Hurricane Damage: 4 Important Signs of Property Issues

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat hurricane damage!

Learn about hurricane damage and where to find expert solutions. 

Hurricanes are nature's mighty wrath on display. Their capacity for destruction is immense, and the aftermath is often overwhelming for homeowners caught in their path. 

Knowing what to look for in terms of damage is crucial because it allows for quick intervention and saves time and money in the long run. 

This article delves into the four most common indications of hurricane damage, drawing from a real-life scenario where our dedicated SERVPRO® team intervened. Let's dive in.

What damage is caused by hurricanes?

Hurricanes bring a combination of heavy rain, strong winds, and, in some cases, storm surges. This trio can lead to a myriad of damages:

• Roofing damage: Often the first to bear the brunt of the force, roofs may have lost shingles, suffer from leaks, or, in severe cases, collapse entirely.
• Flooded interiors: Torrential rains can flood homes, especially basements and lower-level areas.
• Broken windows and doors: Winds can shatter windows and push doors off their hinges.
• Falling trees and debris: Hurricanes can uproot trees, which can fall on homes, cars, and other structures.

What are the categories of hurricanes?

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale categorizes hurricanes into five classes, ranging from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe). The category reflects both the wind speed and potential damage. Homes can withstand Category 1 hurricanes with minimal damage, but Category 5 can cause catastrophic destruction.

When is hurricane season in Maryland?

While hurricanes can occur anytime, the typical hurricane season for Maryland is from June to November. During this period, homeowners should stay updated on weather forecasts and have a disaster response plan.

What is the worst hurricane to hit Montgomery County?

Historically, Montgomery County has seen its share of hurricanes. While many may argue about which was indeed the "worst," Hurricane Ida in 2021 stands out in recent memory. Ida's impacts were felt far and wide, and its trail of damage was a harsh reminder of nature's fury.

The wrath of Hurricane Ida was evident on a property in North Bethesda, Maryland. Within hours of the 2021 storm subsiding, the owners contacted us, noticing several of the hurricane damage signs we highlighted.

Upon arrival, our SERVPRO team conducted a comprehensive assessment. The roof was heavily damaged, windows were shattered, and floodwaters had seeped into the living areas. Understanding the urgency, our team swiftly embarked on the recovery process. Water was extracted, drying equipment was installed, and damaged structures were restored. It was a testament to our commitment to returning properties to their pre-hurricane state.

Why choose SERVPRO for hurricane damage recovery?

With many options available, why should homeowners turn to SERVPRO for hurricane damage services?

1. Experience: With years under our belt, we've faced almost every hurricane damage scenario imaginable.
2. Speed: We understand the importance of swift intervention. Our teams are always ready to respond.
3. Equipment and techniques: We leverage the latest technology to ensure efficient and effective restoration.
4. Professionalism: Our trained experts handle each task carefully and precisely.
5. Comprehensive service: From initial assessment to the final touches, we cover every aspect of recovery.

Conclusion

Hurricane damage is a testament to the sheer power of nature, ranging from the intense winds that tear off roofs and shatter windows to the heavy rainfall and storm surges that inundate properties, causing structural damage and the potential for mold growth. 

In many cases, the aftermath is so devastating that properties become uninhabitable, local infrastructures are paralyzed, and entire communities grapple with overwhelming repair and recovery expenses. This multifaceted destruction emphasizes the necessity of being prepared and the timely response required to mitigate the fallout. 

In such trying times, recognizing the signs of hurricane damage becomes paramount, and having a steadfast partner for hurricane damage repair becomes a lifeline. 

SERVPRO doesn't just stand out for its expertise; our unwavering commitment to restoring normalcy in adversity truly sets us apart. With every challenge, from a shattered window pane to a flooded living space, our goal is unwavering: to restore properties to their optimal condition. Remember, SERVPRO is your beacon of hope and help in the daunting shadow of hurricane damage.

5 Useful Tips When Kitchen Water Damage Strikes Your Home!

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for emergency water damage services!

Recover from kitchen water damage quickly with help from SERVPRO of North Bethesda!

Water damage is one of the most common problems that homeowners face. Kitchen water damage can be exceptionally costly and inconvenient since it affects one of the highest-trafficked areas in a home.

There are many reasons why kitchen water damage can occur, such as a faulty dishwasher or a leaking sink. If not addressed quickly, kitchen water damage can lead to mold growth and structural problems.

Water damage restoration is a necessary process to restore your home to its former glory. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of kitchen water damage and the steps you need to take to get your home back in order!

What is kitchen water damage, and what are the causes?

Kitchen water damage can occur for many reasons, but a leaky sink or dishwasher most commonly causes it. Water leaks out of these appliances and pools on the floor can quickly damage cabinets, flooring, and other kitchen fixtures. 

Nowadays, connected refrigerators can also cause kitchen water damage. If anything happens to the connection between the plumbing and the fridge, you may find water spilling onto the floor. 

Problems with the home's plumbing can also cause kitchen water damage. For example, pipes may leak water into the kitchen area if they become corroded or damaged. Additionally, water may back up and flood the kitchen if there is a clog in the drain line.

What are the consequences of kitchen water damage?

If kitchen water damage is not addressed quickly, it can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Mold spores are everywhere, and they can quickly grow into colonies when they come into contact with water. These colonies can damage your kitchen fixtures and cabinetry.

In addition to mold growth, kitchen water damage can cause the wood in your cabinets and floors to swell and warp, which can lead to cracks and breaks in the structure of your kitchen. If left unaddressed, water damage can seriously jeopardize the safety of your home.

How can kitchen water damage be prevented?

The best way to prevent kitchen water damage is to keep an eye on your appliances and plumbing fixtures. If you notice any leaks, make sure to address them right away. You should also regularly check your pipes for any signs of corrosion or damage.

It is also a good idea to invest in a water detection system. These systems can help you identify kitchen water damage early on before it has a chance to cause serious problems.

If you encounter kitchen water damage, it is vital to act quickly. The first step is to shut off the water source and call a professional water damage restoration company. These companies have the tools and experience necessary to quickly dry out your kitchen and repair any damage that has been done.

Water damage restoration

Water damage restoration is a necessary process to restore your home to its former glory. If your kitchen has been damaged by water, here are some steps you need to take:

1. Remove the water: The first step is to remove the water from the kitchen. We do this with specialized vacuums and moisture meters, making sure we get as much as we can.
2. Dry the kitchen: Once the water has been removed, you need to dry the kitchen as quickly as possible. We use industrial fans and dehumidifiers until the moisture is back to typical levels. 
3. Clean the kitchen: Once it is dry, it's time to clean it, including sanitizing all surfaces, appliances, and floors.
4. Repair the kitchen: If there is any damage to the kitchen, it needs to be repaired. This may include fixing leaks, replacing drywall, or painting.
5. Prevent mold growth: mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water damage, so it's essential to take steps to prevent it. We use specialized cleaning products that prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: water damage restoration experts!

With so many significant appliances hooked up to water in your kitchen, it's no surprise that kitchen water damage is one of the most common types of water damage we see. Kitchen water damage can occur for many reasons, such as a faulty dishwasher, a leaking sink, or a refrigerator.

If not addressed by professional water damage restoration, kitchen water damage can lead to warped floors and cabinets or mold growth.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda is a water damage restoration company with years of experience in kitchen water damage restoration. We use the latest tools and techniques to quickly dry out your kitchen and repair any damage that has been done. Reach out via our contact page, and we'll help you every step of the way!

Grill Fire Prevention: 4 Simple Steps For a Safe Summer

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

The fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for services!

If a grill fire does affect your property, make sure you call SERVPRO of North Bethesda for fire damage restoration.

Grill fires are common during the summer months and can cause extensive damage to your home if not extinguished quickly.

This article will discuss grill fires and the steps you can take to prevent them from happening. We will also cover what to do if a grill fire does occur and how to minimize the damage caused by the fire.

How does a grill fire start?

A grill fire typically occurs when the grill is left unattended or when fat and grease build up on the grill grates. If you are grilling, it is crucial to stay close by and keep an eye on the fire. If you see flames beginning to lick up the sides of the grill, take action immediately to extinguish the fire.

How can I prevent grill fires?

There are several things you can do to prevent grill fires:

1. Clean your grill regularly. Grease and fat build-up is a significant fire hazard, so it is essential to keep your grill clean. Wipe down the grates after each use, and scrub them with soapy water regularly.
2. Don't grill in an enclosed area. Grilling in an enclosed space can cause dangerous levels of smoke and carbon monoxide. 
3. Keep flammable materials away from the grill, including paper plates, towels, and clothing.
4. Never leave the grill unattended. If you have to leave the area, turn off the grill and ensure that all embers are extinguished.

What should I do if a grill fire occurs?

If a grill fire does occur, it is important to take action immediately to extinguish the flames. Do not try to move the grill, as this can spread the fire. If the fire is small, you may be able to smother it with a wet towel or blanket. However, if the fire is large or out of control, you should immediately call 911 and evacuate the area.

Once the fire is extinguished, you will need to assess the damage. If the fire was small and contained to the grill, you may be able to clean the grill and continue using it. However, if the fire caused extensive damage, you should contact a professional fire damage restoration company to assess the situation.

A fire damage restoration company will have the equipment and expertise necessary to safely clean and repair your grill and any other damage caused by the fire. They will also be able to advise you on whether or not it is safe to continue using the grill.

Can a grill fire damage a house?

Recently, a grill fire at a house caused extensive damage to the property.

The grill was on the deck, next to the house underneath an overhanging roof. While the roof did protect against the elements, it also posed a fire hazard.

When the grill fire started, the flames rose and caused extensive fire damage to the roof and adjacent wall. Don't worry; the firefighters put out the blaze before the entire house succumbed to fire.

The fire damage restoration process included replacing the damaged portion of the deck and kitchen and a recommendation not to grill close to the house!

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: fire damage restoration experts

In this article, we have discussed grill fires and the steps that you can take to prevent them. We have also covered what to do if a grill fire does occur and how to minimize the damage caused by the fire.

Once the fire is extinguished, you will need to assess the damage. If the fire was small and contained to the grill, you may be able to clean the grill and continue using it. However, if the fire caused extensive damage, you should contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of North Bethesda. We'll make your property "Like it never even happened."

Apartment Odor Removal: 2 Safe Methods For Your Property

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 to help combat the toughest apartment odors!

Our experts can take care of your apartment odor removal, so your next tenants move into a fresh-smelling space!

No one enjoys living in a smelly apartment, but unpleasant smells can sometimes be challenging to remove. Don't worry, though—professional odor removal services can help! They will use special equipment and techniques to eliminate the smell and leave your apartment smelling fresh and clean.

If you're a property manager, you must be aware of the options for odor removal. This way, you can quickly and easily eliminate unpleasant smells in your apartment complex. Keep reading to learn more about professional odor removal services.

4 types of smells that require professional apartment odor removal

The odor from pet urine

If you have tenants with pets, be aware that pet urine can sometimes cause unpleasant smells; act quickly if you notice this smell in any area of your apartment complex. Professional odor removal services can help eliminate the smell and prevent it from returning so that your next tenant doesn't have any issues when they arrive.

The odor from mold and mildew

Mold and mildew can sometimes cause an apartment to smell musty. If you notice any areas in your apartment complex that have a musty smell, it's vital to have them professionally cleaned as soon as possible. The poor air circulation and the damp environment combined with the mold will cause your entire apartment to smell musty. If you don't want mold or mildew in your house, hire professional odor removal services.

The odor from cigarette smoke

Removing the smell of cigarette smoke can be challenging. If you have tenants who smoke cigarettes, be aware that the odor can linger long after they've finished smoking. Ozone therapy—often called air filtration or air purification—can help you eliminate the cigarette smoke in your home and make it smell fresh and clean.

Odor from cooking

Cooking odors can sometimes be difficult to remove, especially if the apartment doesn't have proper ventilation. If you notice any areas in your apartment complex that smell like cooking odors, it's vital to have them professionally cleaned as soon as possible. Cooking odors can be removed by professional odor removal services, leaving your home smelling fresh.

Odors leftover from a fire

If there's been a fire in your apartment complex, it's crucial to have the area professionally cleaned as soon as possible. The next tenant will appreciate the fresh smell of your apartment after these odors have been professionally eliminated.

The 2 methods we use when eliminating odors

Dry fogging

The two main methods for professional apartment odor removal are dry fogging and ozone therapy. Dry fogging is a process that uses a fine mist to eliminate odors. The haze will attach to the odor particles and break them down, leaving your apartment with a fresh smell. This is a safe and effective method that we can use on various odors.

Ozone therapy

Ozone therapy, also called air filtration or air purification, is another popular method for apartment odor removal. This process uses ozone to eliminate odors. Ozone is a gas that is produced when oxygen molecules are broken down. When we use ozone to eliminate odors, it will attach to the odor particles and break them down. This is a straightforward approach that may be utilized on several different smells.

Trust SERVPRO of North Bethesda with your apartment odor removal!

When it comes to apartment odor removal, there are a few different methods that you can use. Professional odor removal services can eliminate unpleasant smells in your apartment using dry fogging or ozone therapy. These methods are safe and effective and will leave your apartment smelling fresh and clean.

If you have any areas in your apartment complex that smell terrible, trust SERVPRO of North Bethesda to eliminate the odor—we're always here to help! Reach out via our contact page today.

Disaster Recovery Plan: Helpful Advice From the #1 Team

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Our Emergency Ready Plans help streamlines the insurance claim process.

A disaster recovery plan helps when your property experiences flood or fire damage.

Disasters can happen at any time, and it's essential to have a disaster recovery plan in place in case of an emergency. Your disaster recovery plan should include:

• Evacuation routes.
• A list of contacts.
• Information on how to restore your business operations after a disaster.

Make sure you update your plan regularly and practice it with your team, so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

This article will detail why a disaster recovery plan is important, what's typically included in a disaster recovery plan, and how the disaster restoration specialists at SERVPRO can help.

What is a disaster recovery plan, and why do you need one?

A disaster recovery plan is a documented action plan outlining how a business will recover from a disaster. It's important to have one in place in case of an emergency, as it can help you get your business back up and running quickly.

Here at SERVPRO, we call these profiles the Emergency Ready Plan (ERP). We offer these assessments at no cost so that you and your property can be ready in the event of a disaster!

What should be included in your disaster recovery plan

Your disaster recovery plan should include a list of contacts, evacuation routes, and information on how to restore your business operations. Make sure you update your plan regularly and practice it with your team so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency like a flood or fire.

Some other things commonly included in a disaster recovery plan include:

• A list of critical systems and how to restore them
• Procedures for notifying employees, customers, and suppliers
• Facility information like circuit breakers and shut-off valves
• Building access information, including all windows and exits

Benefits of using a disaster recovery plan

Critical information all in one place. 

An ERP provides a central place to store all of your critical information so that it's readily available in the event of an emergency. This information includes contact information for key personnel, insurance policy numbers, and evacuation routes.

Minimize downtime

By having a disaster recovery plan in place, you can minimize the amount of downtime after a disaster. In addition, you will have a plan of action to follow to get your business back up and running quickly.

Reduce stress.

In the event of a disaster, having a disaster recovery plan can help reduce stress. You will know what needs to be done to get your business back up and running.

Streamlined insurance claims

If you have a disaster recovery plan in place, it can help streamline your insurance claims because you will have all of the necessary documentation and information readily available.

How SERVPRO can help with disaster recovery

SERVPRO is a nationwide provider of disaster restoration services. We have extensive experience in helping businesses recover from disasters and can help you get your business back up and running quickly.

Our disaster restoration services include water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, storm damage restoration, and mold remediation. We also offer emergency response services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you need help with disaster recovery, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!

Call SERVPRO of North Bethesda for your Emergency Ready Plan!

Having a disaster recovery plan in place can help you minimize downtime after a disaster. SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plans make sure your local SERVPRO franchise has the correct information on hand if your property requires any of our expert restoration services.

Whenever disaster strikes, you can count on the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda to make your property "Like it never even happened." So give us a call or reach out via our contact page to get started today!

4 Signs of Roof Storm Damage & Our Restoration Process

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when for all roof storm damage services!

Roof storm damage can lead to issues with water damage if not handled properly.

When severe weather hits, roof storm damage is often one of the first types of calls we receive. A roof that isn't adequately secured can have parts ripped off or blown away, leaving your home's interior exposed to the elements.

In addition to the roof damage, rain and wind entering your home can damage ceilings, walls, and insulation. If you experience roof storm damage, it's essential to take immediate action to protect your property and avoid further damage.

This article will discuss what roof storm damage looks like, the steps you should take as a property owner, and the storm damage restoration process.

What is roof storm damage?

Roof storm damage can be difficult to spot, especially if the roof is covered in snow or ice during the winter. However, there are a few signs that you can look for:

• Missing or broken roof tiles
• Debris on the roof or in the yard
• Damaged gutters or downspouts
• Water stains on the ceilings or walls

What causes roof storm damage?

Roof storm damage can be caused by several factors, including high winds, rain, and hail. When these elements combine, they can create a powerful storm that can damage roofs and other parts of your home.

1. Hail can cause roof storm damage by denting or cracking roof tiles. If the roof is made of metal, hail can cause the roof to rust.
2. High winds can cause roof shingles to lift and blow away, leaving your home's interior exposed to the elements. Additionally, debris from trees and other structures can damage your roof during a storm.
3. Rain can also cause roof storm damage, especially if there is a lot of water build-up on the roof. This can happen during hurricanes or other severe storms.

The storm damage restoration process

The storm damage restoration process can be long and complicated, but taking action as soon as possible is crucial to avoid further damage.

If you have roof storm damage, the first step is to file an insurance claim. Be prepared to provide photos of the damage.

The next step is to find a reputable roofing contractor to repair or replace your roof. Get multiple estimates and check references before hiring someone.

Once you've found a roofing contractor, they will work to repair or replace your roof. This process can take several weeks, depending on the extent of the damage.

After your roof has been repaired or replaced, you'll need to have the rest of your home inspected for damage, including the ceilings, walls, and insulation.

If there is water damage, you'll need to hire a water damage expert like SERVPRO of North Bethesda to make the repairs. Water damage restoration includes removing the water, cleaning and drying the affected areas, and making necessary repairs. Plus, these experts can help identify and minimize any risk for mold growth within your property.

What about insurance for roof storm damage?

Most policies will cover roof storm damage, but it's important to read your policy carefully to ensure you are covered. Some policies may only cover roof damage from a named storm, while others may have a deductible that you will need to pay before your coverage kicks in.

If you have roof storm damage, the first step is to file an insurance claim. Be prepared to provide photos of the damage. Your insurance company will then send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine what needs to be repaired or replaced.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda is here to help when you've got roof storm damage!

In this article, we have discussed what roof storm damage is, the causes, and the restoration process. We also talked about homeowners insurance and how to file a claim. 

Remember, quick action when you have roof storm damage can minimize the risk of further damage to your property. Mold can grow if you don't deal with water intrusion promptly, so make sure you contact the experts as soon as you notice an issue!

If you have experienced roof storm damage, please don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of North Bethesda via our contact page. We have experience with insurance claims and can help get your home "Like it never even happened."

Carpet Water Damage 101: Simple Recovery With Expert Help!

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for 24/7 emergency services!

Restoring carpet water damage depends on the type of water that enters your home.

Water damage can be a real pain to deal with; not only does the damage take time and money to repair, but the water can also lead to mold and bacteria growth.

In the worst cases, water damage can even lead to structural damage to your home.

Water damage restoration is a must if you're unlucky enough to experience this type of damage. This article will outline how the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda handle carpet water damage and provide information about when you need a replacement carpet.

What is water damage?

Water damage can be any damage caused by water, including water from a leaky roof or pipe, flooding, or even an overflowing sink. Water damage can cause many problems, from ruined furniture to structural damage to your home.

The most common causes of water damage we see are:

• Leaking or burst pipes
• Heavy rains and flooding
• Overflowing sinks, toilets, or bathtubs
• leaks in the roof or walls

What are the categories of water damage?

There are three categories of water damage:

• Category 1: This is the least harmful category of water damage and includes water from a clean source, such as a leaking faucet or roof.
• Category 2: This category has more contaminants than Category 1 and is water from a dirty source, such as water from dishwashers or washing machines.
• Category 3: This is the most harmful category of water damage and includes highly contaminated water, such as floodwater containing sewage.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda handles carpet water damage

If you're unlucky enough to experience carpet water damage, it's essential to know what to do. The experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda are specially trained to handle carpet water damage and can quickly assess and repair the damage.

In most cases, the first step is to remove the water. Restoration experts can do this with a shop vac or special extraction equipment.

Once the water has been removed, the carpet will need to be dried. This is done with a combination of fans and dehumidifiers.

Once the carpet is dry, it will be cleaned and disinfected. In some cases, damaged carpet may need to be replaced.

When do you need to replace your carpet after water damage?

There are three primary instances when you will likely need to replace your carpet after water damage.

The first two relate to the type of water that caused the carpet water damage in the first place. If the water belongs to category 2 or category 3, you'll likely need replacement carpeting. Replacement is often required because the water that caused the damage has bacteria; disinfection is usually more costly than replacement.

The last instance when carpet water damage requires replacement is whenever there's mold growth on or under the carpet. Mold can grow after twenty-four hours; after this amount of time, there's a good chance you'll need a replacement carpet. We often see mold issues when people discover carpet water damage after returning from vacation when there's plenty of time for mold growth. Our expertise is invaluable in restoring the property to its previous condition.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: let us help with your carpet water damage!

If you're unlucky enough to experience carpet water damage, it's important to know what to do. The experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda are specially trained to handle carpet water damage and can quickly assess and repair the damage.

In most cases, the first step is to remove the water. Then, we ensure the moisture levels are back to normal with a combination of dehumidifiers and fans. Finally, we clean the carpet, so it's back to its previous condition, "Like it never even happened."

Sometimes, in the worst-case scenario, your carpet needs replacement. We can help you determine if that's the case.

The bottom line: if you experience carpet water damage, call SERVPRO of North Bethesda! We're here to help 24/7, 365 days a year.

Restaurant Water Damage: 4 Useful Steps for Recovery

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for fast restaurant water damage services!

Recover quickly from restaurant water damage with help from the professionals at SERVPRO of North Bethesda!

Water damage can be a significant problem for restaurant owners. Not only is it unsightly and can cause structural damage, but it can also lead to the growth of mold and bacteria.

It's essential to have a plan in place to deal with any potential emergencies to protect your restaurant from water damage. This plan should include having a water damage restoration company on standby in case of any restaurant water damage.

This article will outline the steps you should take in the event of restaurant water damage and provide tips on how to prevent water damage from occurring in the first place.

Steps for restaurant water damage

1. The first step is to identify the source of the water damage. It can be anything from a broken water pipe to heavy rain or flooding. After determining the water's origin, it's crucial to take action to stop the flow of water.
2. The next step is to assess the damage. This step includes looking at the extent of the water damage and determining what can be salvaged. It's essential to evaluate the damage quickly, as mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes.
3. The third step is to begin the restoration process. Water damage restoration includes using industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry the affected area. Follow the guidelines of a professional restoration company to ensure that the restaurant is restored correctly.
4. The fourth and final step is to prevent future water damage. You can do this by ensuring that all restaurant pipes are in good working condition and regularly inspecting the restaurant for any potential water damage.

Following these steps will help restaurant owners deal with restaurant water damage effectively and efficiently.

Restaurant water damage causes

There are a few common causes of restaurant water damage, the most common being a broken water pipe. If you have a plumbing emergency, it's crucial to shut off the water immediately and call a professional. Other causes of restaurant water damage include severe weather, leaks in the restaurant roof, and faulty restaurant appliances.

Consequences of restaurant water damage

Water damage can have several consequences for restaurant owners, the most serious is extensive structural damage. Water can also cause the growth of mold and bacteria, which can lead to sanitation issues within the property. In addition, restaurant water damage can lead to losses in revenue as a result of the closure of the restaurant.

Preventing restaurant water damage

There are a few steps that restaurant owners can take to prevent water damage from occurring. The first step is regularly inspecting the restaurant for any potential water damage, including checking pipes for leaks and inspecting the roof for any leaks or damage. The second step is to have a plan in place for dealing with water damage, including having a water damage restoration company on standby in case of an emergency. Finally, it's essential to maintain restaurant appliances to prevent water damage.

By following these steps, restaurant owners can effectively prevent restaurant water damage.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: we can help with your restaurant water damage!

Restaurant water damage can occur in various ways, the most common being a broken water pipe. If water is not quickly and adequately cleaned up, it can cause extensive damage to your restaurant property. 

Have a plan for dealing with restaurant water damage, including having a restoration company on standby.

If you discover restaurant water damage on your property, give the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda a call. We're always here to help, and our water damage restoration team can get your business up and running "Like it never even happened."

Recover From Your Kitchen Fire: Our Effective 7 Step Process

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals for fast fire damage restoration services!

SERVPRO of North Bethesda’s fire damage restoration team is here for you!

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires. While a kitchen fire can be small and quickly extinguished, others can cause extensive damage. In order to minimize the risk of kitchen fires, it is crucial to understand their causes and take the necessary precautions.

If your home does experience a kitchen fire, SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration experts can help you get your life back to “Like it never even happened.”

This article will discuss the causes of kitchen fires and how SERVPRO can help you recover from fire damage.

Common Causes of Kitchen Fires

There are many potential causes of kitchen fires. Some of the most common include:

• Unattended cooking: Stay in the kitchen while cooking. If you must leave, turn off the stove.
• Grease build-up: Grease and oil can easily catch fire. Keep your stovetop clean and free of grease build-up.
• Electrical issues: Faulty wiring or appliances can cause an electrical fire in your kitchen. Be sure to have your wiring and appliances regularly inspected.

What to do in a kitchen fire

If you find yourself facing a kitchen fire, the most important thing to do is stay calm. Turn off any appliances or sources of heat if possible, and use your fire extinguisher to smother the flames. If the fire is too large to extinguish, evacuate the premises immediately and call 911.

Never pour water on a grease fire. Doing so will only make the fire worse. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or cover the fire with a pot lid to smother it. You could also extinguish the flames with salt, but never use flour or baking powder—these can make the fire worse.

Preventing kitchen fires

There are several steps you can take to prevent kitchen fires, including:

• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Keep your stovetop clean and free of grease build-up
• Regularly inspect your wiring and appliances
• Install a smoke alarm in your kitchen

Additionally, keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen can help you quickly put out a fire before it has a chance to spread.

What happens after a kitchen fire goes out?

Once the kitchen fire has been extinguished, you will be left with fire damage, including smoke damage, water damage from firefighting efforts, and structural damage. The good news is that there are professional fire damage restoration companies that can help you recover from a kitchen fire. They will have the experience and expertise to assess the damage and develop a restoration plan. With their help, you can get your kitchen back to normal.

SERVPRO’s Fire Damage Restoration Process

If your home experiences fire damage, SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration experts are here to help. We have the training and expertise necessary to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Our fire damage restoration process includes the following steps:

1. Inspection and assessment: We will inspect your home to determine the extent of the fire damage.
2. Board-up and tarp-over: To prevent further damage, we will board up any damaged windows, doors, or other openings. We may also tarp over any damaged roofs.
3. Water removal and drying: If your home has suffered water damage from firefighting efforts, we will remove the water and dry your home.
4. Smoke and soot removal: We will remove any smoke or soot from your home using specialized equipment and techniques.
5. Odor removal: We will use air scrubbers and foggers to remove any lingering odors from your home.
6. Cleaning and sanitizing: We will clean and sanitize all surfaces in your home.
7. Restoration: We will repair any fire-damaged areas of your home.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: We can help you recover from your kitchen fire!

Kitchen fires are a common occurrence, but you can prevent them by taking the necessary precautions. During a kitchen fire, remember to stay calm and follow these simple steps:

• Turn off any appliances or sources of heat if possible.
• Use your fire extinguisher to smother the flames.
• Evacuate the premises immediately.
• Call 911.

Once the fire has been extinguished, you will be left with fire damage. SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration experts are here to help. We have the training and experience necessary to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. So give us a call today, and let us help you recover from your kitchen fire!

Contents Restoration 101: Expert Recovery From Disaster

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO to have your contents professionally restored after damages!

Let our expert contents restoration team get your life back to how it was!

Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere. A natural disaster such as a tornado or hurricane can destroy homes and businesses in minutes. A fire can ravage an entire building in a matter of hours. And floods can damage everything in their path for days on end.

When disaster strikes, the first order of business is to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. Once everyone is safe, you can begin the process of contents restoration—a process by which your personal belongings and furnishings are restored to their preloss condition.

In this article, we'll look at contents restoration after a disaster, including the steps you need to take and the things you need to consider.

What is contents restoration?

Contents restoration is the process of cleaning, repairing, and restoring your personal belongings and furnishings after a disaster. "Contents" can include clothing, electronics, furniture, art, and more.

Contents restoration is vital because it can help you salvage some of your most prized possessions and sentimental items. It can also help you get your life back to normal as quickly as possible after a disaster.

What does a contents restoration company do?

A contents restoration company will work with you to inventory all of your damaged belongings and create a plan for their restoration. They will also work with your insurance company to ensure all of your damages are covered.

Contents restoration companies can usually provide an estimate of how long the process will take and what it will cost.

Contents restoration after a disaster can be a difficult and time-consuming process, but with the help of a professional contents restoration company, you can rest assured that your belongings will be handled with care and returned to you as soon as possible.

The contents restoration process

The contents restoration process usually begins with an inventory of all damaged belongings. This inventory is then used to create a plan for restoring these items. The contents restoration company will also work with your insurance company to ensure all of your damages are covered.

Once the inventory and plan are in place, the contents restoration company will begin the process of cleaning, repairing, and restoring your belongings—it's also known as a "pack-out." This step can be lengthy, but the contents restoration company will keep you updated on their progress and let you know when your belongings are ready to be returned.

Frequently, contents restoration companies take your belongings off-site to their facility for deep cleaning. This measure allows them to work more quickly and efficiently, and it also helps prevent further damage to your belongings.

Once the contents restoration process is complete, your belongings will be returned to you, usually within a few weeks. This step is often called the "pack-in." However, in some cases, contents restoration can take months, depending on the severity of the damage.

What to consider when choosing a contents restoration company

When you're looking for a contents restoration company, it's essential to choose one that is experienced and has a good reputation. You should also make sure the contents restoration company is licensed and insured.

It's also a good idea to ask for referrals from friends or family who have used a contents restoration company in the past.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda can help with your contents restoration!

Contents restoration can help return your belongings to the way they were before regardless of the disaster—whether it's a fire, a flood, or a severe storm. With the help of a professional contents restoration company like SERVPRO of North Bethesda, you can rest assured that your belongings will be handled with care and returned to you as soon as possible after a disaster.

Give us a call today or reach out via our contact page if your property has suffered from a disaster. Our expert team can get your home and belongings back to the way they were before the event, making your life "Like it never even happened."