Prevent Water Damage Before it Happens

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Water Damage

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

3.  Keep an eye on your water bill

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

4. Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals

No matter how crazy clean you are, from your shower to your kitchen sink, clogs are going to happen. And chances are at some point in your life you’ve used one of those powerful chemical drain cleaners to get things moving again. But as convenient as they may be, most folks don’t realize those caustic chemicals are also eating away at their pipes (and they might not be too good for you either). If you rely on them a lot, you could be setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why owning a drain snake is a good solution to clear away clogs. They’re pretty inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can cut through most any clog you’ll have without damaging pipes or making your eyes red and teary.

5. Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Advise from Farmers Insurance and SERVPRO.

Development Boom in Colorado

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Denver

Many projects currently underway are multifamily, meaning apartment or condo buildings, with nearly 10,000 new residential units in the downtown area, the report also says.

Some people say developers are overbuilding, creating too many apartments that contribute to worse traffic and overcrowding in the city.

Schippits said one way developers decide whether to build is by looking at the number of apartments compared to jobs available. CBRE is a Los Angeles-based commercial real estate services and investment firm.

Denver's job-per-apartment unit ratio is 5.9, meaning for every 5.9 jobs, there's one apartment unit.

"As a metro area... we're underperforming when it compares to our competitive set like Seattle or Austin," Schippits said. "If you peel the onion away any more...downtown is even further behind."

Downtown's ratio is at 6.6, above the national average of 6.1.

"What we're forecasting is with all the new apartments coming online, plus the jobs that are created downtown as predicted by Moody's [Analytics], our ratio will drop to 5.2," he said.

"So we're not overbuilding," Schippits said, adding that building more apartments is key to controlling for expense. "If we have more supply, there's less pressure on cost."

When Mold Growth is Prevalent in Your Home

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Growth

MOLD REMEDIATION PROCESS

While it is important to know when to call in a professional mold remediation team, there are a couple things you can do yourself to get rid of mold if it’s in a small area:

1. Locate the Mold: Remember that mold spreads, so be sure to check all rooms in your home including, especially dark and damp areas like the basement. Be sure to also check under the carpeting, flooring and behind wallpaper or drywall.
2. Get Rid of Moldy Materials: Materials that cannot be cleaned and salvaged need to be disposed of. This includes wood, drywall, carpets or anything else that is growing mold. Use safety gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles before handling moldy items.

If the mold infestation is on a larger scale, a professional mold remediation team will likely do the following, in addition to getting rid of moldy items:

1. Use Commercial Equipment to Dry Out the Affected Area: It’s important to get your home dried out your home as much as possible, since mold thrives in wet and humid environments. Professionals will use air movers, dehumidifiers and HEPA air scrubbers that work together to eliminate moisture and dry out the air and surfaces. They’ll also wear safety gear like gloves, a mask and eye goggles.
2. Prepare the Room to Contain the Mold Problem: Mold spores can instantly become airborne. To avoid this, professionals will seal off the affected area before they get to work. They’ll use tape and plastic sheets to seal off doorways and vents.
3. Establish Negative Air Pressure: Establishing negative airflow in the sealed room using an air mover ensures airflows in but not out. Once the area has been sealed using plastic sheets and tape, professionals can poke a small hole in the plastic and insert an air mover duct attachment through the hole and seal it with duct tape. This negative air pressure further prevents mold spores from escaping into the rest of your home.
4. Use Fungicide on Remaining Materials: If there are any materials that can be salvaged and will remain in the room then it is important to thoroughly clean them. A fungicide product can ensure all the mold spores are removed and that there is no opportunity for a recurrent infestation. Any buildings materials that cannot be cleaned or removed such as porous surfaces should have a fungicide applied to them.
5. Finish Repairing the Room: Once the moldy materials have been removed and the area has been thoroughly cleaned, any necessary repairs from the water can mold damage can be completed. This may include flooring, carpeting or drywall repairs.

Mitigation and Restoration

8/7/2018 (Permalink)

Reconstruction

Who Can Provide Mitigation & Reconstruction?

When your home or business suffers water damage it’s important to start the mitigation process as soon as possible. The longer moisture sits in walls and flooring, the more damage the structure of your home will suffer. It’s important to call your nearest mitigation specialist as time is crucial.

In most cases, water damage leads to mold growth. Do you know why? Moist and humid surfaces are the perfect breeding ground for mold growth. Time is of the essence in every water loss.

When the mitigation process is complete you are left with a partially constructed home or business. No worries! SERVPRO can provide mitigation reconstruction. Once all moisture is eliminated from the structure and the non-salvageable walls and flooring are removed, reconstruction can begin.

Rather than having multiple contractors in your home or business, have SERVPRO come in and make it “Like it never even happened.”

What Causes Mold Growth?

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Removal

What Mold Needs to Grow

Mold Growth Conditions :

• Darkness (mold can't grow under ultraviolet light)
• Warmth (mold can't grow in freezing temperatures)
• Oxygen
• Moisture (eg water leaks, humidity)
• Enough time (most molds can begin to grow in 24-48 hours if the conditions are right)

Humidity Causes Mold

If you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like near the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth in your home can also be a recurring problem.

When moisture inside your house evaporates into the air it increases the humidity indoors. If your home isn't well ventilated then the humidity will stay high for a long time.

HVAC systems can also create humidity problems while it artificially heats or cools the air.

Sometimes people use humidifiers in their homes. But there are molds that only need the humidity level to be higher than 55% to start growing. Be sure to keep the humidity below 55%.

High humidity feeds mold. High humidity can also causes puddles of water and damp materials in the home take longer to dry out. These wet surfaces can in turn create mold growth of their own.

Poor Ventilation Causes Mold

Poor ventilation can create pockets of stagnant moist air which mold thrives in. Steam and water evaporating into the air creates humidity inside which then needs to be circulated outdoors through windows to keep the moisture level balanced.

Poor ventilation also means wet surfaces dry out slowly. Ventilation is especially important in rooms such as the bathroom and the kitchen where there is a lot of steam.

Mold Growth in Basements 

Basements often contain higher amounts of moisture or humidity than other rooms because they are usually not well ventilated. Basements are often colder which causes more condensation leading to damp and humid conditions

When water leaks in your home it will often end up running down to the basement. Not only is mold more likely to grow in basements, but because they are usually neglected mold growth may not be discovered until it is well set in.

If you have questions regarding mold please contact us at 303-576-6868.

The Storm of July 2018 in Des Moines, Iowa

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding In Des Moines, Iowa

Flooding in Des Moines, Iowa

SERVPRO traveled to Iowa, after it excessively rained, causing severe water damage to over 1,500 properties. Owner Nick and his dedicated Storm Team jumped on the opportunity to help the people of Des Moines. During a three week period the Storm Team provided restoration & mitigation services for over 40 properties. 

The Des Moines Register Update

More than 1,500 properties were reportedly affected by the weekend weather that dumped up to 9 inches of rain on central Iowa — a number authorities expect to increase.

Through Wednesday night, 15 properties in Des Moines have been categorized as majorly damaged and 350 received minor damage, Cody Christensen, permit and development administrator for Des Moines, told the Register Thursday.

Many homes and businesses had moderate damage, and others still need to be inspected.

Update: 29 homes suffered major damage, 520 with minor impacts

About 500 homes have been inspected for damage in Des Moines, Mayor Frank Cownie said Thursday, with another 500 inspection requests still needed to be finished.

He predicted tough times ahead for some homeowners if the federal government did not “see this as a national-level disaster.”

In the Fourmile Creek area alone, more than 230 single-family homes, 10 commercial buildings and six apartment buildings were damaged by flooding, Cownie has said.

For more about the flooding in Des Moines please visit the link below.

https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2018/07/05/des-moines-flooding-polk-county-dallas-jasper-clive-fourmile-fema-weather-saylorville-iowa-reynolds/759108002/

Sponsoring Educational Institutions

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

We Support Educational Institutions!

The owners of a Colorado SERVPRO  wholeheartedly support educational institutions, and are dedicated to preserving the integrity of every educational institute.

Who are Nick and Travis?

The brothers grew up in Cedar Falls, Iowa, graduating from the University of Iowa in 2011, Nick with a degree in accounting and Travis with a finance degree.

Nick worked in public accounting for 6 years until purchasing a Colorado SERVPRO franchise in 2016.

Shortly after Nick moved to Colorado, Travis closed their consumer finance business and joined his brother in Colorado.

Keeping in mind their educational background contributed to the success of SERVPRO. Nick and Travis wanted to show appreciation for education by sponsoring their hometown U of I Hawkeyes.

Concepts & Core Values 

• The belief there is an educational foundation behind every successful business and establishment.
• Supporting all employees in the pursuit of furthering their education.
• Providing proper training and education for all employees.
• An investment in knowledge is an investment in individual growth as well as business growth.

A little more about our U of I Alumni:

While working in public accounting Nick became a board member of Tree Des Moines, which is a community non-profit organization supporting a healthy and sustainable urban tree canopy for a viable and livable Des Moines Metro Area. He worked with children; educating and helping them better understand the biology behind different tree species and how they benefit the environment.

After graduating college Travis wasted no time opening a consumer finance business, managing and operating Osprey Capital SD LLC for 6 years. However, he wanted to make a change in people's lives,co-owning a Colorado SERVPRO gave him the opportunity to help people whose homes have been damaged by storm, water, fire or mold.

uiowa.edu

hawksontherocks.com

The Esporta

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Before and After

Contents

Fire and water cause enormous damage to countless homes every year. Beyond structural damage, they also impact contents causing contamination that can prove very difficult to restore.

Leave it to us!

We know all to well that many items are extremely difficult too clean, but that is why we are the professionals. SERVPRO has a specialty Wash System that can clean almost irreversible damage. 

About the Esporta Wash System

The Esporta washing technology is capable of cleaning category 1, 2, and 3 water, heavy smoke, and soot damage.

You can count on Esporta to predictably clean and restore soft contents. Even the toughest soot, water damage and bio contamination is no match for Esporta. Our wash system consistently delivers 90% of soft contents back to “food grade” clean. Customers are wowed by what we can restore! 

What is the Esporta capable of cleaning:

• Bacteria
• viruses
• sewage
• soot
• grime
• mold
• biowaste
• mildew

Soft contents that can be cleaned include:

• Clothing
• bedding
• comforters
• pillows
• sleeping bags
• linens
• rugs
• jackets
• suedes
• furs
• linens
• stuffed animals
• shoes
• hats
• belts
• purses 
• Sports Equipment

More About Contents Restoration

SERVPRO professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. SERVPRO Professionals utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product. 

Be Prepared

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Be Ready

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order

Homeowners, do you know the location of the gas/water shut offs?

Click here:

https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/7-things-every-homeowner-should-know-the-location-of/

Fire, Smoke, Flames and The After Math

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO, We Provide Quality Service!

What to Expect After a Fire

Fire and smoke damage is destructive and finding a restoration/mitigation company can be daunting. When it comes to fire and smoke damage restoration, SERVPRO professionals are trained and follow an extensive and thorough restoration process in order to get your home or business back to normal.

Each fire/smoke damage case is unique and is treated as such by SERVPRO professionals. SERVPRO professionals will compose a detailed plan to rid your property of smoke and soot damage. Smoke odor latches onto and penetrates the surfaces of walls, ceilings, clothes, upholstered furniture, books, electronics and more. It is crucial that all affected contents and surfaces are properly sanitized by professionals. Oftentimes it can be difficult to determine the source of the smoke odor. Experienced professionals know where to look for smoke and soot damage and how to best approach the restoration process.

If smoke damage is not taken care of by a professional, your property and its inhabitants may face greater damage. Smoke and soot can destroy the integrity of your home or business, damaging the ventilation system, air ducts, insulation, wall studs and even the framing/structure.

Different Smoke Odors

Cleaning smoke and soot damage yourself or using a basic cleaning service runs the risk of recurring smoke odor which can cause respiratory problems. Smoke odor can be harmful depending on what type of material was burned. Smoke that comes from wood framing causes a “campfire” smell which lets off acetic acid, benzene, carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde, formic acid, heavy metals, nitrogen-oxides (NO2), phenols, sulfur dioxide (SO2).

Cooking fire smoke is very difficult to remove and has a lingering smell of burnt animal fat/protein. Grease splatter from a cooking fire requires specific cleaning techniques that only a professional can provide.

When plastic is burned, it releases dangerous chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, sulfur dioxide, dioxins, furans and heavy metals, as well as particulates and are known to cause respiratory ailments which are potentially carcinogenic.

Fireplace wood fires also emits hazardous emissions, such as particulates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other emissions that can be dangerous for health.

Who Are The Professionals?

SERVPRO provides 24/7 Emergency response. After the initial emergency call a crew of certified SERVPRO professionals will promptly respond to your fire damage and arrive onsite prepared to assess, plan and arrange resources to restore your home or business back to what it once was.

What Will SERVPRO Do?

Board Up and Security

Fires can destroy doors, walls and windows, leaving your property vulnerable to additional loss from weather or theft. SERVPRO professionals have the equipment and capabilities to provide board up for your home or business. Your home or business may need additional security. SERVPRO can also provide fencing or even security to oversee your property.

Demolition

All damaged structural material is removed from the structure in order for the mitigation and restoration to take place. Demolition is a planned procedure, completed with the utmost care and strategy.

Cleanup

The local fire department will use fire retardants and water to extinguish the flames. SERVPRO will assess and examine the extent of damage to the structure, walls, ceilings, floors, ventilation/HVAC system and contents while composing a thorough plan for mitigation and restoration.

Contents

Clothes, upholstered furniture, books, electronics and more that are affected by smoke may be salvaged and sanitized. All affected items deemed salvageable are sanitized and deodorized using specialized solutions and equipment. Contents go through an extensive inventory process ensuring all items are accounted for and stored in a secure location.

Is Your Washing Machine Leaking?

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let your washing machine cause a leak in your home.

•  Replace water supply hoses – Water supply hoses can become brittle and burst. Check them periodically and replace your old hoses with a new hose that consist of flexible plastic tubing encased in a stainless steel braided exterior. Purchase an auto-shut off hose protector that protects against catastrophic water damage by automatically shutting off. If excess water flow is sensed the water supply to the washing machine will turn off.
•  Get a washer floor tray – Replace or repair your leaking washing machine right away to protect against future leaks, slide a water catching tray under your washing machine to catch drips and leaks. It’s an inexpensive way to prevent water damage to your floor from a leaking washing machine.
•  Purchase a single-lever shut off valve – Turn the water off after each load of wash. Replace your dual faucets with a single-lever which control both hot and cold water simultaneously.
• Flood protection device – An automatic water leak detection device prevents flooding by immediately shutting off both the hot and cold water supply to the washing machine when sensors detect a water leak. These devices are quick and easy to install by homeowners and provide 24/7 protection against water damage caused by washing machine floods. Some flood protection devices sound an audible alarm.
•  Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valve and Leak Sensor – The shut off valve protects against catastrophic water damage. It allows water to flow when it senses that the washing machine is turned on, and stops water from flowing if the machine is turned off. It also stops water from flowing if it senses excessive water flow or detects a leak.

Smoke Damage

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Areas of a Home Commonly Affected by Fire Damage

The level of damage varies depending on where a fire originated. An enclosed space typically will not have as much smoke damage as a large, open room with multiple appliances and a lot of wiring in the walls. Additionally, certain parts of a room may experience more damage than others.

Ceilings
 
Hot air rises, the highest concentration of smoke residue is commonly found directly above where a fire started - usually on the ceiling above the point of origin. Nail heads in the ceiling (and walls) can also attract smoke particles, which appear as an outline of a ring around them.

Corners
 
When smoke particles are ionized - or have an electrical charge - they are attracted to certain surfaces. Smoke produced by burning plastic carries a stronger charge than smoke from wood, paper or cotton. This causes smoke residue to form in clusters that look like cobwebs in the corners of rooms where walls and ceilings meet.

Walls & Windows 
 
Windows and exterior walls are normally cooler than the center of a room and because smoke  travels to areas with a lower temperature, it's common to find smoke residue on outside walls and in spaces behind drapes and blinds, even more so than surrounding surfaces.

If you notice a lingering smoke smell in your home or business call SERVPRO at 303-576-6868

SERVPRO Tips

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Do You Have Bed Bugs?

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Bed Bug

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation 

• Adult Bedbugs are the shape and size of an apple seed.
• After feeding, bed bugs defecate brown stains on porous surfaces.
• Bed bug bites may appear as red welts on the skin. 
• Bed bug can be found on mattresses, box springs, headboards, footboards, bed frames and other furniture near a bed.

Facts

• Bed bugs are easily transported into previously non-infested dwellings
• Bed Bugs can be found in hotels, gyms, offices, schools and stores. 
• Bed Bugs travel on bags, clothes and in vehicles.

Where Bed Bugs Hide

When not feeding, bed bugs hide in a variety of places. Around the bed, they can be found near the piping, seams and tags of the mattress and box spring, and in cracks on the bed frame and headboard.

If a room is heavily infested, you may find bed bugs:

• In the seams of chairs and couches, between cushions, in the folds of curtains
• In drawer joints
• In electrical receptacles and appliances
• Under loose wall paper and wall hangings
• At the junction where the wall and the ceiling meet
• Even in the head of a screw
• Since bed bugs are only about the width of a credit card, they can squeeze into really small hiding spots. If a crack will hold a credit card, it could hide a bed bug

Keeping a clean and uncluttered house can save you time and money by drastically decreasing your chance of bed bug infestation. 

SERVPRO History

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO

History of SERVPRO

From a small beginning as a painting business in Sacramento, CA, in 1967, SERVPRO has become one of the most recognizable names in the restoration industry. Within two years, owners Ted and Doris Isaacson used their expertise in the cleaning and restoration to expand their business offerings. Soon afterwards, they began to offer franchises and grew steadily so that by 1979, SERVPRO had 175 locations.

SERVPRO grew exponentially after relocating its headquarters in 1988 to Gallatin, TN, about 30 miles outside of Nashville. The Isaacsons moved the company there so that its headquarters could be located within 600 miles of half of the population of the United States. Since that time, SERVPRO has nearly tripled its size with over 1,700 locally owned and operated franchises across the United States.

SERVPRO remains a family-owned company, with the Isaacson’s eldest child, Susan Steen, as the company’s chief executive officer. Steen is joined by family members Randall Isaacson and Rick Isaacson as president and executive vice president, respectively.

Staff & Training

As a national company, SERVPRO has resources at its disposal that smaller, local companies may not have. These resources include a national staff that can help local franchisees with support in various aspects of running a business, that include human resources personnel, business analyst, customer service representatives, Quickbooks specialists, national accounts coordinators, marketing data analysts, property claims adjusters and vendor coordinators.

Franchisees receive support and special training from the moment they become part of the company. The first step is a 15-day training program at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility in Tennessee. The basic course covers fire and water restoration, mold mitigation and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Franchise employees can also take the 15-day training course but also have a separate self-paced program for certification in fire and water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning and crew training.

What’s more, SERVPRO provides its employees with plenty of ongoing training that includes web-based, self-paced e-learning modules that include video presentations and support materials. The company also offers credit and noncredit courses that cover the latest knowledge and techniques in emergency mitigation. Topics include water and fire damage restoration, restorative drying, mitigation awareness response and mold mitigation and restoration.

In addition, SERVPRO partners with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to provide year-round training classes that certifies employees to work in the restoration field. Courses for applied structural drying occur in the company’s purpose-built ASD training facility.

Do You Understand Mold Removal and Remediation ?

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Got Mold?

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. We understand mold and mold growth. 

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. 

1. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
2. Mold Containment
3. Air Filtration
4. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
5. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Have Questions? 

Contact us at 303-576-6868

What Landlords and Property Managers Should Know

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Affected Wall

What Landlords and Property Managers Should Know

The number of houses and commercial buildings that are used for growing marijuana is increasing. As medical and recreational marijuana becomes legal in more states it also becomes legal to grow at home for certain people. Grow rooms are becoming more common & cause great damage and microbial growth if improperly built or operated.

How Can a Grow Operation Affect Your Property?

• Mold growth from inadequate ventilation causing high levels of humidity

• Incorrect wiring or overloaded circuits can result in a fire.

• Poor quality electrical work may lower resale value.

Structural Damage

• Holes for ventilation and electrical access

• Wood rot

• Rusted hollow columns

• Damaged duct system from plant sap and high levels of humidity

• Residual marijuana odor

Don’t Become The Victim

Should cannabis related issues arise after the lease has been signed and if there was no clause prohibiting it, you’ll need to rely on an anti-drug or crime policy that hopefully was included in the lease. A breach of the lease could be cause for eviction if the tenant doesn’t

comply after getting a written notice. If you did not include such a clause, it will be difficult to enforce your wishes during the term of the lease.

SERVPRO 

Call us at 303-576-6868

We provide results while minimizing the disruption to your business or home.

Steady Precipitation can Lead to Indoor Flood Damage in Castle Rock

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall during a storm can wreak havoc on your roof and send a lot of water into your home. When facing such a situation, contact SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Dry Out Your Property Regardless of How the Flooding Entered Your Home

Flooding from the outside world that affects your Castle Rock home with substantial damage does not always mean the ground became saturated. Persistent precipitation in the way of rainfall or snowfall can both cause flooding conditions inside a home.
 
Whenever a homeowner calls us about flood damage in Castle Rock, we understand how they feel. Their home just sustained enormous damage, and the feelings of loss can remain high for extended periods. We want to assure our customers that we can restore their home, so it becomes “Like it never even happened.”
 
Our employees receive training that results in their IICRC certification. Added to this, our extensive experience in mitigating flooded homes ensures that we know how to implement the latest in technological advances, allowing us to serve our customers and their families better.
 
When heavy, persistent precipitation damages your home and creates a flood inside, the effects can outweigh those of a traditional, over-the-ground type flooding event. Water streams downward when pouring down from a leaky roof or upper area of a damaged wall. Anything from the water's entry point to the ground can become a target. Once the water settles, it then spreads out.
 
If precipitation enters your home from the roof, your attic can sustain immense damage, as well. Your entire home needs extensive drying work to commence as soon as possible. Without it, secondary water damage can begin developing. It is not sufficient to only dry your living area when situations such as this occur.
 
While a top-to-bottom flood like this means the microbial factor differs from other floods, infestation by rodents or other pests in the attic can contaminate otherwise pathogen-free water. Sanitizing your home after any flood remains crucial toward protecting your home and family's health. Insulation easily becomes impacted, requiring removal. This occurs in both the attic and walls. Without removing waterlogged insulating material, microbial growth can proliferate, and moisture can continually create problems.
 
SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker wants to help your family recover from any flood damage and help prevent the further spread of damage in your home. Our 24-hour service is available every day of the year by calling our local number, (720) 842-1950.

For more information regarding the city of Castle Rock, click here.

Proven Water Removal Services Residents of Parker Can Trust

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

When standing water is more than two inches in depth, SERVPRO technicians use a submersible pump to extract the water.

SERVPRO Thoroughly Dries and Deodorizes Your Home after Water Damage

You need an immediate response when your Parker home suffers water damage. Inspection of your property is necessary before carrying out water removal to prevent further damage. After extracting the water, drying and deodorization processes follow. That is why we highly recommend working with a certified service provider to restore your property.

Water extraction is one of the first steps that our SERVPRO technicians use to do the water removal when attending to water disasters in Parker. We do this by using extractors - tools that can remove water and clean at the same time. The device has a vacuum system, a pump, and a heater. When removing water, it is only the vacuuming component that operates and all the three work together when we use them to do the cleaning.

SERVPRO technicians use portable extractors when removing water from areas with limited space. On the other hand, we use the powerful truck mounted extractors to remove large amounts of water from easily accessible areas. When the standing water is of substantial depth - 2 inches and above - a submersible pump may be used to do the removal.

When the humidity of the air rises, odor vapors move, and you can smell them. We identify the source of the smell as one of the restoration activities and do deodorization to address both the imagined and real odors. Deodorization agents neutralize the odors and reduce the probability of their reoccurrence.

The use of activated oxygen, wet fogging and dry fogging are the main types of deodorization that we use when restoring your property. The selected technique depends on the kind of odor that we are neutralizing. Our IICRC-certified restoration technicians use protective gear such as respirators when using chemical deodorants to prevent any possible health effects.

SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker attends to all mold, water, fire, and storm damage disasters. Discover the available options by calling us at (720) 842-1950 and get served by an industry leader.  

Click here to learn more about the city of Parker.

Restoring What Matters Most After Fire Damage To Your Castle Rock Home

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

Castle Rock Properties and Fire Damage Means It Is Time to Call SERVPRO

Content Cleaning of Possessions Rank High with Fire & Smoke Cleanup

Negligence and distraction are not the only excuses for your Castle Rock home to suddenly and inexplicably catches fire. Regardless of the reason, many people do not have the option just to uproot and move to a new location. The only solution is to get the damaged areas of your house restored to how they looked before the fire ever happened.
 
The thoroughness of the fire damage restoration in your Castle Rock residence is partially dependent on the experience of the qualified restoration company that you choose to do the work. Our professional SERVPRO staff prides itself on how we treat our customers and the speed with which we can restore their damaged homes to a preloss condition whenever possible. For extreme structural damage, we partner or can offer suggestions for full-service construction companies.
 
A preloss condition is a goal for every structural component of the area affected by the fire, as well as the contents that occupy the space. Contents cleaning is something that many people are not aware that our SERVPRO team can do for them. Surprisingly, this often is done in the same way that the structural components and framework of your home are cleaned and restored, which can both save you money and help to preserve precious heirlooms and possessions that you believed were lost to the fire.
 
Content cleaning is a part of our complete restoration process that begins the moment that you give us a call with your emergency. Our experienced SERVPRO technicians make short work of assessing the damage both to the structure of your home and to the contents in the affected area. The assessment involves testing various cleaning methods on these contents to determine the best of the equipment and detergent combinations to use to remove residues, soot and other damages of this nature.
 
Be sure to relay to the professionals we send to your home which items that you value the most within the damage radius. Communication is a critical step in ensuring that nothing gets overlooked and that you are pleased with the restoration process as a whole.
 
There are no guarantees with restoring specific contents within the affected area of this fire, however. Damage can be too extensive for even the most elaborate of restoration efforts, and so it is best to council with the SERVPRO professionals sent to restore your home to determine which items can be brought to preloss conditions once more. Concerning insurance, the final say remains with you and your carrier.
 
Fires can happen to anyone. While you might not prepare for the damage they can do, we at SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker are always prepared. Give us a call anytime at (720) 842-1950.

For more information on the local fire department click here.

Unexpected Damage During Castle Rock Inn Remodeling

11/19/2017 (Permalink)

Our technicians help your Inn retain its historic charm as we focus on restoration rather than replacement after damage. Contact us today.

SERVPRO Technicians Quickly Dry Out Your Flooded Business

When your business takes the leap and decides to make major upgrades, you do not anticipate a water loss during the rehabbing work. Accidents do happen, and when they result in a significant water intrusion, all of the planned improvements may need to go on hold until the moisture is removed. Our crews and equipment are up to the challenge of fast and thorough water evacuation.
 
Our area is attractive to visitors who enjoy our many outdoor activities, shopping, and dining. Comfortable and well-maintained lodgings are a must to encourage continued visits, and the event spaces in local hotels are important to local residents, too, for weddings and parties. While remodeling your Inn, a pipe cut by a contractor necessitates immediate commercial water removal in Castle Rock to prevent a delay in the ongoing renovations. We have both the workers and the equipment to make this happen fast.
 
When power machinery is threatened by water intrusion and possible submersion, the responders must be certified in not only water removal but also safety. SERVPRO technicians are among the restoration industry’s most thoroughly trained workers and take all steps necessary to avoid any risk to the building, other contractors on site, and themselves as they take on the task of removing the standing water. Once it is clear that we have met all safety precautions, we begin to pump out and extract the water in the most efficient way possible.
 
Areas newly tiled or carpeted we assess carefully to ensure no moisture remains in the subflooring. Grout takes up to 72 hours to cure sufficiently to be sealed, so we may face dealing with areas where water absorbed through those lines. SERVPRO technicians are trained extensively in moisture measurement and monitoring, and use those skills to ascertain where residual water may hide and then we use our advanced training to get that water out of structures and fixtures.
 
Wet padding and carpets must be dried thoroughly to avoid secondary damage such as microbial growth or delamination. We work with your insurance carriers and perhaps those of your general contractor to determine how to manage the carpet drying. Sometimes removing and replacing the padding makes the most sense, as the materials in carpeting respond better than most underlays. If the padding remains, we make sure to use effective techniques such as weighted extraction wands and slow, repeated passes systematically over a series of smaller areas when extracting. SERVPRO crews are water removal experts and work as a team to ensure no area or layer of newly installed flooring goes untreated.
 
If a water loss threatens your commercial remodeling project, call (720) 842-1950 immediately. SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker awaits any emergency with well-prepared crews and tools, and water removal is one of our core services.

For more information about the City of Castle Rock, Colorado visit:  https://www.crgov.com/

Prevent Mold Damage When Storing Books In Castle Rock

11/2/2017 (Permalink)

Store Books Properly to Prevent Mold Damage in Your Castle Rock Home--Says SERVPRO

SERVPRO Helps Remediate and Salvage Mold Infested Books

Every Castle Rock book lover knows that their collection in precious. Not everyone realizes that books are at risk of fungal growth, especially when they are packed or stored away to make more room in the home, or before moving house. Mold thrives in the dark, damp environments, and many storage spots such as attics or basements fit that description. The fungus also needs a natural material to use as a food source – and paper is an ideal snack. SERVPRO recommends taking simple steps to protect your library from mold damage when packing or storing it.

Most book lovers in Castle Rock need to move or store their collection sometimes, and that is when books are most susceptible to mold damage. Thankfully, there are several easy things you can do to keep your library safe from fungal growth.
 
Always store books in a cool, dry place. Books can survive mold-free for far longer in a dry place because the fungus requires moisture to grow. Check out your proposed storage location and if it is damp, consider choosing another place. You might also use dehumidifiers to lower humidity in the air.
 
Clean your books before wrapping them. Books are easy to clean using a small firm-bristled brush, such as a paintbrush that you can purchase at any hardware store. Brush page edges and covers, and flick through the book to see if any individual pages need brushing. Do not use any damp cleaner or wipe with a damp cloth. SERVPRO can offer a freeze-drying and cleaning process in certain instances to remediate mold growth on pages or the pasted bindings.
 
Books that smell musty should be left to air dry for a while before being stored.
 
Do not pack books too tightly. Storing them too close together might contribute to ideal mold-growing conditions. Pack your favorite tomes in a rigid box that is strong enough to protect them from dents, bumps and bent covers. Place all the books carefully in the box either flat atop one another or standing side by side. Do not leave so much room that they could fall or get dented, but do not pack them too close together either. Ensure that air circulates adequately to prevent moisture buildup.
 
SERVPRO is on hand to help with any mold problems you have in your library. Our IICRC-certified technicians have the skill and equipment needed to remediate mold.

Explore Castle Rock by clicking here.
 
For help with fungal growth in Perry Park, Greenland, West Creek and beyond, call SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker at (720) 842-1950 for assistance today.

The Mess that Flood Damage Leaves in Homes Across Castle Rock

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

You can trust our SERVPRO team to restore your flood-damaged property "Like it never even happened."

When You're Left with A Castle Rock Flood Damage Mess, SERVPRO Can Help

Homes in the Castle Rock area experience weather-related problems year-round. Flooding, while mostly a Spring-time issue, can also become problematic at other times of the year such as winter. Soil cannot absorb snow that melts when a layer of ice exists between the two. 

When a home in Castle Rock takes on water from the outside, flood damage happens. This water can contain debris of all sizes, including microscopic pathogens. SERVPRO technicians, experienced in many types of disaster recovery efforts, quickly mitigate all of the damage.

You may see the ground floor as ruined and beyond recovery. We can restore your home's interior structure and your personal belongings as well. However, we must work quickly to protect the areas well above the flood line from becoming damaged.

Humidity inside a flooded home rises quickly, placing delicate items, such as books, photographs, and older paintings, at risk. An increase in moisture throughout your home can also make it possible for mold infestations to develop in otherwise undamaged places in your home.

Because flooding causes many different problems all at once, it may seem like an insurmountable task to overcome. At SERVPRO, we understand entirely this overwhelming feeling brought on by flooding, and our technicians provide the guidance many people need to get everything back in order again.

Quickly removing larger items brought into your home and lawn area by flood waters, we get the area ready for the steps involved in removing the water, drying out your home, and sanitizing everything. Flooding infiltrates your home with living pathogens but also with chemicals from roads and streets, lawn enhancements, and even sewage. We remove everything, from the solid waste and debris to the plethora of microorganisms to the chemicals mixed together, and restore your home and possessions, so everything once again becomes “Like it never even happened.”

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker hires dedicated personnel who make teamwork part of their job every time we restore a home. Working together ensures that our strengths and skills come together, so your home's disaster with flood damage quickly becomes a thing of the past. Contact us, 24/7 at (720) 842-1950 for our round-the-clock services.

For more information regarding the city of Castle Rock, click here. 

Lint Build-Up and Clogged Vents cause Preventable Fire Damage in The Pinery

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, it is our goal to get rid of your fire damage "Like it never even happened."

Clogged up Vents Can Cause Fire Damage in Pinery Homes

Residents in The Pinery look forward to winter but know that their wardrobes need adequate preparation first. Getting everything ready for the winter includes removing clothing from storage areas in your home and then laundering everything before placing these items in their designated locations.

Homeowners in The Pinery can reduce the risk of fire damage in their laundry rooms with a few precautions. As clothing ages, the fibers break down, and threads detach, forming the basis of substantial lint. Fashion items today often sport severely stonewashed or stressed details. These things can increase the amount of fiber produced significantly.

At the beginning of the dryer's cycle, lint still retains moisture and easily attach to the inside of the dryer's vent. Blockages and accumulations of lint can become very hot as the dryer's cycle continues and then burst into flame. The fire then spread throughout your home.

SERVPRO provides services designed to keep your family's dryer vent system from becoming clogged. Starting at the back of the dryer, we ensure the entire length is lint-free. Cleaning the outside vent removes any debris built up by birds or other animals. While cleaning the ductwork, we check for the existence of any other problems. These problems include ducts that have longer lengths than necessary, holes or tears, pinched areas, rusted locations, among others.

The act of preventing dryer fires comes with many benefits. Lint-free ducts help clothes dry more quickly, reducing energy costs and time waiting for clothing. A more efficient appliance lasts longer with fewer repair costs, saving you additional money over the life of your dryer.

SERVPRO invests extensively in the training and development of our employees. Doing so builds our teams' strength, ensuring our customers receive the best services possible whenever they have an emergency in their home. We strive to provide customer satisfaction with each new opportunity where we can make every once-damaged home “Like it never even happened” again.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For dryer fires and other situations involving fire damage, contacting SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker at our local number, (720) 842-1950, starts your home on the path to restoration. Available regardless of the hour, our services are always open to our community.

For more information regarding the city of The Pinery, click here. 

Drying, Cleaning, and Water Damage Restoration Methods Used In Castle Rock

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

We have the expertise, equipment, and experience to restore your water damage "Like it never even happened."

Are You Familiar with our SERVPRO Castle Rock Water Damage Services?

As you might imagine, it takes a lot to repair water damage found on your CastleRock property. A professional technician uses specific methods to address your situation because every situation is different and requires a unique approach.

After contacting your insurance company and making a call for help, you enter your Castle Rock area home to address water damage, with a professional leading the way. The technicians perform an inspection, checking for hazards and making a detailed list of professional services that can help return your home to a quality condition.

After explaining everything in detail, SERVPRO technicians get to work restoring your home. You may see an entire team on site, each performing different tasks designed to reach a specific goal. Among these are methods of repairing your walls and preventing mold growth that causes severe changes to your home’s living environment.

For SERVPRO technicians to repair your walls properly, we remove baseboard, drywall, and any insulation to prevent walls from sealing moisture inside. The amount of discarded materials depends on the amount of exposure and the condition of the materials used to build the wall. Drywall acts like a sponge, easily drawing water up, beyond the flood water level.

SERVPRO allows wood studs and sills to dry naturally, placing air moving equipment where needed and using microbial treatments to prevent mold growth. There is equipment available such as wall cavity fans, or attachments with tubing that make drying easier. Moisture meters are used to determine which drying method is the most efficient, often combining many methods to complete the job correctly.

Once everything is dry, technicians install new insulation, drywall, and baseboard, putting the finishing touches on to ensure your home returns to a quality condition. We offer full-service solutions and provide quality services that produce fantastic results.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker has IICRC-industry certified technicians available 24-hours a day to provide emergency response services for residents throughout the area. Whether you live in Parker, Tomah, or Westcreek, We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, call today. (720) 842-1950

For more information regarding the city of Castle Rock, click here. 

Why We Talk About Mold Damage Remediation in Castle Rock Instead of Mold Removal

9/30/2017 (Permalink)

Mold spores can quickly multiply and leave the home facing an infestation. Contact SERVPRO for a quick investigation and action plan for remediation.

SERVPRO Technicians Locate the Source of the Mold Infestation Before Remediating the Damage

No matter how new or how clean your home is, there is always a risk of mold damage. People often associate fungus with old, damp or dirty homes, but in fact, mold grows anywhere it has access to moisture or a food source. Any Castle Rock home is at risk of mold growth provided there is an organic food source for the mold to munch on, and enough moisture for the fungus to grow.
 
SERVPRO is on hand to deal with mold damage in Castle Rock homes. We train our technicians to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards, so you have the security of knowing the team that comes to your home is trained and knowledgeable about mold remediation.
 
In our industry, we talk about mold remediation, not mold removal. In fact, a claim to completely remove mold is false, and it is best to steer clear of any company that makes such a claim.
 
Why is it impossible to remove mold? There are two main reasons.
 
First of all, mold spores are invisible to the naked eye. The black or green patches you see are mold colonies; the spores themselves are microscopic. It is impossible to find and remove every single mold spore, especially as the spores can travel throughout your home on clothes, boots, pets, or even through the HVAC system.
 
Second, mold spores are very resistant to factors such as temperature. Although mold cannot grow without a proper ambient temperature, very hot or cold temperatures do not kill it. The mold simply becomes dormant, so it can start growing again when the environment becomes more conducive to growth.
 
However, do not despair. Although it is not possible to completely eradicate mold, there are many ways to discourage mold growth and significantly reduce the risk of the fungus coming back. SERVPRO technicians set up containment around affected areas and use negative air machines to draw out the contaminated air and prevent spores spreading throughout your home. Next, we clean all visible mold growth. Finally, we work on reducing moisture so the fungus is starved of the moisture it needs, and thus cannot regrow.
 
For help tackling fungi in Tomah, Castle Pines, Perry Park, Westcreek and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker at (720) 842-1950 today.

For more information regarding Castle Rock, click here

Outlet Store AC Water Damage Woes in Castle Rock

9/24/2017 (Permalink)

Make sure that your customers stay cool and purchase the rest of your summer inventory by contacting SERVPRO after damage at your store.

Our SERVPRO Technicians Identify the Source of the Water Damage Before Proceeding with Remediation

Warmer temperatures persisting into autumn mean that your commercial space needs the air conditioning system working far past the last day of summer. At the end of a hardworking cooling season, a wide range of malfunctions may cause damage from condensation or leaking related to AC. Our water damage experts find the trouble, suggest a fix, and then restore the harm done to your building and its contents.
 
Do not let commercial water damage in Castle Rock prevent opportunities to clear out your outlet store’s summer inventory. Water leaking from your air conditioning unit slowly and surreptitiously soaked gypsum board and carpeting in the dressing rooms. We have technicians with the training and the experience to inspect the cooling system and arrange for cleaning, maintenance, and repair so the water seepage stops destroying the structure and fixtures of your property.
 
Simultaneously other members of our crew get to work extracting the moisture from the carpeting. Powerful vacuum technology draws the water out, and we also may pull out and replace the padding as it is difficult to dry and inexpensive to replace. We evaluate the condition of the walls to determine whether some areas need tear out and replacement or if a concerted drying effort can restore their integrity. SERVPRO trucks carry high-efficiency air movers and dehumidifiers to increase the speed of drying, a key strategy to avoid collateral damage like mold growth, peeling and blistering paint, carpet delimitation, or warped flooring.
 
SERVPRO team members receive advanced training in tracing the genesis of water events and using the industry’s best practices to remediate the harm done. Professional assessment is crucial to a successful restoration after water damage as water migration, and movement is not easy for the layperson to predict or trace to the source. Our emphasis on IICRC coursework and certification is the foundation of the services we offer, research-based as well as field tested and proven.
 
Your HVAC system likely suffers from excessive condensation, mechanical failure, clogging, or a combination of reasons resulting in significant water infiltration. SERVPRO cleans and maintains AC and venting systems, and also works with specialized contractors if needed to get your cooling configuration back online. SERVPRO crews do not rest until the water damage is abated and the origin of the moisture is found and eliminated.
 
SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker offers the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed to clear your retail space of water and to restore the damage it caused. Call for a consultation at (720) 842-1950, and expect the arrival of a fully-equipped team within hours.

For more information about the City of Castle Rock, Colorado visit: http://www.crgov.com/

Castle Rock Flood Damage After A Storm

9/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Restores Water Damaged Furnishings in Castle Rock

Storm and Flood Damaged Articles Are Inspected by SERVPRO

Cleaning up after a storm is never a simple task. Homeowners and residents in Castle Rock have to make tough decisions about throwing out what was once a family heirloom, but now is a pile of broken wood or twisted metal.

Making these and other decisions after flood damage to a Castle Rock home is difficult, but a trained and experienced restoration company can help. SERVPRO helps make those decisions by providing an honest assessment of a property item’s condition, an estimate of what it costs to restore a damaged item to its original state or if an owner needs to dispose of it and put their effort into what is salvageable.

We base these decisions on our experience with damaged property and the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) guidelines. Take a dining room set as an example. If the storm water ruined the finish on the legs, then the time to remove and refinish the legs to match the original shade and color is worth the time and supplies.

If the same table and chairs are under water long enough for the wood to begin warping, the cost to restore them usually exceeds replacing the items. If an insurance company is involved, then there is a predetermined amount to replace, and that is what gets processed. If the dining room set has been passed down through several generations, and the owner still wishes to attempt restoration, we can try. The final say if a questionable belonging is to be tossed or salvaged is yours and your insurance adjuster. Our SERVPRO technicians use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the legs and reverse the warping effects carefully. Once we have them back as close to their original shape as possible, we strip the last of the old finish. If needed, we sand down obvious defects to match the original shape and then apply a new finish to complete the job.

Our personnel is trained to IICRC standards when it comes to restoring your property. In those circumstances where the insurance company does not authorize the restoration of an item, preferring to replace it at a lower cost, it is our personal history with disasters in Colorado that allows us to examine tables, chairs, and appliances to determine what is worth saving. If you need our services, contact SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker at (720) 842-1950 today.

More about this community click

Water Damage in Parker Homes can Create Additional Problems for Residents

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

Lyophilization to Dry Documents or Water Extraction to Dry Your Parker Home--Call the Pros from SERVPRO

Removal and Dehumidifying Reduce Destructive Water Intrusions in Parker Properties

Some forms of damage that a Parker home can experience can show suddenly, or slowly, over time. Both types need to be repaired as quickly as possible because existing damage can spread to other areas and also increase in severity.

Whenever Parker residents notice water damage, keeping in mind the possibility that some of these damaged areas to remain hidden and undiscovered can help keep expensive repairs to a minimum. Also, because damage in unrestored areas continues to degrade, repairs are highly likely to become increasingly more expensive as time passes. Professionals like those at SERVPRO know how to restore a damaged home, saving homeowners money, time, and grief because when a home suffers damage, the personal belongings of the homeowner's family are also often affected.
 
Water can create problems in any material it penetrates, and those items that are the most absorbent are the most harshly affected. Paper exists in different forms throughout a home, from drywall covers to books to crucial documents. Once wet, books and other paper items need to be dried by special processes. Lyophilization is one of these methods. While this approach obtains excellent results for smaller items, it is not possible for larger areas, such as walls and ceilings.
 
When saturation happens to the interior of a home, SERVPRO technicians implement standard IICRC procedures. With the use of fans, dehumidifiers, air blowers, and heaters, as needed, speeding up the evaporation process while removing the increased humidity from the air coincides. If carpets have recently become damaged by water, they can often be saved if restorative action is taken immediately after the incident.
 
Our IICRC training provides us with the needed insight to know which process is best suited for each damaging water issue. Knowledge is the basis for our extensive experience and skills, and we put these to work for each of our customers.
 
There are many ways that water damage can take place in a home. If one of these happens to your home, call SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker immediately. We are always Faster To Any Size Disaster, and we can be reached at any time, day or night, at (720) 842-1950.

For more information on this city click here.

Make The Most Of Professional Mold Damage Remediation In Parker

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Breeds in Parker Mudrooms Not Properly Dried--SERVPRO Tip

SERVPRO Tips to Keep Mold Out of Your Parker Mudroom and More

Mold growth in your home really gets your attention. You worry about what it means for the health of your family. You find it hard not to feel like a bad housekeeper, frustrating if you clean regularly. You stress over how to get rid of it but are fearful of touching it or breathing near it. Although all of the above reactions are understandable, a more constructive response is to contact us to schedule an evaluation with our mold remediation team.
 
The smell was the first hint you had mold damage in your Parker home. Nothing rids the mud room area of your house of the stink for long. Cleaning, throwing away old boots and shoes, and air fresheners made no lasting dent in the smell. A family friend recommended you give us a call, and we got right to work solving the odor mystery.
 
Mold needs only a few things to begin growing, multiplying quickly from a minor annoyance to become a real problem. Spores are always present indoors and out, but cause damage only when water activates their growth. The microbial colony that results requires nourishment from an organic source, usually some form of cellulose. This can be the surface it lies on, such as wood, drywall or paper. Non-organic surfaces like tile often feed mold with even tiny bits of carbon-based materials, like soap scum, food particles, or skin cells.
 
SERVPRO mold remediation specialists also advise that no reputable removal company guarantees that their services render your home mold free. Instead, we carefully follow EPA protocols to manage the current mold growth. You show us the visible mold, or we investigate a smell or staining. Mold in a space like your mudroom is likely behind a cabinet or between walls, a place where damp footwear and coats-moistened building materials that sheltered the mold growth out of sight. Moisture meters help us find the wet spots, and discovery of the fungus follows.
 
Once we locate the mold, we contain it, remove it, and sanitize the area. SERVPRO mold remediation teams then evaluate how moisture started the lifecycle and eliminate the source. Spacing freestanding storage units away from the wall or using a fan or dehumidifier to reduce the humidity helps. Draining boot and shoe storage trays and hanging up wet coats, winter parkas, and rain gear to dry are good ideas, as well. Understanding that mold grows within 24 to 48 hours of water infiltration explains how wet, muddy outerwear tossed in a corner for just a day or two creates the perfect environment for a mold outbreak.
 
SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker has answers for your mold questions. Call us at (720) 842-1950 to start mold remediation rolling.

More info on this city here.

SERVPRO Restores Castle Rock Candle Fire Damage

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Damage from Fires in Your Castle Rock Home Get Restoration Help from SERVPRO

Damage Cleanup from Fire and Smoke Odors Get Professional Help

Candles offer a lovely ambiance to your home, but their small but significant flames can also cause serious damage. Unattended candles are a common cause of Castle Rock residential fires,  requiring professional help after the fire department leaves. SERVPRO counts fire damage restoration as one of its core services, and we take pride in being an industry leader in its provision.
 
During a recent party, you decorated with a number of lit candles, one of which set ablaze draperies too close to the flame. Fire damage to your Castle Rock home is widespread as the fire smoldered for a time before being discovered. Both stories of your two level home have surfaces coated with soot, and the dining room also has chemical and water damage. We offer full-service restoration, able to handle harms done to your home by any of a broad range of causes.
 
Since the fire department used water to douse the flames after a fire extinguisher could not complete the job, the SERVPRO team first addresses the water damage. Removing the moisture before concentrating on the fire damage follows industry best practices according to the training our workers receive from Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration, and Certification (IICRC) approved coursework. Water extraction and then drying of the premises, via air movers and dehumidifiers, complete and then the crew proceeds to clean up the ash, soot, and smoke damage.
 
SERVPRO workers use dry sponges and HEPA equipped vacuums for lighter fire debris, but smoldering fires often deposit a thicker, sticker residue. We utilize spray cleaners developed to remove tough coatings and may move on to abrasive techniques for really stubborn areas. It is important that the abrasive tools, cleaners, and methods be completed by experienced professionals to avoid harm to your property.
 
Although the curtains were ruined and need replacement, with SERVPRO on the job you count on nearly every other task being restorative. We focus on restoring rather than tear-outs and repairs and remodeling to limit the time your home is disrupted and to save on materials and other expenses. We work closely with your insurer throughout the process to ensure you receive no unpleasant surprises.
 
When an accident seems to destroy your lovely home, call SERVPRO of Castle Rock / Parker because we know how to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us at (720) 842-1950 for an estimate in Parker, Castle Rock, and Castle Pines for a swift response to the harm done.

Mountains and more click here.

Leave the Mold Remediation to Us

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

A close up photo of microbial growth.

Finding mold in your home can be anywhere from an annoyance to a scary occurrence. People react differently, but one thing is for certain: most everyone wants to get rid of it. We've heard all sorts of do-it-yourself methods, such as painting over it, spraying bleach on it, or even removing the material if possible (ex: drywall or baseboard). The truth is that anytime it comes to dealing with mold remediation, you should always hire a professional and here's why: mold spores. Anytime you disturb any material containing mold, you could be releasing spores into the air. Our technicians are trained with special techniques to contain any spores that may be exposed in the air. They can also make sure that all mold spores are safely removed from the area and not spread to other areas in the home. When it comes to the air quality in your home, don't take any chances. Call the professionals at SERVPRO. 

Preventing Commercial Water Damage During Construction of Your New Business

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage get your business down before opening day.

As a new business owner, the last thing you want is water damage during the construction of your business. However, it can happen if the proper procedures are not followed. Remember that SERVPRO is proud to serve our local business owners when the unexpected happens, but this article from The Hartford Insurance explains what can happen: 

 Common causes of water damage during construction include:

• Improper installation of weatherproofing, waterproofing and moisture barrier systems on the exterior skin of a building

• Poorly glued connections on plastic pipes or improperly sweated copper pipe connections

Supervisors should ensure that all weatherproofing/ waterproofing installations adhere to the building plans, manufacturers’ specifications, industry standards, and all relevant building codes. The WDPP (Water Damage Protection Plan) should include a quality control plan for plumbing connections and fittings such as marking each connection with a permanent marker. The plan should also include the fire sprinkler system. Worksite inspections should verify that:

• Water accumulations from rain and groundwater are not migrating into the building

• All door and window openings are covered at the end of each work shift and prior to inclement weather

• Water lines and mechanical equipment are protected from freezing

• Sprinkler or plumbing lines that are pressure tested with water are drained immediately following the test

• Standpipe valves are closed

• Roof drains are not blocked with leaves or debris

• Sink drains are not clogged

• Storage areas are dry and well ventilated

• Materials are raised off the floor by pallets for storage Controls

The WDPP (Water Detection Protection Plan) often outlines preventative measures to minimize the risk of water damage such as an administrative policy to shut off the domestic water supply during off-hours. Supervisory personnel should verify that no trades will be working during off-hours before shutting off the water supply. In addition, they must ensure that the domestic water line doesn’t provide water to any operating mechanical system that requires a constant water source. Other preventative procedures include:

• Providing a secondary power source (i.e. generator) when using sump pumps or other water pumping systems

• Testing sprinkler and plumbing systems with air pressure to identify system leaks before charging with water

• Sealing leading edges of roofing materials at the end of each day to prevent storm water from getting under an incomplete roofing membrane

• Providing heat during the winter in buildings with charged water lines or standpipes to protect from freezing

• Leaving a gap of at least 1/2” between the drywall and the floor to minimize water contact in the event floors become wet

Many leak detection systems are available to help prevent water damage. Many commercial water flow detection systems are completely non-intrusive (no cutting of pipe to install) and easy to program. Passive leak detectors monitor water flow and sound an alarm (local or connected to a centrally monitored system) when water starts to flow and the system is armed during off hours. Active leak detectors not only generate an alarm, but can also prevent water leaks by automatically shutting off the water supply. The WDPP can list the leak detection systems used on-site, identify supervisory personnel responsible for their use, and refer to the operating guidelines for each system.

Source: https://www.thehartford.com/sites/the_hartford/files/preventing-water-damage-during-construction.pdf

SERVPRO STORM Team Response

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO STORM Team mobilizes!

Every year, all over the country, catastrophic natural disasters wreak havoc on communities large and small.

Whether its turbulent blizzards, or torrid flooding, the effects of these colossal events can be felt across the nation.

In the midst of the chaos and stress caused by these happenings, it is easy for business and home owners to feel overwhelmed and lost.

SERVPRO strives to put our customers at ease, guiding them and supporting them through the STORM emergency process while providing education and knowledge on how to best navigate the situation. 

From the initial damage assessment, to communicating with your insurance adjuster, to final billing and processing, SERVPRO supports our clients by providing superior customer service.

SERVPRO happily responds to local and outside STORM events. Nationwide, SERVPRO franchises mobilize and act fast, traveling cross country to assist in disaster clean up in communities across the US and Canada.

SERVPRO works in conjunction with all insurance companies, and is part of the Preferred Service Provider program for many nationally recognized insurance organizations.

For our self-pay customers, SERVPRO offers reasonable, competitive pricing and payment options. We understand that STORM cleanup is an unexpected expense, and strive to make reasonably priced restoration accessible to all our customers.

So in the event that your home or business is involved in a STORM, you can rely on SERVPRO to turn a stressful situation into a manageable, professional experience.

What To Do in a Water Emergency

3/23/2017 (Permalink)

Before you start to row your boat, follow these tips and call us!

It happens when you least expect it.  You take the steps to the basement, and when your foot hits the floor, you step onto wet carpet. Yuck. You have no idea where the water is coming from, or how long it’s been there.

 But, after the initial shock and confusion, you may find yourself asking, “What do I do now?”. The following steps can help you navigate the process of managing a water loss in a quick, effective manor, reducing the amount of damage to your home, and keeping overall cost to you as low as possible.

Stopping The Source

Stopping the flow of water is the first step to getting on the right track. Shutting off the water to the appliance or area that is leaking is important to being able to fix the leak. If you are able, shut the water off to this area, or to the whole house if you are unsure of where the water is coming from.

Once the leak is identified, or even if you are unsure of the cause, calling a Licensed Plumber to identify and fix the problem is highly advisable. This ensures that the leak is fixed correctly, and/or that the appliance in question is properly repaired or replaced.

Keeping Damages to a Minimum

Once any amount of water has leaked into your home, there will be damage. However, you can keep this damage to a minimum by calling SERVPRO as soon as possible. The sooner we arrive, the sooner we can begin to clean up and minimize the damage, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in home repairs.

Also, the less time the water spends saturating the materials in your home, the lower the likelihood is that your home will develop mold and microbial growth.

Sewage

Water leaking into your home is never desirable. Sewage leaking into your home can be considered a nightmare, especially when it affects a large area or multiple levels in your house. Exposed Sewage can create a risk of mold and microbial growth, as well as illness for those in the home. Prompt clean up and neutralization of contaminates is the first priority.

When sewage backs up through drains or toilets, the first thing to do is call a Licensed Plumber, or your city Water and Sewer Provider. Finding the source, and ensuring that there is not another sewage loss in your home is key to preventing multiple mitigations from being needed, and ultimately keeps the cost to you to a minimum.

Mitigation

Once SERVPRO is on site, an initial assessment will be made of the damages and projected time needed to dry the structure. Also, an assessment will be made of the materials affected, and it will be determined if those materials can be dried, or will need to be removed.

If your contents, such as furniture, boxes, clothing, and decorative items cannot remain in place while drying, SERVPRO provides moving and pack out services for on site or off site storage while mitigation is taking place.

The average mitigation takes about 3 days, but could take less or more time depending on the level of saturation and the scale of the loss.

SERVPRO Technicians and Crew Chiefs use a variety of equipment and tools to ensure proper drying, included but not limited to Dehumidifiers, Air Mover Fans, and Non-Invasive Moisture Monitors.

After Mitigation

Once ensuring that your home has met dry standard, SERVPRO Crew Chiefs and Technicians will remove all equipment and remove any items brought into your home. If materials have been removed, SERVPRO will be happy to refer you to a Contractor for rebuild services.

If no rebuild is needed, you should be able to return to normal life in a clean dry home.

These steps can help guide you through the stressful time of water loss in your home.

Feel free to call SERVPRO at any times with questions about mitigation, water damage, or clean up services.

Water damage is never pleasant, but with SERVPRO you can assure a professional and quality cleanup.

The Reason You Need SERVPRO's Help After a Fire

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

This is a before photo of a fire that we responded to in Franktown, CO. It may look like a disaster, but we have the tools to restore it.

The following was taken from the University of Missouri Extension's website. The author, Betty Feather, explains why it is better to call the professionals than to try to "do-it-yourself" after a fire. SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

Removing smoke odor from household textiles

Smoke odor could remain in clothing, upholstered furniture, carpets and draperies unless it is properly deodorized. Professional fire restorers and some dry cleaners use a deodorizing process that actually breaks up the smoke molecule to eliminate the odor. This deodorization process is called the ozone treatment. The ozone treatment produces an oxidizing agent that creates the same sweet smelling air associated with a rain storm. The ozone treatment can be done by a professional fire restorer at the home with an ozone generator. Sometimes household textiles are deodorized in an ozone room. If the process is done at home, clothing, upholstered furniture and other textile items are put under a tent while the ozone generator is operating. Clothing and other textile items should be deodorized before they are cleaned; otherwise, the smoke odor could be set in the fabric.

Household deodorizing products are temporary relief methods. Deodorizing with perfumes, aerosol sprays, and disinfectants generally only mask the smoke odor. The smoke odor will still remain after the spray or perfume evaporates. In addition, deodorizing sprays may interact with smoke odor and create an additional odor.

Removing smoke odor from the home

Smoke can enter and remain in and between the walls of the living space. If it is not properly removed, the smoke odor reoccurs from time to time, particularly during damp periods. Therefore, action should be taken to properly remove all smoke odors.

During a fire, the heat will expand pores in the walls and fill the pores with smoke. After the fire, the house cools, the pores close and trap the smoke odor. On warm days the pores will open and release the trapped smoke odor, which could settle on furnishings. Professional fire restorers can eliminate the smoke odor with a process called thermal fogging, which opens the pores in the walls and neutralizes the smoke odor. There is probably no process a home owner could use that would work as effectively as thermal fogging.

Household vents and ducts trap smoke odors. During a fire, smoke drifts through the ducts and becomes lodged on the sides. Since it may be impossible to clean the ducts; some professional fire restorers will use a chemical sealer to secure smoke permanently to the sides of the ducts. This procedure prevents smoke odors from drifting in the air at a later time.

If the attic has been insulated prior to the fire, it may be necessary to remove the insulation. Insulation cannot be cleaned; unfortunately, it will need to be replaced because insulation retains smoke odors.

Source: http://extension.missouri.edu/p/GH145

Water Damage and Flooring

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

Often times when a large amount of water has spilled onto hard surface flooring, it can feel dry on the surface after it has been mopped up with towels. You may wonder why you would need to call SERVPRO. The answer lies below the surface of the flooring. Most flooring types are porous or semi-porous materials, which means that they can absorb and retain water. These would include carpet, non-glazed tile, concrete, and wood. The trapped moisture between the floor and subfloor needs to be extracted. Even flooring such as laminate (pergo) or linoleum can keep moisture trapped under the surface because the moisture cannot penetrate underlayments or vapor barriers associated with these types of flooring.The trapped moisture between the flooring and subfloor creates a perfect environment for mold growth. Because of this, it is always a good idea to have SERVPRO do a moisture check. We have specialized meters that can detect the invisible moisture your flooring may be holding. Based on the assessment and readings by a certified technician, we can formulate a drying plan tailored to your needs and prevent further damage. The quicker you act, the less damage there will be. 

Mold in the workplace

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Keep your employees safe from mold related illnesses.

Mold can easily grow in many areas of the workplace due to a number of causes. At SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker, our technicians hold a special certification to safely remediate mold from your business. Though it may sometimes seem like something that can be put off, it should be treated and remediated as soon as possible. OSHA published a guide which identified the serious effects mold growth could have on your employees. The following is taken from the OSHA website, www.osha.gov. 

Building-related illnesses (BRIs)

The term building-related illness (BRI) is used to describe illnesses that are characterized by objective clinical findings related to specific exposures in the indoor environment. Building-related illnesses (BRIs) are diagnosed by evaluation of signs and symptoms by physicians or other licensed health care professionals. Moldrelated BRIs result from mold contamination that has occurred in buildings under specific conditions. All BRIs are preventable by eliminating and controlling the conditions that can lead to the harmful exposures.

How Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) differs from BRI

Terms such as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) have been used to describe situations in which building occupants experience a variety of symptoms that, unlike BRIs, appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. Symptoms often disappear after occupants leave the building.

If you suspect that your business may have mold, or you have identified mold, our skilled technicians are happy to help. Skip the bleach and call the pros. 

Mold Remediation: Why Can't I Just Use Bleach?

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Contrary to popular belief, bleach does not kill mold at the source.

We receive this question many times from a concerned caller: "Can I just spray bleach on it?" 

Using bleach to take care of mold was once recommended by agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. However, they have since been revised after research revealed that the "do-all, be-all cure" for killing microbial growth, actually had the opposite effect. First, let us take a look at how mold forms to understand why using bleach is not effective. 

Mold needs water, food and typically a warm temperature to grow. This illustrates the first reason to call SERVPRO: If mold is growing, chances are that the materials are wet. There has likely been a water loss of some sort, and until it is properly dried, mold will continue to grow. 

The chlorine in bleach, due to its ionic composition, cannot penetrate porous surfaces. Porous surfaces include materials such as drywall, ceilings, wood, carpet and many others. Spraying bleach on the mold will only kill it on the surface. Many people do not know that mold actually has roots called hyphae. These roots will still remain in the porous material and eventually rise to the surface again. Remember that bleach contains both chlorine and water. The chlorine cannot make it below the surface - but the water can. Thus, you are actually replenishing the mold with one of the key things it needs to grow - water! Secondly, it will "bleach" the color, making it appear that the mold is gone. Again, this is only on the surface. 

At SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker we use specialized products, designed to travel deep into porous surfaces to remove mold at its roots. Sometimes we cannot remove the mold from the material and the material must be completely removed from the home for the safety of you and your family. Our technicians are trained to differentiate between what can be safely cleaned and what cannot. In addition, live mold releases spores into the air. The air in your home may need to be treated with specialty equipment to make sure that all spores are removed. 

SERVPRO helps customers in Boise, ID

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO heroes to the rescue!

In early January, we received a call from our friends and colleagues at Storm Team Stone to ask if we could help with the overwhelming number of customers needing help from a freeze in Boise, ID. The city and surrounding areas had endured subzero temperatures and snowfall for several days. Customers had ice dams form on their roofs, pipe bursts and many other weather related water losses. We gladly accepted the call to help and loaded up our trucks. On board were our general manager, Matt, our production managers, Troy and Andrew, crew chief Dalton, and technicians, AJ and Ryan. They arrived in Boise and began the process of helping customers get their homes back to normal. They spent about 3 weeks in Boise. With the help of Kimber in the office back in Parker, the event was a complete success and our crews returned feeling like they had made a difference. We would like to extend our thanks to Storm Team Stone and SERVPRO Boise. We couldn't have done it without you! 

SERVPRO Restores Historic Commercial Building After Water Loss

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

The Owyhee Hotel

In January, our crews were in Boise, ID to help customers who had experienced water losses due to subzero temperatures and snowfall over several days. One call we received was from the property manager of a historic building in Boise. The historic Owyhee Hotel, which is now home to several businesses, had experienced water losses in several different areas. We arrived on-site and were able to stabilize the areas. We spent several long days working hard to dry out the affected areas, while still preserving the historic features of the beautiful building. It took over 60 pieces of drying equipment to get the job done. Thank you for trusting SERVPRO to help! To learn more about the historic Owyhee, visit their website at: http://www.theowyhee.com/.

Restaurant Fire Safety

1/6/2017 (Permalink)

Keep your restaurant safe with these tips. If you do experience a fire, call SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker to get you back to business!

Restaurants—with their open flames, hot equipment, electrical connections, cooking oils, cleaning chemicals and paper products—have all the ingredients for a fire to flame out of control. Nearly 8,000 eating and drinking establishments report a fire each year, according to 2006-2010 data tabulated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in Quincy, Mass. These fires caused an annual average of $246 million in direct property damage.

A fire can devastate your business, leading to lost revenues and even permanent closure. But there are steps you can take to prevent fires and minimize the damage.

Preventative maintenance

• Install an automatic fire-suppression system in the kitchen. This is crucial because 57% of restaurant fires involve cooking equipment. These systems automatically dispense chemicals to suppress the flames and also have a manual switch. Activating the system automatically shuts down the fuel or electric supply to nearby cooking equipment. Have your fire-suppression system professionally inspected semiannually. The manufacturer can refer you to an authorized distributor for inspection and maintenance.

• Keep portable fire extinguishers as a backup. You’ll need Class K extinguishers for kitchen fires involving grease, fats and oils that burn at high temperatures. Class K fire extinguishers are only intended to be used after the activation of a built-in hood suppression system. Keep Class ABC extinguishers elsewhere for all other fires (paper, wood, plastic, electrical, etc.).

• Schedule regular maintenance on electrical equipment, and watch for hazards like frayed cords or wiring, cracked or broken switch plates and combustible items near power sources.

• Have your exhaust system inspected for grease buildup. The NFPA Fire Code calls for quarterly inspections of systems in high-volume operations and semiannual inspections in moderate-volume operations. Monthly inspections are required for exhaust systems serving solid-fuel cooking equipment, like wood- or charcoal-burning ovens.

Staff training

Train your staff to:

• Find and use a fire extinguisher appropriately.  An acronym you may find helpful is PAST – pull out the pin, aim at the base, make a sweeping motion, (be) ten feet away.

• Clean up the grease. Cleaning exhaust hoods is especially important, since grease buildup can restrict air flow. Be sure to also clean walls and work surfaces; ranges, fryers, broilers, grills and convection ovens; vents and filters.

• Never throw water on a grease fire. Water tossed into grease will cause grease to splatter, spread and likely erupt into a larger fire.

• Remove ashes from wood- and charcoal-burning ovens at least once a day. Store outside in metal containers at least 10 feet from any buildings or combustible materials.

• Make sure cigarettes are out before dumping them in a trash receptacle. Never smoke in or near storage areas.

• Store flammable liquids properly. Keep them in their original containers or puncture-resistant, tightly sealed containers. Store containers in well-ventilated areas away from supplies, food, food-preparation areas or any source of flames.

• Tidy up to avoid fire hazards. Store paper products, linens, boxes and food away from heat and cooking sources. Properly dispose of soiled rags, trash, cardboard boxes and wooden pallets at least once a day.

• Use chemical solutions properly. Use chemicals in well-ventilated areas, and never mix chemicals unless directions call for mixing. Immediately clean up chemical spills.

Be prepared: Have an emergency plan

If a fire breaks out in your restaurant, your staff must take control of the situation and lead customers to safety.

• Be prepared to power down. Train at least one worker per shift how to shut off gas and electrical power in case of emergency.

• Have an evacuation plan. Designate one staff member per shift to be evacuation manager. That person should be in charge of calling 911, determining when an evacuation is necessary and ensuring that everyone exits the restaurant safely.  Ensure your staff know where the closest exits are, depending on their location in the restaurant.  Remember that the front door is an emergency exit.

• Offer emergency training. Teach new employees about evacuation procedures and the usage of fire-safety equipment. Give veteran staff members a refresher course at least annually.

Source: http://www.restaurant.org/Manage-My-Restaurant/Operations/Back-of-House/Fire-Prevention-101-The-Basics-on-Restaurant-Fire

SERVPRO helps Aurora Family with Christmas

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

They were so excited that Santa came!

We are so happy that we were able to help an Aurora family provide a Christmas for their children. Our communities are what keep our business going and we are delighted that we were able to give back. Here is what the mother had to say: 

"I am absolutely in love with this company and the staff!

Me and my family have experienced such a generous amount of care and positivity from everyone !

When hearing about my family difficulties this past year Kimber, reached out and emailed me stating that me and my family were chosen to get help from SERVPRO for the holidays!! I was is such disbelief and so happy. I had been going through some hard days getting down because me and my husband would not be able to afford a Christmas for our children. And just like that Kimber told be that we would be sponsored and to get a list together!

As me and my husband were putting lists together we just kept saying over again how excited we were for the kids and how lucky we were that these people were so generous, and we couldn't believe this was happening to us!

Kimber has been amazing upfront and helping with everything, she is caring and so genuine!

Thank you for everyone at SERVPRO for making Christmas happen in my home, for my kids! I can't wait to see them open their gifts.

It's been a deeply humbling experience seeing the kind heartedness of others this Holiday season, and everyone at SERVPRO is absolutely amazing!!"

SERVPRO Offers Free Vandalism Cleanup for Victims of Hate Crimes in Aurora

12/27/2016 (Permalink)

Vandalism spray painted on the door of an Aurora home.

Three more hate attacks targeting African-American families in Aurora have upset residents and compelled police on Monday to step up patrols and appeal to the public for help.

The authorities have been investigating after other recent attacks. Police Chief Nick Metz, Mayor Steve Hogan and other city leaders have declared hate crimes will not be tolerated in Aurora, which bills itself as the safest large city in Colorado.

Over the weekend, vandals left threatening notes and spray-painted racial slurs — “KKK” and the like — on three apartment doors near the 6700 block of South Rivera Court.

“People are scared,” one resident said, asking that her name not be printed for fear her family could be targeted.

“Since the election, people feel like they are now privileged to go after minorities and get away with it. And I am scared retaliation will happen if we speak out and no protection will be provided for victims by our apartment complex.”

The attackers may be posing as missionaries and carpet cleaner salespeople, moving door to door, to learn racial information about residents who then are targeted, the resident said. In addition to spray-painted scrawls on seven doors, the attacks this past weekend included threatening messages on notes, she said. Some victims apparently did not report crimes to police.

Aurora police have stepped up patrols, agency spokeswoman Diana Cooley said.

Police on Monday posted a bulletin on their departmental Facebook page saying “these bias-motivated crimes will continue to be a high priority for the Aurora Police Department.”

The recent crimes “all have that pattern — the spray painting and note,” Cooley said. “This is going to alarm some folks. It is something we take seriously. If you are a resident and see something suspicious, please contact the police department.”

Aurora residents have reported at least nine bias-related crimes since the Nov. 8 election and Metz has said he believes other incidents may be happening that haven’t been reported.

Nationwide, police have reported surges of hate crimes since the election. The Southern Poverty Law Center documented 867 hate crime incidents during the 10 days after the election, including 21 in Colorado. The Colorado crimes targeted immigrants, African-Americans, women and children.

The Littleton franchise of the clean-up company SERVPRO is offering its services to erase the physical damange of vandalism for free to victims of hate crimes in Aurora, SERVPRO administrator Kimber Tornes said. “We unfortunately can’t erase the damage to their hearts and minds.”

Source: http://www.denverpost.com/2016/12/12/aurora-police-step-up-patrols-appeal-for-help-after-three-more-hate-attacks/

How Insurance Can Help with Holiday Disasters

12/12/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know that some personal property insurance covers stolen presents?

Behind their charming facades, our homes hide an inner holiday Grinch. Flickering candles? Fire hazard. Snow-dusted walkway? Think slip and fall. Pyramid of presents? Burglary bait.  Here's how homeowners insurance helps you recover financially.

House fires

From dehydrated Christmas trees to overworked outlets, the halls are decked with fire hazards this time of year. Candle fires, in particular, hit their annual peak on Christmas, New Year's Day and Christmas Eve, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Allstate's median home fire claim during the holiday season is about $70,000, says Glenn Shapiro, the company's chief claims officer.

Covered by: Within homeowners insurance, dwelling coverage pays for home repairs and personal property insurance covers belongings.

Wrap it up: Ask your insurer for help pinpointing your home's rebuilding cost. "It could be years since you bought the policy, and building costs may have increased," Shapiro says. If the reconstruction cost exceeds your dwelling insurance amount, boost your limits accordingly.

Stolen presents

Theft is a common source of holiday homeowners insurance claims, Shapiro says. In some cases, our own behavior fuels the problem. For instance, two in three people have gifts delivered despite not being home to receive them, according to a 2015 Allstate survey.

Covered by: Personal property insurance covers stolen items. This can include packages plucked from your stoop, says Chris Hackett, senior director of personal lines at trade group Property Casualty Insurers Association of America. To make a claim, you'll need to file a police report.

However, if only a couple of items go missing you might not benefit from a claim, Hackett cautions, because the payout could be less than your deductible.

Wrap it up: Consider lowering your personal property coverage deductible. Although your rates would increase, your insurance would stretch further if you need to make a claim.

Injured guests

Say you undercook dinner and send relatives to the hospital. Or maybe someone breaks a hip on your icy walkway. You could end up on the hook for medical costs when you host holiday get-togethers.

Covered by: The medical payments coverage within home insurance pays for injuries that guests sustain on your property. You also have liability insurance in case you're sued, Shapiro says.

Wrap it up: Insurance limits for medical payments are usually low when you buy your policy, Hackett says. A bare-minimum policy pays about $1,000 per person, making this good coverage to beef up before welcoming the holiday herd.

Water damage from frozen pipes

Leaving home can be as problematic as playing host. As an example, Shapiro points to insurance claims involving frozen pipes. If an unoccupied house gets too frosty, water freezes and expands inside the pipes, increasing chances of a burst.

Covered by: Water damage from burst pipes is covered by standard home insurance, Hackett says, including damage to your house and soaked belongings.

Wrap it up: Check the fine print in your policy regarding frozen pipes. You might need to take certain preventive action before vacations to make a claim, such as shutting off your water or leaving the heat on.

Preparing for a Blizzard in Castle Rock

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

Don't get caught in a blizzard without knowing these tips!

When you live in Colorado, you can usually count on one thing - there will always be at least one blizzard during the winter season. Everyone knows the standard checklist when preparing for old man winter, including the dreaded run to a crowded grocery store to stock up on milk, bread and eggs. But here at SERVPRO West Littleton/Sheridan we have a few tips for things you may have forgotten or not thought of: 

• Keep all electronics you may need, including cell phones, tablets and entertainment for the kids fully charged when you know a storm is coming. This way if the power goes out, you still have a full 100% instead of starting at 25%.
• Keep one or more portable battery packs fully charged for when the juice runs out on your electronics. If you are in a pinch and need to charge an electronic device, remember that most can be charged in an automobile - Just remember to start it and let it run while charging so you don't drain the battery in your automobile. 
• Keep extra coolers and empty your ice maker into large storage bags for a few days before the storm. This way if you lose power you can keep your refrigerator or freezer items cold as long as possible. 
• Keep books, playing cards and board games easily accessible in case boredom sets in. 
• Make sure to check your supply of items such as pet food, formula and diapers for children, toiletries and medications. 

Stay safe and remember that we are always here to help!

December Candle Safety

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Candles can add to your holiday enjoyment. Just make sure to use them safely.

From 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 9,300 home structure fires that were started by candles. These fires caused 86 deaths, 827 injuries and $374 million in direct property damage. 

Facts and figures

During the five-year period of 2009-2013:

• Candles caused 3% of reported home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 6% of home fire injuries, and 5% of the direct property damage in home fires.
• Roughly one-third (36%) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused 32% of the associated deaths and 47% of the associated injuries.
• Falling asleep was a factor in 11% percent of the home candle fires and 30% of the associated deaths.
• On average, 25 home candle fires were reported per day. 
• More than half (58%) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.

Safety tips

Remember that a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn.

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
• Think about using flame-less candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.

Religious candle safety

Lit candles are used in religious services, in places of worship, and in the home. Whether you are using one candle, or more than one on a candelabra, kinara, or menorah, make sure you use them safely.

• Candles should be placed in a sturdy candle holder.
• Handheld candles should not be passed from one person to another at any time.
• When lighting candles at a candle lighting service, have the person with the unlit candle dip their candle into the flame of the lit candle.
• Lit candles should not be placed in windows where a blind or curtain could catch fire.
• Candles placed on, or near tables, altars, or shrines, must be watched by an adult.
• Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• If a candle must burn continuously, be sure it is enclosed in a glass container and placed in a sink, on a metal tray, or in a deep basin filled with water.

Source: http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/top-causes-of-fire/candles

Keeping Your Home Safe During Holiday Travel

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

A local home was affected by severe mold damage while the homeowner was out of town for several months.

At SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker, we receive many calls for water damage and mold remediation while a homeowner is traveling out of town. With the holiday season approaching, it is important to always have a family member, friend, neighbor or house-sitter check on your home every day if you are traveling. Many things can happen while a home is unoccupied. Some of the losses we have responded to include: 

• Pipe Bursts due to freezing temperatures
• Refrigerator and freezer line breaks
• Ice Maker Malfunctions causing water damage
• Sprinkler line bursts
• Toilets continuously running and causing overflow
• Hot water heater rupture causing extensive mold damage by steaming the home

Some homeowners only have their home checked every few days while they are out of town. We cannot stress the importance of this being a daily task. Even a few hours can make all the difference when restoring a water loss. 

Enjoy the holiday season and remember that SERVPRO Castle Rock/Parker is on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help with the unexpected!

Preventing Ice Dams in the Winter

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Taking precautions to prevent ice dams is an important part of preparing your home for winter weather. Knowing what an ice dam is, minimizing the conditions that allow one to form and removing an ice dam as soon as you spot one can help prevent serious damage to both the roof and the inside of your home.

Take Action Before Snow Starts Falling

An ice dam may develop during the cold winter months if warm air from your home or attic melts snow on your roof. In freezing temperatures, the melted snow may refreeze once it reaches the colder edge of the roof. Keeping the temperature of your attic at 32°F or below can help prevent snow from melting and ice dams from developing. The following are some steps you can take to help prevent the snow melting-and-freezing cycle that often causes ice dams:

• Insulate your attic. Be sure your attic is properly insulated to help prevent warmth from escaping through ceilings. Whenever possible, an insulation value of R-40 is recommended.
• Prevent air leaks. Check and seal any openings where warm air or heat could escape into the attic, such as insulating or caulking around vent pipes, exhaust fans, chimneys, attic hatches and/or light fixtures.
• Improve ventilation. Increase the number or size of attic, roof or soffit vents that allow cold air to circulate and flush warmer air out during the winter.

• Install a water-repellent membrane. When replacing the roof covering, install a water-repellent membrane underneath the shingles. This acts as an extra barrier
  that helps prevent water from seeping inside the building should an ice dam form.

Tips to Help Prevent Ice Dams Through the Winter

Ice dams can sometimes form despite your best efforts to keep your roof at the proper temperature. Be sure to monitor the weather and maintain your roof throughout the colder, winter months for additional protection against ice dams, such as:

• Clear gutters and downspouts. Prevent water from accumulating and possibly freezing in your gutters by cleaning leaves, debris and snow accumulation from in and around gutters and downspouts. Making sure that your gutters are properly pitched can also help prevent the collection of water in low spots and help reduce the potential for ice buildup in gutters.
• Remove snow accumulation from your roof after every storm. Whenever possible, use a roof rake to clear snow about three to four feet from the edge of your roof soon after each storm. Snow accumulation along the edge of your roof increases the likelihood of an ice dam developing, which prevents water from draining off the roof. This water can then back up underneath roof shingles and make its way into your home.
• Remove ice dams as soon as you spot them. Check your roof often and know how to help identify and remove an ice dam.

CAUTION: Avoid using a ladder in snowy and icy conditions. This can be extremely dangerous and is best left to the professionals.

Source: https://www.travelers.com/resources/weather/winter-storms/how-to-help-prevent-ice-dams.aspx

Space Heater Safety

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Space heaters account for about one third of all winter house fires.

In order to save money in the colder months, many people opt to use a space heater to heat one room rather than heat the entire structure. Regardless of your plan, it is important to be cautious. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that nearly 18,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of room (space) heaters.* 

Space Heater Selection

Before purchasing a space heater, it is important to consider how it will be used. Will it be used for supplemental heat in colder rooms or other areas, or will it be used for emergency heat? As a general rule of thumb, electric space heaters are typically safer than portable fuel-burning models (e.g. natural gas, propane, kerosene.)

Remember to choose a unit that is listed or labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or ETL (Intertek). This will ensure that the heater’s construction and performance meet voluntary safety standards.

Also, look for specific safety features that will shut the unit off under certain conditions. These can include:

• Overheating
• Low oxygen levels (aka oxygen depletion sensor)
• Tip-over switch
• Touch sensor (if the grill is touched)

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage caused by a pipe burst in Littleton, CO.

What's Not Covered?

CELEBRATE SAFELY WITH A RECIPE FOR SAFETY

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Castle Rock/Parker wishes you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving with your family and friends.

Mold Prevention During the Winter Months

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician works to safely remove mold in a Littleton home.

Source: http://www.polygongroup.com/en-US/blog/mold-prevention-winter/

The wet season in the winter months is one of the best times of year for molds to grow and expand. Often mold is contained near sources of water where it can easily grow and reproduce. As it grows, mold can breakdown and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives.

Mold spores are microscopic and are naturally found in the air we breathe indoors and outdoors. When large amounts of spores grow, one’s health may be compromised. Mold can be killed, but if it is not removed properly, it can remain in the area just cleaned and the dry spores can be released into the air. Mold remediation services can help eliminate the mold in your home and personal items affected by water damage.

Prevention, however, is what will help keep your lungs healthy and homes and buildings strong. We’ve put together a few tips on how you can help thwart mold from infesting your home that are efficient and realistic:

General Home and Building Maintenance:

• Keep all areas clean.
• Make sure there is good air circulation. Use an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, cooking, and washing the dishes.
• Prevent mold and water damage by turning off the water flow to broken appliances and pipes.
• Replace cracked or defective mortar in basements. If you find your basement is wet or has water leaking into it, inspect the outside drainage systems.
• Spread moisture-barrier materials in crawl spaces over the soil. Heavy roofing paper or plastic film made of polyethylene can be used for this. Make sure there is good ventilation in the crawl space and, if possible, do not enclose it. One may need to use a fan to blow out humid air from under the building.
• One can get rid of humidity or dampness within a building by heating it for a short time. After heating, open up the doors and windows, or use an exhaust fan, to let out the air that is moist.
• Hire a professional roofing contractor to cover a damaged roof with a tarp or tent. This will help protect the building from the elements.
• If there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.
• Make sure all the seals on the windows and doors are not compromised and in good-working condition.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground around your building slopes away from the foundation so water does not collect around or enter in to it.
• Act quickly if you see condensation on windows, pipes, or walls inside a building. Dry out the area and determine if the source of the condensation is from a leak or the result of high humidity.

After a Flood or Heavy Rains:

• Work fast. Call in a mold remediation service, which will help in the cleaning and disinfecting of your home from toxins and spores mold can release.
• Lower the humidity and temperature in the building: molds do not like these conditions. Open up windows if the air outside is less humid than the air inside. Otherwise, turn on an air conditioner and a dehumidifier.
• Dispose of moldy items in a sealed bag. Objects that can be saved should be frozen (which deactivates mold) or dried out. Mold remediation services can assist with restoring many of your items, including documents, pictures, and books.
• Make sure there is good ventilation within the building affected. Use a fan, if necessary, to promote good air circulation.
• Remove as much standing water in a building as quickly and safely as possible after disconnecting all electronic equipment inside the building.
• The two key things to remember in mold prevention are: 1. Keep everything clean, and 2. Keep everything dry. Many simple steps can be taken to prevent mold damage as well as water damage during the winter months. However, keep the number for a mold remediation service handy should you require their services. These professionals can efficiently and quickly ensure your home is safe, dry, and mold-free.

A Tip for De-Winterizing your home

6/1/2016 (Permalink)

Source: homeguides.sfgate.com/dewinterize-house-88126.html

Maintain your pipes!

Turn on the cold water faucet first and then the hot. Run water slowly to make sure there are no leaks in the drain pipes. If the drains seem to be okay, increase the flow and flush the supply lines allowing the water to run from faucets for 10 to 20 minutes. Test the shower fixtures as well.

Why You Should Hire a Professional to Find Your Leaks

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

Article Credit: enlightenme.com

https://enlightenme.com/hire-professional-find-leaks/

Whenever you have a problem with your home, the first impulse is usually to tackle the problem yourself. Sometimes this can be the right choice, and the problem’s easy enough to solve on your own. Other times it’s much safer and smarter to call in the pros from the beginning.

Tracking down tricky leaks is one of those times. Sure, some leaks are easy to track down, but water has a way of traveling odd paths. So once finding a leak gets tough, then it’s time to call in some help. And here’s why:

They Know Where to Look

Water can travel strange paths before it finally comes out into your home, and you might be surprised how far it can come. That discolored spot on your basement ceiling could actually be caused by a leak in your roof, or your wall on the opposite side of the house.

Professionals have tracked down hundreds, even thousands of leaks over the years. That experience gives them a wide variety of usual suspects to check, and a good number of unusual ones, too.

They Know What to Look For

That slight, turquoise line along your copper pipe? That’s where water has run along the outside and caused the copper to oxidize. It’s a sure sign that a leak is sending water traveling on the wrong side of the pipes.

Pros know these and dozens of other signs. What looks like a bit of dirt to you might indicate a serious leak in your roof, foundation, or wall. Or it might just be some dirt. A professional will be able to know the difference for certain.

They’ve Got the Right Equipment

Most of us can only use our eyes or sense of touch to lead us to water, but not the professionals. They have a wide variety of specialized equipment that can sense moisture and humidity through walls or probe underground for water deposits using ground penetrating radar.

This equipment can be expensive to buy and tricky to use. They have years of experience using the equipment, and know how to put it to good use.

By using a professional in the first place, you remove that step from the process, saving you money and getting the leak repaired sooner.

35 Ways to Winterize Your Home

2/2/2016 (Permalink)

Credit: home.howstuffworks.com

1. Consider using green alternatives to traditional insulation. There are several options including cellulose and spray foam.

2. Learn from the old timers! Plant evergreens close to your home and consider planting a windbreak on your property. A windbreak can save up to 30% in energy costs.

3. Your attached garage can add to the difficulty in heating your home. It is a large, unheated space that usually shares a wall with either the kitchen or the den. Either way, keeping it warm helps keep the whole house warm. Take a look at the instructions to make this garage solar heater.

4. Install a permanent furnace filter to save waste and to keep your air clean.

5. Wrap the windows in plastic to keep out those arctic blasts.

6. You can also use bubble wrap to cover your windows. The air in the bubbles helps to insulate even more.

7. Sew a draft stopper

8. Install weather stripping

9. Use non-vinyl blackout curtains to trap the heat in and keep the cold out.

10. Add a door sweep to each exterior door.

11. Head to your local feed store and buy straw bales to place around the foundation of your home. This will block cold air and help keep the floors warmer, especially if you have pier and beam.

12. Have your furnace serviced to make sure that it is running properly and safely.

13. Check the duct-work where it is exposed. Our house is old and pier and beam and all the duct work is under the house. Over the course of a year raccoons and other visitors may pull at it, tear it, or loosen it from the registers. We almost always have to repair a few ducts.

14. While you are checking the duct-work consider insulating it as well. This helps keep the heated air warm as it moves through unheated spaces under the house or in the attic.

15. Reverse the direction on your ceiling fans. This will push the hot air down and help it recirculate through out the house.

16. Install foam insulation gaskets around your electrical outlets and keep the outlets covered when not in use.

17. Installing storm doors and windows can save you up to 45% on your energy bill.

18. Move furniture off your vents.

19. Consider these high efficiency heating tips.

20. Cover your water heater with an insulating blanket. 

21. If you have an old fashioned radiator use a fan to help spread the warm air and a put a reflector behind it.

22. Buy organic cotton thermal long johns for everyone in the family.

23. Keep your ears covered.

24. Wear layers of clothing made from breathable organic fabrics.

25. Eat soups to help keep your body temperature up.

26. Shut the door on rooms you don't use, if there are any.

27. If you live in an old house, live in it the way they used to. We have a fireplace in the kitchen and a kitchen door. We spend many winter days around the kitchen table with the fireplace crackling (we have had a lot of trees fall the past year) and the door closed. We keep the heat to the other areas of the house very low.

28. Improve the air quality of your home. Sealing your thermal envelope too tightly can be dangerous if you don't look out for your air quality. Get a heat recovery ventilator if you seal your house up tight.

29. Grow some herbs and vegetables inside. Not only are they great to add to soups and stews but plants filter toxins out of the air.

30. Open the curtains on the south/west side of the house during the day to get the most of the sun's warmth. Close up at night to keep out the cold.

31. Cold feet? Put a little ground cayenne or ginger in your socks. You can do the same with mittens but don't do this with small children. If a finger goes into an eye it is painful!

32. Put hot baked potatoes wrapped in a piece of flannel in your bed about 15 minutes before you plan to get in it. Your bed will be warm and you will have potatoes ready to make hash browns at breakfast.

33. Another old fashioned fix it to hang a thick curtain in front of the door. Use the round hangers and you can easily push it aside to open the door.

34. If you have a two story house the upstairs will always be warmer than the downstairs. Plan on spending more time up there.

35. Bake bread. It is fun, it warms up the house, and it tastes great.

6 Winter Home Improvement Projects to Get You Off the Couch

12/24/2015 (Permalink)

• Source: Quicken Loans
• by Christine Brackel
• on January 2, 2013
• Home Improvement, Homeowners Tips

Read more at http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/6-winter-home-improvement-projects-couch#q1EKEIMakqfVtqbW.99

Having a lazy day once in a while isn’t a bad thing, but if you’re stuck indoors because of the cold, why not turn your snow day into a “go day”? The weather outside may be frightful, but home improvement can be oh so delightful. If you’re feeling the post-holiday blues, here are some simple home improvement projects to get you moving.

Do some painting

Did you know that cold weather is ideal for drying paint? The dryness of the winter months actually makes winter the perfect time to paint the interior, so crack a window, grab your favorite brush and make the cold work for you! Select a bold color and paint an accent wall in your living room. Or add dimension to your bedroom by painting the ceiling. If you’ve really got the DIY bug, use painter’s tape to create stripes or patterns on a wall. Whatever you choose, new colors are a sure way to add visual interest to your walls and bring a splash of sunshine into a drab winter home.

Change out your light bulbs

This one’s a bit of an investment, but you won’t regret replacing your bulbs with energy-efficient ones. It’s a great way to go green and save money. On average, an Energy Star qualified light bulb will save more than $40 in electricity costs over its lifetime, so don’t let the upfront cost of these bulbs scare you away from making the purchase.

Install a backsplash

Backsplashes are to kitchens, as spices are to spaghetti sauce; they’re essential for completing the flavor. If you’d like to kick your kitchen up a notch, a backsplash will help accessorize and emphasize your countertops, cabinets and appliances. For a kitchen that needs color and life, a flashy or textured tile can wake up a plain scheme. For a kitchen that already has personality, sleek, neutral tile can add elegance and unity to the room’s look. If you’re daring in your design, check out Krissy’s post for unique backsplash ideas. And when you’re ready to go, this guide from HGTV can help you figure out how to install your very own tile backsplash.

Refurbish your doors

Interior doors can have a lot of visual impact on your home. The good news is you can virtually “replace” all of your doors without spending excessively. Here are some ways to make over your interior doors.

• Paint them. Dark doors can make your home look more expensive. Colored doors can look much more modern and whimsical than traditional wood.
• Change the doorknobs. Updated hardware is an instant fix for outdated doors.
• Add molding to flat doors. Molding can create dimension and give an elegant, expensive feel to any run-of-the-mill doorway.

Give your closet a makeover

Is organization on your list of resolutions for 2013? Kick off your most-organized year by tackling your closet. If you create a place for everything, you’ll be a lot more likely to put things away. There are so many things you can do to customize a closet for your needs. To start, install shelving, purchase an over-the-door shoe rack and donate all the items that you no longer need, wear or fit into. Check out this post for more ideas to help you get your closet in order.

Organize your mudroom

Make messy mudrooms a thing of the past. If your family’s coats and boots are out of control, use the mess as motivation to rein in the chaos once and for all. Check out my suggestions for organizing your mudroom here, and by the time next winter rolls around, entranceway disarray will be a distant memory.

By focusing on the inside of your home while the weather is cold, you’ll have a lot more time to tackle the warm-weather stuff when spring rolls around. What kind of home improvement tasks are you tackling this winter? Let us know in the comments!

Transformationsl Ventures-Jibu Clean Water Business Project

11/19/2015 (Permalink)

Servpro of West Littleton/Sheridan is honored to be a part of the Transformational Ventures Clean Water project.

Transformational Ventures is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Jibu-Uzima in Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya! This water franchise initiative started with a phone call just one year ago, but is the culmination of ten years of relationship building and strategic partnerships among Northside Christian Church in Houston, TX, Redeemed Gospel Church in Nairobi, and The 1010 Project in Denver, CO (which became a part of T-Ventures in 2013).

Jibu-Uzima is a community focused business solution for the people living in Embakasi, the third largest informal settlement in Nairobi (after Kibera and Mathare), who have limited access to clean, affordable water. The water depot -- the hub where the water is purified, bottled, and sold -- is in a retrofitted shipping container built by Chombox.

The phone call one year ago was from a generous donor who challenged T-Ventures with a $10,000 matching gift opportunity and a desire to see something innovative and impactful in the Redeemed community. After praying through options, Melissa Schaap (T-Ventures) reached out to Josephine Chavaseki (Redeemed) and it's sister church, Northside, and discussed the idea of pursuing a water business. Melissa also contacted Jibu, a company that trains and finances African entrepreneurs to solve the drinking water crisis. At that point, Jibu had successfully launched water franchises in three other East African countries; we inquired about the timing and possibility of opening up their Kenya market.

Jibu franchise owner, Josephine Chavaseki, has been facilitating business training for both business and social entrepreneurs at Redeemed and in their community for the past five years. Through T-Ventures, she had also connected with business and leadership coach, Jacquie Fedo, of Coaching 410 in Boulder, CO, and together, they have been learning and growing through regular coaching sessions via phone and Skype over the past two years. As a result of all of this training and mentoring, Josephine was well prepared for the Jibu franchisee selection process and has been working diligently for many months to open the first Jibu franchise in Kenya. 
  Josephine has hired three employees to carry out the daily operations and they have set goals to sell 1000 liters of water/day in the initial months, and more than 2500 liters/day by March 2016.

Josephine named her franchise "Uzima" meaning "life," based on John 10:10 and her history with The 1010 Project. All of us join her in praying that the water they sell in their community will point people to Jesus as their Living Water, the One who gives us abundant life.

Special thanks to our many financial partners who have invested in the start-up capital to launch Jibu-Uzima, including: Patricia L. Kimball Endowment of the Shasta Regional Community Foundation, Northside Christian Church, SERVPRO of West Littleton/Sheridan, Graland Country Day School (through the Penny Harvest program),5 Star SWD, and more than fifty individuals who have given generously to make this business possible! To God be the Glory!

To learn more about this business endeavor or to make a donation and receive a high quality water bottle (just a few left!), please contact Melissa Schaap.
  

Managing Autumn Lawn and Leaf Cleanup

10/20/2015 (Permalink)

Source: esurance blog

blog.esurance.com

Preparing Your Home for Winter: 8 Fall Maintenance Hacks for Cold-Weather Comfort

Preparing Your Home For Winter

10/20/2015 (Permalink)

Source: esurance blog

blog.esurance.com

Preparing Your Home for Winter: 8 Fall Maintenance Hacks for Cold-Weather Comfort

Storm Assistance

4/2/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO West Littleton/ Sheridan/ Castle Rock/ Parker traveled out to the east coast to assist in the clean up effort after a record breaking winter. 

Certified Electronics Restoration Contractor

12/17/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Castle Rock/Parker has recently completed training through ElectroClean and is now a certified electronics restoration contractor! 

What does that mean for our customers?  We’re glad you asked!  It means we are now even more trained and equipped to provide cleaning and restoration services for damage incurred from water, lightning strikes, electrical surges, etc.! 

This particular certification is focused on electronics restoration and data recovery including:

When disaster strikes your home or business, who should you call? SERVPRO of Castle Rock/Parker!!!  Our heroes are standing by, ready to roll and make it, "Like it never even happened.” 303-593-1374 

Home Decorating Tip

10/24/2014 (Permalink)

Brilliant time-saving tip

Instead of hanging and re-hanging pictures until they are just right, create outline templates and use tape to arrange and re-arrange as many times as you want while only putting one hole in the wall.