagine you were cleaning out a storage closet at work, and you found mold growing on the back wall. Most likely this year, an ice damsupplied the water that created an ideal situation for microbes to grow in this closet. Once you identified and resolved the source of the leak, you would still want to contact a professional to mitigate the mold and ensure healthy air for your employees and customers to breathe.

Containing the Infestation

When SERVPRO^® franchise professionals begin a mold job, our first concern is to contain the mold infestation. The mold you can see is only a small part of the danger posed to building occupants. Mold reproduces by releasing invisible spores into the air. These spores pose the real hazard for those who breathe the air in the infested building. Therefore, we begin by preventing air from the contaminated area traveling to other parts of the building.

Scrubbing Mold Out of the Air

Each job is unique in its challenges and solutions. However, in most cases, a SERVPRO^® mold mitigation team will set up a containment barrier and create a “negative air” situation inside the infested area. A “negative air” situation is essentially a vacuum that ensures air only flows into and not out of the contained area while the air scrubbers filter the spores and other contaminants from the air.

Removing Contaminated Materials

Organic materials like drywall, carpeting, and ceiling tiles must be removed and discarded once they become contaminated with mold. This is why we encourage people to contact us immediately after a water loss to dry all the materials before microbial growth begins. Blowing a fan across moldy materials hoping to dry them and save them spreads mold spores in the air and increases the health risk to building occupants.  

Inhibiting Future Growth

SERVPRO^® franchise professionals can never promise to prevent all future mold growth. Mold spores are everywhere in the atmosphere, and they take root and thrive whenever they find the perfect mix of moisture, food (organic materials) and temperature. However, our team does have several products that discourage microbial growth. Once your moldy materials have been removed and the air has been scrubbed to reduce the concentration of spores, we can apply one of these anti-microbial agents to help protect your building’s structural elements.

Call SERVPRO^® for Mold ASAP

When you see mold, remember you cannot see the biggest threat that mold presents. Contact our Salisbury, MD mold remediation team at 410-749-2221 for a free estimate and good advice about protecting yourself and other building occupants until the mold is removed and the air is clean again. 

Faster to your Eastern Shore Water Damage

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore 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 The Lower Shore 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 – 410-749-2221

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 The Lower Shore

SERVPRO of The Lower Shore 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.

Company Certifications

• IAQA - Indoor Air Quality Association Microbial Remediator
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• MWR - Master Water Restorer
• MTC - Master Textile Cleaner
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• Residential HVAC Cleaning
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program

Wicomico Country Smoke and Soot clean up

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 410-749-2221

When Ice Strikes

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Ice Dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air from your home or business rises into the attic spaces and heats the roof from the inside out. This heat melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas causing water and mold damage to insulation, ceilings and soffits. This can also loosen your shingles, pull or tear off gutters.

Climbing onto your roof to fix the problem yourself is dangerous and could lead to serious personal injury and increase the damage to your home or business. There are multiple methods to help avoid ice dams on the market, including attic insulation and ventilation and having a good quality waterproof underlayment. Please refer to a licensed contractor for assistance in protecting your home to ensure your personal safety and the safety of your home or business.

One of the biggest steps in ice dam prevention is making sure your gutters are clean and having a debris protection system. Debris causes water to back up and gives the ice dam process a jump start.

The interior leaks caused by ice dams might not be visible right away. It is not uncommon that the water pushed into your structure will travel around walls and vapor barriers until it finds a path that might lead to an area where you do see it. By the point you see water inside, it usually has been there for a while which can cause mold to develop.

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore's professional staff can help mitigate water damage caused by ice dams and help you get your structure back to pre-loss condition. Contact our offices for fast, efficient service at (410)749-2221 or visit us on the web at www.SERVPROthelowershore.com

Sump Pump Failure in your Queen Annes County Home

12/15/2016 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Failure

 A ‘sump pump’ is ‘a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basement of homes’. For the most part, sump pumps are relatively ‘unnecessary’, but when an emergency arises, you’ll be grateful you had it. A sump pump can easily avoid the crisis of having a flooded basement by draining all excess water back outside. However, when it fails, it’ll cost you a basement and thousands of dollars in water damage.

How does a sump pump fail?

It’s Installed Incorrectly

Instructions administered by the manufacturer must be followed diligently in order for the sump pump to be installed properly. Another issue is the size of the sump pump; while a small one can work just as fine as its larger counterpart, you must install the right size in order for it to function properly.

There Was A Power Failure

This is the most common cause of a sump pump’s failure, which renders this devise useless. A backup generator is always a good investment to make.

Problems With The Switch

This is the most common mechanical problem: a stuck switch. Debris can jam it and render it useless, or the pump can shift and the float can get stuck. A little cleaning and some adjustments to the sump pump’s position can go a long way to prevent this.

The Discharge Lines Are Frozen Or Clogged

Debris can clog the discharge lines, cause flood water to retreat back into the basement (to prevent this, be sure to install a grate at the opening of your pipe, preventing debris and even small animals from entering).

Prevention of frozen pipes is practically impossible. However, you can install an additional discharge line that continues to perform the original discharge line’s purpose when it is ineffective.

 Age

Sump pumps can be worn down over time and cease to work after 7-10 years of use. It’s best to replace your sump pump every ten years.

 There Is No Air Relief Hole in Discharge Line

 Gravel or Dirt?

Gravel and dirt can interfere with your pump’s switch and float arm. If you are unsure about your pump’s installation, contact a professional.

Lack of Maintenance

Clean your sump pump occasionally to make sure that it’s operational.

You Might Have A Defective Product

It’s rare, but you could have had a defective sump pump. It’s best to test it upon installation to be assured that there are no defects.

Call us for help: SERVPRO of the Mid/Upper Shore 410-758-8770

Winterizing Your Wicomico County Home

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Failure in your Wicomico County Home

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Failure

 A ‘sump pump’ is ‘a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basement of homes’. For the most part, sump pumps are relatively ‘unnecessary’, but when an emergency arises, you’ll be grateful you had it. A sump pump can easily avoid the crisis of having a flooded basement by draining all excess water back outside. However, when it fails, it’ll cost you a basement and thousands of dollars in water damage.

How does a sump pump fail?

It’s Installed Incorrectly

Instructions administered by the manufacturer must be followed diligently in order for the sump pump to be installed properly. Another issue is the size of the sump pump; while a small one can work just as fine as its larger counterpart, you must install the right size in order for it to function properly.

There Was A Power Failure

This is the most common cause of a sump pump’s failure, which renders this devise useless. A backup generator is always a good investment to make.

Problems With The Switch

This is the most common mechanical problem: a stuck switch. Debris can jam it and render it useless, or the pump can shift and the float can get stuck. A little cleaning and some adjustments to the sump pump’s position can go a long way to prevent this.

The Discharge Lines Are Frozen Or Clogged

Debris can clog the discharge lines, cause flood water to retreat back into the basement (to prevent this, be sure to install a grate at the opening of your pipe, preventing debris and even small animals from entering).

Prevention of frozen pipes is practically impossible. However, you can install an additional discharge line that continues to perform the original discharge line’s purpose when it is ineffective.

 Age

Sump pumps can be worn down over time and cease to work after 7-10 years of use. It’s best to replace your sump pump every ten years.

 There Is No Air Relief Hole in Discharge Line

 Gravel or Dirt?

Gravel and dirt can interfere with your pump’s switch and float arm. If you are unsure about your pump’s installation, contact a professional.

Lack of Maintenance

Clean your sump pump occasionally to make sure that it’s operational.

You Might Have A Defective Product

It’s rare, but you could have had a defective sump pump. It’s best to test it upon installation to be assured that there are no defects.

Call us for help: SERVPRO of the Lower Shore (410)749-2221

How to prepare your Salisbury Maryland business for flooding

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

With over 40 years of experience, SERVPRO Franchise professionals have restored flood damaged homes and businesses from coast to coast. Here are our SERVPRO approved tips for preparing your business for a flood.

BEFORE THE FLOOD

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater, electric panel if susceptble to flooding
• Install Check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your business
• seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid Seepage
• arrange to have a free Emergency Ready profile made for your business in advance so if the flood does happen, then you will be able to manage the restoration process remotely
• make sure you have flood insurance, flood insurance takes 30 days to get into affect so it is imperative that you have it long before you need it.
• Document your business. Take quality pictures of vehicles, Computers, inventory and office set up. You'll be glad you have this later.

During the flood:

• Turn off utilities at the main switches, or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.

After the Flood

• Listen for news reports to learn if the communities water supply is safe to drink 
• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by flood waters
• return to the business only when authorities indicate it is safe

ABOUT SERVPRO OF THE LOWER SHORE

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore are the flood clean up experts in the Eastern Shore area. IF a flood strikes your business, give SERVPRO of the Lower Shore a call, even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly and the clean up is often and overwhelming task. The SERVPRO team at SERVPRO of the Lower Shore is prepared to handle any size disaster and help make it like it never even happened. 

Lower Shore Commercial Property Owners/Managers

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore specializes in commercial clean ups.  There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Wicomico, Somerset or Worcester commercial property.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Clean Up

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. SERVPRO of The Lower Shore has the resources and expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

If You Have Questions or Need Help, Please Call Us At - (410)749-2221 

Holiday Fires - Christmas Tree Fire Safety

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Christmas Fires

Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show the holidays are a high-risk time for home fires. Christmas trees are responsible for 240 home fires each year, and other holiday decorations are the cause of another 1,170 fires.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this holiday season: 

•Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree.

•Keep trees at least three feet away from major sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, and direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process.

•Use lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, to reduce drying of the tree.

•Always inspect light sets before placing them on the tree. If worn, replace with a new set.

•Do not overload electrical circuits.

•Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.

•Monitor the tree for freshness. After Christmas or if the tree is dry, remove it from the house.

•Install and ensure smoke alarms work inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.

If you have a fire, call SERVPRO of the Lower Shore. We make it like it never even happened.

Does Your Wicomico, Somerset or Worcester Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

mold

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

·         Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

·         Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

·         Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

·         Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

·         Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

·         Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-749-2221

Wicomico, Somerset, and Worcester Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Mold

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

What to Do:

·         Stay out of affected areas.

·         Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

·         Contact SERVPRO of the Lower Shore for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

·         Don’t touch or disturb the mold.

·         Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

·         Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.

·         Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-749-2221

SERVPRO Personal Emergency Assistance Bags

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Chief of the Ocean Pines VFD Steve Grunewald (left) and Deputy Chief Bill Bounds (right) recently accepted SERVPRO Personal Emergency Assistance Bags

Hebron, MD- Robb Sartorio, owner of SERVPRO’s three Eastern Shore franchises, has announced the distribution of over 500 Personal Emergency Assistance Bags to area police, fire, and EMS agencies. The program was initiated over two years ago and provides personal care items to individuals in need following a variety of emergency situations.

According to Sartorio, “The Personal Emergency Assistance Bag project has been a tremendous opportunity for SERVPRO to partner with Eastern Shore emergency services providers. We provide the bags without charge to local providers and they can be distributed to victims at the scene of an emergency regardless of the circumstances.”

EMS Captain K. J. Marvel and Lieutenant Barbie Utz at the Ridgely Volunteer Fire Department recently distributed four bags to a family following a tragic house fire. The family of four adults and several children were grateful to have the items provided.

“We saw a need for the family that was burned out of their home,” stated Ridgely VFD Ambulance. Captain K. J. Marvel. “The bags have just the right contents needed by fire and accident victims following their emergency.”

The bags contain a variety of items designed to assist the victim in the time immediately following an emergency. In addition to personal care products, there are some additional items such as diapers, a coloring book and crayons, a journal for documenting important conversations, and many other items. The bags are offered without charge to all police, fire, and EMS agencies on the Eastern Shore.

According to Kevin Knussman, SERVPRO Marketing Representative, every agency offered the bags accepted them and they are available in all eight Eastern Shore counties.

SERVPRO franchises provide a complete and full range of restoration services. Emergency services are available 24 hours/7 days a week. The local SERVPRO number is (410) 749-2221 or (410) 822-6442.

SERVPRO provides restoration services to home or commercial structures caused by:

•Water Damage

•Fire and smoke Damage

•Disaster, storm and flood damage

•Mold Damage

SERVPRO also provides crime scene and biohazard clean-up services as well as carpet and upholstery cleaning.

SERVPRO Personal Emergency Assistance Bags

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Chief of the Ocean Pines VFD Steve Grunewald (left) and Deputy Chief Bill Bounds (right) recently accepted SERVPRO Personal Emergency Assistance Bags

Hebron, MD- Robb Sartorio, owner of SERVPRO’s three Eastern Shore franchises, has announced the distribution of over 500 Personal Emergency Assistance Bags to area police, fire, and EMS agencies. The program was initiated over two years ago and provides personal care items to individuals in need following a variety of emergency situations.

According to Sartorio, “The Personal Emergency Assistance Bag project has been a tremendous opportunity for SERVPRO to partner with Eastern Shore emergency services providers. We provide the bags without charge to local providers and they can be distributed to victims at the scene of an emergency regardless of the circumstances.”

EMS Captain K. J. Marvel and Lieutenant Barbie Utz at the Ridgely Volunteer Fire Department recently distributed four bags to a family following a tragic house fire. The family of four adults and several children were grateful to have the items provided.

“We saw a need for the family that was burned out of their home,” stated Ridgely VFD Ambulance. Captain K. J. Marvel. “The bags have just the right contents needed by fire and accident victims following their emergency.”

The bags contain a variety of items designed to assist the victim in the time immediately following an emergency. In addition to personal care products, there are some additional items such as diapers, a coloring book and crayons, a journal for documenting important conversations, and many other items. The bags are offered without charge to all police, fire, and EMS agencies on the Eastern Shore.

According to Kevin Knussman, SERVPRO Marketing Representative, every agency offered the bags accepted them and they are available in all eight Eastern Shore counties.

SERVPRO franchises provide a complete and full range of restoration services. Emergency services are available 24 hours/7 days a week. The local SERVPRO number is (410) 749-2221 or (410) 822-6442.

SERVPRO provides restoration services to home or commercial structures caused by:

•Water Damage

•Fire and smoke Damage

•Disaster, storm and flood damage

•Mold Damage

SERVPRO also provides crime scene and biohazard clean-up services as well as carpet and upholstery cleaning.

Press Release - SERVPRO Supports the United Way

10/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO at the RPS ISG, International employees celebrate the 5th Annual Frisbee Golf Tournament.

October 15, 2016 (Salisbury, MD)

Imagination Library Scores at RPS ISG International’s 5th Annual Disc Golf Tournament

RPS ISG International recently held their 5th Annual Disc Golf Tournament raising a record $14,315 to benefit United Way’s Imagination Library Program. 36 teams from local businesses competed to raise funds for the program, providing free, home-delivered books each month to local children from birth to age five. Event sponsors included Chubb Insurance, XL Catlin Insurance, CareFirst BlueCrossBlueShield, PNC Bank, Beazley Group, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Travelers Insurance, CNA Insurance, Hanover Insurance Group, HISCOX Insurance and The Hartford. Tournament teams included employees from 1880 Bank, Affordable Business Solutions, Amedisys Home Health Care, APPI Energy, BesTemps, Black Diamond Catering, Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Deaf Independent Living Association, Delco Packaging, Delmarva Media Group, Dorchester County Public Schools, Egide USA, Hebron Savings Bank, Interstate Container, Intercoastal Trading, LWRC, One Beacon Insurance, PNC Bank, Pohanka of Salisbury, SERVPRO, TGM Group, LLC, Tri Gas & Oil, USLI Insurance, Vantage Point Solutions Group, WBOC/Draper Holdings, Wellspring Insurance Network, and Xenith Bank.

Dean Goodwin, Marketing Manager of RPS ISG International and event coordinator of the tournament shared, “This year was the most successful disc golf tournament to date! It’s heartwarming to see our business community come together to ensure the kindergarten readiness of children on the Lower Shore."

The Imagination Library Literacy Program is administered by the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, and to date has distributed over 81,000 books to nearly 4,000 children in Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester Counties since its inception in 2012. The proceeds of the tournament will provide over 6,600 books to local children. United Way Executive Director Kathleen Mommé stated, “We continue to be amazed at the leadership RPS ISG International provides each year with this event. Thanks to their creative support, local children and their parents will have the materials they need to foster a love of reading and learning.”

About United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore:

Now in its 72nd year, United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore continues to be the largest non-governmental source of funding for 74 critical programs in Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester Counties. United Way helps Eastern Shore residents obtain Educational Success by reducing the achievement gap between low and middle income students, Financial Stability by advancing the economic security of families and individuals in our community, and Good Health by improving access to and awareness of local health and wellness services. In 2016, United Way provided nearly $1.4 million to community programs and helped to change the lives of over 77,000 individuals. For more information, visit www.unitedway4us.org.

Got Mold in Salisbury? Better call SERVPRO

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Mold thrives under the right conditions in Wicomico, Worchester and Somerset Counties.

Mold remediation is one of our primary areas of expertise here at SERVPRO^® of the Lower Shore. We have the training and experience to contain the infestation, scrub health-threatening spores out of the air, remove the contaminated materials, and help prevent future microbial growth.

A Moldy Situation

Imagine you were cleaning out a storage closet at work, and you found mold growing on the back wall. Most likely this year, an ice dam supplied the water that created an ideal situation for microbes to grow in this closet. Once you identified and resolved the source of the leak, you would still want to contact a professional to mitigate the mold and ensure healthy air for your employees and customers to breathe.

Containing the Infestation

When SERVPRO^® franchise professionals begin a mold job, our first concern is to contain the mold infestation. The mold you can see is only a small part of the danger posed to building occupants. Mold reproduces by releasing invisible spores into the air. These spores pose the real hazard for those who breathe the air in the infested building. Therefore, we begin by preventing air from the contaminated area traveling to other parts of the building.

Scrubbing Mold Out of the Air

Each job is unique in its challenges and solutions. However, in most cases, a SERVPRO^® mold mitigation team will set up a containment barrier and create a “negative air” situation inside the infested area. A “negative air” situation is essentially a vacuum that ensures air only flows into and not out of the contained area while the air scrubbers filter the spores and other contaminants from the air.

Removing Contaminated Materials

Organic materials like drywall, carpeting, and ceiling tiles must be removed and discarded once they become contaminated with mold. This is why we encourage people to contact us immediately after a water loss to dry all the materials before microbial growth begins. Blowing a fan across moldy materials hoping to dry them and save them spreads mold spores in the air and increases the health risk to building occupants.  

Inhibiting Future Growth

SERVPRO^® franchise professionals can never promise to prevent all future mold growth. Mold spores are everywhere in the atmosphere, and they take root and thrive whenever they find the perfect mix of moisture, food (organic materials) and temperature. However, our team does have several products that discourage microbial growth. Once your moldy materials have been removed and the air has been scrubbed to reduce the concentration of spores, we can apply one of these anti-microbial agents to help protect your building’s structural elements.

Call SERVPRO^® for Mold ASAP

When you see mold, remember you cannot see the biggest threat that mold presents. Contact our Salisbury, MD mold remediation team at 410-749-2221 for a free estimate and good advice about protecting yourself and other building occupants until the mold is removed and the air is clean again. 

Flooded Basement in Salisbury MD

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was quite large but our crews were able to quickly remove the water to begin drying.

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

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

The flooding in this Salisbury home was caused by heavy rain runoff.  Salisbury had received over several inches of rain that week and it overwhelmed the system.

We were onsite within an hour, to inspect the damage and to begin the water extraction process.  In less than four days we had basement dry. We use advanced inspection and monitoring equipment to determine you’re your home’s structure is actually dry. 

If water damage is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure not to mention the potential harmful health effects of mold. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Have Questions? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help - 410-749-2221

Hurricane Season in Wicomico, Worchester and Somerset County - Be Prepared

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

With Hurricane season here, there are two keys to weather safety that everyone should know. Below are tips on how to prepare your Salisbury, Fruitland, Ocean City and Princess Anne home for Hurricane Season.  That is to PREPARE for the risks and to ACT on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials.

Before a Hurricane:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Know your surroundings
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone.
• Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground.
• Make plans to secure your property
• Cover all of your home's windows
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Reinforce your garage
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Determine how and where to secure your boat.
• Install a generator for emergencies.
• If in a high-rise building, when high winds are present, be prepared to take shelter on a lower floor because wind conditions increase with height, and in a small interior room without windows.
• Consider building a safe room.

Call SERVPRO of the Lower Shore - (410)749-2221

The Different Cause of Commerical Water Damages

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

Local Commerical Water Damage in Salisbury Maryland due to backed up water lines in the City.

Commercial The Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage
If Water Damages Your Work Place in Salisbury, Call SERVPRO
Work Place Water Damage is Restored by SERVPRO
When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms.

However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Commercial water damage in Eagle Rock is surprisingly common year-round, and it can drastically affect the operation of your business. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.

3. Broken pipes and plumbing
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. If you question the stoutness of your building's
pipes, contact SERVPRO for a thorough inspection and assessment.

4. Backed up sewer lines
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. SERVPRO has certified AMRT technicians to deal with this type of water damage.

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of the Lower Shore will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime 24/7 at (410)749-2221 for fast help.

Dirty Ducts? Call SERVPRO of the Lower Shore today!

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

Ventilation systems can often be the biggest culprit of poor indoor air quality because many people allow HVAC systems to operate for some time without much attention or upkeep.  Your HVAC system could be circulating odors, dust, and other contaminants throughout your property.

A routine part of SERVPRO of the Lower Shore service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC).  Keeping the HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns.  This inspection can provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.  Benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

Serving your HVAC ducts in Salisbury, Fruitland, Eden and Hebron.  For more information on duct cleaning, or to set up a written inspection and estimate, call SERVPRO of the Lower Shore today at (410)749-2221. 

Wicomico, Worchester, and Somerset County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/16/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your SERVPRO of the Lower Shore Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today –  410-749-2221

Restoring Your Wicomico County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

9/9/2016 (Permalink)

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

Recently, we had a severe thunderstorm pass over town, dumping almost six inches of water on the town in three hours.  One of the properties that was negatively impacted by the storm was a commercial office building that was just refurbished last spring.  Early reports suggest that a roof leak allowed rainwater to intrude on the office space below. 

The call came in at 9:05 p.m. on a Saturday.  Our technicians were onside at 9:45 p.m., when they began extracting water from the space.  This continued until approximately 2:00 a.m. and was followed by demolition.  Our team removed wet ceiling tiles, drywall, and insulation in order to properly dry the building.   The space was large – approximately 2,000 square feet – so we set up forty-one air movers, three air scrubbers, and eight large dehumidifiers. 

Our work was performed around the company’s schedule.  If a department was at work in one area, we were working in another.   We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity, so we our mindful of our client’s needs.  After 5 days, the drying process was still in progress, but the company was grateful that they were able to continue operations. 

About SERVPRO of the Lower Shore

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet the Crew - Newly Promoted Production Manager

9/6/2016 (Permalink)

Production Manager, Terence

Congratulations to our Newly Promoted Production Manager, Terence Perry.  Terence has been a valued member of our SERVPRO team since September of 2015.  Since 2015 Terence has excelled in the SERVPRO industry, aquired countless certifications, including: all SERVPRO required employee certifications and IICRC certifications in Water Restoration, Fire Restoration and Odor Control and has remained a constant representation of what a great team member should be.                                                                                                                                                             

Let Hurricane Season Begin with a Plan from SERVPRO of the Lower Shore

9/2/2016 (Permalink)

The 2016 Hurricane Season begins June 1^st.  It runs through November 30^th, though a hurricane can occur at any time throughout the year.  The peak season occurs from mid-August to late October. From Hurricane Katrina in late August 2005 to Superstorm Sandy in late October 2013, the United States has seen its fair share of catastrophic storms during the peak hurricane season.  From these storms and other tropical disturbances like them, you probably know that you should heed evacuation orders.  But is your home or business prepared for hurricane season? 

The US has not been directly hit by a major hurricane (category 3 or higher) in more than a decade.  According to NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, “Many people are suffering from hurricane amnesia in the forms of complacency, denial and inexperience.  This remarkable hurricane streak is going to end, and we have to be ready for it to happen this season.”

The first step in making sure your home or business is prepared for natural disasters is to check your insurance coverage.  Make sure you have enough insurance to repair or even replace your home.  Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat.  Remember that standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding!  You will need a separate policy for that, and it requires a 30-day waiting period.  Depending on your location, you may not even be able to purchase it during the height of hurricane season.  To learn more about flood insurance, visit the National Flood Insurance Program website at www.floodsmart.gov.  To learn more about your homeowners policy, download and review: A Homeowner's Insurance Guide to Natural Disasters.

Your next step is to prepare the structure for whatever happens.  At the very least, have the proper plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board up the windows and doors. Remember, the garage door is the most vulnerable part of the home, so it must be able to withstand the winds. Call your local SERVPRO franchise to come to your business and complete an ERP, Emergency Ready Profile (or ask how you can create your own for your home).  The ERP is a complimentary assessment of your facility that will help you prepare your staff for Mother Nature’s worst.  Email us for more information or to schedule your assessment today. 

For more resources on how to prepare your home, visit any or all of the following websites:

FLASH (Federal Alliance for Safe Homes) http://www.flash.org/protect.php

National Hurricane Center http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

National Weather Center http://www.weather.gov/

FEMA www.fema.gov

NOAA http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html

And if the worst does happen, call us to help you with your cleanup.  We can help make it “like it never even happened®.” #410-749-2221

Residential Water Damage in Wicomico County

8/5/2016 (Permalink)

Restoring Residential Salisbury Homes From Water Damage

It is a stressful occurrence when you have water everywhere in your home, and there seems to be no stopping it. This is the time when your local residential water damage Salisbury professional is on hand to mitigate the problem. To get water situations under control, the next step is to get you and the family back to some form of normalcy. That begins with the latest and most powerful drying equipment in the industry. SERVPRO technicians are certified in water restoration, so you will have the confidence in knowing things are done properly. 

Occasionally, Salisbury residents experience flooded basements due to storms or burst pipes. A rising water table can shift the soil beneath your home's foundation. This action can cause some structural movement of your home's foundation. In an extreme case, it can cause a home to collapse. Now, most of the time, basements don't flood in Salisbury, but they do experience some minor seepage. 

Seepage is when your basement floor gets little rivulets and water puddles. This type of standing water is not deeper than 1/4" to 1/2." But, just this amount can easily soak and ruin any carpeting and furnishings in your basement. Seepage can happen when there are cracks in your basement's concrete walls or if you have an older home, or when the CMU, the brick or stone foundation leaks. 

It is one thing to get the job done, but it is another to do it with compassion and genuine care. Our professional team will work with you and your insurance company to find out what your immediate concerns are. They will walk you through the cleanup process to make sure that everything goes well. Salisbury water damage extraction is our area of expertise. As an established local business with a strong reputation of quality service in Maryland, we are competent and effective in resolving any water damage concerns. 

Remember, if standing water is not addressed immediately, you could be at risk of many germs causing bacteria and even microscopic mold growth to occur. Our SERVPRO team has the skill needed to disinfect, sanitize, and cleanup after water damage emergencies. We have multiple Disaster Recovery Teams on call 24 hours a day for emergency services, and we are ready and willing to rescue you in the worst of situations. All of our specialists are IICRC-certified and experienced in residential water damage restoration. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore is locally owned and operated. We are a part of the community which enables us to respond quicker with the right resources. We will work diligently to help you and your family get back to a pre-water condition. We are proud to serve all of our Maryland communities, including Wicomico, Worchester, and Somerset. Call us today at (410) 749-2221 to alleviate your emergency concerns. 

What to do in case of a fire

8/5/2016 (Permalink)

What You Should Do When Dealing with Fire Damage in Your Home

Life has enough interruptions and bumps along the way without the unwanted disaster of a house fire. The aftermath is almost as bad but much longer-lasting. Even small fires can merit the use of a professional restoration company. Cooking fires that spread beyond the stove, barbecue grills that go haywire, and even small appliances that catch fire can cause damage to surrounding areas. 

Small Fires can Pose High Risks 

While you should never pour water on a grease fire, nor on an electrical one, many times that is a person's first reaction anywhere. This can cause even more damage. Cooking fires and electrical shorts are common causes of Wicomico, Somerset, and Worchester County fire damages. It can also create physical risks to people standing nearby. With grease fires, baking soda should be poured into the skillet and any grease or oil that has caught fire outside of the cooking pan or skillet instead of water. 

With electrical fires, the appliance should be unplugged if it can be safely done, but not by pulling on the cord. This can cause the cord to snap, leaving the plug, without the cord, still in the outlet. The power to the area where this is happening should be shut off at the fuse box as quickly as possible to eliminate the hazard. 

After the Fire is Out, It's Time to Repair the Damage 

When there's been a localized fire, you should have someone assess the damages for you. This can often help with insurance documentation. Landlords, if you are renting, will also appreciate if you inform them of the fire, and they can see the damage for themselves. It is every landlord's worst nightmare to have a fire or flood damage their properties. If they can see the amount of damage, they can rest easier knowing the extent of the repairs required. Fires do happen, through nobody's fault, and your landlord will know this. 

Damage can range from blackened walls and countertops to heavily burned surfaces, electrical wires being damaged and requiring replacement, to floors suffering damage so severe they must be replaced to be safe again. Having experts conduct the repairs needed can greatly facilitate insurance claims being resolved, as well. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

At SERVPRO of the Lower Shore, we have highly trained and skilled professionals who are experienced in all sizes of fire damage clean-up and restoration. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you clean-up and repair fire damage, no matter how large or small. Call us at (410) 749-2221 to get the necessary damages repaired and the mess eliminated so you can go back to your daily routine.

Recovering from Home Fire Damage in Salisbury

8/5/2016 (Permalink)

Recovering from home fire damage

Cleaning up the damage from a fire can be a time consuming task. Recovering from a home fire often involves expensive repairs to your home. When dealing with fire damage, you must contact your insurance agent and work to restore your home to its former glory. On top of that, your home likely won't be livable, which forces you to reside in temporary housing. All of these things can certainly take a toll, and that is why hiring a professional Salisbury fire damage contractor can be a worthwhile investment. They take care of cleaning and restoring your home, so you have one less thing to worry about. 

Cleaning Your Home

The first thing a professional Salisbury Fire damage contractor does is clean your home. Bringing in a professional to do this can be extremely helpful because the cleaning process is not always something you can do yourself. Cleaning up after a fire is a long process involving special equipment and expertise in order to ensure that the job is done well. A professional fire damage contractor will first assess the damage caused by the fire. This helps him or her to determine how extensive the damage is, what equipment is necessary to repair and clean it, and how long it will take.  

After the damage is assessed, the fire damage contractor will immediately begin to air out the home so that mold and mildew do not begin to grow. Mold and mildew can start growing in your home in as little as 24 hours after a fire, and if they are left untreated, they can eventually cause health problems to the home's residents. 

Repairing The Damage

After your home is aired out and clean, professionals will repair any damage the fire may have caused. They will repair things like structural, drywall, carpet, and plumbing damage. They will also work to repair any other extensive damage the home may have endured. Professionals will also work quickly to fix your home. They often bring in multiple experts to assist them in making repairs so that the process is quicker. Typically, it can take anywhere from a couple weeks to a few months for repairs to be completed, but it depends on the extent of the damage.  

If your home has suffered Salisbury fire damage, it is important to contact a professional. They have experience repairing this type of damage and the proper equipment to get the job done right. No matter what the extent of the damage to your home is, it is helpful to have professional help so you can be sure the repairs will be done correctly.

National Night Out

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

Samantha and Dani at this year's National Night Out

This year SERVPRO participated in National Night Out.  National Night Out is an annual community building event that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camadarine to help make out neighborhoods a safer, better place to live.                                                                                                                                                                                          

Restoring Your Somerset, Wicomico, and Worchester County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of the Lower Shore

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Wicomico County Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 410-749-2221

IICRC Certified Firm

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of the Lower Shore

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Additional Certifications

• AQA - Indoor Air Quality Association Microbial Remediator
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• MWR - Master Water Restorer
• MTC - Master Textile Cleaner
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• Residential HVAC Cleaning
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program

When Storms or Floods hit Somerset, Wicomico or Worchester County, SERVPRO is ready!

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Somerset, Wicomico or Worchester County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Team that are strategically located throughout the United States.                     

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 410-749-2221

Does Your Wicomico County Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-749-2221

Faster to your Eastern Shore Water Damage

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Santa Barbara 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 the Lower Shore 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 – 410-749-2221

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 the Lower Shore

SERVPRO of the Lower Shore 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.

Company Certifications

• IAQA - Indoor Air Quality Association Microbial Remediator
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• MWR - Master Water Restorer
• MTC - Master Textile Cleaner
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CRT - Color Repair Technician
• Residential HVAC Cleaning
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program

Meet the Crew - Marketing Reprentative, Dani Farabaugh

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

We welcome Dani Farabaugh to our team as the Mid/Upper and Talbot/Dorchester Marketing Representative.  Dani has been a member of our team since November of 2014.  Since joining our team she has excelled in the SERVPRO certification trainings for; Crew, Fire, Water and Carpet & Upholstery.  Dani also recently received recognition for completing the Sales Management Support Program (SMSP).

Before joining our team here at SERVPRO Dani was a Licensed Esthecitian and continues to do services in her free time.  Also in her time away from SERVPRO Dani enjoys spending time with her two children, Samantha and Nicholas.  When Dani isn't volunteering at a local animal shelters or helping with the "bully" breeds she is spending time with her boyfriend, going for rides on their Harley.

Meet the Crew - Newly Promoted Production Manager

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Congratulations to our Newly Promoted Production Manager, Jeff Waggner.  Jeff has been a valued member of our SERVPRO team since September of 2011.  Since 2011 Jeff has excelled in the SERVPRO industry, aquired countless certifications, including: all SERVPRO required employee certifications and IICRC certifications in Water Restoration, Fire Restoration and Odor Control and has remained a constant representation of what a great team member should be.

Before joining our team at SERVPRO, Jeff graduated from James M Bennett High School and completed the Vo-Tech Program at Parkside High School specializing in Collision Repair. 

When Jeff is not using his knowledge and skills here at SERVPRO, he is spending time with his girlfriend of 3 years, Ashley. Together they have 2 cats and a dog.  Jeff enjoys listening to music, going to concerts and watching movies.

Prevent Water Damages

5/2/2013 (Permalink)

Some helpful tips for preventing water damage to your home may include checking your laundry water hoses for dry rot as well as checking appliance fittings for wear and tear.