Water Damage In Greenbrier

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

If your home has water damage call the professionals at SERVPRO

Water damage is traumatic, often to homeowners as much as their house. The first time you see the water damage  is a shock; you may not know where to start in repairing it. However, there are steps you can take in the immediate time after a flood, burst pipe, or other damage that will make it easier to repair your home and move on with your life. 

1. Stop the influx of water. You cannot repair water damage while water is still entering your home. If there is a pipe leak or other repair issue, turn off the water supply and have the problem repaired. If the damage is from a storm or flood, use sand bags or other ways of reducing the water. In some cases, people have to wait out the deluge when water damage is caused by a natural disaster. 

2. Call your insurance company. It is important to know from the beginning what types of water damage your insurance company covers, as well as whether they will cover water removal and other services. Even if this is not an incident covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, your insurance agent can still offer you advice. 

3. Dry out your home. Standing water and wet upholstery can breed dangerous microbes in just 24 hours, so fast water removal is crucial to your future health. Mop or use a wet vac, bag up clothing and textiles, and throw away things like mattresses that hold moisture and cannot easily be cleaned. Open all windows and turn on fans. This will limit the growth of mold and bacteria while also limiting your exposure to whatever microbes are already present. 

4. Call in the experts. Call professional mold inspectors who can look for remaining water in areas where it hides and immediately dry it out.

Water damage can be successfully dealt with if you immediately remove water where you can see it and have an expert deal with it where you can’t. Soon you will be once again enjoying a safe and dry home.

Water Damage Restoration

Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We respond to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup needs. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. Common causes of water damage are: 

• Flooding caused by severe weather
• Plumbing leaks
• Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow
• Sewage backup

Storm Damage in Dickson

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you have any damage from a storm give SERVPRO a call

Not only are you faced with a frightening event most times, but as soon as the storm fades you are faced with unpleasant and unwanted damage. At SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties our goal is to make the restoration process as seamless and straightforward as possible. Our teams are equipped with the knowledge and certifications to complete the necessary restoration with as little disruption as possible.

From the moment that we receive the first call regarding storm damage to your home or business to the moment that we arrive on site to meet with the home or business owner and begin the restoration process our focus is on the customer. Our onsite professionals will explain the process and ensure that you are informed throughout the duration.

If you find yourself in need of restoration call the professionals at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. We are always here to help and ensure that your home or business is brought back to its previous condition.

Estimate First

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to get an estimate first if your house has a small damage

If your home or business ever experiences a water or fire damage its extremely important to get an estimate before you do anything else. The reason for this is to make sure a claim needs to be filed or not. One of the biggest mistakes you can make after a damage is to immediately file an insurance claim without having a restoration professional give you an estimate.

For example, Mrs. Smith had a small water damage in her bathroom. She immediately filed a claim with her insurance company then began the restoration process. The problem with this is that the job was so small the estimate was less then what she paid for her deductible. Had she called a restoration company first and gotten an estimate she would have never had to file a claim. Not only would she have saved money but she would have no record of filing a claim, which will be in her advantage when its time for renewals.

Obviously, there is a time when an estimate isn't necessary on the front end. If you come home from vacation and you entire house is flooded that would be a situation in which you would want to get the work started as soon as possible. The estimate would definitely for exceed the deductible in that situation. Next time you have a minor damage at your home or business make sure you get an estimate before directly filing a claim!     

Proper Drying

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Flood cuts, air movers and a desiccant help dry out a commercial building.

Drying out your home or place of business after a water damage can save you money and a lot of headaches. Not drying out your home or place of business can be costly and hurt one's property value. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties has the drying process down to a science. 

This industrial warehouse had a busted pipe causing water to affect a lot of rooms throughout. The loss happened on a Friday night and we were needed to get started as soon as possible. A significant amount of water affected much of the building. The picture shows our drying equipment along with flood cuts made into the drywall for proper drying. 

When dealing with an unexpected emergency water damage at a small home or large commercial building, trust that professionals at SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Summer Storms

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

If you house is affected by a storm reach out to your local SERVPRO

When most people think of summer they think of warm weather and lake days. While those are all positives there are some negative sides of the summer season. Summer brings a higher percentage of thunderstorms. In the summer, thunderstorms typically develop in the afternoon when the sun heats air near the ground. If the atmosphere is unstable, bubbles of warm air will rise and produce clouds, precipitation, and eventually lightning. This blog will focus on the three ingredients that cause a thunderstorm.

Moisture 

Without moisture there would be no thunderstorms. In the summertime, most areas of the United States have sufficient moisture to generate thunderstorms if the other ingredients are present. 

Atmospheric Stability 

Rising air is needed to produce clouds, and rapidly rising air is needed to produce thunderstorms. For air to rise rapidly, it must become buoyant compared to the surrounding air. When the atmosphere is unstable, air near the ground can become buoyant and rise rapidly through the atmosphere.

Trigger in Atmosphere 

This may be some sort of boundary such as a front, heating caused by the sun, or cooling aloft. Once a thunderstorm has developed, it will continue to generate boundaries that can trigger additional storms.   

Fast Response Time

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

A fast response time can save money during restoration

There are many different qualities your restoration company should excel in. The most common ones are industry knowledge, communication, and reliability. If you stay consistent in these specific lanes each job will go smooth. However, there is another big quality that doesn't get talked about enough in the restoration field. That is response time. This measures how fast a restoration company can get onsite from the initial call.

A fast response time can be the difference of thousands of dollars of damage. Here is an example. Customer 1 had a water damage in their kitchen that affected the hardwood floor. They called SERVPRO for emergency services. Because of our fast response time we were able to stop the leak quickly and immediately place equipment to facilitate drying. We were able to save the hardwood floors because of the fast response time.

Customer 2 did not directly call SERVPRO. They called 3 different companies and wanted estimates before any work was to be done. By the time this process took place their hardwood floor began to buckle. Because of this their hardwood couldn't be restored and needed to be removed and replaced. This could potentially cost three times as much as restoring the original hardwood.

When deciding on which restoration vendor to use for your home or business make sure you ask about their response time. Although it might seem like a minor quality it can save you a lot of time and stress during a damage.   

Benefits of Commercial Air Duct Cleanings

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Having your air ducts cleaned is a great benefit to your home or business

During this time of year its important that your HVAC unit is operating properly. There is nothing worse then waking up in the middle of the night sweating because your air conditioner isn't working. This can also be a major issue on the commercial side. This blog will focus on the benefits of having you commercial air ducts cleaned regularly.

• Better air quality: You want the air in your commercial building to always be fresh and clean. When your ducts are dirty, they're lowering the air quality in your space. 
• Reduces fire risk from clogged air ducts: When you run the heat in the colder months, heated air moves through your air ducts. This heat has the potential to cause a fire if the air ducts are too dirty. You don't want to put your employees or commercial building at risk with a fire hazard. 
• Increase the energy efficiency of your HVAC system: It seems like each year the cost of your utility bills increases. When your ducts are clean, the air passes more easily through them. The system doesn't need to work as hard to push the air, and this can lower your electric and gas bills, depending on the type of heating. 
• Lowers the number of employee call-outs due to illness: It's no secret that pollutants in the air create poor air quality. Your employees may experience more allergies or breathing problems when the air quality is lower, meaning that they stay home while they get better. With improved air quality, you might see the number of people missing work begin to lower. 
• Removes or reduces unpleasant odors: Does your commercial building have a smell that you can't get rid of? It might be because the source is inside your air duct system. Cleaning the air ducts on a regular schedule helps airflow more properly throughout your building and minimizes any unpleasant scents.

Tornado Watch vs Tornado Warning

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

It's important to understand the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado watch.

With spring storms in full effect I thought it would be a good idea to create a blog that dives down to the difference between a tornado watch vs a tornado warning. These terms get thrown around quite a bit during this time so I think its important to have an understanding on the difference.

The best example I've heard that shows how they differ is to think of it in cooking terms. Instead of using the term tornado we will use tacos. A taco warning means all the ingredients are there but there are no tacos yet. Meaning you have a shell, meat, and toppings all separate but they are available. 

A taco watch meaning all the ingredients are put together and the taco is here and ready to be eaten. This same comparison is true for a tornado warning. 

Important Qualities in Water Restoration

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

If your house or business has any type of damage call SERVPRO.

This blog will focus on a few qualities that anyone in the restoration field should consider. This industry is fast paced and always changing. Its important to know what your doing, but also be open to trying new techniques.

Communication

Whether you are a technician in the field, or working on the office side of things, communication is key. Make sure everyone knows their job and how to do it. Also, make sure all the stakeholders on the job are updated daily on progress and what to expect next.   

Training

Just because you have been in restoration for years doesn't mean you should stop sharpening your skills. There are numerous classes and certificates that can be obtained to help you increase your knowledge and skill. 

Documentation 

If you don't document it, it never happened. We live by that statement at our office. Everything you do on a job site needs to be documented. This also circles back to communication. If the documentation is good for a job everything else will go smooth with it.   

When Storms Hit Hendersonville SERVPRO is Ready

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

If your Hendersonville home has storm damage please give SERVPRO a call

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 615-672-1905.

Water Damage in Ashland City

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is Ashland City is affected by water damage give SERVPRO of Cheatham county a call

If your home is flooded, then you need to spring into action. It is important that water removal is accomplished in a timely manner to prevent damage to your home. There are other problems that water causes such as unhealthy indoor air quality. You can physically remove wet items and carry them outdoors to dry. A large fan will help with water removal in Ashland City, Springfield, Dickson White House and Greenbrier to dry items faster. High humidity levels can affect every member of your family in a negative manner. If you have family members with respiratory problems, then it is important that you get rid of excess water. 

Consider hiring a company that specializes in water damage. They will bring professional equipment that will dry your home faster. This is important to prevent damage to your floors, walls and ceilings. Protect yourself and your family by wearing a respiratory mask while cleaning up after water damage. Throw away items that have been saturated with water such as mattresses, rugs and carpets. 

Water damage can also occur due to damaged water or sewer lines. If the sewer has backed up into your home, you must take steps to prevent bacteria from entering your home. Consult a professional water damage company for best results. Consult with your insurance agent to find out what items are covered. Some homeowner's policies do not cover damage due to flooding or other disasters. Prepare ahead of a disaster by storing items such as canned foods and important papers inside plastic containers and bags. Important information such as insurance policies should also be protected. 

If your area weather station is reporting possible flooding in your area, then you should unplug all appliances. Turn the electricity off before you vacate the premises. It is important to prepare ahead for natural disasters that can catch you off-guard. Make sure all family members know what to do in case of an emergency. Never use your household vacuum to remove excess water. A professional water damage company has equipment to remove water safely and efficiently. Contact a professional before an emergency situation unfolds in front of you and your family.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties proudly serves Springfield, Dickson, White House, Ashland City, Greenbrier, Pleasant View and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or business. 

Growing Repairs Division

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Not only will we perform the mitigation but we can do the repair work as well

Did you know that when you have a damage in your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home, mitigation and repairs are two separate estimates and divisions? Did you know that you have a choice in the contractor that you choose to hire? Did you know that not all mitigation companies and/or franchise locations have a repairs division? These are all great questions to ask when choosing your service provider.

Per insurance standards all mitigation and repairs are treated as separate portions of the claims process. Once the materials are dry from water or cleaned and prepped after a fire the repairs process can begin. Although all Sumner County homeowners have an option to choose the contractor of their choice for the repairs portion of the claim, we find that many residents and business owners like the ease of once company completing both services.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County has a remarkable repairs division that can complete the repairs process for you. We hold a contractor’s license in the state of Tennessee and have awesome staff that are here to answer any questions that you may have throughout the process. Call our office today at 615-672-1905 for more information regarding our construction division.

Just had a water damage. Now What?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Tips while waiting for help to arrive

If you just walked into your home and business and found standing water this blog is for you. These emergency tips will help you take the proper action until we arrive on the scene. These tips can help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

Water Damage from Clean Water:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical hazards.
• Don't use a household vacuum to remove water. This could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum.

Water Damage from Contaminated Water (i.e. Sewage, Outside Water, etc.)

• Avoid all contact with sewage and any items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through damaged or wet areas. This could increase the possibility of spreading contamination.
• Do not use the HVAC system or fans to dry the structure, as this could spread contaminated air.
• Do not use any products for personal hygiene or cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

What to look for in a restoration company?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is IICRC certified

When choosing a restoration to help out with damage its important to verify what you are looking for. For some people the response time time is key, while others might look for the cheapest cost. There are many different factors that go into to choosing the right company for the job. This blog will focus on the most important reason to call SERVPRO to help with your damage. 

There are many restoration companies to choose from when looking for someone to mitigate your home from damages. Unfortunately, not all of those restoration companies hold a certification with the IICRC. When making such a big decision regarding your restoration company you always want to ensure that they are certified with the IICRC and follow industry standards. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is a certification and standard-setting organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries.

Ensuring that you have chosen a company that has these certifications ensures that you are being provided the highest quality concepts, terminology and procedures recognized in the restoration industry.

Luckily SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is IICRC Certified and ready for whatever happens. If you are in need of restoration services call our office at 615-672-1905.

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial air duct cleanings can greatly improve your building

When it comes to commercial buildings there is a lot of routine maintenance that must be done to keep the facility up and running. Various cleanings and inspections are done throughout the year to ensure employees are happy as well the building remains safe. One service that often gets over looked in commercial facilities is air duct cleanings. This blog will focus on two benefits of having the air ducts cleaned at your commercial building regularly.

Indoor Air Quality

One of the best ways to keep employees happy and productive is to make sure the environment that they are working in has good clean air. By cleaning air ducts regularly, it will provide your employees a safe and clean place to work. It can also eliminate allergies.

Saves Money

An air duct cleaning can potentially save the life of your HVAC unit, which in return saves you money in the long run. A unit that is clean will not have to work as hard as a unit that is dirty. 

If you own a commercial building and are interested in an air duct cleaning please reach out for free estimate! 

Uncommon Fires

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

The most common types of fires that we have to clean up come from cooking, smoking, and electrical issues. However, there are many other reasons that can lead to fires This blog will focus on some of the uncommon fire we have had to clean up over the years.

Microwaves

Microwaves - especially out-of-date models - are one of the most common sources of house fires. Accidentally microwaving a piece of silverware or aluminum foil can cause arcing, and dry foods can easily ignite if cooked for too long. To make matters worse, the fan can also provide oxygen to feed the flames, which is why you should never leave a microwave unattended when in use. 

Batteries

While battery-related fires are rare, they do happen. 9-volt batteries are especially hazardous, since the positive and negative posts are so close together. If a piece of conductive metal comes between those posts, it could cause a short, igniting any nearby combustible materials. The best option is to store unused batteries in their original packaging, or to cover the ends with a bit of electrical tape. Never store batteries in a drawer with loose metal or flammable objects. 

Light Bulbs

All outlets are rated for a certain wattage, and use light bulbs that exceed those standards is a fire waiting to happen. If the outlet is unmarked, the safest course of action is to choose light bulbs that are 60 watts or below. If your home includes track or recessed lighting, consider using cooler LED bulbs instead of CFLs in order to avoid overheating. 

Dryer Lint

Every year, more than 15,000 fires are caused by dryer lint. Lint traps do not catch the majority of lint, which means that most of it ends up in the dryer vents, blocking air flow and exhaust gasses and eventually becoming a serious fire hazard. Clean the lint trap between each load of laundry, and take the time to clear lint away from the vent and the back of the dryer at least once a month. 

Laptops

Laptops heat up during regular use, and covering up their cooling vents can result in overheating and even a Springfield fire. Avoid leaving your laptop on the bed, couch, or any other surface that might block air flow. 

Reading Materials

Newspapers, magazines, books, and paperwork can easily ignite if stored too close to a heat source. Always store reading materials on a shelf or in another cool, dry place, and consider tossing out anything that you won't use again so that it doesn't become a hazard in the future. 

Heating Pads

Heating pads and electrical blankets that are old, damaged, or improperly used can pose a significant risk to your home and your safety. Replace any pads that have missing covers, tears, cracks, or exposed wires. Avoid bunching pads up during use, and never fall asleep with a heating pad turned on - many older models do not have an auto-off setting, which can lead to serious burns.

Charcoal

Barbecue charcoal is highly flammable, even when it's damp. The best way to store charcoal is to keep it inside a metal container with an air-tight lid, so that if a fire does start, it won't be able to spread. Keep charcoal in an area that isn't exposed to sunlight or moisture, such as a shed or outdoor storage unit. 

Clutter

Assorted clutter is a surprisingly common source of household fires. Combustible materials that are stored near light fixtures or electrical outlets can easily ignite; clutter in the bedroom is especially dangerous since it gives you less time to react to a potential fire. Avoid stacking clothing or paperwork in a closet with light bulbs, and vacuum regularly so that flammable dust doesn't accumulate around sockets and light fixtures. 

Old Appliances

Old and outdated appliances are a major fire hazard, even if appear to be functioning properly. Many older appliances do not have the built-in safety features that come with modern models, and pieces may wear out or break down over time with regular use. Check old appliances regularly for worn insulation, exposed wiring, or malfunctioning components.

How To Prepare for a Strom Event

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Its never too early to prepare for a storm

Preparing For a Storm Event 

Storms can happen unexpectedly and can be extremely dangerous. Its very important to be prepared form a storm long before it occurs. This blog will focus on ways you and your family can be ready for the next storm event. 

Knowing your risk is a key part of ensuring you are prepared for weather hazards that arise. Always ensure that you are checking your local weather forecast before leaving home. You can also follow weather patterns and possible threats on all forms of social media.

Planning for weather hazards, such as tornado, flood or lightning strike to your home is an essential part of preparedness. Assemble an emergency kit with non-perishable food items, water and basic first aid supplies to ensure that your family is taken care of in case of emergency. Also ensure that your family has an emergency plan in case of evacuation, loss of power or fire. 

If you find yourself with damage to your home from spring weather hazards SERVPRO is here to help. From water damage to fire damage, you can count on our highly skilled project managers and staff to restore your property and ensure that it is back to normal as quickly as possible.

Air Quality in Commercial Buildings

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Air duct cleanings can help improve indoor air quality

Air quality is an important aspect of every building or home. It affects health, production, and income. This blog will focus on some tips to improve the air quality in your commercial building. 

1. Vent bathrooms, kitchens, toilets and laundry rooms directly outdoors. Use energy efficient and quiet fans.
2. Avoid locating furnaces, air conditioners and ductwork in garages or other spaces where they can inadvertently draw contaminants into the house.
3. Properly vent fireplaces, wood stoves and other hearth products; use tight doors and outdoor air intakes when possible.
4. Vent clothes dryers and central vacuum cleaners directly outdoors.
5. Store toxic or volatile compounds such as paints, solvents, cleaners and pesticides out of the occupiable space.
6. Minimize or avoid unvented combustion sources such as candles, cigarettes, indoor barbecues, decorative combustion appliances or vent-free heaters.
7. Provide operable windows to accommodate unusual sources or high-polluting events, such as the use of home cleaning products, hobby activities, etc.
8. Use sealed-combustion, power-vented or condensing water heaters and furnaces. When natural-draft applications must be used they should be tested for proper venting and should be located outside the occupiable space when possible.
9. Put a good particle filter or air cleaner in your air handling system to keep dirt out of the air and off of your ductwork and heating and cooling components.
10. Distribute a minimum level of outdoor air throughout the home, using whole-house mechanical ventilation.

For other information or to schedule a HVAC or ductwork cleaning call us today!

Holiday Light Safety

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Holiday lights look great, but can increase your chance of having a fire

Holiday Light Safety

Christmas is upon us and holiday decorations are in full swing. For many home owners, decorating for Christmas is a tradition and something that is enjoyed by many. Whether you only decorate the interior of the home or you decorate both the interior and exterior, decorations and lights certainly add to the splendor of the Christmas season. According to the National Fire Protection Association fire departments responded to an average of 200 homes for structure fires related to Christmas trees between 2011-2015. Avoid Christmas tree and light related fires by following these simple safety tips.

Trees

When purchasing live Christmas trees, check for freshness and try to avoid dry trees. When you are cutting the tree, cut 1-2 inches from the base of the trunk to ensure optimal water absorption. Live trees require plenty of water. Make sure that you are checking the tree daily and watering when needed. If you prefer an artificial tree, ensure that the tag reads “Fire Resistant”. When placing the trees in your home, ensure that they are placed at least 3 feet away from all heat sources.

Lights

Check all lights to ensure that there are no worn or broken cords or loose bulbs. If you find any damage, dispose of the damaged lights and replace. When purchasing lights be sure to check the label that shows whether or not they are for indoor or outdoor use and purchase accordingly. In addition, read the instructions included with the lights. Most recommend that you plug no more than three strands together so that you are not overloading the socket. Last but not least, turn ALL Christmas lights off when going to bed or leaving the home.

If you find yourself with a damage this holiday season, call our office. Our teams will evaluate your damage and give you a clear explanation of the restoration process.

Commercial Water Damage

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier is one of the many pieces of equipment we will use on a commercial water damage

Despite a push to digital, some record keeping must still be done on paper. These documents record valuable city and county information needed for tracing the history of a title, property boundaries, and other legal requirements.

Commercial water removal in Gallatin doesn't stop at pumps and vacuums. Once the standing water has been removed, it is just as important to remove any excess moisture from your property and the air around it. To do this, SERVPRO uses a series of dehumidifiers. This is a very safe way to pull moisture from plat books and other records kept by county offices and construction companies as well as the offices they are kept in.

The most common type we use is a refrigerant dehumidifier. It extracts moisture from the air by condensation. It operates by air flow forced through refrigerated coils. The condensed water is collected in a tray where it is either drained or pumped out of the machine.

Our SERVPRO technicians use this on job sites where the temperature is usually over 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the available power is limited due to local electrical service being down. It is especially effective on surfaces that are moderate to highly porous and permeable to air and water; carpet, carpet padding and drywall for example.

Another machine we use when the temperature is lower is the desiccant dehumidifier. Moisture is removed by air flow which passes over silica gel. This substance attracts and captures air vapor very effectively. The condensed water is disposed of by heating it and venting it outside of the business structure.

This method is preferred for jobs where the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the power supply is unlimited. It is particularly useful for dense materials which have low permeability and porosity, hardwood floors, and wall framing for example.

If the structure has a large amount of porous and dense materials each, both types of dehumidifiers may be used. Both methods are good for drying out title records and other paper documents without damaging them.

Common Causes For Fire Damage

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Microwaves are one of the many appliances that can cause a fire

Most people are aware of the fire risks posed by candles, smoking, and malfunctioning appliances, but there are also a number of everyday household hazards that may surprise you. Below are some of the most commonly overlooked sources of house fires.

Microwaves

Microwaves - especially out-of-date models - are one of the most common sources of house fires. Accidentally microwaving a piece of silverware or aluminum foil can cause arcing, and dry foods can easily ignite if cooked for too long. To make matters worse, the fan can also provide oxygen to feed the flames, which is why you should never leave a microwave unattended when in use. 

Batteries

While battery-related fires are rare, they do happen. 9-volt batteries are especially hazardous, since the positive and negative posts are so close together. If a piece of conductive metal comes between those posts, it could cause a short, igniting any nearby combustible materials. The best option is to store unused batteries in their original packaging, or to cover the ends with a bit of electrical tape. Never store batteries in a drawer with loose metal or flammable objects. 

Light Bulbs

All outlets are rated for a certain wattage, and use light bulbs that exceed those standards is a fire waiting to happen. If the outlet is unmarked, the safest course of action is to choose light bulbs that are 60 watts or below. If your home includes track or recessed lighting, consider using cooler LED bulbs instead of CFLs in order to avoid overheating. 

Dryer Lint

Every year, more than 15,000 fires are caused by dryer lint. Lint traps do not catch the majority of lint, which means that most of it ends up in the dryer vents, blocking air flow and exhaust gasses and eventually becoming a serious fire hazard. Clean the lint trap between each load of laundry, and take the time to clear lint away from the vent and the back of the dryer at least once a month. 

Laptops

Laptops heat up during regular use, and covering up their cooling vents can result in overheating and even a fire. Avoid leaving your laptop on the bed, couch, or any other surface that might block air flow. 

Reading Materials

Newspapers, magazines, books, and paperwork can easily ignite if stored too close to a heat source. Always store reading materials on a shelf or in another cool, dry place, and consider tossing out anything that you won't use again so that it doesn't become a hazard in the future. 

Heating Pads

Heating pads and electrical blankets that are old, damaged, or improperly used can pose a significant risk to your home and your safety. Replace any pads that have missing covers, tears, cracks, or exposed wires. Avoid bunching pads up during use, and never fall asleep with a heating pad turned on - many older models do not have an auto-off setting, which can lead to serious burns, short-outs, and even fires. 

Charcoal

Barbecue charcoal is highly flammable, even when it's damp. The best way to store charcoal is to keep it inside a metal container with an air-tight lid, so that if a fire does start, it won't be able to spread. Keep charcoal in an area that isn't exposed to sunlight or moisture, such as a shed or outdoor storage unit. 

Clutter

Assorted clutter is a surprisingly common source of household fires. Combustible materials that are stored near light fixtures or electrical outlets can easily ignite; clutter in the bedroom is especially dangerous since it gives you less time to react to a potential fire. Avoid stacking clothing or paperwork in a closet with light bulbs, and vacuum regularly so that flammable dust doesn't accumulate around sockets and light fixtures. 

Old Appliances

Old and outdated appliances are a major fire hazard, even if appear to be functioning properly. Many older appliances do not have the built-in safety features that come with modern models, and pieces may wear out or break down over time with regular use. Check old appliances regularly for worn insulation, exposed wiring, or malfunctioning components.

Preventing Water Damages In The Winter

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Ice damning is one of the main causes of water damage during the winter

The past couple of years have brought on bitter cold winters and unexpected climate changes. This winter is holding true to form as we battle the current ice storm. These frigid temperatures can result in frozen/burst pipes & ice dams.

Bursting pipes alone can result in more than $5,000 in water damage, including the amount of damage that can be done from a flooded basement or flood damage in other parts of your home. 

Another important and dangerous winter issue is ice dams that collect on the roof. Ice dams are created from snow melting from a warm part of the roof back down to a cold spot where the water refreezes and forms a dam. The ice dams continue to build up over cold days leaving a pocket for water to sit and leak through the roof.

Here are some preparation tips to protect your home this winter: 

Make sure to insulate pipes. Pipe insulation can cost as little as $0.50 per liner foot according to the Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).

Clean out gutters. By making sure there are no blockages in your gutters you can avoid ice dams, which cause water to back up and flow into the house.

Ensure there are no broken seals around windows and doors. 

Check the roof for leaks or cracks in seals. These cracks usually form around vent and chimneystacks. Snow, which is mostly likely to collect on the downwind side of the roof, can cause damage to shingles. 

Winter Fire Damage

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

The chance of having a fire increases during the winter

According to FEMA, home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. 

In fact:

• Half of all home heating fires occur in the months of December, January & February.
• Heating equipment is involved in 1 in every 6 reported home fires & 1 in every 5 home fire deaths.

Here are some tips to avoid damage to your property this winter:

1. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.
2. Keep portable generators outside, away from windows and as far away as possible from your house. 
3. Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
4. Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.
5. Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container, and keep it outside at least 10 feet from your home and any nearby buildings.
6. Plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.

For more information on how to prevent winter fires, you can visit www.usfa.fema.gov/winter/

Fire Damages During The Holidays

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

During Thanksgiving and Christmas the chances of a fire at your home increases

Most homeowners are aware holiday decorations should be used with care. Each year, statistics tell the story of the fire danger resulting from frayed wires, proximity to heat sources, and lights left on unattended. But disaster recovery specialists SERVPRO wants homeowners to know that the danger of fire caused by holiday decorating, and by Christmas trees specifically, actually increases after the holiday. Citing research from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)*, the fire and water damage experts at SERVPRO say while four out of five Christmas tree fires happen in December and January, the 10 days with the highest average number of fires were all after Christmas Day.

"For many families, preparing for the holiday season is a very busy time," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. chief executive officer. "Come December 26, it's tempting to relax and stop watering the Christmas tree, replacing bulbs in outdoor lights and tucking indoor garlands back into place. Dry greens, open sockets and decorations that slip dangerously close to light sockets or fireplaces can all increase the risk of fire in the days after the Christmas holiday."

The American Christmas Tree Association** quotes Nielsen research that says Americans purchased 21.6 million live Christmas trees in 2011. That number is significant because, according to the NFPA, Christmas trees remain the number one culprit in holiday fires. Forty-three percent of Christmas tree fires happen in December, but January is close behind, claiming 39 percent -- numbers that demonstrate the danger of allowing Christmas trees to dry out during and after the holiday season. Tragically, Christmas tree fires are particularly deadly, claiming on average one life in every 40 fires compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires.

Steen encourages homeowners who choose to decorate with live Christmas trees to be diligent about watering their trees both before and after the holidays. "When a Christmas tree dries out, it takes only a single spark from the fireplace, a draft that blows a candle flame too near, or a carelessly held cigarette to turn your holiday celebration into a tragedy," says Steen. "Beyond the damage from the fire itself, a Christmas tree fire, like any fire, can result in extensive smoke and water damage throughout your home, and can even be deadly."

As the holiday season moves into full swing, SERVPRO reminds homeowners to take common sense precautions based on a clear understanding of the potential danger to help prevent holiday traditions from turning into a holiday nightmare.

Gym Floors in Sumner County

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO if you need any work done to your gym floor

How To Care for Gym Floors in Sumner County

Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.

Daily Maintenance

1. It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
2. Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.

As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures

1. Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
2. Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
3. Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
4. Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.

Call SERVPRO of Sumner County at 615-822-0200 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!

Important Information on Flash Flooding

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Flash flooding can happen in a short amount of time. Its important to be prepared.

Flash Flooding occurs when there is a sudden influx of water onto normally dry land. Flooding can happen for many reasons, including heavy rains, ocean waves, snow that melts too quickly or dams and levees that break. Floods are the most common and wide spread weather-related disasters.

Flooding can happen very quickly with little or no warning. The destructive power of a flood combined with unpredictability make them extremely dangerous. Flooding can occur anywhere that receives rain fall. In the United States floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning.

What areas are at most risk from flooding?

Areas that are densely populated are at a high risk. Heavy construction and areas that have little to no dirt or grass that is not covered by concrete have nowhere for water to run off. In turn, instead of the water dissipating back into the ground it rises. In these densely populated areas if the streams have been re-routed underground and into storm drains they are at risk of overflowing and causing damage.

Areas near rivers are at risk. Levees are built along rivers and are used to prevent high water from flooding bordering land. If these levees are not maintained or the rains cause them to fail they cause devastating damage.

Mountains and steep hills produce a high amount of water runoff. If there are streams around these areas it causes them to rise quickly due to the rock and soil sediment. A creek or stream that at its regular depth might be 6”-7” can swell to a 10 foot raging river if a thunderstorm with heavy rain lingers.

Flood Alerts:

Flash Flood or Flood Watch-Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area-be alert.

Flash Flood or Flood Warning-Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent-take necessary precautions at once! Get to higher ground.

Urban and Small Stream Advisory-Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.

Flash Flood or Flood Statement-Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event.

Ensuring that you are well educated on flooding and why it happens is the first step to safety. If you find yourself in a flood situation stay calm and get to higher ground.

Continuing Education

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers continuing education credits

While most people think of SERVPRO when they experience a fire, water, or mold issue. While this is our bread and butter, we also help people in other other ways. Besides cleaning services we are certified to provide continuing education credit hours. These hours are required for insurance agents and other positions.

We offer classes year round. We teach fire, water, mold, bio, and ethics courses. Each class is free to attend and we also provide a free local lunch. If you ever need continuing education hours please reach out to us!

Next Thursday, November 4th, will be our last CE class of the year. We are putting on a fire class. We will discussing the importance of using a reputable restoration company if you experience a fire at your home or business. This will include our process and pricing. We will show examples of jobs we have done in the past as well as share tips on preventing fires.

Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, we will also be demonstrating a live burn. We have partnered up with the fire department and will be dropping a frozen turkey into a deep fryer. Even if you don't need CE hours that only will be worth coming to see!

Please remember SERVPRO if you ever have a damage at your home or business but also keep in mind we offer a wide range of services and classes such as continuing education.  

Fire Damage Tips

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians are certified to help clean up fire damages

There is nothing worse then having your home or business affected by a fire. Its hard to imagine the damage that fires can cause, even the small ones. Its extremely important to understand the process of fire cleanup as well as the timetable of how long you will be out of your home business. This blog will focus on tips that will help you get through a fire damage if one ever occurs at your home or business.

1. Be Prepared. Your families safety is the most important aspect of a fire damage. Make sure you have prepared an escape plan and meeting point outside your house. This plan should be created now and practiced regularly. That why If a fire happens everyone will know all the exits and where to go  once they get out of the house.

2. Track Your Contents. One of the most challenging aspects of cleaning up a fire is having an accurate list of contents that need to be replaced. This is very hard to do on the back end. Go ahead and make a list of all the valuable items in your home. This includes electronics, appliances, and decorations. This will not only help the mitigation process, but will also help you get reimbursed by insurance quicker.

3. Remove the Source. Once the cleanup process begins the first action should be removing whatever caused the damage. For example, if the fire originated from the kitchen oven its mandatory to get the oven out of the structure as as soon as possible. Getting the source out will immediately help with the odor.

4. Top Down Cleaning. Its important that the restoration company who is cleaning up the damage knows what they are doing. once the source is removed top down cleaning needs to take place. This means started from the ceiling and work your way all the way down to the floors. By doing this you will get rid of all the soot and not have to waste time by re cleaning certain areas.

Hopefully you never experience a fire damage. But if you do I hope this tips will make the process a little easier to deal with. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever have a fire at your property!         

National Preparedness Month

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month, part of the ongoing "Ready"1 initiative of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). According to FEMA's "Are You Ready"2 guide, the first step in effective disaster preparedness is to understand your specific risks - first by identifying the hazards that could possibly affect you and then by evaluating your actual vulnerability to those sources of danger. 

"Once you understand your risks, you can effectively plan to mitigate them by decreasing your vulnerability and then manage their consequences quickly and effectively if the worst does happen," says disaster mitigation specialist Cory Sullins of SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. "Of course, individual home or business owners' risks vary depending on their location, but regardless of where you live or work, FEMA's guide has some basic steps that everyone can take to prepare for the unexpected."

1. Create a family communication and shelter plan.
2. Sign up for emergency alerts, including FEMA alerts3.
3. Build your savings if possible and keep a small emergency fund of cash on-hand at home.
4. Create an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit4: Gather and safeguard critical documents like deeds, medical information, insurance policies, and a list of your household belongings.
5. Create an emergency kit5 with basic tools and enough food and water to last 72 hours and keep the contents fresh and up to date.

In addition to the planning tools and checklists provided by FEMA, businesses like SERVPRO that specialize in disaster mitigation and restoration offer free tools that make disaster recovery easier. The free SERVPRO READY app6 allows home and business owners to store essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed in seconds with a mobile device.

Local business owners who designate SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider benefit from a no-cost assessment of their facility along with help completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) to be stored in the READY app.

"The uncomfortable truth is that no amount of preparedness will prevent disasters from striking, but preparedness can help disaster victims survive and then recover," says Sullins. "When disaster strikes, sometimes it's difficult to even know where to start picking up the pieces. Having critical documents and details at your fingertips helps, but so does having access to professionals who know how to help you return to normal, "Like it never even happened." The disaster remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties know what to do when you don't know which way to turn. We're here to help when you need us."

Commercial Cleaning Services

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

When most people hear SERVPRO they immediately think of emergency services. While cleaning up disasters is our bread and butter, we also specialize in other services. This blog will be dedicated on going over some of our lesser known services. It will be focused on commercial cleaning services. These are a few of the more recent jobs we have completed.

Carpet Cleanings- One of the best ways to welcome new customers or clients into your commercial building is to have the carpets cleaned regularly. If you are interested in having your carpets cleaned please reach out to us for a free quote!

Air Duct Cleanings- Having your ducts cleaned periodically is very important for a commercial building. It not only helps with the air quality for your employees but can also help lower your electricity bill if your unit is nice and clean!

Covid Disinfections- Unfortunately these types of cleanings have picked back up for us recently. If your commercial building has any type of bacteria or disease outbreak we have the ability to come disinfect. We offer two types of cleanings: preventive and confirmed cases.

Hopefully you never have to call us for a fire or water damage. But if your commercial building is needing any other kind of service please reach out to us and we will be happy to come provide you a free estimate!            

Water Loss Categories

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Every water damage is different. From how the loss occurred to what is affected. That's why is extremely important to hire a good restoration company when you experience a water damage. One of the first things we do on any water loss is determine the category of the water. 

There are three separate categories of water. Category 1 water comes from a clean source. This type of water has no risk if inhaled on ingested. Some examples of a Category 1 loss would be a broken water supply line or tub overflow.

Category 2 loss could cause potential sickness if consumed by humans. This water loss can contain unsafe levels of microorganisms. Some examples of category 2 water would be a washing machine or dishwasher leak.   

The final and most dangerous category of water is 3. This would be water that contains sewage or any type of flooding. its very important to determine which category of water you are dealing with before you start mitigation work.

Hurricane Elsa Update

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

While most people were excited to finally get some rain this past week, others were relived in the fact that it meant the end of hurricane Elsa. Although this last hurricane wasn't as deadly as previous ones, hurricane Elsa definitely left her mark across the east coast.

Elsa became a tropical storm on July 1st and was quickly upgraded to a hurricane July 2nd. It started in the Atlantic ocean and hit Barbados and St. Lucia first. Luckily Elsa weakened as it entered the Caribbean Sea and moved closer to Cuba.

Unfortunately Elsa picked up more steam as it head closer to the US. Once Elsa hit Florida it was upgraded to a hurricane. From there it made its way up the east coast all the way to Virginia.

Thankfully there was more property damage than casualties. This is another reminder to make sure your home and business are prepared for any type of disaster.      

We Have Officially Moved!

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheatham Robertson and Dickson Counties located at 229 Innovation Way Hendersonville Tennessee.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties is fully operating out of our brand new building! We loved our old office located 600 Sage Rd in White House. However, we needed a larger space to properly store vehicles, equipment, and contents.

The other benefit of our brand new office is the centralized location. Our new address is 229 Innovation Way in Hendersonville. We are located where the old driving range used to be off of New Shackle Island Road. This property is in the middle of summer county and located close to the bypass and interstate.

With this new location our response time will be even better then it was! Now we can be throughout our whole territory in less than an hour. We will be working with the chamber to schedule a big ribbon cutting in the future. But in the meantime please feel free to swing by and check out our new office and warehouse!   

The Most Important Water Damage Tip

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

We have dedicated blogs in the past to tips for homeowners who experience a water damage. Most of the advice consist of calling a restoration company as soon as possible. Or elevating furniture and electronics off the ground. While these are still great tips, the most critical advice for homeowners is to know where your main water shut off is located.

Most of the time it is located in the front yard by the road. In new construction homes it could even be in the garage. If you are not aware of where your main water shut off is please find it today! By shutting off the water during an emergency you will save yourself a lot of money.

The longer the water is running the more damage will occur. The faster you can shut off the water the less damage will occur inside the house.

Storm Damage Response Time

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damages are never convenient and don’t wait for regular business hours – thankfully neither do we. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties provides emergency water damage mitigation and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays. We will respond immediately day or night. When dealing with a damage from a storm its extremely important to respond to the damage quickly.  

Water is particularly invasive, and it will spread very quickly throughout your property. It will be absorbed into your floors, walls, furniture, etc. Therefore, water damages require immediate action, and quick response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. We will arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

Below is a Water Damage Timeline that shows how damage will progress if it’s not addressed quickly:

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery and anything else it touches.
• Furniture finishes may start to bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, magazines and other paper goods located on the floor will begin to swell.

1 - 24 Hours:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Furniture begins to swell and some may possibly crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor will begin to appear.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may begin to grow and spread.
• Doors, windows and studs will begin to swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture may begin to warp and show signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Hardwood flooring begins to swell and warp.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible at this time.

More Than 1 Week:

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

Why Use SERVPRO of Robertson County

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

There are a handful of restoration companies scattered throughout middle Tennessee. When a damage happens it can be overwhelming trying to decide which one to use. While its important to ask your insurance agent for advise, there are also some signs you can check for to find the right company for the job. This blog is going to focus on some small tips that can help you pick the right restoration company for you.

Company should have updated website 

The first way to quickly get a feel of a company is to visit their website. In 2021 it's mandatory to have an updated and active website. If the restoration company you are thinking abut calling has an old website, or no website at all, id highly recommend using a different company.

Response time is key

For the most part, all restoration companies use they same type of equipment and have similar processes. What separates the good ones from the bad ones is response time. For example, during a water damage the company that can get out there the fastest and stabilize the damage will save you the most money. A restoration company with a fast response time should be mandatory.

Must have certifications

 
For restoration professionals, this is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). IICRC-approved schools have trained up restoration professionals for years, and its classes cover a range of topics pertinent to restoration technicians. This includes the theory of water damage, how it affects the home, what materials are at risk, how to remove excess moisture from the building, how to perform structural drying properly, how to inspect and remove pathogens, and how to save sensitive materials like wooden floors. Attaining certification through the IICRC requires hard work and an ongoing commitment to the field, as registrants must earn continuing education credits annually. Homeowners can rest assured that if they are dealing with a certified crew, they are dealing with some of the best in the business.

Does Your Commercial Building Have Mold?

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Does Your Commercial Building Have Mold?

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

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

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

Preparing For A Storm Event

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

With todays technology we are able to prepare for storms days in advance. This blog will focus on things homeowners and business owners can do to prevent damage from storms, as well as go over things restoration companies do to prepare for a storm event.

One of the best tools to have your home or business is an Emergency Ready Profile. This is a free service provided by SERVPRO. We will be happy to come in and document all your shut offs as well as compile a list of all your emergency contacts. By doing this, you will be prepared for any type of disaster. According to FEMA, up to 40% of businesses never reopen following a major disaster. This is why early preparation is key when it comes to disasters.

When it comes to storm events home and business owners aren't the only ones who need to be prepared. The restoration company needs to have everything lined up well before the storm hits. 

The first order of business is to decide who is traveling for the storm and where are they going to stay. Hotel and Air Bnb's can be hard to book during natural disasters. If you are traveling, you must also have all the local work accounted for too. You cant send all of your production guys to the storm because then you wont have anyone to finish up the work that is currently going on. As well as responding to new jobs.

Hopefully you never have to experience a storm event. But if you do, its important to be prepared and to have SERVPRO's number on speed dial.  

Sump Pump Failure

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Sump pumps provide great value to basements. They sit in the lowest spot and immediately starting pumping water out as soon as its detected. They can help save your home from water damage. Like any other mechanical device, sump pumps can still fail. When this happens its important to call SERVPRO to come inspect your home. Here are some of the main reasons for Sump Pump failure.

Power failure – The most common cause for failure of a sump pump is a power outage. As we know, most power outages happen when we need the sump pump most, during a storm. Purchasing a backup generator to keep your sump pump moving during a storm can save your home from a flooded basement.

Improper installation – The installation of a sump pump is crucial to it working properly. One mistake or misstep in following the manufacturer instructions can lead to water to be displaced. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s manual or consult a professional to make sure the sump pump is installed correctly.

Frozen or clogged discharge line – The discharge line is where the water exits the home. It is important to make sure that the line is protected from freezing and does not have debris such as dirt, rocks and sticks. A grated discharge line will give water a separate way to flow in case of a blockage.

Lack of maintenance– Manufacturers recommend testing and running the pump every 2-3 months.

Switch problems – The purpose of the sump pump is to automatically turn on when a sensor notices that there is water build up. If the pump gets shifted and moves position inside of the basin, it can cause switch to be inaccurate and not know where the correct water level is, making the pump not switch on at the correct time.

Hurricane Laura

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Laura was devastating category 4 hurricane that hit August 20th 2020. Louisiana was the first place to get hit followed by Texas, Florida, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Our franchise was called upon to help restore damaged property. This blog will focus on how our storm team operates and why SERVPRO should be your first call if you are affected by a hurricane.

SERVPRO has a whole division to help out with large catastrophes like hurricanes. Its called the Disaster Recovery Team. Its composed of the best of the best in restoration. The team is made up of large loss specialist that are pre qualified and strategically placed throughout the United States. This way we are quick to respond to any type of disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a project manager to make sure communication is accurate and the work is completed in a timely manner. Our team was assigned to travel to Texas to help restore property there. Our team was gone for over three weeks!

SERVPRO does a great job of filtering calls that are all going to the local franchise and dispersing them throughout the storm team. By doing so, we are able to help out more people in an organized way. 

Hopefully you never experience a hurricane or another other type of disaster but if you do its important to know that SERVPRO is here to help!    

Training Water Damage Technicians

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Though IICRC does not in fact operate its own school, it does recommend the best water damage restoration technician training courses per industry standards. Take a look at what a certified professional has studied in order to be good enough for the SERVPRO name.

Time is of the essence after a major water disaster. Though Journeyman-certified technicians may be the right choice for water damage that does not threaten structural integrity, it is vital to bring an IICRC certified Master professional to the scene of a major disaster as soon as possible. Certified professionals use the skills they’ve learned in the accreditation courses to examine the structure, textiles, and the belongings, and will likely be able to control the damage, so no further damage will occur.

Furthermore, knowing the fastest and best means of drying the structure and textiles is imperative. Familiarity with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds and microbes is also needed to protect people and animals in the environment. Graduates of the relevant IICRC-approved classes excel in these areas.

The importance of providing customer satisfaction cannot be over-emphasized. Each  certified technician  must pass a stringent series of exams prior to acceptance, and continual training is required. Complaints are taken seriously and must be handled promptly to ensure continued accreditation as a certified firm.

Water damage restoration technician training is a surefire way to  insure the latest and greatest procedures are used to protect a customer’s property. There are various courses of study and ways to learn the information, so IICRC works with both the consumer and the professional to guarantee the best experience. Don’t forget to look for the SERVPRO symbol to find the best possible solution for your water-based damage.

Always Adapting

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

I hate the phrase "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." To me, that insinuates that you shouldn't learn something new just because you have been doing it a long time. Luckily here at SERVPRO we don't apply that logic. Although we have been performing restoration for many years we are always looking for ways to improve our processes. Today's blog focuses on how we have used technology to improve our scoping and estimates. 

A variety of data technology innovations over the years have led the way to new and improved processes in the property claims/risk assessment space. Those innovations have aimed to improve the manual functions routinely conducted in the field. Many have lived up to expectations and have become current standards.
If we take the time to truly examine the iterative tasks associated with an effective claim/risk assessment in the field, it becomes apparent that a great scope report leads to a better final estimate. Let’s not take this lightly. How many times have we seen a poor initial assessment report lead to an estimate for repairs that had to be reexamined, adjusted multiple times or didn’t match the initial inspection of the claimed damages? Probably way too many. Smart restoration businesses realize that work assignments and higher ratings in customer service start with professional, comprehensive and accurate initial inspections. Digital and mobile inspections help make this possible. 

If you’re evaluating options, best-in-class inspection solutions have the following qualities:

• Ease of use: Allows anyone to conduct an efficient, quality inspection, regardless of experience level and prior training.
• Transparency: Ensures a legible and consistent digital inspection report.
• Optimized for adjusters and contractors: Facilitates collaboration and remote workflows for more advanced claim-handling tasks like estimate writing.
• Value-add: Provides opportunity for improvement via data collection and analytics.
• Flexibility: Technology that works well in a variety of inspection scenarios, including insurance and non-insurance related projects.

Keep in mind that today’s flexible, cloud-based solutions enable a step-change to occur in operations without a massive investment required in technology, training or internal change management. A number of the new solutions in this area can be useful to an organization within a few weeks.

We have now entered the age of digital inspection. Those who embrace it will find profoundly positive growth in their businesses, develop operational efficiencies and increase overall customer service ratings to bolster business expansion. Technological innovation in the property industry is constant and provides opportunities to improve bottom lines, add value to existing business relationships and pave the way for even more advancement in the future.

Why Use SERVPRO?

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Your house or business just had an emergency damage. One of the first tasks a homeowner or business owner must make is to decide who to call to start the cleanup. Here are a few reasons why we believe SERVPRO should be your first call:

Response Time

We are available and here to help 24/7! It doesn't matter what time your damage occurs. The quicker we can get to a damage potentially saves the homeowner money.

Highly Trained Professionals 

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. Franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to franchise professionals and insurance clients at our state-of-the-art IICRC Approved Training Facility

Time In The Industry 

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Industries, LLC, franchise system is a national leader of fire, water, mold and other specialty cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 franchises has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters such as the 9/11 attacks on the Pentagon to those suffered by individual businesses and homes. Providing nationwide coverage, SERVPRO franchise professionals have established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

24 Hour Water Damage In Cheatham County

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Title: Cheatham County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

SERVPRO of Cheatham County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help.
Call Today - (615) 672-1905

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cheatham County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Cheatham County 

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

Certifications

• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• ASCS - Air Systems Cleaning Specialist
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• CVI - Certified Ventilation Inspectors
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

Cleaning Hard Surfaces In Your Commercial Building

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

When a person purchases a commercial building, they are making an investment for their future. Proper care of the facility, including cleaning hard surfaces like hardwood, ceramic or concrete correctly is absolutely essential to maintaining the value of the building and extending the life of flooring and countertops. While daily, weekly and monthly cleaning and maintenance are important, having a trained and certified technician perform a yearly cleaning (at minimum) is necessary to maximize the lifespan of flooring and countertops.

Whether the surfaces need basic maintenance or full restoration, the technician having the proper methods and experience needed for the job will surely make the difference. Each type of flooring is different. Cleaning hard surfaces such as stone requires knowledge of the porousness of the stone in order to choose the right solution, while surfaces such as hardwood require the application of effective sealants to keep the wood from soaking up bacteria and liquids that can eventually cause the floor to rot. Factor in the age of the surface, any potential damage from improper cleaning in the years prior, and a possible lack of appropriate maintenance of the surface, and the need for a trained professional becomes alarmingly clear. Certified technicians are the best way to keep your investment’s value.

Odor Removal Techniques

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

If you have ever had a fire at your home or business you know the difficulties that come with it. One of the major issues that can linger for a long time after is the odor. Here at SERVPRO we have many different techniques for removing odors. This blog will spotlight on how we deal with unwanted odors.  

Homeowners who wish to eliminate unpleasant smells from their home can often succeed in doing so by using some very basic odor removal techniques.  Some of the most common sources of unpleasant smells include smoke from cigarettes or fires, and biological waste produced by pets.  To some extent, basic cleaning methods can successfully neutralize these foreign agents from carpets and upholstery.  Provided the contaminants are located, and have not soaked into materials completely, enzymatic cleaners and wet paper towels that can be bought in any retail store may possibly restore a fresh smell to the air.  However, products that cover up odors with more pleasant smells offer only temporary relief from contaminants that have not been actually removed.  Homeowners should be careful not to mistakenly purchase products that simply cover up bad smells.  They must also be willing to contact professionals when their best efforts prove unsuccessful in completely clearing the offensive odors in a room.

The success of any odor removal project depends on properly identifying the contaminants producing the bad smell.  Smoke and pet wastes are easily identified and often can be handled by individuals who apply determination and ingenuity to a home remedy cleaning project.  However, other contaminants, ranging from sewer gas that creeps back up into pipes, and smells produced by decaying protein, food products, and various oil-based substances, are not only difficult to eliminate, they are also difficult to pinpoint. Professional carpet cleaners are trained, and often certified, in determining the nature of contamination first.  Once the diagnosis has been made, specialized tools and procedures available only to properly trained technicians, that are most often certified, are then employed to purify the surfaces that have been affected.

While it is always good to apply basic odor removal techniques to whatever extent they can be successfully implemented, homeowners should also be willing to pay for professional cleaning in order to make sure that contaminants that produce bad smells have been correctly and thoroughly removed.

Preparing For A Storm Event

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

A storm event could potentially damage your business or home depending how bad it is. We have no way of preventing storms from happening. However, that doesn't mean that we cant be prepared before a storm hits. Here are some tips to help you be prepared for a bad storm.

• Create a family disaster preparedness plan.
• Establish a meeting place outside your home and the neighborhood in case of a community disaster such as flooding, mudslides, earthquakes, or radiological and hazardous materials accidents. Make sure everyone in the family knows how to contact each other if you get separated.
• Establish an out-of-state contact (relative or friend) that you can call after the disaster to pass the word around that you and your family are okay.
• Assemble a disaster survival kit and stock emergency supplies. You will need:
• A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day.) 
• A three-day supply of ready to eat canned meats, vegetables, and fruit for each person.
• A change of clothing and footwear for each person.
• A first-aid kit that includes prescription medicines.
• One sleeping bag or blanket per person.
• A battery-powered radio and flashlight and extra batteries. 
• Special need items such as diapers, formula, baby bottles, denture and contact lenses supplies. 
• A credit card, cash, or traveler's checks.
• Tools and supplies such as paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils; a battery powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, non-electric can opener, tube tent, plastic storage containers, compass, matches and  plastic sheeting. 
• Sanitation needs will include toilet paper; soap and liquid detergent; personal hygiene items; plastic garbage bags, plastic bucket with a tight lid; and household chlorine bleach.

Damage From Water Should Be Cleaned By Professionals

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by commercial building owners . Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a commercial building is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a property manager can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.

Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.

This problem is compounded by the composition of most buildings, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.

That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the building for structural problems, will dry the building quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the employees or tenants can return to a safe building, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens.

Finding A Reputable Water Damage Company

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Finding Reputable Water Damage Companies

 Water damage companies often have to work in some grueling circumstances, but their efforts are essential to restoring the home to a healthy state. Floods, sewage backflows, leaky plumbing, or roofing and burst pipes can all cause a massive headache for a homeowner, and they need a professional who is skilled and honest. This is easier said than done as the industry lags behind in terms of oversight. However, there are some simple checks that a homeowner can use to determine whether or not they’re dealing with a reputable business.

What are the signs of reputable water damage companies?

Businesses that perform at a high level have little to hide, so they should be easy to contact and have an established website. As disaster can strike at any time, restoration technicians have to be on call around the clock. Reputable businesses will be available 24 hours a day most days, so the homeowner doesn’t have to wait. The critical period for preventing additional damage is 48 hours. After 48 hours, contaminated fluid will ruin many materials it soaks through, though some organic materials will deteriorate at a faster rate. It’s common for technicians to need to remove drywall, carpeting, baseboards, and casings, but many textiles are salvageable if the technicians respond quickly and the water causing the damage was not sewage. 

If a company can dispatch technicians to the home right away and provide a detailed estimate of the process, this is a good sign. It takes a variety of skills to restore the home to a preloss state, which means the firm will have to maintain a highly skilled and well-trained group of professionals. If a company doesn’t offer all of the services needed to completely restore the home, find one that can. For example, if a firm can't remove mold or other microbial threats, your family may be at a major health risk, even after everything is dried and put back to normal. 

In general, homeowners should only consider water damage companies that have attained certification through a respected training organization. For restoration professionals, this is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). IICRC-approved schools have trained up restoration professionals for years, and its classes cover a range of topics pertinent to restoration technicians. This includes the theory of water damage, how it affects the home, what materials are at risk, how to remove excess moisture from the building, how to perform structural drying properly, how to inspect and remove pathogens, and how to save sensitive materials like wooden floors. Attaining certification through the IICRC requires hard work and an ongoing commitment to the field, as registrants must earn continuing education credits annually. Homeowners can rest assured that if they are dealing with a certified crew, they are dealing with some of the best in the business.

Commercial Carpet Odor Removal

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial carpet odor removal is a project that requires more than just some baking soda sprinkled over the floor before vacuuming. At home or at your business, odor remedies like that or white vinegar may be acceptable for the lingering fruity scent of a spilled soda, but for more pungent aromas the assistance of a professional is usually recommended. Many people have had the experience of trying to hide pet odors that never completely disappear or that may dissipate until the floor covering gets wet. When it comes time to do a deeper cleaning than the routine vacuuming, a steam cleaning may be just the thing to bring carpets back to their former fresh smell, softness and vibrancy.

A scent that will not go away may mean that the fibers of a floor covering are doing more than capturing scents, they may actually be providing a breeding place for smelly bacteria. Regular cleaning and maintenance is part of helping carpets last as long as possible and be more effective at filtering indoor air.

Although steam machines can be rented or bought for personal use, the equipment and cleaning solutions of a professional are sure to do a more thorough job.  Even if the machine used is the exact same, a professional has the added benefit of training and experience. They have dealt with the problem of carpet odor removal time and time again, resulting in knowledge of what methods work best.  Sometimes it is not even the floor covering itself that is the problem, the padding underneath may be the culprit. A professional knows where to look to find the source. Whether it is from spilled booze, indoor smoking or an aging pet that is the cause of the scents permeating the carpet, a professional cleaner will know how to handle it.

Smoke Odor Removal From Carpet and Upholstery

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Seeking out professional help for smoke or odor removal especially in the case of carpets and upholstery, is the first correct step in obtaining proper smell extraction.  This ordeal can be very costly and time consuming for an individual to experiment with on their own, which is why many local professionals are available to help home owners who have suffered the unfortunate fate of this scenario.

First off, ascertaining the severity of the situation is one of the most important aspects in obtaining an accurate quote from a professional beforehand. Additionally, keeping a close watch on the amount of time that has elapsed since the smell had first entered the fibers will also dramatically change the amount of time and overall cost of the cleaning. If weeks have gone by without any professional aid, carpets and upholstery may become permanently damaged, suffering discoloration among other things.

Smoke odor removal professionals will first get rid of any residue that’s physically left on the surface of the fibers.  The first actual deodorizing element to the process is to eliminate any sources of the smell, including any unsalvageable materials that cannot be processed properly and thus, must be disposed of. Next, a thorough cleaning of any salvageable surfaces will be imperative in further eliminating the smell and keeping it from reoccurring.

Since the smell is airborne in nature, professionals will need to create a type of fog that is comprised of cleaning agents and is pumped into the area to eliminate smells that fill the room. If it’s needed, items in the room may be sealed off and quarantined to avoid any exposure to the smell during the odor extraction.

Why Tenants Move Out if Water Isn't Removed

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Extract Water and Maintain Your Cash Flow

When apartments or hotels flood, it can be a disaster for managers and tenants alike. While an owner is probably most concerned with the financial loss from the incident, tenants will also probably not want to continue staying somewhere with damage, even if it is not extensive. Fast, proper water removal and damage restoration are essential to keep residents and guests. SERVPRO is trained and prepared for these scenarios and can work effectively to remove water damage in as short a time as possible, especially if the business has a profile in our ERP system. Here are some of the main motivators for tenants looking to escape a flooded apartment or hotel.
 
Drenched Belongings
Quick water removal in apartments and hotels is the only way to save many tenants' belongings. Materials such as wood, fabric, and leather can only remain soaked for so long before the damage becomes permanent, so our fast responses are critical in keeping them functional and in good condition. This also goes for materials and items belonging to the building itself, and you might also be stuck paying extra for replacement belongings if water is not removed quickly.
 
Structural Damage
Nobody enjoys living in a structurally damaged building, and persistent signs of damage may be enough for many tenants to pack up and leave, even if the damage is only superficial. Some people simply see staining on walls or warping in carpets and decide that the building is not quite up to their standards. SERVPRO follows up water removal with damage restoration, ensuring that lasting signs are minimal and non-intrusive.
 
Unsafe Conditions
 
Some floods can create unsafe conditions and situations in a building, weakening walls and ceilings enough to potentially collapse on residents. Also, mold damage may result from a flood if water is not removed quickly, which can aggravate some people's health. Especially at risk are individuals with respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems. The chance of residents being forced out by safety concerns increases as water stands and is allowed to degrade with contaminants.
 
SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson counties  has extensive experience in water removal for buildings and businesses of all sizes. Give us a call 24/7 at (615) 672-1905.

Hydroxyl Generators

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

The main benefit of using a true hydroxyl generator is that they are safe to use in occupied areas for deodorization purposes. Insurance companies do not have to cover a homeowner’s hotels or meals. Business owners do not have to shut down and loose precious business.

If people and animals can be removed from the treatment area, ozone will always do the job faster. And the general rule of thumb is if a strong ozone generator would take one day to do a job, a true hydroxyl generator will take three to five days to do the same job. But insurance companies don’t seem to have a problem paying for the extra time it takes a hydroxyl generator to do the job because they are saving on hotel and food costs and their customers are much happier staying in their own homes and businesses. In saying this, hydroxyl generators are commonly one of the first pieces of equipment installed on the job and can be run the entire length of the job. These machines are already in Xactimate and bring in some $200 per day on a rental. With the price of the hydroxyl generators on the market, there would be a 100% return on investment within the first week of use.

These generators have been successfully tested on fires and other restoration and bio jobs, including protein fires, floods, dead body situations, skunk odors, pet urine odors, musty odors and many types of VOC odors. Many restoration contractors have converted existing deodorizing chambers or added their own hydroxyl rooms with great success. You can run a hydroxyl room 24 hours a day and enter the room at any time with no threat to your health. True hydroxyl generators also will not bleach wet fabrics so they can be run on damp carpet without fear of lightening the color.

However, it’s important to note that hydroxyl generators are not intended for use on mold remediation jobs where there is a large infestation on surfaces or behind walls. The established protocols should always be followed in these instances. But generators with good filtration are excellent for airborne microbial remediation where bacteria or fungi have become aerosolized.

Preventing Fires in the Winter

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent Fire Damage This Winter

Heat Your Home Safely 

The winter season is here and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. In middle Tennessee, winter brings a change in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. 

Did You Know?

According to the National Fire Protection Association:

• 50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February.
• Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually.

Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot "kid free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home. 
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to local codes and manufacturer's instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

10 Places Where Water Damage and Mold Occurs

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

10 Unexpected Places Where Water Damage & Mold Creeps Into Your Home

If a fixture or appliance in your home uses water, chances are it will leak at some point. These are 10 places many homeowners overlook when checking for water damage or mold:

1. Dishwasher

There are two connections under each dishwasher that have the potential for mold and mildew to get started–the water supply and the discharge connection. The water supply needs to be lubricated with the right sealant and properly tightened periodically. The discharge connection involves a rubber hose and clamp, and installing the hose before the dishwasher is installed ensures it is done properly. Hoses wear out over time. If you’re buying an older house, it doesn’t hurt to check the dishwasher connections — especially if there’s an odd smell when you open the door.

2. Icemaker Connections

Refrigerators often get moved, either for cleaning or other projects. This can weaken or break the water line connection to the ice maker, causing leaks behind the refrigerator.

3. Washing Machine Connections

When installing a washing machine, always install a new hose, using the rubber washers the manufacturer recommends. Also, use Teflon tape and make sure to tighten the connection with vice grips so there are no drips or leaks.

4. Hot Water Heater

Many states have laws regarding the installation of hot water heaters, and most of them involve overflow pans that are piped to drain outside the house. The pan must be tilted at least ¼ inch to ensure the water does drain. Newer heaters with quick connect connectors should be properly lubricated and tightened so the shut-off valve doesn’t leak.

5. Plastic P-Traps
   Under every sink in your home is a “P-Trap,” almost always made of PVC pipe, which expands, and contracts. This process eventually loosens the connection and can cause leaks. Use Teflon tape to seal every P-Trap and check them periodically, tightening them by hand to ensure their connections don’t loosen and leak. Be careful, over tightening PVC can cause it to crack.

6. Toilet Connections

The base of the toilet is where most mold grows. Toilets should be installed with a horned wax ring, and then the base of the toilet grouted in with tile grout. The grout serves as a filler between the bowl and the floor to keep the bowl from rocking – which can compromise the wax ring. Also, make sure the toilet supply line is well-connected.

7. Shower Doors

To insure proper installation, we recommend shower doors be installed by a licensed plumber. Mold growing at the base of the tub may be from leaking or improperly installed shower doors. Shower doors need caulking on all three rails — the two side rails as well as the bottom rail.

8. Tub

The best way to prevent a leak from a tub is to make sure it is installed properly. If installed improperly, water and moisture can drip down under the tub causing water damage and mold issues.

9. Exterior Water Connections

If you’ve used a hose, you know how a poor connection or missing rubber washer can cause water to spray onto the house. This uncontrolled spray allows water to enter the space between the siding or into the wall leading to water damage and mold growth.

10. Outdoor Water Sprinklers

Make sure your sprinklers are well away from the house when turned on. The siding on your house is engineered to shed falling water (rain), not sprinklers shooting water up.

If you take the proper precautions and monitor your home regularly, you should be able to avoid mold or at least catch it very early at its onset.

Water In Basement

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO if you have water in your basement

One of the worst nightmares for any homeowner is finding water in the basement, and in most cases, the only way to deal with such a situation is to bring in a professional. Excess water, especially when it is contaminated, has the potential to cause a great deal of damage, and if the problem is not dealt with properly, the situation can quickly get out of hand. This is especially true when water is pooling in the home and coming in contact with organic materials like drywall or fabric.

Water in the basement can be caused by a lot of factors. The room may sit under the water table, which will slowly push water into the home. A disaster like a flood can quickly fill the room with fluid, as well as a burst pipe or other plumbing mishap. No matter what causes the water to build up in the home, it will take a certified team to remove it and restore the basement effectively.

There are a couple steps, though, that a homeowner can take to minimize damage and make the home safe to navigate through. If a pipe burst or is leaking, then cutting off the supply line into the home can halt the problem. Also, switching off the home’s power may be necessary, as an electrical discharge can make walking through water exceedingly dangerous and cause a fire.

Safety is the primary concern when contending with excess moisture, and a certified crew will be able to get the home restored in while avoiding any dangerous situations.

Fire Damage From Grilling

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

There's nothing like firing up the grill at your Dickson home during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren't considered. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties wants you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free!

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Tips and information provided by the National Fire Association.

How to care for gym floors

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.

Daily Maintenance

1. It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
2. Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.

As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures

1. Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
2. Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
3. Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
4. Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.

Call SERVPRO of Sumner County at 615-822-0200 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!

Storm Season is Underway

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

With storm season underway, there are unfortunate cases of flooding and power outages taking place in Springfield, White House, Greenbrier, Ashland City, Pleasant View and Dickson. The humidity and flooded areas create a perfect combination and environment for mold to grow, giving you more than just flood damage to take care of. The sooner the water damage is cleaned up, the less likely there is a chance for mold to produce, leaving you with less to cleanup in the end. According to Angieslist, there are important steps to take in order to prevent mold damage after a flood.

Flood damage cleanup

1. Remove furniture and upholstery to clean or repair separately.
2. Start by using a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of as much water as possible so the water is not sitting. 
3. Use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process. A dehumidifier can also be used to remove the excess moisture in the air to prevent mold growth.
4. Once the water and moisture is cleared, start cleaning and treating the carpet and flooring throughout the flooded area. Steam clean any carpeted area to properly sanitize and check the padding under the carpet to ensure that it does not need replaced. Carpet padding usually needs replaced when a flood occurs.
5. Clean walls and baseboards with warm water and soap to remove any residue. Then apply bleach and water mixture to sanitize the surface. 

Water damage produced from a flood can be dangerous and cause illness due to the bacteria sitting in the water. It’s important to act quickly when it comes to flood and water damage to prevent illness and worse damage to occur.

Source - http://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-steps-prevent-carpet-mold-after-water-damage.htm

Continuing Education Course - November 12th

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of continuing education credits for your licensure? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we offer FREE Continuing Education courses for you to fulfill those credit hours. Our sixth and final course that is being offered for this year will be Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire/Damage Restoration (4hr) and it will be held at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties in Hendersonville, TN on November 12th. You will find all of the course information listed below.

We’re hosting 4 FREE Credit Hours of Continuing Education on Thursday, November 12th at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties in Hendersonville, TN and would love for you to attend!

Course Information:

• The subject to be covered is Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire/Damage Restoration
• Registration for the class will begin at 9:00 AM
• The address for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is 229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN

If you would like to attend, please respond by email to Katie Sellens at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com) or by phone at 615-672-1905.

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this class or other classes that will be offered throughout the year please let us know.

Tips For Preventing Fires

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

As the temperature starts to drop we begin see an increase in fire damage. This blog will focus on ways to help prevent fires at your home or business. According to a 2018 study there were over 1.3 million properties that suffered a fire damage. This resulted in over 15,000 injuries and over 25 million dollars in repairs. By practicing these tips you can help prevent having a fire at your house.

-Check Smoke Detectors Regularly

When a fire initially starts a properly working smoke detector can not only save you money, but it could also save your life. It is recommended to test them monthly and frequently exchange the batteries. It only takes a few minutes to test them and its recommended to completely replace the detectors once every ten years. If your house has more then one floor its best to have detectors on each level and especially one close to each sleeping area.

-Watch Your Appliances

Stoves, washing machines, and microwaves all make our lives easier. However, when not used properly they can easily start a fire. Its recommended to clean these appliances regularly and not to use them when nobody is present.

-Be Extra Safe in The Kitchen

Recent studies have show that over half of house fires start in the kitchen. It’s important make sure you keep a fire extinguisher in close reach of the kitchen. Grease fires are most common in this area. It’s important to know that you must treat a grease fire differently than a regular fire. Never use water to put out a grease fire. Instead try to cover the fire with a heavy metal lid or dump baking soda directly on it.

-Don’t Smoke Inside

We don’t recommend smoking period. However, if you do please step outside and dispose your cigarette butts in a safe place.

-Have A Plan

Even if you follow all these tips there is still a chance your home could experience a fire. It’s smart to have an emergency plan in place. If you don’t already one the best time to make one is now. Choose a safe meeting place outside your house. Establish escape routes from every room of your house. Finally make sure everyone in your home knows where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them properly.   

Continuing Education Course - September 17th

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of continuing education credits for your licensure? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we offer FREE Continuing Education courses for you to fulfill those credit hours. Our fifth course that is being offered for this year will be Cleaning and Restoring – Smoke Damaged Contents (2hr) and it will be held at our SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties office in Hendersonville, TN on September 17th. You will find all of the course information listed below.

We’re hosting 2 FREE Credit Hours of Continuing Education on Thursday, September 17^th at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties in Hendersonville, TN and would love for you to attend!

Course Information:

• The subject to be covered is Cleaning and Restoring – Smoke Damaged Contents
• Registration for the class will begin at 12:30 PM and we should finish around 3:00 PM
• After the course is complete there will be appetizers, drinks and Oak & Pine Workshop will be joining us for a DIY project that you can take home with you
• The address for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is 229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN

If you would like to attend, please respond by email to Katie Sellens at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com) or by phone at 615-672-1905.

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this class or other classes that will be offered throughout the year please let us know.

Emergency Ready Profile

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be ready for whatever happens. The best way to reduce business interruption is to plan for it now. Here at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, and Dickson Counties we offer a tool for your business that helps you prepare for any type of disaster. The Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a no cost assessment of your facility. We come to your business and document the main shutoff locations and explain how to shut them off in the event of an emergency. We also compile a list of emergency contacts that can all be found in one place. The purpose of the ERP is to have your building prepared for any size problem.

50% of businesses close down permanently following a disaster according to the latest research. The businesses that survive are the ones who have a preparedness plan in place. The ERP is the perfect plan that will speed up the process of getting back into your facility after a damage. It is half the size of a normal contingency plan and is designed to serve as a quick reference of vital building and contact information. Whether it’s a small water leak, a wild fire, or an area flood, the ERP will have you ready for any size disaster.

If you think the Emergency Ready Profile would be a benefit to your company please reach out to us at 615-822-0200. We will be happy to schedule a time for your free assessment. It will only take a little time to set one up and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save you time and money if you ever have to use it. We look forward to setting one up at your building soon!

Faster to Any Disaster

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

With fast response and our extensive training our SERVPRO® professionals are able to help control damage, recovery cost and downtime.

When your Robertson County home or business is affected by damage it is important to act fast! Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we follow our 1-4-8 service guidelines to ensure that timely mitigation is top priority. With fast response and our extensive training our SERVPRO® professionals are able to help control damage, recovery cost and downtime.

SERVPRO® 1-4-8 Response Guidelines

1 HOUR – Within one hour of notice of loss, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will contact you to arrange for service.

4 HOURS – Within four hours of loss notification, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will be on site to start mitigation services (unless another time is requested)

8 HOURS – Within eight business hours, we will initiate a verbal briefing of the scope of damage and the mitigation efforts to you and your insurance carrier.

All SERVPRO® franchises are held to these guidelines set forth by SERVPRO® Headquarters. If you find yourself with a damage to your Robertson County home remember to call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905 to begin service.

Is Your Business Prepared?

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Take advantage of our FREE Emergency Response Plans and call our office at 615-672-1905 to schedule your appointment today.

Is Your Business Prepared?

Storm damage comes in all shapes and sizes and can have ill effects on your business. Having a Disaster Recovery Plan in place in case of business interruption can keep your business running at a certain capacity in the event of an emergency.

If your business takes the time to create and implement a good disaster recovery plan that includes steps to contain the effects of a storm damage, as well as minimize the potential for down time it can assist in getting your business back up and running quickly.

Take advantage of our FREE Emergency Response Plans and call our office at 615-672-1905 to schedule your appointment today. Our SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professionals can help put a tailored plan together for your business that ensures you can effectively bounce back from storm damage that might occur.

Continuing Education Course - July 30th

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of continuing education credits for your licensure? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we offer FREE Continuing Education courses for you to fulfill those credit hours. Our third & fourth courses that are being offered for this year will be Ethics (3hr) and Restorative Drying for Water Damage (2hr) and it will be held at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties in Hendersonville, TN on July 30th. You will find all of the course information listed below.

We’re hosting 5 FREE Credit Hours of Continuing Education on Thursday, July 30^th at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties in Hendersonville, TN and would love for you to attend!

Course Information:

• The subjects to be covered are Ethics and Restorative Drying for Water Damage
• Registration for the Ethics class will begin at 9:00 AM and registration for the Restorative Drying for Water Damage class will begin at 1:00 PM
• The address for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is 229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN

If you would like to attend, please respond by email to Katie Sellens at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com) or by phone at 615-672-1905.

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this class or other classes that will be offered throughout the year please let us know.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Roebrtson and Dickson Counties - Master Service Agreement

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

Master Service Agreements are customizable to each individual business.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties strives to make sure that your businesses are prepared for anything that happens.

We offer a specialized MSA (Master Service Agreement) to businesses at no cost. These are not contracts, but they do put everything in place to ensure that work can begin as soon as possible after a damage.

Master Service Agreements are customizable to each individual business. When going over the information to be contained within the agreement we will include whatever fits your business model. These agreements are great to put in place for your employees and staff to know what to do in case of an emergency loss. Because business owners are not able to be on site at all times, this document would ensure that everyone would know the protocol during an emergency. These are given as hardcopies to keep on site and also downloaded to our Emergency Ready Plan App so they can be accessed by anyone in your company with the proper permissions.

MSA’s generally include the following:

-Contact information

-FIRE & POLICE Departments

-SECURITY Company

-Water Department

-Electric Company

-IT Department

-Time & Material Pricing

               -This includes labor, equipment and material cost

-Insurance Information

-Payment Information

-Contingency Business Information

-SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Contact Information

Again, these are customizable. The basis behind these is to have one location for pertinent information in case of a damage. Having this information together before a loss happens helps to expedite the remediation process and in turn helps to lessen the extent of the damage. If you have any questions regarding our MSA’s or would like to schedule a time to sit down and put one together for your Robertson County business call our office at 615-672-1905.

Storm Prepardeness

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Are you prepared if a storm hits your Robertson County home? Storms come in all shapes and sizes and it is important to be prepared with an Emergency Supply Kit if a storm becomes an Emergency situation. We have compiled a list of important items to keep in that Emergency Kit below!

-Non-Perishable Food & Can Opener

               -(3) days worth of food per person

-Bottled Water

               -(5) days worth of water per person

-Personal Hygiene Items

-Prescription Medication

-First Aid Kit

-Extra Clothing

               -(2-3) days of clothing per person

-Battery Operated Radio

-Flashlight

-Spare Batteries

-Extra Cash

The items above are only suggestions. Emergency Kits should be personalized to fit your families needs. We are always here to help at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an inspection or services for storm damage that has occurred to your Robertson County home please call our office at 615-672-1905.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a comprehensive cleaning program that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and our renowned network of more than 1,800 fellow franchises across the U.S. launched Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, a robust cleaning program designed to help the country safely get back to work, back to school, and back to life's daily activities.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. A recent national survey showed 89% of consumers are apprehensive about going back to brick-and-mortar establishments; 40% of those cite business cleanliness as a top reason for concern.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a comprehensive cleaning program that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning, built from more than 50 years of cleaning industry experience to address viral pathogens like the coronavirus. The program was created from protocols and practices suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered professional cleaning and disinfecting products.

"When the stakes are this high, you want a partner to help reopen your doors. You want a partner who has developed industry-leading training programs, proprietary cleaning solutions and products, and proven remediation processes over decades," SERVPRO Chief Marketing Officer Mike Stahl said. "Our expertise is born out of cleaning up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects the unique experiences and capabilities of America's #1 cleanup and restoration brand."

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professionals have been on the frontlines of proactive and reactive COVID-related cleanup. Our franchise has been working to disinfect local government buildings, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, manufacturing facilities and many more. Across the U.S. our fellow franchisees have been working to clean and disinfect a nursing home in Kirkland, Washington, to being selected to disinfect the U.S. coronavirus quarantine sites, to performing cleaning in major international airports such as LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International in New York, SERVPRO has been trusted as the professional in biohazard cleanup.

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned process is grounded in three unique "Cs":

• Consult – A SERVPRO representative will develop a tailored cleaning program to meet your needs.
• Clean – SERVPRO will deliver both proactive and COVID-19 emergency response cleaning.
• Certify – SERVPRO will certify that your business has been cleaned and sanitized for your employees and customers.

"Being open for business is just the beginning of the journey forward," continued Stahl. "Your employees and your teammates may be hesitant to return to work, and your customers may wonder whether the businesses they patronize are safe. Whether your business works from an office building, restaurant, retail space, event center, school, daycare, or any other location, our experts will design a plan to help ensure it's clean and sanitized to a higher standard."

Safety is always a top priority for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties—franchise crews have extensive training on the proper use of disinfectants and personal protective equipment, and the proper procedures to give your employees and your customers peace of mind.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned offers several benefits:

• Custom cleaning plans – from proactive cleaning programs to suspected/confirmed COVID cleanings based on your business type, square footage, high-frequency touch points, foot traffic, congestion areas, public spaces, and more
• Visual reaffirmations to customers and employees – the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal ensures them the space has been cleaned
• High standard of cleaning
• Clean bacteria and other microbes
• Sanitize soft and porous surfaces
• Disinfect hard and high-touch surfaces
• Transparent, fair pricing
• After being cleaned – guest-accessible hygiene products, signage
• Technology – digital emblems to share on your website, on your social media

"It is our duty—not our job—to help inspire confidence in your consumers and employees by ensuring your business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned in order to help make community possible again," Stahl said. "You are the expert in your business. SERVPRO is the expert in ours—our business is clean. Let us handle the clean while you focus on your business."

For more information about the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, visit SERVPROcheathamrobertsondicksoncounties.com or call 615-672-1905.

Certified: SERVPRO^® Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA-approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO franchise system is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, mold mitigation, and biohazard remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,800 individually owned and operated franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO system has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.

Commercial Carpet Cleanings

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Remove spots and stains from frequently trafficked areas

Does your business have regularly scheduled carpet cleanings? Although having the carpets professionally cleaned is probably not on the top of anyone’s to-do list it is an important item to attend to.

Regular Professional Cleanings:

-Restore the natural texture of the carpets and extend their life

-Help to reduce the effects of wear and tear to high traffic areas

-Remove spots and stains from frequently trafficked areas

-Reduce the spread of bacteria, germs and mold

Move that regularly scheduled cleaning to the top of your to-do list and let SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties check it off your list for you. Call our office today at 615-672-1905 to schedule your appointment.

You Weathered the Storm. Now It's Time to Weather the Insurance.

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

It’s not often that you file a homeowners insurance claim, but when and if that time comes there are many aspects to keep in mind during the process.

If you have endured storm damage in your Robertson County home it is important that you assess your property, but only after it is safe to do so. Ensure that there are no downed power lines or other dangerous conditions before investigating the damage. Once you have investigated your property for damage it is time to report the damage to your Insurance Company. Knowing what to look for and what to expect with the claims process can relieve some of the stress in the situation.

How Do You Evaluate Your Property for Damage?

It is important that you complete a visual inspection of the exterior of your home, paying special attention to your roof, windows, gutters, facia and siding. If you have a chimney you will want to inspect it as well. Notate any missing shingles, cracks in the siding or brick, fallen gutters and window damage. Also, inspect your HVAC unit for any noticeable damage. Be sure to discuss all of the items and areas notated with your insurance adjuster.

Adjuster Insurance Inspection

Once you have contacted your Insurance Company and filed a claim they will assign an adjuster. The adjuster assigned to your claim will schedule a time to come and assess the damage of your property. Adjusters are trained to look at certain areas of the home that are prone to damage, but be sure to share the items that you notated on your initial inspection as well. Once their inspection is completed they will begin the process for your claim.

Once you have everything in order you can begin the process of repairs to your home. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is here to help. We are experienced and skilled in Water & Fire Damage and have years of experience in the construction as well. Call our office today at 615-672-1905 if you would like to schedule an appointment for a free estimate.

Sump Pump Maintenance

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have a sump pump in your Robertson County home? Many homeowners keep sump pumps in their basements and crawlspaces. Did you know that sump pumps need to be maintenance regularly to ensure that they work properly? Below is a checklist for you to follow!

• Test the speed of the pump by pouring a bucket of water inside
• Remove dirt and debris (like mud and pebbles) in the sump pit to prevent clogging
• Ensure the float component can move freely
• Check drain lines for corrosion
• Go outside to make sure that water is being pumped away from the house
• Create a backup plan for power outages (like a battery or generator)

Don’t take your sump pump for granted and wait until your basement floods. If you do need assistance with a sump pump that has malfunctioned and flooded your home, call our office at 615-672-1905.

Spring Maintenance Tips

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Spring has sprung and we are here to help with some tips to ensure that your Robertson County home is in tip top shape after the winter months.

Outside Water Sources

It is important that you check all outdoor water sources to make sure that have no dry rot or damage due to freezing. If you can stop the flow of water with your thumb, the pipe inside might be damaged.

HVAC Service

Having your HVAC system serviced will notify you of any problems with your unit as well as ensure that your unit is running efficiently.

Roof

Examine the roof carefully for any missing shingles or areas that have damage. Pay special attention to areas around skylights and the chimney.

Gutters

Look for loose or leaking gutters. Ensure that all downspouts are draining away from the foundation and that there is no debris lodged inside.

Concrete and Wood

Ensure that exterior concrete slabs drain away from the homes foundation and that there is no cracks within the concrete. Look for any rotted wood around exterior windows and doors and repair as needed to ensure that there is not continued damage.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is here to help. If you find that you need assistance with any of these spring maintenance tips call our office today at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties encourages Springfield Property Owners to Prepare Now for Severe Spring Weather

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties wants local home and business owners to know that the approaching spring season is notorious for flood-producing weather, so now is the time to prepare for the unpredictable.

“The water damage caused by a broken pipe, malfunctioning clothes or dishwasher, backed up gutters or damaged roof is typically limited in scope and pretty straightforward to deal with,” says Richardson. “Depending on where you live and work; however, you may also be at risk for flooding caused by rain, melting snow, coastal storms, storm surges, dam overflows, ice jams affecting rivers or a severe spring storm. Those are the types of flooding risks you need to plan for in advance.”

While some areas are more prone to flooding than others, FEMA warns that everyone lives in an area with some flood risk, so it’s important to understand your risk and take the appropriate steps to prepare. Even those who live in a “low flood risk” zone should heed weather warnings. Here are some of spring’s common flood-related weather hazards and where they are most likely to occur.

• Thunderstorms: The Southeast sees the greatest number of thunderstorms while the West Coast sees the fewest. They occur most often in the spring and summer months during the afternoon and evening hours but can occur anywhere and anytime. These powerful storms can dump large amounts of rain in a short period of time, resulting in flooding and power outages. In an average year, the U.S. experiences about 100,000 thunderstorms.
• Snow Melt: Areas of U.S. that receive a lot of snowfall are subject to flooding from snow melt. As warming temperatures melt the snow on top of the frozen ground, water can pour into basements and flood yards and streets. Communities downstream of heavy snowpack areas are at flooding risk from streams and rivers swollen with melted snow and ice. Communities along rivers are subject to flooding due to ice jams that block the river’s flow.
• Coastal Flooding: Flooding events during or following a coastal storm are common, but changes in average sea level and ongoing development have led to a phenomenon for coastal communities-Blue Sky or Sunny Day Flooding. Spring is one of the times when this phenomenon occurs, when Moon’s orbit brings it closest to the Earth, and the Moon, Sun and Earth align, resulting in extraordinarily high tides. Coastal flooding is most common along the Northeast and Gulf Coast.

“It’s great to look forward to warmer days of spring, but it’s also important to remember that this change in the weather can trigger some unsettled and even dangerous weather,” says Richardson. “Prepare now for the risk of flooding events by making an emergency plan for meeting up with loved ones, storing fresh water in the event of water supply contamination, having fresh batteries on hand in case of power outages, and stockpiling non-perishable food.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, floodwaters can pose several health risks and cause injuries, infection, chemical hazards and more. Ever drive through flooded roadways, and avoid contact with floodwaters when possible as it may contain downed power lines or electric current from a home or business; human or livestock waste; household, medical or industrial hazardous waste; debris; or wild animals such as rodents and snakes. If the water has entered a structure through the flooding of a creek, stream or river, or if it has fileted through insulation during its intrusion, it is also to be considered black water and could be hazardous to your health.

“If your home or business is affected by a flood, remember, quick action is critical to minimizing damage and long-term health risks,” Richardson says. Add SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties to your contact list in your phone. We’re here to help.”

SERVPRO® specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties, please contact Katie Sellens at 615-672-1905 or ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com. For more information on SERVPRO®, please visit www.SERVPRO.com.

Continuing Education Course - April 9th

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of continuing education credits for your licensure? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we offer FREE Continuing Education courses for you to fulfill those credit hours. Our second course that is being offered for this year will be Restoring Contaminated Buildings (2hr) and it will be held at Top Golf in Nashville, TN on April 9^th. You will find all of the course information listed below.

We’re hosting 2 FREE Credit Hours of Continuing Education on Thursday, April 9^th at Top Golf in Nashville, TN and would love for you to attend!

Course Information:

• The subject to be covered is Restoring Contaminated Buildings
• Registration for the class will begin at 1:30 PM and we should finish around 4:00 PM
• After the course is complete there will be appetizers, drinks and 2 golf bays for everyone to enjoy
• The address for Top Golf Nashville is 500 Cowan Street, Nashville, TN 37207

If you would like to attend, please respond by email to Katie Sellens at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com) or by phone at 615-672-1905.

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this class or other classes that will be offered throughout the year please let us know.

Are you following us on our social and web platforms?!?!

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Have you visited our social media and web platforms? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we pride ourselves in the hard work that our TEAM puts in every day. We would love to have you visit our social media and web pages so that you can partake in the fun that we have here! Listed below are the different platforms that we have for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and the content that you might see on those platforms. See something that interest you? Make sure to like that page so that you can follow us for more awesomeness!

Website- www.cheathamrobertsondicksoncounties

You can find all of our blog articles, customer photos and testimonials as well as a wealth of other information about our TEAM and company that you might not know!

Facebook- @SERVPROCRD

Well……it’s FACEBOOK! You can find a little bit of everything on our Facebook page. We share local information regarding our communities, try to provide severe weather updates when necessary and try to post fun interactive material.

Instagram- @SERVPROcrd

Only the coolest photos and stories that you have EVER seen! Like really. We are pretty awesome, but our Instagram account is WAY cooler than even us!

Twitter- @SERVPROCRD

We share updates of sporting events that we are affiliated with and much more! Come and follow us so that you can find out what all of the chirp is about!

Google- SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

Reviews! This is a great place to follow the reviews that are coming in for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. This also has our street address, phone number and hours (24/7).

BBB- SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

Check out our A+ rating on the BBB website for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties!

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - The Cleaning Experts

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is Here to Help during this time of need.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO® product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties, 615-672-1905

Continuing Education Course - March 26th

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Are you in need of continuing education credits for your licensure? Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we offer FREE Continuing Education courses for you to fulfill those credit hours. Our first course that is being offered for this year will be Restorative Drying for Water Damage (4hr) and it will be held in Dickson, TN on March 26^th. You will find all of the course information listed below.

We’re hosting 4 FREE Credit Hours of Continuing Education on Thursday, March 26^th at the American Job Center in Dickson, TN and would love for you to attend.

Course Information:

• The subject to be covered is Restorative Drying for Water Damage
• Registration for the class will begin at 9:00 AM and we should finish around 2:30 PM
• A light breakfast and lunch will be provided
• The address for the American Job Center is 250 Beasley Drive, # 2812, Dickson, TN 37055

If you would like to attend, please respond by email to Katie Sellens at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com) or by phone at 615-672-1905.

If you have any questions or would like more information regarding this class or other classes that will be offered throughout the year please let us know.

F3 Tornado Devastates Nashville and Surrounding Cities

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

In the early morning of March 3^rd a devastating tornado ripped through Nashville and surrounding areas leaving devastation behind. Many have been displaced by damage to their homes and businesses and there were countless lives lost during the storms. If there is anything that we can take from this tragic experience it is that we are strong and resilient. Nashville is strong and resilient. Its neighboring communities are strong and resilient. We will come together as ONE to ensure that everyone is taken care of; fed, clothed, housed, houses rebuilt, businesses rebuilt. Because we are Nashville Strong.

Below is a list of resources if you feel led to help or are in need of help.

Volunteer Efforts:

If you would like to express interest in volunteering for disaster relief efforts, please visit: https://www.hon.org/

(Please note: if you are experiencing technical difficulties with their website they are working to have them restored. There has been an outpouring of support from the community and the website is having a hard time keeping up with everyone trying to donate their time!)

Donate Goods:

Community Resource Center is currently taking product donations. They are specifically looking for personal hygiene products, bleach, trash bags, box cutters and gloves at this time.

Donate Money:

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee is the city’s partner for collection of disaster relief funds. Please visit www.CFMT.org to donate.

Red Cross:

If you were affected by this morning’s tornadoes and need a safe place to go, here is a list of Red Cross shelters:

Nashville: Centennial Sportsplex, 222 25^th Avenue North

Nashville: East High School, 110 Gallatin Avenue

Mt. Juliet: Victory Baptist Church, 1777 Tate Lane

Lebanon: Highland Heights Church of Christ, 505 North Cumberland Street

Cookeville: First Baptist, 18 South Walnut Avenue

If you would like to donate blood, please visit redcrossblood.org and enter your zip code to find a blood drive near you.

Residential and Commercial Assistance:

Roof Tarps, Water Mitigation, Board Up’s. Call our office at 615-672-1905 and we will be happy to assist you with your damage. Our teams are working around the clock to make sure that everyone in our area and surrounding areas is taken care of.

Novel Coronavirus (nCoV)

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in thousands of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City. Additional cases have been identified in a growing number of other international locations, including the United States. There are ongoing investigations to learn more.

Individual Prevention:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

Stay home when you are sick

Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue and discard responsibly

Frequently clean and disinfect frequently touched items and surfaces

Wash your hands often with soap for at least (20 seconds)

Business Prevention:

Actively encourage sick employees to stay home

Separate sick employees

Emphasize staying home when sick

Emphasize personal hygiene with employees (ie: hand washing, respiratory etiquette)

Perform routine environmental cleaning

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties wants you to stay safe and unaffected by the coronavirus. Take the precautions listed above to aide in you, your loved ones and your employees avoiding contracting the coronavirus. Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we are equipped to clean and sanitize based on a specific set of guidelines and protocols set forth by the CDC. If you are in need of professional sanitation call our office today at 615-672-1905.

2020 Tentatively Scheduled CE Courses

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

We are forging on into the New Year here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and have some exciting news! We decided to pre-plan and arrange our Continuing Education Courses that we offer for the entire year! We offer these courses free of charge to local insurance agents and adjusters to help them achieve the credits that they need for their licensures. All of the courses listed below are tentatively scheduled and an email will be sent out for each course individually closer to their scheduled dates. If you would like to be included on these emails please give me a call at 615-672-1905 or email me at (ksellens@SERVPRO8267.com).

Restorative Drying for Water Damage (4hr)-28998

When: March 26, 2020

Where: American Job Center-250 Beasley Drive, 32812, Dickson, TN 37055

***After Hours Course-Limited Space Available***

Restoring Contaminated Buildings (2hr)-20242 

When: April 9, 2020

Where: Top Golf Nashville-500 Cowan Street Nashville, TN 37207

Details: After the 2hr Continuing Education Course we have secured space for two hours of golf, appetizers and drinks.

Ethics (3hr)-24871 Restorative Drying for Water Damage (2hr)-29038

When: July 30, 2020

Where: SERVPRO® of Sumner County-229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN 37075

***After Hours Course-Limited Space Available***

Cleaning & Restoring-Smoke Damaged Contents (2hr)-31268

When: September 17, 2020

Where: SERVPRO® of Sumner County-229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN 37075

Details: After the 2hr Continuing Education Course, OAK & PINE WORKSHOP will be at our facility to complete a fun DIY project with everyone!

Understanding the Restoration Industry: Property Fire/Damage and Restoration (4hr)-26960

When: November 12, 2020

Where: SERVPRO® of Sumner County-229 Innovation Way, Hendersonville, TN 37075

Sumner County Flood Evacuation Emergency Kit

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties wants you to be prepared if a flood forces you to evacuate.

Some of these items can be kept in a waterproof container (your emergency kit). Medications probably cannot, but you can have them ready to bring with you.

If a flood in Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson Counties means you have to evacuate your home, you will need:

• Written contact list
• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards

• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• Batteries for your electronic devices

Some people in Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson Counties will also need:

• At least one other person who can get your medications &  supplies
• At least a week-long supply of prescription medicines
• A list of all medications, allergies, and dosages
• An extra pair of glasses or extra contact lenses
• Hearing-aid batteries
• Games & activities for children

If you have pets in your home, consider:

• Pet food and toys
• Toys or comfort objects
• Vet information

Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties suggests you find out which ones will allow your 4-legged loved ones. All shelters allow service animals. 

Fire Extinguisher Safety in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

All of us at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties hope you never have a fire. If the worst happens, we are experts in cleaning the damage left by smoke and fire in your home or office.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

• You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
• Someone has called the fire department
• You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
• The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
• You are safe from the fire’s smoke
• You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties suggests you remember PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle side to side.

If you see a small fire at your place of business or home, and you think you can take care of it yourself, use these tips above.  If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the building and call 9-1-1 when you are safe, outside.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties 24-Hour Emergency Storm

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties: Tornadoes

Tornadoes are a major cause of storm damage in Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties.

Tornadoes:

• Look like funnels
• Are air columns that rotate from thunderstorms down to the ground
• Bring winds that may move over 200 mph
• Bring heavy rain
• Can create missiles out of objects
• Can destroy buildings and flip cars
• Can lead to flooding
• Are not always predictable
• Move quickly

A tornado watch usually lasts about (6) six hours.  It means that conditions are right for tornadoes to develop. Listen for updates from the weather service and plan where you will go if the weather service does spot a tornado.

A tornado warning means that the weather service has spotted a tornado. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties has these suggestions:

• Find shelter immediately.
• You should know where to take shelter if you are at home or work
• Shelter areas are away from windows.
• Shelter areas are away from outdoor walls.
• Follow signs or guides to shelter
• Stay in the shelter until the tornado warning is over.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson, & Dickson Counties urges you to be safe.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Mold Services

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties presents: Mold in Drywall

Even a tiny bit of moisture can lead to mold growing in drywall.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled that only licensed professionals can clean any surface that has more than 10 square feet of mold. The EPA can’t know how you take care of your own home, but you will need an inspection to sell your house. You might not see all of the mold. The sooner you get rid of mold, the less damage it can do.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is licensed for mold remediation.

Mold remediation means that you have to get rid of the mold spores that become mold. You also have to fix whatever caused the dampness.

Mold:

• can start growing on a damp surface within 24 hours
• destroy the materials they grow on
• spread and destroy adjacent materials
• grows from tiny spores that travel through the air

It is impossible to get rid of all of the mold spores. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can:

• remove drywall
• disinfect certain surfaces
• find the source of moisture
• stop the moisture problem

Prevent Water Damage Before It Happens – Tips From A Plumber

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can be caused by many different things. Some are unavoidable and some could be possibly be prevented by taking the proper precautions. Plumbers see it all where water damages are concerned and have given 10 tips to aid in the prevention of water damage at your home or business.

1. Know the Location of Shut-Off Valves

Note the location of the main shut off valves and drain in your home and business. In many cases the shut off will be located outside of your home or business. Apartments and condos may not have their own dedicated shut off valves.

2. Don’t Puncture Pipes

Make sure that you have an idea of where your pipes are located in your walls. If you plan to drill holes or put nails into your drywall or flooring you could potentially puncture a pipe if you are unsure of their location. You may be able to locate pipes behind walls with an inexpensive stud finder.

3. Find Out What’s Flushable

Flushing anything other than toilet paper is not advisable. There are flushable wipes on the market that also pose a risk of creating a backup.

4. Don’t Put Garbage Down The Drain

Even if you have a garbage disposal, be gentle with the items that you place in the disposal. Many times disposals have build-up that forms from different foods that can cause a drain to backup.

5. Take The Plunge

Invest in a high quality plunger to clear clogs in toilets, sinks and drains.

6. Pull Out The Vacuum

One word. KIDS. If you are trying to dislodge a larger object such as a toothbrush or toy, don’t be afraid to pull out the wet-dry vacuum to assist. A plunger will lodge the item deeper into the drain causing it to become more difficult to remove.

7. Don’t Ignore Leaks

Do you have a steady drip? Don’t wait to fix the problem causing the leak. That steady leak is causing a steady incline in your water bill. A leaky faucet can waste up to eight gallon of water per day.

8. Never Over-Tighten Fittings

I tend to like to make sure things are nice and tight when I am completing home repairs. Don’t do that with your fittings and connections. Over tightening can lead to stripped screws and broken bolts. Remember, “Hand tight is just right”

    9. Make Friends with Plumber’s Tape

Also called (Teflon Tape), plumbers tape is used to seal pipe threads to prevent leaks around joints and fittings.

10. Always Check for Leaks

After every plumbing project, check for leaks by running water through the system. You can make adjustments before damage happens by doing this.

These helpful tips will aid in preventing water damage to your home or business, but will not protect your property 100% from unforeseeable problems. If you find yourself with damage to your home or business call our office today.

How can SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties help your business?

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we understand that it is important for your business to be operational. We pride ourselves in offering the best methods to ensure that your business can be back up and running in the event of a loss occurring.

Plan Ahead

We offer a FREE facility inspection and ERP (Emergency Response Plan) that is accessible through an app that you can download and pass along to the individuals in your company that would be most likely to be on the front lines after a damage. This plan includes shut off locations, information for your local police and fire departments, contact information for the individuals in your company that need to be kept up to date on situations that could occur. ERP’s are printable as well, and can be kept with your business contingency plan.

Take Action

Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we take pride in the level of service that we offer to our customers. We know it is important to mitigate the damage and get your doors open as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 and have the resources necessary to mitigate your damage quickly and effectively.

If you would like to schedule for a FREE ERP to be completed on your business call our office and we would be happy to schedule an inspection. If you have damage and need assistance with mitigation, call our office and we will send someone to assess the damage and create a plan of action.

One of the Top Homeowners Insurance Claims

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you secure homeowners insurance for a multitude of reasons. It is the smartest way to prepare for losses that could potentially occur in your home. The policy that is best for you and your family depends on your needs and your homes geographic location. A top rated insurance carrier rated water damage and weather related water damage as two of the Top Five most common causes of damage.

Water Damage can occur from appliances, plumbing and sewer failures and can cause a lot of damage to your home. According to the data from this carrier, non-weather related water damages make up roughly 20% of claims.

Water Damage can also occur from frozen pipes, leaky roofs and ice dams. These damages are costly and can cause extensive damage to your home as well. These are considered weather related and make up roughly 11% of the claims based on this carrier’s data.

If you find yourself with damage from one of the top five causes, give our office a call to begin remediation.

Christmas Tree Safety

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas is right around the corner and for many people decorating is about to be in full swing. Holidays are a busy and joyous time of the year, here are some Christmas tree facts and safety tips for you and your family.

• More than one of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four fires.  

Together those statistics account for TWO IN EVERY FOUR fires. Don’t be a statistic. Follow these tips to keep you and your family safe during the holidays.

Picking The Tree

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing The Tree

Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.

Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fire pits, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

Add water to the tree stand daily.

Lighting The Tree

Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.

Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.

Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. You can check with your community to see if there is a local recycling program.

Chimney Checklist

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

The cold winter months are upon us and curling up by a nice cozy fire might be in the near future for many. Before you go gather wood and building a fire make sure to follow this checklist to ensure that your fireplace is safe for use.

Chimney Checklist (Say that 10 times fast)

Inspection-

It is recommended that all homeowners have their chimneys inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep. Having your chimney inspected will ensure that there are not potential health and safety hazards.

Chimney Cap-

Always inspect your chimney cap. If your chimney cap has been damaged it can allow moisture, animals and debris to enter your flue.

Check Flashing-

If the flashing around the chimney appears to be warped or bent it could be allowing moisture and water to enter the chimney. Long term damage caused by this could include deterioration and leakage.

Trim Tree Branches-

Ensure that there are no tree branches that could potentially damage the chimney during a storm and/or cause a fire.

Repair Missing Bricks, Chipped Bricks and Mortar-

Find them. Fix them. 

Clean the Flue-

Creosote is accumulated by burning fires and is the leading cause of chimney fires. Having your chimney inspected and cleaning should eliminate any creosote buildup.

Remove Leftover Ash-

A thin layer of ash can assist with starting a fire, but a large amount of ash will choke your fire out from the moisture content.

Test Damper-

Make sure that the damper is in good working order and form a tight seal when shut. If the damper doesn’t close properly and form a tight seal it will allow outside air to mix with heated air and increase your energy cost significantly.

Install Batteries in Smoke Alarms/Detectors-

If you aren’t changing the batteries in your smoke detector out during daylight savings time, make sure that they are changed before beginning to build fires.

Store Firewood-

Be sure to store your fire wood in a ventilated area, off of the ground and away from exposure to water or moisture.

Stay warm friends! Call our office if you have any questions.

Holiday Fire Safety

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that holidays bring more than joy with them each year? They also bring a greater risk for fire. Make sure that you and your family are following some simple tips to ensure that you have a SAFE and HAPPY holiday this year.

Holiday Entertaining

-Keep children and pets away from lit candles.

-Keep lighters and matches up in high locked cabinet.

-Test you smoke alarms and advise guest of all exits and your home fire escape plan. If you need assistance in creating a plan you can go here.

-Stay in the kitchen when cooking and baking.

-Provide large deep ashtrays for smokers and ask smokers to keep their materials with them so that children can’t get them.

Holiday Decorating

-Some lights are intended only for indoor OR outdoor use, but not both.

-Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.

-Use clips and NOT nails to secure lights and cords. This ensures that the cord will not be damaged.

-Choose decorations that are flame resistant OR flame retardant.

-Replace lights or decorations that have broken cords or loose bulb connections.

-Read manufacturer instructions for the proper number of lights that can be connected.

-Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

Before Heading To Bed Or Leaving The House

-BLOW OUT lit candles

-TURN OFF light strings

More than 1/3 of home decoration fires are started by candles and more than 2 of every 5 decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source. If you find yourself in need of our services over the holidays call our office. We are here to help.

Document Restoration

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents, (documents, photographs and books), could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your papers before it is too late.

 The SERVPRO® Document Restoration Facility Is:

Innovative:

We use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing

Secure:

Managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance

Digital:

We use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents

Flexible Capacity:

We can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs

Full Service:

We offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing and deodorization

Our Technology

SERVPRO® document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).

Here to Help® With

-              Paper Documents

-              Books and Magazines

-              Manuscripts and Files

-              Photographs, Films, Negatives and Microfiche

-              X-Rays

-              Blueprints and maps

-              Parchment

Document Cleaning and Disinfecting

In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.

Digitizing Services

In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. Perhaps most important of all, you will have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.

Why SERVPRO®?

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will get the job done right. For document restoration backed by state-of-the-art equipment call us today!

Turkey Fryer Safety

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching I’m sure that there are many people beginning to plan their Thanksgiving menu. In the South we like to fry turkeys to enjoy with our families during Thanksgiving dinner. Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we want you to be able to attend your Thanksgiving dinner and provide a beautiful fried turkey in the process. We have listed some tips below to ensure that you are frying your turkey safely.

Turkey Frying Safety Tips:

• Keep outdoor fryers off of decks, away from houses and vegetation and out of garages.
• Watch the weather. You never want to operate your fryer in the rain or snow.
• Make sure that the turkey is completely thawed. When ice mixes with hot oil it causes combustion and will create a large flame.
• Ensure that the fryer is placed on a solid surface.
• Never leave a fryer unattended.
• Leave at least 2 feet between the tank and burner when using a propane powered fryer.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly fill the fryer with the correct amount of oil. Overfilling can cause the oil to ignite.
• Choose a smaller bird for frying. An 8-10 lb. turkey is best.
• Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, watch the oil temperature carefully. If the fryer becomes too hot it will smoke and can catch fire at a certain point.
• Wear googles to protect your eyes, gloves to protect your hands and keep a hose nearby in case of a fire.
• Skip the stuffing when deep frying a turkey and avoid water based marinades.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner. Let the oil cool overnight before disposing.
• Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil to cook the turkey.

Happy frying!!!

What Can Affect Repair Cost After a Water Damage?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you have water damage from a storm or a faulty appliance, mitigating that damage and starting repairs in a timely manner is important. Depending on the cause and severity of damage the cost can range significantly to mitigate and complete repairs. Below are some factors that could affect the cost of repairs.

-The Areas Size-

As one might think, the larger the area of damage the larger the area of repairs. The larger the damage the more labor and material it takes to repair it correctly. Although, there are instances in which a smaller area of damage could result in more repair cost. Such as, working within a confined space or having to purchase more material than needed for the area due to the way in which it is sold.

-Whether the Water is Still Present-

Make sure that you have hired a reputable company to mitigate the water damage and ensure that the structure is completely dry before beginning repairs. You should not attempt to begin repairs until all of the structure has been dried thoroughly and all equipment removed.

-Damaged Materials-

If your home or business has costly materials and upgrades within then your repairs will be more costly. For instance, if you have sand and finish hardwood that was removed and needs to be replaced it will cost more than that of carpet for the same area. This is a big reason why it is a good idea to review your policy as well. If you have completed a lot of upgrades and done remodeling to your home over the years you want to ensure that you have the proper amount of coverage to cover any damages that might occur.

-Location-

Different areas have a different cost of living. The cost of living in California is much different than that of Kentucky or Tennessee. Make sure that you are hiring a trained professional from the area that you live or need the repairs to be completed.

-Timeline-

It is important that you begin mitigation to your damage as soon as you have discovered the damage. The longer you wait to mitigate the damage that occurred the more likely you are to have secondary damage occur that will result in a higher mitigation cost and therefore a higher repair cost.

If you find yourself in need of mitigation from water damage, fire damage, mold damage or storm damage call our office to schedule a free inspection today.

Which Washer Hose Is Right For You?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Most homeowners are not particularly picky when it comes to washing machine hook up. Is it hooked up? Does it work? Okay great! Unfortunately, the components that you choose to hook your washer up can impact your home and family more than you would like to think.

There are three different kinds of washing machine hoses that you can choose from.

Reinforced Rubber

These are the hoses that people are most familiar with. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. They are made of a polyester mesh that makes the rubber stronger and less likely to burst.

If your machine is located inside of your home these hoses are not recommended as they can burst. If your machine is located outside of the home these are a good solution for you.

Steel Braided

A stainless steel hose is the minimum hose style recommended for indoor use. They are not the cheapest that you can find as far as hoses are concerned, but the added safety is worth the extra money. A stainless steel braided hose is better than the basic rubber hose and meets a minimum standard when your washing machine is located inside.

Auto-Shutoff Hose

For a few more dollars you can have additional peace of mind using auto-shutoff hoses. These hoses have an auto shut off at one end as an added safety feature. These hoses provide the best safety features for added peace of mind.

Here are some helpful tips on hose installation and maintenance to help avoid hose failure.

-Ensure that you have the proper length hose. Do not force the hose to fit.

-Always allow ample space between the washing machine and the wall to avoid kinks.

-Inspect your hose regularly. At minimum you want to inspect your hose once yearly. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your hose when you inspect your smoke detectors at Daylight Savings Time.

-Shut water off when you are on vacation or away from the home for an extended period of time.

-Replace your washing machine hoses regularly. The manufacturer of your hose will state the average life expectancy and recommend when the hoses should be replaced.

I you find that your machine has been leaking over time when checking your hoses. Call our office to have an inspection of the damage.

Wildfires

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Wildfires happen quickly and are unpredictable at the very least. Here are some tips to help if wildfires become a threat in your area.

Measures to Prevent Wildfires In and Around Your Home

-Clear leaves and debris from around your home and your gutters.

-Screen in or create a barrier underneath decks and porches to aid in preventing combustible materials to accumulate.

-Remove dead vegetation from around your home or structure.

-Keep your lawn maintained and well hydrated. Cut any dead grass down as low as possible.

-Ensure that your trees are maintained, pruned and topped.

-Dispose of any debris or lawn clippings as quickly as you can after they accumulate.

-Inspect shingles and/or roof tiles and make any necessary repairs.

Emergency Plan

-Create an emergency supply kit and keep it in a safe place. Remember to include any important documents, medication lists, phone numbers, etc.

-Plan two separate routes out of your neighborhood and choose a designated meeting place for your family.

-Create an emergency evacuation plan and practice that plan with your family to ensure that everyone is aware of what it includes.

Community

-Contact your local city offices to check if your home is located in a high risk area.

-If you are a part of a homeowners association make sure to go over a plan to assist with shut ins or families with disabilities. Any assistance that friends and neighbors can provide is crucial to ensure everyone’s safety.

-Speak with your local fire department and ask them what their plan is in case of wildfires.

If you have any questions, would like more information or need assistance with fire/smoke damage in your home call our office today.

Customer Service Through Disaster

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you have ever suffered through a storm that created wide spread damage in your area then you more than likely understand what it is like to feel helpless. Our office provides support to our storm teams within the SERVPRO® franchise system and travels to affected areas to offer help and support to the many victims that are affected by the storms. Our office are constantly watching weather patterns and are put on alert or stand by when major storms are about to make landfall. By watching the weather patterns and having our own meteorologist on staff we are able to prepare to travel to the areas affected when we are called.

We send our teams and technicians to your areas to begin the process of mitigation. We know that the longer these damages sit the more likely there is to be secondary damage. Unfortunately, most storm damage is widespread and therefore it is difficult to assist everyone with the damages to their homes. Our offices and on the ground teams attempt to help as many people in one day as possible. Many days they are out at calls from sun up to sun down and if there is electricity, no curfew being enforced and we have the homeowners permission we have stayed until 10PM – 11PM.

Our office staff is trained to obtain certain information regarding the damage to your home, but also additional information such as accessibility and power. We know that when you have a damage such as this you emotions are heightened and you are ready to begin the mitigation and repair process to ensure that things return to normal as soon as possible. Our office staff tries to remain empathetic and reassuring while still collecting all of the pertinent information needed to schedule services to begin. We are happy to help in any way possible and our main objective is to service your damage as soon as we possibly can.

If you find yourself in a storm situation call your local SERVPRO® franchise. The friendly staff will get you on your way to normalcy as soon as possible.

Tips for Evacuation Plan

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Keep panic away with an evacuation plan. When you are faced with an emergency situation, the last thing that you want to do is panic. Having an evacuation plan in place helps you to keep some control during an unexpected and difficult situation. Planning ahead gives you a plan and a course of action.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

Many business owners are unaware of the coverage's that are laid out in their insurance policy. Unfortunately, there are certain naturally caused disasters that would not fall under their coverage. Make sure that you review your policy and are aware of the coverage's within. During an emergency situation the last thing that you want to be worried with is money. Having an insurance policy that you understand and fits your needs gives you peace of mind.

Include All Employees

Make sure that all of your employees are aware of the evacuation procedures that are put in place and review it regularly. Include in your plan, whom within the company will be assigned with certain tasks.

Keep It Flexible

Having a plan in place in case of an emergency is the first step, but always be open to change within the plan when complications arise. Always try to stick to the plan, but know that if something were to go wrong the plan can be changed to accommodate the situation at hand.

Set Up a Practice Schedule

Practice makes perfect! Once you have discussed a plan and have it put in place for your company make sure that you practice the plan with your employees often. This will ensure that everyone is aware of the plan and any necessary changes can be made according to trial and error. Practicing the plan without an actual emergency looming will help to ensure its unflawed execution during an emergency.

Don’t Wait

Talking about creating an evacuation plan and implementing an evacuation plan are two totally different things. It’s easy to talk about creating a plan and continuing to put it off. Make sure that you take the time needed to create a plan for your company and employees.

Set Up Emergency Alerts

Be sure to set up alerts on your phone to let you know of an impending emergency situation. You can also get weather alert radios for different areas of the building. Knowing about what is happening around you is the only way to keep your employees and business as safe as possible.

Attention to Detail

No detail is too small. Don’t overlook tiny details because you believe that they might not make a difference in the plan that you would like to put in place. Sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment for one of our representatives to create and Emergency Response Plan (ERP).

Does Your Business Have a Plan In Case of a Tornado?

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Does Your Business Have a Plan In Case of a Tornado?

Tornadoes are destructive and can leave cities and towns with unimaginable damage. Tornadoes develop with little to no warning, leaving families, homes and businesses vulnerable with very little time to react. Because of the vast destruction that a tornado is capable of causing it is important that your business is prepared and has a plan in place.

We have compiled a checklist for your business in the event of a tornado.

Before the Tornado

-Keep weather alert radios in all buildings

-Have a plan for providing emergency notification to all employees, clients, vendors and visitors.

-Put your plan in writing and distribute to all employees and departments.

-Conduct drills with employees to prepare.

-When establishing a timeline for preparation and closure for the workplace after an emergency, consider that employees will need to prepare and care for their families and any personal matters that might arise after as well. Always allow ample time for them to execute their personal plans.

-Always identify and speak with critical employees and department heads regarding expectations and duties. For example, many times there are IT functions that need to be established to protect and restore technology systems. If they are needed to work remotely be sure to establish travel, hotel and meal arrangements in advance and know what equipment that will be needed as well.

-Develop a contingency plan for any HR related functions. ie. Payroll, Benefits

-Update your employee contact information often.

During a Tornado

-Move employees to interior room or hallway.

-Stay away from windows

-Go to a pre-designated area. Get underneath tables and use arms to shield your head from debris.

After a Tornado

-Ensure that you are able to locate all employees

-Following the tornado, be sure to implement the plan that you put in place and notify all critical people of the next steps, based on the damage that has occurred.

Water Damage Responsibility, Landlord or Tenant?

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Who is responsible for a water damage in an apartment complex? If you are renting you might ask yourself this question if you have a water damage. Water damage is a common occurrence not only for homeowners but for renters as well.

Renter Rights

It is important to understand your rights when renting. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the structure and ensuring that it is still livable and up to codes. Keep records when communicating with your landlord and asking for repairs to be completed. Further damage can be caused if repairs are not made in a timely fashion. Depending on the state in which you live rent details can vary, so be sure to check with your local housing authority.

Lease Agreement

It is important to know what your lease agreement states. Many lease agreements will include the insurance coverage's within that state the parameters. Know your rights and educate yourself. If you are aware of the verbiage and contents of the lease agreement you can discuss damages with your landlord and make informed decisions.

Renters Insurance

As a renter you should have at minimum a content policy to cover any contents in the event of a damage. In addition to being informed on your lease agreement, make sure that you are informed regarding your content policy parameters.  If a claim needs to be filed due to damage for structure you will need to understand your policy for claim purposes.

Water damage requires immediate attention and rapid response. If you find yourself with damage call our office to schedule and inspection. We will put together a plan of action with estimate and ensure that the property and contents are restored to the best of our ability.

Not Every Hero Wears a Cape! Plan and Practice your Escape.

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) set this years campaign for fire prevention month as “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape! Plan and Practice Your Escape.”

Fire Prevention Month raises awareness about fire safety and home safety to help ensure your home and family are prepared in the case of an emergency. This is a perfect time to discuss fire safety with your family. It is important to discuss what to do in case of a fire with your family, including those who live outside of your household such as elderly family members. Here are some key points to discuss with your loved ones.

-In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Planning and practicing an escape plan is crucial in preparing in case of an emergency.

-Check your smoke alarms monthly to ensure that they are in proper working order and change the batteries out twice a year. Many find changing the batteries during daylight savings time to be easiest to remember.

-Practice makes perfect! Run through your families fire drill together. Have everyone go to a different room in the house and wait to set the alarm off. Practice the drill until all family members have executed the drill as planned and are safely in your meeting area outside of the home.

By preparing for a fire ahead of time, you can have peace of mind knowing family and your home will remain safe year round.

Call our office or your local fire department if you need assistance in checking the fire alarms in your home.

Emergency Supplies Your Cheatham County Business Should Have on Hand

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Be sure that you have SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties phone number programmed in case of emergency.

7 Emergency Supplies Your Cheatham County Business Should Have on Hand

Is your Cheatham County business prepared for an emergency situation? Inclement weather situations and power outages can give little to no warning, which is why it is important for your business to have basic emergency supplies on hand in the event they are needed. These 7 necessities are important to ensure your employees safety in case of emergency.

Food-

Having a 3-4 day supply of non-perishable food items for each employee is important. Stocking up on items such as salt-free crackers, canned foods with high liquid content, protein bars, peanut butter and dried fruit is a great way to ensure that your employees will be taken care of.

Water-

In addition to non-perishable food items, it is important to have a minimum 3 day supply of emergency water per person. You can go about purchasing the water in different ways depending on the amount of usable space you have for storage. The most common methods are cases, gallon jugs or 55-gallon storage barrels. All of these can be used for drinking and sanitation purposes when necessary.

Radios-

Radios are useful to keep you updated on current weather patterns, evacuation notices and much more. Keeping a few AM/FM radios on hand will keep you abreast to any important information during an emergency. We recommend solar powered radios or battery powered radios for this purpose. If you choose to stock your supplies with battery powered radios, try and save battery power whenever possible.

Protection From Elements-

During inclement weather if your building sustains damage that deems it unsafe to occupy, all employees may need to evacuate the premises. Having weather appropriate gear such as, ponchos, gloves, thermal blankets and a canopy shelter is key in making sure that all employees are safe.

Emergency Lights-

The Electricity can go out for any amount of time during inclement weather or emergency situation. Emergency lighting is essential for your employees to navigate the facility in a safe manner. Battery powered flashlights are great short term lighting, but it is best to also have solar powered or hand cranked flashlights for long term use. We also recommend keeping candles and waterproof matches.

First Aid Kit-

A basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, adhesive tape and other useful items will be a tremendous help in the event one of your employees is injured. Keeping 2-3 of these stocked and in easily accessible locations is best practice.

Sanitation Supplies-

During a disaster or emergency situation, a sanitary water source and plumbing will more than likely be unavailable. To ensure the well being of employees and to keep things sanitary, you should have emergency sanitation supplies available. Common sanitation items are, hand sanitizers, individual packs of tissue and quality cleaning chemicals.

Having an emergency kit during times of crisis will hopefully keep you and your staff safe. Be sure to print this when putting together your Emergency Kit. In the meantime, be sure that you have a vetted vendor for times of emergencies. Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at (615) 672-1905. We are always here to help.

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOOA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can help.

Is Your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Business Prepared If Disaster Strikes?

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

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 can affect your business.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® is a start of 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® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties to create your SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®, your business can receive the benefit of over 45 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call our office today at 615-672-1905 to schedule your free facility assessment.

Are you ready to sell more houses in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties?

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

It is a fact: A clean, fresh smelling home sells faster.

Unfortunately, not all home are maintained in the same way. Nearly all realtors are faced, at some point, with a difficult listing to show.

Veteran realtors encourage their clients to keep their home in top condition for very important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Reduced list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties offer a variety of services to help revive your listings to top show condition:

• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
• Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you are currently working with clients in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and are in need of services, call our office today at 615-672-1905.

Is Your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Home Prepared With An Emergency Kit?

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

If disaster strikes will you be ready?

It is important to prepare before a disaster occurs; one way to do that is by building a basic emergency kit. The following items are recommended for your Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County home emergency kit.

• Water, one gallon per person per day
• Food, 3-day supply of non-perishable food items
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing, 3-day supply per person
• Dust masks or bandannas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

Don’t be ill prepared if disaster strikes at your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home. Collect the above items and have your emergency kit ready in the instance that you need to use it. If you find yourself with damage from storms call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we are here to help.

Remember these emergency Do’s and Don’ts if you ever have a water damage in your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home.

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Taking proper action and following these steps until SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can arrive will help to reduce damage and increase the chances of successful restoration.

Emergency Water Damage Tips:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.
• Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock o damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.

If you find yourself with water damage to your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home we are here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties today!

Understanding Storm Types In Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

There are several different types of storms that could effect Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. Storms have proved to result in injuries, deaths and damage to homes, properties and businesses. Below are different types of storms and what they consist of individually.

Thunder Storms -

Heavy rains and heavy winds can cause storm damage and can also result in water damage around Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. Most property damage from thunderstorms is from hail or wind, but lightning is also possible. Lightning is a major cause of storm and fire damage in the U.S. The NFPA states that between the years of 2007 and 2011, local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600 fires per year that were started by lighting strikes. In addition to the possibility of fires, lightining strikes can be deadly. Data from the National Weather Service shows that between the years of 2008 and 2012, an average of 29 people per year died as a result of lighting strikes.

Hail Storms -

Hail storms often come with thunderstorms. Hail occurs when updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere where the rain freezes into ice. Hail can cause extensive damage to structures, crops, livestock and vehicles.

Ice Storms -

If a winter storm causes more than a quarter inch of ice on exposed surfaces, the storm is considered an ice storm. Ice build up can pose severe impacts to the residents of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. Ice can increase the weight of tree branches up to 30 times and can add 500 pounds of additional weight to power lines. If more than half and inch of ice forms on trees and power lines, widespread damage is expected leaving roads impassable as well as residents without power and damage to homes.

Tornadoes -

The winds from tornadoes wreak havock on whatever they touch. Tordandos are funnels of rapidly spinning air. Winds from tornadoes vary and can top out at 250 miles per hour. Large tornadoes are highly destructive and can clear areas as much as a mile wide and 50 miles long. Tornadoes derive from thunderstoms and are often accompanied by hail.

Blizzards -

A blizzard is a severe snow storm that produces winds in excess of 35 miles per hour and low visibility of less than a quarter mile that last for more than 3 hours. By itself, the heavy snow can cause roof collapse and trees to fall. The combination of wind, snow, and cold is very dangerous.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Office Staff

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County we take pride in helping our customers through a trying time in their lives. From the moment that you call our office to report your damage and schedule services you will be greeted by one of our friendly office staff. Andrea, Becca and Wendy will walk you through the process and obtain information regarding your claim and damage so that we can assist you accordingly. Andrea or Becca will be assigned your file to ensure that all documentation and information is entered correctly and to standard for yourself and your insurance provider.

We want to make the claims process as seamless for our customers as possible. You will feel well taken care of from start to finish when you choose SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County to help with your damage. Call our office today at 615-672-1905, to speak with one of our amazing office staff.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - The Beginning

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Bob and Lori Pospisil began their SERVPRO® franchise journey in 1996 from the comfort of their own home. Bob worked for SERVPRO® Corporate and decided that he wanted to own his own franchise, which began with the purchase of SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County. Through the years they have nurtured the business into what it is today. Since they began in their home, they have purchased another franchise, which was sold in March of 2017 when they purchased SERVPRO® of Sumner County, they have begun the process of selling the franchises to their daughter (Heather Sullins) and her husband (Cody Sullins) along with his twin brother (Cory Sullins), built another building at their current location to provide room for more growth, which they quickly out grew and are in the process of building a new location in the Sumner County area. Although there have been ever evolving changes within the company allowing growth and new opportunities for the Pospisil’s and Sullins, they hold tight to their commitment to continue to serve all of the communities and provide the best service in their areas.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Repairs

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that when you have a damage in your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home, mitigation and repairs are two separate estimates and divisions? Did you know that you have a choice in the contractor that you choose to hire? Did you know that not all mitigation companies and/or franchise locations have a repairs division? These are all great questions to ask when choosing your service provider.

Per insurance standards all mitigation and repairs are treated as separate portions of the claims process. Once the materials are dry from water or cleaned and prepped after a fire the repairs process can begin. Although all Sumner County homeowners have an option to choose the contractor of their choice for the repairs portion of the claim, we find that many residents and business owners like the ease of once company completing both services.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County has a remarkable repairs division that can complete the repairs process for you. We hold a contractor’s license in the state of Tennessee and have awesome staff that are here to answer any questions that you may have throughout the process. Call our office today at 615-672-1905 for more information regarding our construction division.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Continuing Education

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County is proud to offer continuing education courses to insurance agents and adjusters at no charge to them. We offer at least 4 courses per year to help fulfil your accreditations. Our courses are held within our franchises territories at convenient central locations such as our White House office location, SERVPRO® Industry Headquarters and local libraries. All of our courses are scheduled through our corporate office and therefore are listed on their website with all of the course offerings available through SERVPRO® franchises. One of our co-owners, Cory Sullins is certified to teach the courses and will lead instruction for most of them; however, we have also partnered with other instructors through our corporate office to teach as well.

If you are interested in our course schedule for the year, please call our office at 615-672-1905 to reserve your spot within the class.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Financing Options

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we understand that water, fire and storm damage to your home is upsetting and unexpected. We also understand that paying your deductible and sometimes cost that are uncovered by insurance can be overwhelming and difficult as well. Because of the financial difficulties we have seen with customers, SERVPRO® has a preferred vendor that can help relieve some of the burden and stress. GreenSky provides consumer financing options for customers with high deductibles, non-covered repairs and other unexpected cost.

GreenSky uses paperless technology to provide fast credit decisions anytime and anywhere by phone, website or mobile app in seconds. GreenSky offers competitive rates that are most times less than using a credit card.

If you find yourself in need of our services know that we are “Here to help” in all aspects of your damage. Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905 to schedule an appointment.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - IICRC Certification

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

There are many restoration companies to choose from when looking for someone to mitigate your home from damages. Unfortunately, not all of those restoration companies hold a certification with the IICRC. When making such a big decision regarding your restoration company you always want to ensure that they are certified with the IICRC and follow industry standards. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is a certification and standard-setting organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries.

Ensuring that you have chosen a company that has these certifications ensures that you are being provided the highest quality concepts, terminology and procedures recognized in the restoration industry.

Luckily SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is IICRC Certified and ready for whatever happens. If you are in need of restoration services call our office at 615-672-1905.

Understanding Water Types-Damage From Clean Water

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

When you home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper clean up.

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is sage from potential electric shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electric shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceiling is sagging from retained water.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties – The Risks of Standing Water

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Staying Healthy Around Standing Water in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

Staying Healthy Around Standing Water in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

Any standing water in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can be a powerful source of diseases. Even a small puddle can pose a risk. Floods are worse because there is so much more water.

Sewage, dead animals, and rotted plants can be in flood water. If the flood water is indoors, there might be rotted food.

Virus and bacteria can cause diarrhea or vomiting. There are many different problems that standing flood water can pose against your well being and most are all exceedingly unpleasant.  To reduce your chances of catching something, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties says:

• Wash your hands after contact with the flood waters.
• Wash dirty clothes and towels in hot water. Use bleach if possible.
• Use bleach or other disinfectant on hard surfaces.
• Remember that you can shake hands with an infected person and get infected. That means you need to wash your hands before you eat.
• Do not allow children to play in the flood water.
• Wash children’s hands before meals.
• Disinfect toys before letting children play with them.

According to the CDC cuts and rashes can become infected, protect yourself and others in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties:

• Avoid flood waters if you have an open rash or a cut.
• Clean cuts or rashes. Cover them with a waterproof bandage.
• Clean cuts with soap and clean water.
• If a cut becomes red, swollen, or is oozing, get medical attention.

Are you in the process of listing your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home?

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth.

Should a damaging event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage – act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work.
• Install a ventilation system.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can inspect the areas that you feel need attention and provide service to remediate the areas as well to ensure that you are ready to list your home. Call our office today to schedule an inspection at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Fire Extinguisher Tip

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers effectively put out 80% of all fires.

SERVPRO® Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties knows that the proper use of fire extinguishers can prevent fire damages and injuries from destroying lives.

Fire extinguishers effectively put out 80% of all fires. Homes and businesses alike should have fire extinguishers on hand and ready at all times. At this time, there is not a law stating that a propery owner must install fire extinguishers in their homes, businesses with 5 or more employees are required by the Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (OSHA) to maintain fire extinguishers in their facilities. Businesses are required to have one fire extinguisher every 3,000 square feet, and are required to train employees how and when to use fire extinguishers. Training must be provided to new employees, as well as maintained once yearly.

OSHA requires all fire extinguishers to be inspected visually each month, as well as an annuall maintenance check on each fire extinguisher. Fore extinguishers are to be placed where they cannot be moved or damaged and the carrying handle should be 3 ½ to 5 feet above the floor.

Questions to Ask Yourself About Using a Fire Extinguisher:

• Have I pulled the fire alarm?
• Is the fire extinguisher easy to reach?
• Do I know how to use it? [Look up PASS here]
• Is the fire contained in a small area?
• Is the smoke non-toxic?
• Can everyone get out?
• Do I have an escape route?

If you can answer “yes” to all of the questions, it is reasonable to use the fire extinguisher.

SERVPRO® Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties reminds you that fire moves and builds at a rapid pace. If you cannot contain it within 30 seconds, get everyone out of the area, and call 9-1-1 once you are outside.

Family Fire Escape Plans

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties hopes you will never need your home or business to recover from fire or smoke damage.

Portable fire extinguishers may not be enough to save your home. Sometimes, the only option you have to keep yourself and loved ones safe is to escape. A small flame can turn into a large fire in a matter of minutes. Lives are more important than objects, so get yourselves and others out of danger.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Tips for Escape:

• Make an escape plan ahead of time and make sure everyone knows the plan.
• Make sure that all doors and windows open easily.
• Plan at least two different ways of escaping every room.
• When you leave, close the doors and windows to shut in the flames.
• Do not stop to pick up valuables, objects can be replaced you can not.
• Make sure your plan includes a place to meet that is a safe distance from the home.
• Do not turn off smoke alarms when you cook, you may need the warning.
• If you have to go through a smoke filled area to escape, cover your nose and mouth with something and crawl on the floor.
• Practice the plan until your entire family or business feels comfortable.
• Periodically go over the plan that is put in place to refresh everyones memory or make changes.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside of the home.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Mold and Mildew Service

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can help, if you discover something growing in your residence that shouldn’t be there.

Mold ­­and Mildew in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties thought of starting a band called Mold and the Mildews. We know a lot about the subject and are fungis (lol), but fortunately for you guys, we decided against it.

Mold and mildew are both types of fungi. Mildew is never useful, but some kinds of fungi are okay, like mushrooms (if you like mushrooms) and some molds can be useful, like penicillin. Other kinds of fungi are definitely not okay, like athlete’s foot and you definitely don’t want them growing in your home or office. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can help, if you discover something growing in your residence that shouldn’t be there.

It’s good to learn about the different kinds of mold and mildew. Education is important and finding an industry expert is critical. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties recommends Frost Environmental Services, L.L.C. for an inspection. If you need assistance getting rid of the problem, give SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties a shout and we would be happy to help.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties 24-Hour Emergency Storm Damage Service

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Contact your local agent today for a quote on flood insurance.

Water Damage and Insurance in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

 SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties wants to create community awareness about the potential risk of flood and water damage. Here are some insurance tips from FEMA about flood insurance. Most insurance rates vary by company and the rules vary by state.  Flood insurance is an exception.

Most property insurance does not cover flood damage.

Some homeowners’ policies will cover water damage if the damage came from:

• Sewer or drain backup
• Sudden and accidental damage from plumbing, heating systems or air conditioning

Additionally, some policies will also include mold remediation, but not if a flood caused the problem.

How to get flood insurance in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

• Check whether your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can still get flood insurance if you live in a low-risk area and many times the insurance will cost less if you live in a low-risk area.
• Find an insurance agent in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. The NFIP is the only flood-insurance provider, but the government does not sell it. The NFIP sets the rates and you can purchase the policy through your local insurance provider.
• If your insurance agent is unaware of the NFIP, you can reach out to the help center at 800-427-4661

Resource Links:

usa.gov

FEMA

Water Damage Inside Edition – SERVPRO® Equipment

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties has state of the art equipment that is placed on site to assist in drying the structure.

Although our wonderful team members play a valuable and important role in servicing our customers’ damages, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties has state of the art equipment that is placed on site to assist in drying the structure. Using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time is of the essence, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform, our team of trained professionals at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively. Our team members are trained in Psychrometry, which allows them to evaluate air conditions in the structure and establish a drying plan.

Detection Equipment

Scoping a damage involves our trained team members locating the areas affected by water and determining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Our trained team members use:

• Moisture Sensors – These are us to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters – These are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable our SERVPRO® of Sumner County team member to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohrgrometers – These measure both temperature and relative humidity. In capturing these two readings our trained team members calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is crucial to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

• Extractors – These are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery and in removing water from floors following a water damage. Extractors can either be truck-mounted or portable, allowing for greater access inside structures.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducing drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. This moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged, structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties uses two types of dehumidifiers:

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers – These work similarly to an air conditioner.
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers – The use chemicals, called desiccants, which readily absorb moisture from the air.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® Advantage

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW.

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 for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever happens?”

• A no cost assessment of your facility.

This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency,

It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but it will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.

This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having and immediate plan of action.

• Establishes SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.

This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save your time and money.

• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Call our office to schedule your free facility assessment today at 615-672-1905.

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Cheatham County Home.

11/23/2018 (Permalink)

Different types of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 615-672-1905

Understanding Water Types-Damage From Contaminated Water

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

When you home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper clean up.

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties to arrive.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminates.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905.

Restoring Your Springfield Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Know that you will be back in business with our certified teams on call 24/7.

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

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

Does Your Dickson County Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

If you see signs of mold call us today - 615-672-1905

In Dickson, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or 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 moister must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

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

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

If you see signs of mold call us today – 615-672-1905

Sealing Its Fate

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold travels when it is disturbed and will attach to anything that is a viable food source. When our office receives calls to complete mold remediation’s we are happy to help, but need to follow certain procedures to ensure that when we are cleaning the areas that have mold present we are spreading the mold to other areas of the home or business.

When our trained teams arrive they will assess the damage and if a scope of work is not already created they will create a protocol or scope of work. If our teams are working inside the home they will hang containment (heavy plastic sheeting) to seal off the area and prevent mold spores from traveling to other portions of the home. The area remains sealed off until the work has been completed. In many cases our teams will place air scrubbers in or around the area to aid with the mold particles in the air.

If you feel that you have mold in your home or business call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today to schedule an appointment.

Is Your Business Properly Prepared?

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

All businesses should be equipped with fire extinguishers based on their property footprints. The number of fire extinguishers needed are based off of how many floors, the amount of square footage, and what is being completed on these floors (i.e. kitchen, warehouse, etc.). Below is a breakdown of the different types of fire extinguishers based on what your business accomplishes during the day to day operations.

Class A:

This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.

Class B:

Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline and oil.

Class C:

Designed for fires involving appliances, tools or other equipment electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D:

For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in questions. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.

Class K:

Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming popular in the residential market for use in kitchens.

Which type of fire extinguisher best suites your business?

Drying Equipment Stats

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage in your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home you want the restoration company that completes the dry out to have adequate equipment to take care of the job set before them. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County takes great pride in ensuring that their equipment is kept in good working condition and up to industry standard. Some of the key factors that we look at when purchasing or replacing drying equipment are:

Power-

In air movers we look at the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). This is important because it calculates the amount of air flow that can be provided over a certain amount of space per minute. This will help with determining dry time based on the amount of water that has been dispersed onto an area. In dehumidifiers we look at the PPD (Pints per Day). This is how much moisture/humidity is pulled from the air during the drying process.

Low Amps-

Older equipment pulls more amperage to run than newer equipment. Each plug (depending on the type) allows for so much amperage to be pulled by what is plugged in. If you plug in two pieces of equipment and combined they are pulling more amperage than the plug or circuit can offer you will trip breakers and essentially be required to set a generator to adequately power the equipment needed.

Durability-

Moving equipment around from job site to job site can often times take its toll. The long term durability is very important to ensure that we always have reliable equipment to place on job sites.

Safety-

In all of our equipment we look to ensure that it has been tested and meets the requirements of a NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory). It is very important to our company that our employees and customers are safe around our equipment.

If you have a water damage in your Sumner County home call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County for your restoration needs.

If A Disaster Strikes, Will You Be Ready?

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

It is important to prepare before a disaster occurs. Consider the following steps to help you better prepare for an emergency situation.

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings, download apps and/or check access for wireless emergency alerts.
• Develop and test emergency communication plans.
• Assemble or update emergency supplies.
• Learn about local hazards and conduct a drill to practice emergency response actions.
• Participate in a preparedness discussion, training or class.
• Collect and safeguard critical documents.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.
• Document property and obtain appropriate insurance for relevant hazards.
• Make property improvements to reduce potential injury and property damage.

Emergency and storm situations can happen at anytime to anyone. Take action now to protect yourself, your family and your property.

Prepare Now. Learn How.

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

As a business owner, insurer or property manager you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customer and community to follow.

Join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes.

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees and its infrastructure and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

We must work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are ready. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency. You can also contact SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County to find out more on how to be ready when disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program®.

Cooking This Holiday Season

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires? As the holidays begin, fire precautions should as well.

A property owner experiences a flood of emotions when a fire ravages their business or home. Fear, uncertainty, stress and doubt about the future of the property scan be overwhelming to the property owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has cleared.

After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County help restore your property. Combining rapid response, the utmost professionalism and open communication, we strive to restore not only the home or business, but to restore the customer’s peace of mind as well.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers the following eye-opening statistics on fires:

• 475,500 structure fires were reported in the United States in 2016.
• These fires caused $7.9 billion in property damages.
• One structure fire was reported every 66 seconds.

If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes, give our experts at SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County a call. We’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Before The Feast

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don’t practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could become hazardous very quickly.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the main cause for home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking-related fires. Review the following safety tips to ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

• Never leave cooking food unattended-stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.
• Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while cooking. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
• Keep the kids away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.
• Keep anything flammable-pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging and towels or curtains—away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen, Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of extinguishers.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to ensure that all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.
• Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas and inside and outside bedrooms. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Call 615-672-1905 today, if you are in need of services.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today - 615-672-1905

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration-in fact, it’s the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage?
• Is there electricity available?

About SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

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

Have You Accounted for Fido or Feline When Emergency Planning?

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

Pets are just as important as any family member to most people, so why would you not make them a part of your preparedness planning? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well during an emergency.

Pet Emergency Kit

Ready.gov/animals lists the below items as essential to building your Pet Emergency Kit.

Food. At least a three day supply in an air tight, waterproof container.

Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets.

Medicines and medical records.

Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to you veterinarian about micro-chipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery data base.

First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea too.

Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and leash.

Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach.

A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items. Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.

Evacuations

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans, be sure to include pets. If an evacuation happens, don’t leave pets behind as they can be lost or injured.

Identification

Micro-chipping pets is a great way to locate them. Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanners that will read the microchip information to help find a pet’s owners.

After Hurricane Katrina, “It’s estimated that over 15,500 animals were ultimately rescued. Of the 15,500 animals rescued, only 15%-20% were ever reunited with their owners.”

Be sure to take four-legged friends into consideration when planning for emergencies. Visit ready.gov/animals for further tips and safety precautions to think about for you or your families’ pets during a disaster.

It’s The Water You Don’t See

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time if not properly mitigated in a timely manner.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County will answer your call with a team ready to respond and a full arsenal of drying equipment to help prevent secondary damage from occurring. Call our office today at 615-672-1905.

Fires are Preventable

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to your Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County home, there are certain safety precautions that can be taken to help prevent fires. Ready.gov shares the following tips on home fire prevention.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it into a two slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Fireplaces and Wood Stoves

• Inspect and clean wood stoves pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

If you find yourself with fire damage to your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home call our office at 615-672-1905.

Understanding Mold

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is a hot topic these days. Although molds have been on the Earth for millions of years, there have been recent studies linking mold to a variety of health conditions. Mold is found indoors and out and can attach itself to clothing, bags and pets and be carried indoors. Mold can also travel indoors through open windows and doors, as well as through your HVAC system. Mold requires moisture to grow and can flourish in certain ideal conditions.

How You Can Control Mold Growth In Your Home

• Humidity Levels – Again, mold loves moisture. Control the moisture/humidity control the mold.
• Fix ALL leaks
• Clean ALL spills immediately
• Thoroughly dry after any flooding within 24 – 48 hours
• Proper ventilation

If you feel that you have a mold problem in your home call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today at 615-672-1905 to schedule an inspection.

Continuing Education Course Credits for White House Insurance Agents and Adjusters

10/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties held a Continuing Education Course on September 13^th for our local insurance agents and adjusters. We covered Restorative Drying for Water Damage, which is a 4 hour course and provided all attendees that stayed for the duration 4 credit hours. Cory Sullins teaches the courses and makes them very interactive and engaging.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties offers these classes free of charge. Also included in the course is a catered lunch and a light breakfast. You don’t want to miss out on these courses! We try to offer 3-4 courses each year, if you are in need of credit hours for your licensure call our office today at 615-672-1905 to see when our next course is scheduled.

When Storms or Floods hit Ashland City, SERVPRO is ready!

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Be prepared for storm damage in or around Dickson County.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 615-672-1905.

Are Your Ducts In Order

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in you facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address the indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and duct work.

Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today to schedule your inspection 615-672-1905.

October is Fire Prevention Month-Make Sure You Have a Plan for Your Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County Home

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month – a perfect time to examine emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates a week each October to focus on fire prevention awareness. The 2018 theme is

“Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere.™)

This theme hopes to create awareness in the steps necessary to reduce the chance of a fire and how to react in the event a fire does happen. The NFPA states the following:

“LOOK” for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

“LISTEN” for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.

“LEARN” two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Stay safe and prepare now to help ensure you are ready for any disaster.

Water Damage to Your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Home

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Imagine it’s 8:00 p.m. on a Sunday,

and you walk into your home after a relaxing vacation expecting to switch on the lights, put the kids in bed and get some rest yourself.

The only problem? A water pipe burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your hardwood kitchen floor, your carpeted living room and your cement utility room. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?

When it is your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home that is underwater, mitigation cannot wait. You need mitigation to begin immediately. If water damage strikes your home, call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County any time, any day.

The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood floors warp, dry wall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard-to-reach areas of your home.

The benefits of rapid mitigation offered by SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County are two-fold: Your costs go down as potential hazards may be avoided, and your peace of mind goes through the roof.

If the unthinkable happens to your Sumner County home, allow SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County to help quickly turn your “before” into a “happily ever after.”

Are You Prepared?

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Wireless Emergency Alerts

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are free notifications delivered to your mobile device as part of a public safety system provided by authorized government-alerting authorities. The alerts are designed to inform you of imminent threats to safety or missing person alerts in your area (e.g., AMBER Alerts). Government partners include local and state public safety agencies, FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security and the National Weather Service. A WEA can be sent to you mobile device when you may be in harm’s way, without downloading an app or subscribing to a service. WEAs may be used to share extreme weather warnings, local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action, AMBER Alerts and Presidential Alerts during a national emergency.

A WEA will look like a text message. The WEA message will typically show the type and time of the alert, any action you should take and the agency issuing the alert. The message will be no more than 90 characters. Visit www.ctia.org/wea to learn more about Wireless Emergency Alerts.

Call The Cleanup Team

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unseen damage. Water damage can drastically affect the value of your property if not properly taken care of. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage will affect your property.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business. Luckily SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County has trained professionals equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary damages such as mold and rot. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure that your property and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your property by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties - Fire Restoration Process Overview

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

If you are ever in need of fire, smoke or soot damage services call our SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties office at 615-672-1905.

Here at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we strive to provide excellent communication and prompt service to our customers. When we receive notification of damage to a customer’s home we understand that they are most times distressed and unsure of the mitigation process that is about to unfold. Below is a bird’s eye view of the process that we follow for fire damages.

One Hour:

Within one hour from notice of loss; SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will contact you to arrange for service. During this call our trained office staff will ask important questions regarding your damage, insurance information and any additional contact information that is needed.

Four Hours:

Within four hours of loss notification; SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties trained technicians will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

Detailed Explanation:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. All damages are different and our on-site personnel will ensure that you are aware of each aspect of your damage.  

Pretesting:

A SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward. Different types of surfaces throughout the structure will need to be cleaned differently based on texture and proximity to the source.

Eight Hours:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate individual, most times your insurance adjuster or property manager.

Cleaning, Restoration & Deodorization:

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will work neatly and efficiently to help your regain control of your property when a damaging event has occurred. Our certified teams will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure that your property is taken care right the first time.

Final Walk-Through:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

If you are ever in need of fire, smoke or soot damage services call our SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties office at 615-672-1905.

Storm Damage and How It Can Affect You

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Disaster struck this business in South Carolina.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) documents that almost 40% of small businesses never reopen after suffering from hurricane or storm damage. The faster you can get your building up and running, the faster you can get your employees and customers rolling again. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, and Dickson Counties has exhaustive experience helping businesses open as quick as possible. It doesn’t matter if it the weather damage is from wind, hail, rain, flooding, lightning, or even hurricanes, we can assist all along the way.

The sad thing about storm damage is it can affect an entire community. There are not many restoration companies that can handle large scale destruction, but because SERVPRO has over 1,700 locations nationwide, we are able to pull resources from all over the country when disaster strikes.

 SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson, and Dickson Counties was happy to help this small business in South Carolina become a success story when they got them back up and running in record time. We are here to help.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/108451

Getting Your Ducts In A Row After Home Renovations

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

What's lurking in your ducts? Call our office today for a free quote at 615-672-1905.

Flipping houses is kind of a thing now right? You sit at home watching HGTV and all of a sudden you are looking around and thinking of ways to knock down walls, rebuild walls  and are trying to figure out where ALL the shiplap is going to go. Not you? Just me? Okay. Whether you are renovating your current home or purchasing properties to flip, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to finishing your project.

After you have completed your Chip and Joanna inspired renovations things are looking great! What you can’t see by simply walking through a home is your duct work. During construction all of the dust that is produced from drywall and trim cuts is recirculated through your home and finds its resting place in your duct work and HVAC system.

A post construction duct cleaning is a crucial last step to your renovation process. If you are in the process of renovations or have plans for renovations in the future call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties for a free quote today.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Water Damage Process Overview

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you are ever in need of water damage services call our SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties office at 615-672-1905.

Here at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties we strive to provide excellent communication and prompt service to our customers. When we receive notification of damage to a customer’s home we understand that they are most times distressed and unsure of the mitigation process that is about to unfold. Below is a bird’s eye view of the process that we follow for water damages.

One Hour:

Within one hour from notice of loss; SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will contact you to arrange for service. During this call our trained office staff will ask important questions regarding your damage, insurance information and any additional contact information that is needed.

Four Hours:

Within four hours of loss notification; SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties trained technicians will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

Detailed Explanation:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. All damages are different and our on-site personnel will ensure that you are aware of each aspect of your damage.  

Pretesting:

A SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward. Water travels through different materials at different speeds. What might look like a small damage could have moved to another portion of the home via the materials that are wet.

Eight Hours:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate individual, most times your insurance adjuster or property manager.

Cleaning & Restoration:

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will work neatly and efficiently to help your regain control of your property when a damaging event has occurred. Our certified teams will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure that your property is taken care right the first time.

Final Walk-Through:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

If you are ever in need of water damage services call our SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties office at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Employee Spotlight

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

Taylor Richardson: Production Manager with SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

It’s no secret that team members play a large role in a company’s success. That is certainly true here at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties.

Taylor Richardson is one of our Project Managers at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and has been with us for four years. Taylor brought a wealth of knowledge with him from his years of experience in the environmental services industry. He began with us as a technician and has worked his way up to his current position as Project Manager. Taylor is extremely knowledgeable in the restoration industry and holds IICRC Certifications in: Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Commercial Drying Specialist and Applied Microbial Remediation. In addition to working locally, Taylor also travels often with our Storm Team when they are needed. Taylor is a key asset to our company and we are happy to have him with us.

Q.) What are three words you would us to describe SERVPRO?

A.) My second family

Q.) If you could switch roles with anyone at the company, who would you choose?

A.) I would not switch with anyone. I love the production side.

Q.) If you were stuck on a deserted island what three items would you bring?

A.) Gun, Ammo, Pillow

Q.) What is on your bucket list?

A.) Move to Alaska

Q.) Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.

A.) My dream is to own a Disaster Recovery Team, and travel to all natural disasters.

SERVPRO-The Calm After The Storm

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO-The Calm After The Storm

When storm damage occurs to your home or business the restoration process can seem daunting.

Not only are you faced with a frightening event most times, but as soon as the storm fades you are faced with unpleasant and unwanted damage. At SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties our goal is to make the restoration process as seamless and straightforward as possible. Our teams are equipped with the knowledge and certifications to complete the necessary restoration with as little disruption as possible.

From the moment that we receive the first call regarding storm damage to your home or business to the moment that we arrive on site to meet with the home or business owner and begin the restoration process our focus is on the customer. Our onsite professionals will explain the process and ensure that you are informed throughout the duration.

If you find yourself in need of restoration call the professionals at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. We are always here to help and ensure that your home or business is brought back to its previous condition.

Ethics and Bio Hazard Cleanup Continuing Education Course

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Our office held a Continuing Education Course for our insurance agents and adjusters on April 26, 2018.

Our office held a Continuing Education Course for our insurance agents and adjusters on April 26, 2018. We held the course at our corporate headquarters in Gallatin and invited Brian McCabe (SERVPRO Business Consultant) to teach the course on Ethics and Bio Hazard Cleanup. Most insurance agents and adjusters are required to have continuing education credits to keep their licensure current and we provide courses for the required credits at no cost.

We had a wonderful turnout at our Ethics and Bio Hazard Cleanup Courses. These courses are not only informative, they are FUN! While following the required curriculum our instructors engage our attendees in discussion to promote learning and increase participation.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is dedicated to helping our agents and adjusters, as well as our customers. If you are in need of continuing education credits call our office at 615-672-1905. We will post information regarding upcoming courses in the Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County areas as soon as they are scheduled.

Holiday Light Safety

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Check all lights to ensure that there are no worn or broken cords or loose bulbs.

Holiday Light Safety

Christmas is upon us and holiday decorations are in full swing. For many home owners, decorating for Christmas is a tradition and something that is enjoyed by many. Whether you only decorate the interior of the home or you decorate both the interior and exterior, decorations and lights certainly add to the splendor of the Christmas season. According to the National Fire Protection Association fire departments responded to an average of 200 homes for structure fires related to Christmas trees between 2011-2015. Avoid Christmas tree and light related fires by following these simple safety tips.

Trees

When purchasing live Christmas trees, check for freshness and try to avoid dry trees. When you are cutting the tree, cut 1-2 inches from the base of the trunk to ensure optimal water absorption. Live trees require plenty of water. Make sure that you are checking the tree daily and watering when needed. If you prefer an artificial tree, ensure that the tag reads “Fire Resistant”. When placing the trees in your home, ensure that they are placed at least 3 feet away from all heat sources.

Lights

Check all lights to ensure that there are no worn or broken cords or loose bulbs. If you find any damage, dispose of the damaged lights and replace. When purchasing lights be sure to check the label that shows whether or not they are for indoor or outdoor use and purchase accordingly. In addition, read the instructions included with the lights. Most recommend that you plug no more than three strands together so that you are not overloading the socket. Last but not least, turn ALL Christmas lights off when going to bed or leaving the home.

If you find yourself with a damage this holiday season, call our office. Our teams will evaluate your damage and give you a clear explanation of the restoration process.

How To Care for Gym Floors in Cheatham County

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection.

How To Care for Gym Floors in Cheatham County

Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.

Daily Maintenance

1. It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
2. Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.

As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures

1. Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
2. Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
3. Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
4. Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.

Call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at 615-672-1905 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!

Black Water

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

Category 3 water, although referred to as Black Water or Dirty Water is not always visually black or dirty.

 Black Water

In the restoration industry there are three categories of water and as industry professionals it is our job to determine which category of water each damage has. The most severe category is Category 3 which is also commonly called CAT 3, Black Water or Dirty Water. Category 3 water (Black Water) is highly contaminated water that is potentially toxic to anyone inside the dwelling. 

The water is considered category 3 (Black Water) if it meets any of the following criteria. Sources include sewage backup, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces or stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth. If Category 1 or Category 2 has been left untreated for more than three days, it is likely that it will develop into Category 3 (Black Water). If your damage is deemed as Category 3 (Black Water), it is likely that many pieces of your property will need to be replaced. Anything porous, such as furniture, carpeting and drywall is grossly contaminated. Category 3 water, although referred to as Black Water or Dirty Water is not always visually black or dirty. In fact, most times it is completely translucent.

If you are ever faced with damage to your home act fast, find your source and call the professionals at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. We will assess the damage and ensure that it is properly mitigated to ensure your safety.

7 Emergency Supplies Your Robertson County Business Should Have on Hand

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

Having an emergency kit during times of crisis will hopefully keep you and your staff safe.

7 Emergency Supplies Your Robertson County Business Should Have on Hand

Is your Robertson County business prepared for an emergency situation? Inclement weather situations and power outages can give little to no warning, which is why it is important for your business to have basic emergency supplies on hand in the event they are needed. These 7 necessities are important to ensure your employees safety in case of emergency.

Food-

Having a 3-4 day supply of non-perishable food items for each employee is important. Stocking up on items such as salt-free crackers, canned foods with high liquid content, protein bars, peanut butter and dried fruits is a great way to ensure that your employees will be taken care of.

Water-

In addition to non-perishable food items, it is important to have a minimum 3 day supply of emergency water per person. You can go about purchasing the water in different ways depending on the amount of usable space you have for storage. The most common methods are cases, gallon jugs or 55-gallon storage barrels. All of these can be used for drinking and sanitation purposes when necessary.

Radios-

Radios are useful to keep you updated on current weather patterns, evacuation notices and much more. Keeping a few AM/FM radios on hand will keep you abreast to any important information during an emergency. We recommend solar powered radios or battery powered radios for this purpose. If you choose to stock your supplies with battery powered radios, try and save battery power whenever possible.

Protection Against Elements-

During inclement weather if your building sustains damage that deems it unsafe to occupy, all employees may need to evacuate the premises. Having weather appropriate gear such as, ponchos, gloves, thermal blankets and a canopy shelter is key in making sure that all employees are safe.

Emergency Lights-

Electricity can go out for any amount of time during inclement weather or emergency situation. Emergency lighting is essential for your employees to navigate the facility in a safe manner. Battery powered flashlights are great short term lighting, but it is best to also have solar powered or hand cranked flashlights for long term use. We also recommend keeping candles and waterproof matches.

First Aid Kit-

A basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, adhesive tape and other useful items will be a tremendous help in the event one of your employees is injured. Keeping 2-3 of these stocked and in easily accessible locations is best practice.

Sanitation Supplies-

During a disaster or emergency situation, a sanitary water source and plumbing will more than likely be unavailable. To ensure the wellbeing of employees and to keep things sanitary, you should have emergency sanitation supplies available. Common sanitation items are, hand sanitizers, individual packs of tissue and quality cleaning chemicals.

Having an emergency kit during times of crisis will hopefully keep you and your staff safe. Be sure to print this when putting together your Emergency Kit. In the meantime, be sure that you have a vetted vendor for times of emergencies. Call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at  (615) 672-1905. We are always here to help.

Understanding Content Coverage

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

The best way to determine if you have enough content coverage is to conduct a home inventory.

Understanding Content Coverage

Everyone has homeowners insurance right? It’s one of those things you have and hope you never have to use right? So, what happens if you do have to utilize coverage because of a damage?

Unfortunately, because homeowners insurance is necessary many homeowners rely solely on their agents to choose a policy that is right for them. This is totally fine, and works in many cases, but being educated on what your policy includes and doesn’t include is important.

Most policies are written and cover to repair or rebuild your home after damage. But what about ALL of the personal belongings inside of your home? Generally, your content coverage is 50 to 70 percent of the coverage that you carry on the structure of your home. In most cases this is a sufficient amount to cover personal items that are damaged, but in some cases it isn’t.

The best way to determine if you have enough content coverage is to conduct a home inventory. This is a much easier task thanks to modern technology. Walk through your home room by room and photograph all personal belongings. (TIP-If you picked your home up and turned it upside down, all items that would fall out are considered contents.) Open drawers and closets to photograph all items inside. You can catalog these items and keep them at an offsite location or you can download an app such as DreamVault and access it from any mobile device. This particular app is designed to house photos and information pertaining to each individual item, such as price, model and serial number. There is also a speech to text feature to help with documentation.

If you have jewelry, collector’s items, art or firearms, sometimes your coverage can fall short. Keep that in mind when documenting all items and reviewing your policy. If you find that your coverage is lacking you can generally purchase additional coverage or a rider for certain items.

When you have had damage to your home and personal belongings, you don’t want to worry with the added stress of insufficient coverage. Ensure that you are covered.

If you have damage to your home and/or personal items we are here to help. Call our office and we will walk you through the process and make your damage "Like it never even happened".

Three Common Reasons For House Fires In Your Robertson County Home

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

Educating yourself on the leading causes for house fires and prevention is a step in the right direction to ensure that your family and home are safe.

Three Common Reasons For House Fires In Your Robertson County Home

If a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape. House fires can be devastating and the road to recovery is long and hard. Educating yourself on the leading causes for house fires and prevention is a step in the right direction to ensure that your family and home are safe.

Electrical Outlets

Many electrical fires in homes or businesses are caused by faulty electrical outlets, old wiring, outdated appliances or electrical cords that are frayed.

-If you live in an older home have an electrician complete an inspection. Standards and codes are constantly being revised and updated to ensure safety.

-Do not overload your circuits.

-Understand the difference between surge protectors and power strips. Both devices allow you to plug in multiple electronics, but only the surge protector will help protect your electronics from a power surge.

Kitchen Fires

Carelessness in the kitchen can lead to devastating house fires. The leading cause of kitchen fires is due to unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

-Never leave pots or pans unattended on your stove.

-Keeping your stove an oven clean will prevent buildup of food splatter and grease that could later ignite when the stove or oven is turned on for cooking.

-Keep any items that could ignite away from your stove top

-Ensure that you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen in case of emergency.

Dryers

Dryer vents are becoming a much bigger and more common safety problem. Over time, your dryer vent fills with lint that sneaks by your dryers filter. Fires can occur when the excess lint builds up in the dryer or exhaust duct.

-Clean out the dryer vent regularly.

-Clean the lint filter after EACH load of laundry that is dried.

-Clean underneath and behind your dryer to eliminate any lint that collects.

Flash Flooding And How It Affects You

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

Flash flooding occurs when there is a sudden influx of water onto normally dry land.

Flash Flooding And How It Affects You

Flash flooding occurs when there is a sudden influx of water onto normally dry land. Flooding can happen for many reasons, including heavy rains, ocean waves, snow that melts too quickly or dams and levees that break. Floods are the most common and wide spread weather-related disasters.

Flooding can happen very quickly with little or no warning. The destructive power of a flood combined with unpredictability make them extremely dangerous. Flooding can occur anywhere that receives rain fall. In the United States floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning.

What areas are at most risk from flooding?

Areas that are densely populated are at a high risk. Heavy construction and areas that have little to no dirt or grass that is not covered by concrete have nowhere for water to run off. In turn, instead of the water dissipating back into the ground it rises. In these densely populated areas if the streams have been re-routed underground and into storm drains they are at risk of overflowing and causing damage.

Areas near rivers are at risk. Levees are built along rivers and are used to prevent high water from flooding bordering land. If these levees are not maintained or the rains cause them to fail they cause devastating damage.

Mountains and steep hills produce a high amount of water runoff. If there are streams around these areas it causes them to rise quickly due to the rock and soil sediment. A creek or stream that at its regular depth might be 6”-7” can swell to a 10 foot raging river if a thunderstorm with heavy rain lingers.

Flood Alerts:

Flash Flood or Flood Watch-Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area-be alert.

Flash Flood or Flood Warning-Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent-take necessary precautions at once! Get to higher ground.

Urban and Small Stream Advisory-Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.

Flash Flood or Flood Statement-Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event.

Ensuring that you are well educated on flooding and why it happens is the first step to safety. If you find yourself in a flood situation stay calm and get to higher ground.

Efflorescence or Mold? Do you know the difference?

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

If you are uncertain as to whether you’re dealing with mold or efflorescence we suggest calling our office to schedule an inspection.

Efflorescence or Mold? Do you know the difference?

Efflorescence and mold can look quite similar. Although they look similar, that is the only quality they have in common. Distinguishing between the two is important for your piece of mind and treatment of the affected area.

What is Efflorescence?

Efflorescence is the migration of salt to the surface of a porous material, where it forms a white chalky coating. Efflorescence is found on masonry, stucco or concrete surfaces. It forms from salt deposits that remain on the surface of the materials when groundwater and sometimes rain water evaporate. Although it is unsightly, it does not pose a health risk. It does however indicate that there is excessive moisture entering and can be problematic if not addressed.

What is Mold?   

Mold is a term used to refer to fungi that grow in the form of multicellular thread-like structures and comes in a rainbow of colors. Mold grows and spreads in unconditioned spaces and sometimes in structures that do not have proper ventilation or have experienced a leak. With the exception of the winter months mold is always present outdoors. Exposure to damp and moldy environments can cause a variety of health effects, or none at all.  

How do you know the difference?

-Efflorescence dissolves in water, whereas mold does not.

-If rubbed between your fingers, efflorescence turns powdery. Mold does not

-Mold can be any color, but is often black or grey. Efflorescence, is almost always white or yellow.

-Efflorescence develops on inorganic building materials, like masonry, stucco or concrete. Mold typically grows on organic materials, such as wood or drywall.

If you are uncertain as to whether you’re dealing with mold or efflorescence we suggest calling our office to schedule an inspection. Once the problem of mold or efflorescence is distinguished we can provide you with an estimate for cleanup.

Understanding Mold Management

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Moisture control and rapid response are a key component in controlling mold growth in your home or outside structure.

Understanding Mold Management

Mold is an essential part of nature and returns carbon as well as other elements, back into our ecosystem. However, mold is not a word that homeowners want to use when describing their homes. Mold cannot be completely eradicated, but it can be managed to a sanitary extent.

Moisture control and rapid response are a key component in controlling mold growth in your home or outside structure. Controlling the indoor and outdoor moisture of your home are the first steps in preventing mold growth.

Indoor Moisture Control:

                -Fix any indoor plumbing that is dripping or “sweating”.

                -Limit indoor humidity levels

                -Improve air movement in poorly ventilated areas of the home

Outdoor Moisture Control:

                -Inspect and maintain roofs, gutters and flashing

                -Ensure that the home has proper grading to direct water runoff away

                -Install air conditioners in outside buildings for air flow

                -Keep outside doors to the home closed on humid days

If you find that you have mold in your home or outdoor structure it is important to locate and correct the problem. Once the problem that is causing the mold growth is corrected the area needs to be cleaned and porous materials need to be removed.

Call our office today for an estimate on mold removal.

How Fires Can Damage Retail Stock

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Sprinklers help to save a business from many larger fires, but they also have the unfortunate consequence of adding additional damage to a situation.

How Retail Stock Can Be Damaged By Fires

When picturing a fire, most people think only of the flames themselves. However, in a real fire, open flames are often among the least of your concerns. Fires are multifaceted disasters that can cause damage in multiple ways, especially in retail merchandise. Between ash, smoke, burns, and water damage, fires can damage almost any type of merchandise. SERVPRO can clean and restore many of these, but understanding what might happen to your stock during a fire is important for calculating financial loss and extra shipments.
 
Burned Goods
 
The most obvious damage for fires in retail locations is through direct burns. Flammable items may catch fire, in most cases becoming unsalvageable, and other goods may be exposed to flames that partially or fully destroy them. We're able to restore some of the damage caused by direct burns, such as some discoloration or warping in items, but many victims of this type of damage are irrecoverable.
 
Water Damage from Sprinklers
 
Sprinklers help to save a business from many larger fires, but they also have the unfortunate consequence of adding additional damage to a situation. Water can damage most unsealed goods, and whether or not they will need replacing depends entirely on how much water is sprayed and what types of items are affected.
 
Ash
 
Ash is a tricky substance, as it can work its way into deep recesses and mix with water to become a harmful sludge. Ash is particularly bad for electronics and food items, but thankfully, its effects can usually be mitigated by SERVPRO or an affiliated contractor.
 
Smoke
 
Smoke has the highest potential to damage fabrics and clothing, but can hurt other types of merchandise as well. We have many different methods of treating smoke damage, be it on an individual item or rooms at a time. Smoke is usually a more serious problem for the building itself than any merchandise.
 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is a locally-owned company with industrial-grade equipment and training capable of handling even the most serious retail fire restorations. Call us 24/7 at (615) 672-1905.

Inadequate Venting Causes Mold Damage In Dickson Home

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Consulting with SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties helps you identify the reasons your dwelling supports mold growth.

Does Your Dickson Home Have Mold Damage?

Mold needs one thing to grow: water. It may not be a significant amount of water nor does it matter if it is clean or contaminated. Mold spores always inhabit the same spaces as you and your family, unseen microscopic particles floating in the air or lying on surfaces. SERVPRO helps you to learn about mold, so it peacefully coexists with you.

One common way mold damage gains a hold in your Dickson home is when kitchens, bathrooms, and other humid areas have improper venting. Spores swell and grow even if the water available is in a vaporous state. When you run your dishwasher, boil water for pasta, shower, or do laundry, water vapor builds in the air. The vapor that remains in the air because of no or improper venting activates nearby spores. Mold growth follows, attaching to areas like backsplashes, walls, grout, shower curtains, vanities, and hoses. The growth accelerates if any real leaks are present in plumbing or if damp towels or clothing offer the mold another source of moisture and an organic place to grow.

Consulting with SERVPRO helps you identify the reasons your dwelling supports mold growth. Our mold remediation training program thoroughly prepares our technicians to search successfully for mold growth and to isolate the moisture source. We use scientific methods and instruments to test for airborne mold and humidity levels that encourage microbial growth. If the humid areas of your home have fans or other venting systems, we urge you to use them to reduce ambient humidity. Rooms that are often steamy but have no venting are a different kind of problem. Opening windows, using free standing fans, or exploring other venting options are all options we suggest.

Regardless of the water source, we follow EPA protocols to contain, remove, and disinfect areas that show mold growth. When the mold is bagged and discarded, our staff measures the humidity and help you reduce it to below 60 percent. Mold is always likely to regrow if the moisture spikes again so controlling humidity, eliminating seepage and leaks, and extracting hidden areas of water are crucial in mold damage remediation.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Frustration about recurrent mold growth is a challenge SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties frequently handles with success. Call (615) 672-1905 and begin working with us on a plan that remediates current mold colonies and limits future infestation.

Tips for cleaning your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Restaurant

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties offer many cleaning services to help your restaurant stay in compliance with the National Fire Prote

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties offer many cleaning services to help your restaurant stay in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association and the federal Food and Drug Administration. These services not only help keep your restaurant in compliance, but they are key factors in the health and safety of your employees and patrons.

Carpet Cleaning

Great service and food are not the only things that keep customers returning to your establishment, maintaining a restaurants cleanliness and appearance play a large role in a restaurants success. Although most carpeting is found in the dining area, there are aerosol grease particles that travel through the air and find their final home on the carpeting. The residue is a host for bacteria and a magnet for dirt. With the abundance of foot traffic, as well as food and drink that are spilled regularly, keeping the carpets clean can be a daunting task. Scheduling regular cleanings will help to keep your restaurants carpets clean and odor free.

Exhaust Fan Cleaning

Ensuring that your exhaust fans are cleaned regularly and properly is one of the most important tasks in the restaurant business. Having your exhaust fans cleaned is required by the National Fire Protection Association and the federal Food and Drug Administration. Commercial exhaust fans are a popular place for grease build up, and keeping a regular cleaning schedule decreases your risk of having a grease fire.  Cleaning your exhaust fans regularly also increases the lifespan and ensures that your equipment is working at top capacity.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties can not only clean the carpets and exhaust fans in your restaurant, we can work around your schedule to ensure that both you and your customers are not inconvenienced. Call our office today for more information and scheduling options.

Spring Cleaning Tips for: Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson County homeowners

3/21/2017 (Permalink)

As winter slips away and the warmer weather draws near, homeowners often want to freshen up their home for summer gatherings.

As winter slips away and the warmer weather draws near, homeowners often want to freshen up their home for summer gatherings. Many times “spring cleaning” can be time consuming and keep you indoors and unable to enjoy the warm weather. Many of the larger tasks on your list can be taken care of by our highly trained staff to give you additional time to spend with your family.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Services- Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties

It is recommended that homeowners have their carpets cleaned every 8-12 months. Cleaning your carpets regularly improves indoor air quality, extends the life of your carpet, as well as reduces health risks. Upholstered furniture is recommended to be cleaned every 12-24 months depending on how often it is used. In addition to improving the overall life of furniture regular cleaning also helps to reduce potential allergens.  After a long winter and little outside air circulation, your home can become stuffy. Cleaning your carpets and upholstered furniture can help to freshen up your home and improve the appearance.

Duct Cleaning Services- Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties

It is recommended that homeowners have their air ducts cleaned every 2-5 years. The frequency of cleaning depends on what part of the country you live in, if anyone in your household has allergy problems or asthma, inside pets and how often your system is used. Cleaning your air ducts will help to eliminate dust and debris particles that are circulating through your duct work as well as help to eliminate stale/stagnate odors.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Spring Safety Tips

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Spring is often a welcome change from the cold winter months, but there are spring weather hazards that can arise.

How to be prepared for spring weather hazards

Spring is often a welcome change from the cold winter months, but there are spring weather hazards that can arise. You are not powerless to inclement weather that produces tornadoes, water events and lightning. Make sure that your family has a plan in place for these types of inclement weather to ensure everyone’s safety.

Knowing your risk is a key part of ensuring you are prepared for weather hazards that arise. Always ensure that you are checking your local weather forecast before leaving home. You can also follow weather patterns and possible threats by downloading apps such as Accuweather or Yahoo Weather.

Planning for weather hazards, such as tornado, flood or lightning strike to your home is an essential part of preparedness. Assemble an emergency kit with non-perishable food items, water and basic first aid supplies to ensure that your family is taken care of in case of emergency. Also ensure that your family has an emergency plan in case of evacuation, loss of power or fire. You can visit Ready.gov  for a free template to create your plan.

If you find yourself with damage to your home from spring weather hazards SERVPRO is here to help. From water damage to fire damage, you can count on our highly skilled project managers and staff to restore your property and ensure that it is back to normal as quickly as possible.

Dickson Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

This Dickson home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

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

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

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (615) 446-7626

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Here To Help! (615) 446-7626

Emergency Fire Damage Tips for White House

1/29/2017 (Permalink)

When fire and water damage take control of your life, SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties will help you take it back.

Emergency Fire Damage DOs and DONTs 

These emergency tips will assist you in taking proper action until SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties arrives. Follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into carpet and avoid tracking. 
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Empty the freezer and refrigerator if the electricity is off, and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from metal kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances.
• Remove soot particles from plans with a damp cloth.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop soot particles from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON'T:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties.
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpet, rugs, or upholstered furniture.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TVs, computers, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (they may be contaminated). 
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

If you have any questions, or need service, please contact us at 615-672-1905.

Prevent Fire Damage in Springfield This Winter

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties responds 24 hours a day to fire damage emergencies.

Heat Your Springfield Home Safely 

The winter season is here and with it comes shorter days and lower temperatures. In Middle Tennessee, winter brings a change in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves. 

Did You Know?

According to the National Fire Protection Association:

• 50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February.
• Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. 
• Heating equipment fires cause an estimated $1 billion in direct property damage annually.

Keep the following safety tips in mind to help reduce your risk of a heating-related fire.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot "kid free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home. 
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to local codes and manufacturer's instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at (615) 672-1905 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

*Statistics and tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association.

Dickson 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

12/21/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Dickson.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help.
Call Today - (615) 672-1905

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

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

Meet Our Team - Click Here

Certifications

• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• ASCS - Air Systems Cleaning Specialist
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• IICRC Certified Firm
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• CVI - Certified Ventilation Inspectors
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

Protect Your Springfield Home from Frozen Pipes

12/14/2016 (Permalink)

Prevent pipes from freezing in your Springfield home this winter.

Avoid Frozen Pipes in Springfield

While the winters in Middle Tennessee may not be as bad as some other areas of the country, they're still nothing to ignore. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you're not prepared. One of the most damaging and costly problems with frigid temperatures is the potential for frozen water pipes.

How and Why Pipes Freeze

As most of us know, when water freezes, it expands - anyone who has ever left a water bottle in their freezer overnight can tell you that. We often overlook or forget about the potential of the water in the pipes at our house freezing. However, in cases of extremely cold temperatures, that's exactly what can happen. As the water in your pipes expands as it freezes - and just like the frozen water bottle, it becomes bloated. These pipes will burst if they expand beyond their capacity, and water will begin to leak once it thaws.

Another thing to keep in mind is areas that are exposed to colder temperature are more susceptible to frozen or broken pipes. These areas include crawl spaces, attics, garages, and even the exterior walls of your home. 

How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing

While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. Below are some tips and tricks to help you prevent water pipes from freezing at your property. 

• Allow water to drip from faucets when temperatures dip below freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
• If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes.
• Use insulated covers or wrap towels around any outdoor faucets. Shut off the water to these faucets if you have the ability to do so. 
• Close the exterior vents of your crawl space. This will keep the area and pipes inside it a little bit warmer.
• Inspect the pipes in your crawl space and attic to ensure they are well insulated.

By utilizing these tips and taking the proper precautions now, you could save yourself a lot of money and headaches later. 

For more information about preventing frozen pipes at your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at (615) 672-1905.

Give the Gift of Fire Safety in Dickson

11/21/2016 (Permalink)

Give your family the gift of a fire safety plan this holiday season.

Fire Safety Plans in Dickson

The holidays are approaching and many families are finalizing plans for elaborate meals, get-togethers with friends, and decorating with festive lights. Amidst all this planning, homeowners may be overlooking the most important plan they can make—a fire safety plan.

Each year, statistics show the incidence of home cooking and candle fires peaks during the holiday season. This tends to focus homeowners on fire prevention precautions—and that’s a good thing, but to truly protect your family from the dangers of a home fire, at the holidays and throughout the year, you need to start with a fire safety plan. Developing a fire safety plan and practicing it regularly with your family is the most important step you can take to help prevent a house fire from turning into a devastating tragedy.

SERVPRO is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services, and our disaster response professionals know from experience how devastating a home fire can be. We also know that when fire causes a loss of life, there is no “remediation” possible. This is why SERVPRO has teamed up with the American Red Cross (ARC) by supporting the ARC Disaster Responder program, and in particular the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. As a Disaster Responder, SERVPRO pledges dollars and support in advance to help the ARC develop and distribute educational materials and respond immediately when they are needed.

SERVPRO encourages all Dickson-area homeowners to follow these fire safety guidelines, developed by the ARC through their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, to help minimize injury or loss of life due to a residential fire.

1. Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
2. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
3. Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
4. Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
5. Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone they must get out.
6. Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
7. Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.

Fire prevention and fire safety planning are two very different things. Fire prevention planning helps control or eliminate the causes of a fire. Fire safety planning helps prevent injury and loss of life when a fire does break out. To protect your family and your property, you need both.

For more fire prevention and fire safety tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please call us at (615) 672-1905.

SERVPRO Gives Back to Robertson County Fire Fighters

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Rehab Trailer helped our local fire fighters recover after their different rounds of training.

Supporting the Lt. Brad Hutcherson Memorial Fire School

We were very proud to be a part of the Lt. Brad Hutcherson Memorial Fire School Training Event in Robertson County. This year's training included several local fire fighters who received outstanding training from top-notch instructors. 

In support of this year's event, SERVPRO provided a few pieces of equipment and a "Rehab Trailer" where the fire fighters recovered after different rounds of training. We also helped provide some useful gear that was handed out as door prizes to individual trainees.

About the Fire School

The fire school provides outstanding training to fire service members to our local fire fighters at a minimal cost while honoring Lt. Brad Hutcherson and his contributions to the Fire Service in Robertson County.

The school has some of the best instructors in the industry and enhances our community's fire fighters' knowledge, skill, and ability. However, to provide this outstanding training, the fire school relies heavily on community support and donations.

This year we we're happy to give back to our "community heroes" who give so much to us. 

To learn more about the Lt. Brad Hutcherson Memorial Fire School, you can visit their website by clicking here. 

If you'd like to learn more about our community support and involvement, call us anytime at 615-672-1905. 

Does Your White House Home Have A Mold Problem?

10/27/2016 (Permalink)

In White House, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 615-672-1905

Springfield Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/10/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Springfield Home.

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 615-672-1905

Faster To Any Size Water Damage in Dickson

8/27/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damages are never convenient and don’t wait for regular business hours – thankfully neither do we. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties provides emergency water damage mitigation and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays. We will respond immediately day or night.

Water is particularly invasive, and it will spread very quickly throughout your property. It will be absorbed into your floors, walls, furniture, etc. Therefore, water damages require immediate action, and quick response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties will arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately.

Below is a Water Damage Timeline that shows how damage will progress if it’s not addressed quickly:

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery and anything else it touches.
• Furniture finishes may start to bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, magazines and other paper goods located on the floor will begin to swell.

1 - 24 Hours:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Furniture begins to swell and some may possibly crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor will begin to appear.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may begin to grow and spread.
• Doors, windows and studs will begin to swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture may begin to warp and show signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Hardwood flooring begins to swell and warp.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible at this time.

More Than 1 Week:

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 - (615) 672-1905

Having Your Springfield Water Damage Handled by Certified Professional: Why It Matters

8/4/2016 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm Logo from http://www.iicrc.org/

Doctors have the American Medical Association, attorneys have the American Bar Association, and water damage restoration professionals have the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (or IICRC).

When you have a water damage in your Springfield home or business, your emotions can range from frustrated to absolutely frantic. You may be thinking to hire the first person you can find with a 'shop vac' to take care of the damage - however, it's important to have an IICRC Certified Firm like SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties take care of the damage. Each one of our technicians is a certified water damage restoration technician (WRT), and each one of our production managers is certified in applied structural drying as well (ASD). 

Why It Matters

Because SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties is an IICRC certified firm - we handle all water damages in accordance with the ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration Standard. This ensures that you will receive outstanding, technically correct service, every time.

The explanation below from the IICRC's website describes the benefits of using an IICRC Certified Firm. 

"More than just removing excess water, IICRC-certified restorers have the knowledge and equipment to further dry a home or facility (including substructure materials) completely back to pre-loss conditions. Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur.

All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return."

If your property suffers a water damage, be sure to call the Certified Professionals at SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties at (615) 672-1905.

Information above provided by http://www.iicrc.org/

Fire Damage from Grilling? Keep Cookouts Safe in Dickson

7/22/2016 (Permalink)

There's nothing like firing up the grill at your Dickson home during the summer months! Did you know, July is the peak month for grill fires? A backyard barbecue can become dangerous quickly if proper safety precautions aren't considered. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties wants you to have an enjoyable and safe summer. Consider the following tips to help ensure your summer celebrations are disaster free!

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• When using a charcoal grill, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Tips and information provided by the National Fire Association.

10 Unexpected Places Where Water Damage & Mold Creeps Into Your Springfield, TN Home

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Mold can cause significant damage, but it can be prevented with proper precautions.

If a fixture or appliance in your home uses water, chances are it will leak at some point. These are 10 places many Springfield homeowners overlook when checking for water damage or mold:

1. Dishwasher 

There are two connections under each dishwasher that have the potential for mold and mildew to get started–the water supply and the discharge connection. The water supply needs to be lubricated with the right sealant and properly tightened periodically. The discharge connection involves a rubber hose and clamp, and installing the hose before the dishwasher is installed ensures it is done properly. Hoses wear out over time. If you’re buying an older house, it doesn’t hurt to check the dishwasher connections — especially if there’s an odd smell when you open the door. 

2. Icemaker Connections 

Refrigerators often get moved, either for cleaning or other projects. This can weaken or break the water line connection to the icemaker, causing leaks behind the refrigerator. 

3. Washing Machine Connections 

When installing a washing machine, always install a new hose, using the rubber washers the manufacturer recommends. Also, use Teflon tape and make sure to tighten the connection with vice grips so there are no drips or leaks. 

4. Hot Water Heater 

Many states have laws regarding the installation of hot water heaters, and most of them involve overflow pans that are piped to drain outside the house. The pan must be tilted at least ¼ inch to ensure the water does drain. Newer heaters with quick connect connectors should be properly lubricated and tightened so the shut-off valve doesn’t leak. 

5. Plastic P-Traps 

Under every sink in your home is a ?P-Trap,? almost always made of PVC pipe, which expands, and contracts. This process eventually loosens the connection and can cause leaks. Use Teflon tape to seal every P-Trap and check them periodically, tightening them by hand to ensure their connections don’t loosen and leak. Be careful, over tightening PVC can cause it to crack. 

6. Toilet Connections 

The base of the toilet is where most mold grows. Toilets should be installed with a horned wax ring, and then the base of the toilet grouted in with tile grout. The grout serves as a filler between the bowl and the floor to keep the bowl from rocking – which can compromise the wax ring. Also, make sure the toilet supply line is well-connected. 

7. Shower Doors 

To insure proper installation, we recommend shower doors be installed by a licensed plumber. Mold growing at the base of the tub may be from leaking or improperly installed shower doors. Shower doors need caulking on all three rails — the two side rails as well as the bottom rail. 

8. Tub 

The best way to prevent a leak from a tub is to make sure it is installed properly. If installed improperly, water and moisture can drip down under the tub causing water damage and mold issues. 

9. Exterior Water Connections 

If you’ve used a hose, you know how a poor connection or missing rubber washer can cause water to spray onto the house. This uncontrolled spray allows water to enter the space between the siding or into the wall leading to water damage and mold growth. 

10. Outdoor Water Sprinklers 

Make sure your sprinklers are well away from the house when turned on. The siding on your house is engineered to shed falling water (rain), not sprinklers shooting water up. 

If you take the proper precautions and monitor your home regularly, you should be able to avoid mold or at least catch it very early at its onset. 

Information from Homes.com article ’10 Unexpected Places Where Mold Creeps Into Your Home’

"Mold Removal" vs. Remediation in Dickson, TN - What's the Difference?

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business in Dickson is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

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

1. Emergency Contact - (615) 672-1905
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

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.

Water Damage in Springfield? We're Faster to Any Disaster

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

There's no such thing as a small water damage in Springfield - especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property. 

At SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties, we know how disruptive water damage can be for your home or business. We are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your home or business will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties can help you regain control quickly, ensuring your facility and its contents are properly dried deodorized and protected. 

Before you risk further damaging the value of your Springfield home or facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties.

Prevent Water Damage in your Ashland City Home This Spring by Watching for Sump Pump Failures

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

Sump pumps are headache savers when it comes to saving our Ashland City basements from flooding whenever a downpour occurs. The sump pump sits in the lowest part of our basement or crawlspace and is automatically activated when it detects that there is water starting to fill up the hole it is sitting in. As the pump runs, it sends the water out of the discharge line and away from the home making sure that the home does not flood. Like any other mechanical device, sump pumps still have the possibility of failing.

Causes of sump pump failure

• Power failure – The most common cause for failure of a sump pump is a power outage. As we know, most power outages happen when we need the sump pump most, during a storm. Purchasing a backup generator to keep your sump pump moving during a storm can save your home from a flooded basement.
• Improper installation – The installation of a sump pump is crucial to it working properly. One mistake or misstep in following the manufacturer instructions can lead to water to be displaced. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s manual or consult a professional to make sure the sump pump is installed correctly.
• Frozen or clogged discharge line – The discharge line is where the water exits the home. It is important to make sure that the line is protected from freezing and does not have debris such as dirt, rocks and sticks. A grated discharge line will give water a separate way to flow in case of a blockage.
• Lack of maintenance – Manufacturers recommend testing and running the pump every 2-3 months.
• Switch problems – The purpose of the sump pump is to automatically turn on when a sensor notices that there is water build up. If the pump gets shifted and moves position inside of the basin, it can cause switch to be inaccurate and not know where the correct water level is, making the pump not switch on at the correct time.
• Manufacturer defect – Although it is rare to get a bad machine right out of the store, it still is possible. It is important to test the pump after installation to ensure that it is running properly so that you aren’t finding the defect when it is already too late.

  Source - http://renewservices.com/7-causes-of-sump-pump-failure-what-to-do/

Ensure Good Indoor Air Quality in Your Dickson Home or Business

5/6/2016 (Permalink)

Source: ASHRAE Standard 62.2, Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings, and 2001 ASHRAE Handbook, Fundamentals

Below are 10 tips from the Society of Heating, Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning Engineers to insure good indoor air quality in your Dickson home or business.

1. Vent bathrooms, kitchens, toilets and laundry rooms directly outdoors. Use energy efficient and quiet fans.
2. Avoid locating furnaces, air conditioners and ductwork in garages or other spaces where they can inadvertently draw contaminants into the house.
3. Properly vent fireplaces, wood stoves and other hearth products; use tight doors and outdoor air intakes when possible.
4. Vent clothes dryers and central vacuum cleaners directly outdoors.
5. Store toxic or volatile compounds such as paints, solvents, cleaners and pesticides out of the occupiable space.
6. Minimize or avoid unvented combustion sources such as candles, cigarettes, indoor barbecues, decorative combustion appliances or vent-free heaters.
7. Provide operable windows to accommodate unusual sources or high-polluting events, such as the use of home cleaning products, hobby activities, etc.
8. Use sealed-combustion, power-vented or condensing water heaters and furnaces. When natural-draft applications must be used they should be tested for proper venting and should be located outside the occupiable space when possible.
9. Put a good particle filter or air cleaner in your air handling system to keep dirt out of the air and off of your ductwork and heating and cooling components.
10. Distribute a minimum level of outdoor air throughout the home, using whole-house mechanical ventilation.

For other information or to schedule a HVAC or ductwork cleaning call us today!

Great Turnout for Discover White House

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

Discover White House

We were proud support the White House Area Chamber of Commerce this weekend by participating in their annual "Discover White House" event. There was a great turnout this year as community members came in droves to interact with the town's businesses, enjoy the entertainment and eat the wonderful food from the line of food-trucks outside. There were also lots of items to bid on in the huge silent auction.

All-in-all it was a great event put on by the Chamber, and the hard work of Mandy Christenson (Chamber Director), President Mark Reid, President-Elect Joey Tate, and the entire Chamber Board of Directors definitely showed. Thanks to all for great event!

Don't Let Spring Storms Cause Water Damage and Flood Damage to Your Dickson Home

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

With storm season underway, there are unfortunate cases of flooding and power outages taking place in Springfield, White House, Greenbrier, Ashland City, Pleasant View and Dickson. The humidity and flooded areas create a perfect combination and environment for mold to grow, giving you more than just flood damage to take care of. The sooner the water damage is cleaned up, the less likely there is a chance for mold to produce, leaving you with less to cleanup in the end. According to Angieslist, there are important steps to take in order to prevent mold damage after a flood.

Flood damage cleanup

1. Remove furniture and upholstery to clean or repair separately.
2. Start by using a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of as much water as possible so the water is not sitting. 
3. Use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process. A dehumidifier can also be used to remove the excess moisture in the air to prevent mold growth.
4. Once the water and moisture is cleared, start cleaning and treating the carpet and flooring throughout the flooded area. Steam clean any carpeted area to properly sanitize and check the padding under the carpet to ensure that it does not need replaced. Carpet padding usually needs replaced when a flood occurs.
5. Clean walls and baseboards with warm water and soap to remove any residue. Then apply bleach and water mixture to sanitize the surface. 

Water damage produced from a flood can be dangerous and cause illness due to the bacteria sitting in the water. It’s important to act quickly when it comes to flood and water damage to prevent illness and worse damage to occur.

Source - http://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-steps-prevent-carpet-mold-after-water-damage.htm

Duct Cleaning: Are Your Ducts in Order in your Springfield Facility or Home?

4/8/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your Springfield facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties service is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. Our professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, our professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling 615-672-1905.

Spring Cleaning: Spruce Up Your Greenbrier Space

3/25/2016 (Permalink)

Birds are chirping and the temperatures have warmed up - spring is finally here in Greenbrier! Spring cleaning is a tradition allowing us to freshen our environment and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. While many people deep clean their homes, this is also a great time to clean and organize your business.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties can help get your facility in tip top shape. In addition to air duct and HVAC cleaning, we are trained to use state-of-the-art equipment to remove soils hiding deep within your carpet, as well as focused stain removal and stain resistance applications. Other services include: upholstery and drapery cleaning, hard floor cleaning and care, and odor deodorization.

A clean environment is a healthy environment! Improve your living and work spaces this spring. If you need a little help, don't worry, SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties has the tools to make your home or business sparkle in no time!

Spring Cleaning Your Workspace

• Divide Your Workspace Into Zones: Determine how you want and need to use the space and set up zones for your daily functions. You may require a workspace for your computer, a library area for your research, a storage area for supplies and a filing area for your archives. This will provide a foundation for a more efficient use of space.
• Keep Only What You Need At Arm's Length: Boxes of pens, stacks of papers and old coffee cups need to go. Rid your desk of visual clutter by paring down the items on top to the essentials only. Supplies, paperwork and personal items should be kept in the zones you've established for them. 
• Sort Your Catch-All Drawer: Use drawer dividers to give everything a place, like compartments for paperclips and rubber bands. Go through the drawer every six weeks and clear out anything that is out of place or isn't being used.
• Eliminate Digital Clutter: Digital clutter can be just as stressful as physical clutter. Organize digital files and your e-mail inbox just as you would paper files - with a system of logical and clearly labeled folders. Also, keep the icons on your desktop to a bare minimum, and trade in sticky notes on your monitor for calendar reminders.
• Create A Daily Paper System: Consider creating hanging files or baskets labeled "To Read," "To Do," and "To File." Establish set days for each, so that you don't get behind or feel the overwhelming need to do everything at once.
• Disinfect Regularly: Prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, food stains and fingerprints. Wipe down your desk, phone, keyboard and monitor once a week with disinfecting wipes.

Tips provided by Forbes, The Dangers of a Messy Desk.

Understanding Water Damage Types in White House

3/4/2016 (Permalink)

When your White House home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. 

Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive:

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and table top items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is a potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to uncontaminated areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties.

Smoke Alarms Prevent Fire Damage in Ashland City and Save Lives

2/22/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role saving lives in Ashland City, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met. 

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Here are some tips for smoke detector installation and maintenance:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Just the Facts: Smoke Alarms

• Three our of five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or when the alarms are not working.
• Smoke alarm failures usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries.
• More than one-third (37 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present.
• The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

*Statistics & Tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association

Have Your Springfield Business Ready in 2016: SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile

2/11/2016 (Permalink)

The New Year signifies a fresh start. With each New Year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, make a resolution to have your Springfield business READY. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens."

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your Springfield facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO Ready App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device, making help just a few clicks away.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties to establish your Emergency READY Profile, and be "Ready for whatever happens" in 2016

Advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

• A no-cost assessment of your facility
• A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the eveny of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Protect Your Home in Dickson from Frozen Pipes this Winter

1/8/2016 (Permalink)

Image Source: engineeredconstruction.com

In Dickson County, the winter always seems to creep up on us. The weather outside turns from cool and moderate, to absolutely freezing seemingly overnight. To combat these frigid temperatures, we protect ourselves by budling up in layers of clothing, turning on the heat in our homes and spending more time inside. However we often don't think about the protection of our home during the winter months. The frigid temperatures that can chill us to the bone can also do a number on indoor plumbing. Below we've listed some tips to protect your home in Dickson and avoid frozen pipes this winter.

1. Insulate your pipes

The pipes located in your crawlspace, basement, attic and exterior walls are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Protect these pipes by properly insulating them using snap-on foam insulation or even towels.

2. Drip faucets

During cold days and nights, it helps to let your faucets drip both hot and cold water to avoid pressure build-up and keep the water moving to prevent freezing.

3. Open kitchen & bathroom cabinets containing plumbing

As a general rule, when you drip your faucets open the cabinet doors beneath them as well. This allows the heat from your home to better circulate around the pipes in these areas.

5. Close vents to crawlspace

If you have a crawlspace, be sure to close the vents to ensure this area is as warm as possible

5. Check foundation

Having cracks in your foundation walls can all cold weather in and make it more likely for pipes to freeze. Fill the cracks with caulking or expanding foam.

Know How to Properly Use a Fire Extinguisher to Protect Your Springfield Home or Business from Fire Damage

12/3/2015 (Permalink)

Photo courtesy of www.osha.gov.

Everyone knows what a fire extinguisher looks like, but when it comes to operating one, do you know how to use it in case of an emergency? In the moment a fire occurs, our ability to stay calm and think rationally isn’t always there. It’s very important to know how to use a fire extinguisher ahead of time so that we know what to in that situation. There most likely won’t be time to read the label once you realize the fire has started. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the best way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher is by remembering the word PASS.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

Pull the pin. Hold the fire extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

Aim low. Point the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance:

According to fire-exinguisher101.com, fire extinguishers should be inspected once a month. When doing this, make sure that the extinguisher is always in a convenient location to grab and is not blocked by anything, in case of an emergency. Check the pressure of the extinguisher at its gauge to make sure that the pressure is within the recommended level. Make sure the nozzle and other parts of the extinguisher have not been tampered with and that the pin is intact. Check for dents, leaks, rust and other signs of abuse/wear. Always make sure to recharge extinguishers after each use regardless of how much they were used.

Preparing and Preventing a Home Fire in your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Home

10/28/2015 (Permalink)

Steps you can take now:

• Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.
• Never smoke in bed
• Talk to your children regularly about the dangers of fire, matches and lighters and keep them out of reach.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Smoke Alarms:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
• Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

Cooking Safely:

• Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.
• Stay in the home while simmering, baking, roasting or boiling food. Check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that food is cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire – like pot holders, towels, plastic and clothing – away from the stove.
• Keep pets off cooking surfaces and countertops to prevent them from knocking things onto the burner.

Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson County Fire Damage - Why You Should Leave Smoke Damage Removal to a Professional

9/25/2015 (Permalink)

Fire damage is just the beginning when your house or office catches fire. Smoke and water also do a lot of damage, and this needs to be mitigated as soon as possible in order for the building to be returned to its pre-fire condition.

Why Is Smoke Damage Serious?

Smoke leaves behind powerful odors because of the material burned. Carpets, upholstery, wood and plastics are all burned and create odors and ash that can corrode, etch and discolor as well as cling to the remaining structure. Some of the fumes from the fire damage will seep into the walls and floors and may contaminate the indoor air much later if they are not removed. These cannot be removed with a household cleaner. It takes special equipment and the expertise of professionals to mitigate smoke damage, so the house is odor-free.

The different types of damage include:

•  Plastics that melt and change color
•  Fiberglass that cracks
•  Finishes on appliances that turn yellow
•  Metals that tarnish or corrode
•  Wood that may need refinishing

The longer you wait to call a professional mitigation contractor, the worse the situation will be. After the fire is out, the smoke and ash remain. It’s also more cost-effective to get the repair started as soon as possible. Even if the fire damage in Springfield is contained in a small part of your house, smoke damage can permeate a greater area.

How Is Smoke Damage Cleaned?

Professionals use thermal fogging to remove smoke odor. This technique opens the pores in the walls and floors to neutralize the odor from the smoke that has entered deep into them. The also use dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the water damage and ozone generators to neutralize the odor. Different chemicals are required to remove the smoke from different substances such as wood and plastic. The final step in smoke mitigation is to repaint the walls and ceilings.

Professionals Know the Job

The best fire damage professionals are properly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They take extensive coursework to get their certification. They will identify all the affected materials in your home and find the source of any odors. Smoke and heat will distribute ash through the home and it can remain in cracks and crevices. Experts know what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded. They use specialized detergents that have been designed to treat specific types of odor.

Professionals can also increase the possibility of saving property rather than needing to replace it, and they can clean out your vents and ducts. Some of the services offered are:

•   Removal of smoke and odor
•   Cleaning and sanitizing
•   Professional deodorization
•   Temporary protection of surfaces already cleaned
•   Removing carpets and pads if required

Fire damage is devastating, but it is not over when the fire is out. To get your home back to pre-damaged condition, professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties’ fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day.

September is National Preparedness Month

8/24/2015 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month, an annual awareness event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This is a great time for business owners to review their emergency preparedness and business continuity plans. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties points to startling statistics like this one to emphasize the importance of advance planning: according to FEMA, as many as 40 percent of businesses never reopen following a major flood disaster.*

"Business owners in who think they are prepared for an emergency because exits are clearly marked and fire or flood drills are parts of the regular routine really need to take another look at their preparations," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. chief executive officer. "A comprehensive emergency plan also contains critical information about the location of shut-off valves, fire suppression system controls, emergency contact numbers and more -- information that can save emergency responders precious time and help contain damage and minimize injury."

Because SERVPRO knows the time to create a disaster readiness plan is before you need it, they have developed the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Program to help business owners in Springfield, White House, Ashland City, Pleasant View, Dickson and surrounding areas create an Emergency READY Profile^® (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. The business owner works with SERVPRO^® to gather and document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. Once the ERP is created, business owners have access to their information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO's free smartphone app.

"For a business to survive and thrive, it needs to get back to business as soon as possible after a disaster strikes," said Steen. "With an ERP in place, SERVPRO's Disaster Response teams can immediately assess the situation and take the first critical steps to protect employees from harm and property from further damage, setting the business on the road to recovery."

SERVPRO^® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties specialize in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it "Like it never even happened," for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on the SERVPRO^® and the SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp.

Grilling & Fire Pit Safety Tips to Prevent Fire Damage This Summer at your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County Home

7/27/2015 (Permalink)

As the weather gets warmer, we transition from spending all of our time bundled up inside, to spending every minute we can outdoors in the sun. We’re excited to finally trade the stove for a grill and the fireplace for a fire pit in the backyard. As we drag the summer appliances out and set up the backyard to get ready for the summer, we have to keep the proper safety precautions in mind to avoid fire damage in Ashland City, White House, Pleasant View, Springfield, Greenbrier and Dickson. According to the National Fire Protection Association, every year grilling causes an average of 8,800 home fires.

Grill safety tips:

Fire pit safety tips:

Source - http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/outdoors/grilling 

Be safe this Independence Day. Avoid firework related injuries & fire damage in Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties.

7/2/2015 (Permalink)

Fireworks by the Numbers

• Fireworks account for 2 out of 5 of all reported fires on Independence Day, more than any other cause.
• Fireworks cause close to 20,000 reported fires each year - 1,200 of which are structure fires.
• These fires result in civilian injuries and around $32 million in direct property damage.

Follow these safety tips when using fireworks:

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Sources: NFPA’s Fireworks Fact Sheet, Fire Analysis and Research Division, June 2014 & http://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks/

When water damage occurs in Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County spring into action

6/19/2015 (Permalink)

Take Fast Action When Springfield Water Damage Occurs

If your home is flooded, then you need to spring into action. It is important that water removal is accomplished in a timely manner to prevent damage to your home. There are other problems that water causes such as unhealthy indoor air quality. You can physically remove wet items and carry them outdoors to dry. A large fan will help with water removal in Ashland City, Springfield, Dickson White House and Greenbrier to dry items faster. High humidity levels can affect every member of your family in a negative manner. If you have family members with respiratory problems, then it is important that you get rid of excess water. 

Consider hiring a company that specializes in water damage. They will bring professional equipment that will dry your home faster. This is important to prevent damage to your floors, walls and ceilings. Protect yourself and your family by wearing a respiratory mask while cleaning up after water damage. Throw away items that have been saturated with water such as mattresses, rugs and carpets. 

Water damage can also occur due to damaged water or sewer lines. If the sewer has backed up into your home, you must take steps to prevent bacteria from entering your home. Consult a professional water damage company for best results. Consult with your insurance agent to find out what items are covered. Some homeowner's policies do not cover damage due to flooding or other disasters. Prepare ahead of a disaster by storing items such as canned foods and important papers inside plastic containers and bags. Important information such as insurance policies should also be protected. 

If your area weather station is reporting possible flooding in your area, then you should unplug all appliances. Turn the electricity off before you vacate the premises. It is important to prepare ahead for natural disasters that can catch you off-guard. Make sure all family members know what to do in case of an emergency. Never use your household vacuum to remove excess water. A professional water damage company has equipment to remove water safely and efficiently. Contact a professional before an emergency situation unfolds in front of you and your family.

SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties’ Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties proudly serves Springfield, Dickson, White House, Ashland City, Greenbrier, Pleasant View and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or structure caused by:

Are You Missing These Hidden Sources of Springfield Fire?

6/5/2015 (Permalink)

Are You Missing These Hidden Sources of Fire?

Most people are aware of the Springfield fire risks posed by candles, smoking, and malfunctioning appliances, but there are also a number of everyday household hazards that may surprise you. Below are some of the most commonly overlooked sources of house fires.

Microwaves

Microwaves - especially out-of-date models - are one of the most common sources of house fires. Accidentally microwaving a piece of silverware or aluminum foil can cause arcing, and dry foods can easily ignite if cooked for too long. To make matters worse, the fan can also provide oxygen to feed the flames, which is why you should never leave a microwave unattended when in use. 

Batteries

While battery-related fires are rare, they do happen. 9-volt batteries are especially hazardous, since the positive and negative posts are so close together. If a piece of conductive metal comes between those posts, it could cause a short, igniting any nearby combustible materials. The best option is to store unused batteries in their original packaging, or to cover the ends with a bit of electrical tape. Never store batteries in a drawer with loose metal or flammable objects. 

Light Bulbs

All outlets are rated for a certain wattage, and use light bulbs that exceed those standards is a fire waiting to happen. If the outlet is unmarked, the safest course of action is to choose light bulbs that are 60 watts or below. If your home includes track or recessed lighting, consider using cooler LED bulbs instead of CFLs in order to avoid overheating. 

Dryer Lint

Every year, more than 15,000 fires are caused by dryer lint. Lint traps do not catch the majority of lint, which means that most of it ends up in the dryer vents, blocking air flow and exhaust gasses and eventually becoming a serious fire hazard. Clean the lint trap between each load of laundry, and take the time to clear lint away from the vent and the back of the dryer at least once a month. 

Laptops

Laptops heat up during regular use, and covering up their cooling vents can result in overheating and even a Springfield fire. Avoid leaving your laptop on the bed, couch, or any other surface that might block air flow. 

Reading Materials

Newspapers, magazines, books, and paperwork can easily ignite if stored too close to a heat source. Always store reading materials on a shelf or in another cool, dry place, and consider tossing out anything that you won't use again so that it doesn't become a hazard in the future. 

Heating Pads

Heating pads and electrical blankets that are old, damaged, or improperly used can pose a significant risk to your home and your safety. Replace any pads that have missing covers, tears, cracks, or exposed wires. Avoid bunching pads up during use, and never fall asleep with a heating pad turned on - many older models do not have an auto-off setting, which can lead to serious burns, short-outs, and even Springfield fires. 

Charcoal

Barbecue charcoal is highly flammable, even when it's damp. The best way to store charcoal is to keep it inside a metal container with an air-tight lid, so that if a fire does start, it won't be able to spread. Keep charcoal in an area that isn't exposed to sunlight or moisture, such as a shed or outdoor storage unit. 

Clutter

Assorted clutter is a surprisingly common source of household fires. Combustible materials that are stored near light fixtures or electrical outlets can easily ignite; clutter in the bedroom is especially dangerous since it gives you less time to react to a potential fire. Avoid stacking clothing or paperwork in a closet with light bulbs, and vacuum regularly so that flammable dust doesn't accumulate around sockets and light fixtures. 

Old Appliances

Old and outdated appliances are a major Springfield fire hazard, even if appear to be functioning properly. Many older appliances do not have the built-in safety features that come with modern models, and pieces may wear out or break down over time with regular use. Check old appliances regularly for worn insulation, exposed wiring, or malfunctioning components.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. When various materials burn, the soot and residue they create differs greatly and requires a specific cleaning procedure. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage restoration. Learn more about our fire damage restoration process.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Dealing with Water Damage in Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson Counties

5/29/2015 (Permalink)

Dealing with Water Damage

Water damage is traumatic, often to homeowners as much as their house. The first time you see the water damage  is a shock; you may not know where to start in repairing it. However, there are steps you can take in the immediate time after a flood, burst pipe, or other damage that will make it easier to repair your home and move on with your life. 

1. Stop the influx of water. You cannot repair water damage while water is still entering your home. If there is a pipe leak or other repair issue, turn off the water supply and have the problem repaired. If the damage is from a storm or flood, use sand bags or other ways of reducing the water. In some cases, people have to wait out the deluge when water damage is caused by a natural disaster. 

2. Call your insurance company. It is important to know from the beginning what types of water damage your insurance company covers, as well as whether they will cover water removal and other services. Even if this is not an incident covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, your insurance agent can still offer you advice. 

3. Dry out your home. Standing water and wet upholstery can breed dangerous microbes in just 24 hours, so fast water removal is crucial to your future health. Mop or use a wet vac, bag up clothing and textiles, and throw away things like mattresses that hold moisture and cannot easily be cleaned. Open all windows and turn on fans. This will limit the growth of mold and bacteria while also limiting your exposure to whatever microbes are already present. 

4. Call in the experts. Call professional mold inspectors who can look for remaining water in areas where it hides and immediately dry it out.

Water damage can be successfully dealt with if you immediately remove water where you can see it and have an expert deal with it where you can’t. Soon you will be once again enjoying a safe and dry home.

Water Damage Restoration

Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We respond to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup needs. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. Common causes of water damage are: 

• Flooding caused by severe weather
• Plumbing leaks
• Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow
• Sewage backup

Put a Freeze on Winter Fires

2/20/2015 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. 

In fact:

• Half of all home heating fires occur in the months of December, January & February.
• Heating equipment is involved in 1 in every 6 reported home fires & 1 in every 5 home fire deaths.

Here are some tips to avoid damage to your property this winter:

1. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.
2. Keep portable generators outside, away from windows and as far away as possible from your house. 
3. Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
4. Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.
5. Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container, and keep it outside at least 10 feet from your home and any nearby buildings.
6. Plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (such as a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.

For more information on how to prevent winter fires, you can visit www.usfa.fema.gov/winter/

Preparing Your Home for Freezing Temperatures

2/17/2015 (Permalink)

How Ice Dams Form: http://learningcenter.statefarm.com

The past couple of years have brought on bitter cold winters and unexpected climate changes. This winter is holding true to form as we battle the current ice storm. These frigid temperatures can result in frozen/burst pipes & ice dams.

Bursting pipes alone can result in more than $5,000 in water damage, including the amount of damage that can be done from a flooded basement or flood damage in other parts of your home. 

Another important and dangerous winter issue is ice dams that collect on the roof. Ice dams are created from snow melting from a warm part of the roof back down to a cold spot where the water refreezes and forms a dam. The ice dams continue to build up over cold days leaving a pocket for water to sit and leak through the roof.

Here are some preparation tips to protect your home this winter: 

Make sure to insulate pipes. Pipe insulation can cost as little as $0.50 per liner foot according to the Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).

Clean out gutters. By making sure there are no blockages in your gutters you can avoid ice dams, which cause water to back up and flow into the house.

Ensure there are no broken seals around windows and doors. 

Check the roof for leaks or cracks in seals. These cracks usually form around vent and chimneystacks. Snow, which is mostly likely to collect on the downwind side of the roof, can cause damage to shingles. 

SERVPRO® Celebrates 6th Consecutive Year on Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List

1/26/2015 (Permalink)

 Below is a recent press release regarding SERVPRO's ranking in Entreprenuer Magazine's Franchise 500 rankings:

Cleanup and restoration franchisor stands strong in the #7 position in the 2015 Franchise 500 rankings

 SERVPRO^®, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the No. 7 spot overall – out of a group of 927 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list—in the recently announced 2015 Franchise 500 rankings* from Entrepreneur magazine. This recognition marks the sixth consecutive year Entrepreneur has included the company in its Top 10 list and the 12^th consecutive year SERVPRO has earned the top spot on the magazine’s list in its own industry—Restoration Services.

 Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 selection process** uses “objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation” to help would-be entrepreneurs identify franchise investment opportunities. Some of the most important factors considered by Entrepreneur in developing the list each year are “financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system.”

 “It’s very satisfying to represent the ongoing brand leadership of SERVPRO^® for disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties area,” said Cody Sullins, owner of “SERVPRO^® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties. “As a SERVPRO franchisee, we have the tools and knowledge—and the responsibility—to provide the best possible service to every customer.”

 According to Sullins, SERVPRO continues to innovate with systems, processes and training designed to deliver faster, more consistent results to their customers. In the past year, SERVPRO customers benefited from the introduction of the following advanced features:

• The company’s DryBook^™ proprietary software, which provides franchisees with tools to capture and track the steps of a restoration project according to industry best practices and standards.

• The Here to Help^® Connection, which provides homeowners with 24/7 access to real-time data, allowing them to track progress toward project completion.

• The Drying Chamber, which uses vacuum freeze-drying technology to vaporize water in water-damaged documents—a technique recommended by the Library of Congress. The process can recover and restore even the most delicate items and preserve the integrity of a variety of media including irreplaceable files, medical files, books, x-rays, photographs and more.

Homeowners Take Note! Holiday Fire Risk Increases After Christmas Day

12/5/2014 (Permalink)

The following is a recent press release, were SERVPRO Industries CEO, Sue Steen, encourages homeowners to take precautions throughout the holiday season:

Restoration Specialists SERVPRO® Cautions Homeowners to Take Common Sense Precautions Throughout the Holiday Season

Most homeowners are aware holiday decorations should be used with care. Each year, statistics tell the story of the fire danger resulting from frayed wires, proximity to heat sources, and lights left on unattended. But disaster recovery specialists SERVPRO wants homeowners to know that the danger of fire caused by holiday decorating, and by Christmas trees specifically, actually increases after the holiday. Citing research from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)*, the fire and water damage experts at SERVPRO say while four out of five Christmas tree fires happen in December and January, the 10 days with the highest average number of fires were all after Christmas Day.

"For many families, preparing for the holiday season is a very busy time," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. chief executive officer. "Come December 26, it's tempting to relax and stop watering the Christmas tree, replacing bulbs in outdoor lights and tucking indoor garlands back into place. Dry greens, open sockets and decorations that slip dangerously close to light sockets or fireplaces can all increase the risk of fire in the days after the Christmas holiday."

The American Christmas Tree Association** quotes Nielsen research that says Americans purchased 21.6 million live Christmas trees in 2011. That number is significant because, according to the NFPA, Christmas trees remain the number one culprit in holiday fires. Forty-three percent of Christmas tree fires happen in December, but January is close behind, claiming 39 percent -- numbers that demonstrate the danger of allowing Christmas trees to dry out during and after the holiday season. Tragically, Christmas tree fires are particularly deadly, claiming on average one life in every 40 fires compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires.

Steen encourages homeowners who choose to decorate with live Christmas trees to be diligent about watering their trees both before and after the holidays. "When a Christmas tree dries out, it takes only a single spark from the fireplace, a draft that blows a candle flame too near, or a carelessly held cigarette to turn your holiday celebration into a tragedy," says Steen. "Beyond the damage from the fire itself, a Christmas tree fire, like any fire, can result in extensive smoke and water damage throughout your home, and can even be deadly."

As the holiday season moves into full swing, SERVPRO reminds homeowners to take common sense precautions based on a clear understanding of the potential danger to help prevent holiday traditions from turning into a holiday nightmare.

SERVPRO Offers Free Disaster Prep Tips Following National Preparedness Month

11/5/2014 (Permalink)

If disaster does strike, leaving fire, water or mold damage in its wake, area SERVPRO emergency restoration specialists offer an assortment of services to help local residents quickly restore damaged property.

This fall, in recognition of the annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), activities and events took place across the country to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and to promote individual involvement in preparation for emergency response. Area franchises of the restoration company SERVPRO continue to offer free preparedness materials for NPM.

The focus of this year’s campaign: “Be Disaster Aware – Take Action To Prepare” is to encourage Americans to work together to take concrete actions toward emergency preparedness. SERVPRO often sees the benefits of emergency preparedness.

SERVPRO suggests residents throughout the country begin to prepare for a natural or man-made disaster by taking the following steps to lessen the impact on their families and their communities if disaster strikes.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit – Families should plan for 3 days of supplies, including water (a gallon per person per day is recommended) and non-perishable foods. Basic tools (wrench, pliers, can opener, matches), fire extinguisher, flashlight and radio with extra batteries, a first aid kit, extra clothing and hygiene items, garbage bags and duct tape, copies of important documents (insurance policies, ID, bank accounts), cash and local maps should also be included.

Establish a Family Emergency Plan – An out-of-town contact should be noted as a centralized, emergency communications facilitator in case a disaster strikes. That person’s number should be included in emergency contacts on each family members cell phone. If that person cannot be reached with a call, texting should be tried. 

Stay Informed – Most communities have established emergency procedures and participate in activities planned to communicate those procedures. Checklists and other disaster preparedness tools are available from SERVPRO or at ready.gov.

While it’s common for individuals to insure their homes, cars and possessions, and even to prepare living wills to protect their families in the event of some unthinkable accident, only 36 percent believed there was a high likelihood of a natural disaster ever happening in their community, according to a Citizen Corps National Survey. And yet disasters can and do happen every day. In fact, FEMA has recorded more declared disasters to date this year alone, up from last year.

If disaster does strike, leaving fire, water or mold damage in its wake, area SERVPRO emergency restoration specialists offer an assortment of services to help local residents quickly restore damaged property.

Property Restoration Can Be a Messy Business

10/7/2014 (Permalink)

Below is a recent press release regarding our efficiency and proprietary technology:

Local disaster recovery specialist offers insight into the complexities of dealing with disaster.

When disaster strikes, property owners need to make a lot of decisions quickly and under pressure. Effective disaster remediation involves a lot of moving parts: remediation specialists, insurance companies, local codes, state codes, documentation and more—and all of this has to happen in an atmosphere charged with emotion and stress. 

Cody Sullins of SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson & Dickson Counties says, “Efficiency is key when you are dealing with disaster remediation; it saves our customers money and it makes our work more effective. SERVPRO is an industry leader in work efficiency technology—continually innovating to help both our customers and our business control costs.” 

SERVPRO’s proprietary DryBook™ tool is one example of the company’s focus on efficiency and cost control. Remediation projects must be managed to both industry and insurance company standards, and Sullins says tools like DryBook™ help SERVPRO Franchise technicians track and document progress on restoration, cleanup and repair services. “The DryBook™ tool helps us deliver on every detail of every water damage job, every time,” says Sullins. 

To help avoid regulatory headaches and paperwork pitfalls, Sullins suggests property owners consider the following criteria when choosing a remediation company to deal with the aftermath of a disaster. 

1. Industry standards: Does your remediation company deliver a product that meets the standards set by

• The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Cleaning (IICRC)?

• Most major insurance companies, including cycle times and deadline requirements?

2. Recordkeeping: Does your remediation company have a system in place to ensure accurate, complete and convenient benchmarking of each step of the remediation process, including

• Capturing and updating data, including job diary notes, electronically real-time on the jobsite, with simultaneous updates saved at the central office?

• Using e-signatures to help eliminate lost paperwork and the need to scan documents?

• Providing a complete record of the damage and remediation efforts in images, with descriptions, start-to-finish?

3. Equipment selection: Does your contractor have the ability, on-the-spot, to

• Identify the right equipment for the job, based on the damage description?

• Validate the use of each piece of equipment, automatically, as part of the remediation records?

SERVPRO Supports Resilient Communities

10/2/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a Proud National Sponsor of the American Red Cross Ready Rating Program

To be a truly resilient community, its members need to understand that no matter how well prepared their own organization or household may be; we are all dependant in many ways on others.  For instance, your organization may rely on the transportation infrastructure to move your goods from place to place or for your clients to get to your facilities.  Or what about services that you may not be relying on directly, but your employees and clients do, such as reliable school hours and access to medical care? If the schools in your area were closed for several days, would all your employees be able to continue providing the daily work they do for your organization? Telecommuting to stay home and watch the children can be one answer, but it won’t work for everyone or every job.  Sometimes our vulnerabilities are beyond our direct control.   When a disaster strikes a community, everyone can be affected and we all have an interest in encouraging all the companies, governments, non-profits, schools, households and individuals that make up those communities to be just as prepared for disasters and other emergencies as our own organization.   We are all in this together.

That is a goal SERVPRO^® and its more than 1600 franchises were addressing when it became a national sponsor of the American Red Cross Ready Rating Program^TM in 2013.  SERVPRO^®, an industry leader in providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation, responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar, large-loss events. They have seen firsthand, the devastating results a disaster can have on an entire community, not just one organization or household. As a National Sponsor of the Ready rating Program, SERVPRO has joined with the Red Cross to help put the tools and resources that businesses, schools and organizations need to create and implement a comprehensive business continuity program that is simple, effective and flexible. With more than 10,000 Members that have joined the program already, it is making a difference. 

“SERVPRO® professionals know a lot about disaster cleanup,” said Chad Lewis, Marketing Services Division Manager at SERVPRO Industries, Inc. “One of the most important things we know is that it’s better to take steps to prevent or minimize damage from an unexpected weather event or other disaster than it is to try to clean up after it. That’s why we emphasize the importance of readiness to our clients. Being ready can make the difference between moving back into your home or losing it—or staying in business or closing the doors forever. You can afford to take time now to gather the necessary information and create a recovery plan, but you can’t afford that time after a disaster. That’s a time for action, not planning.”

The American Red Cross thanks SERVPRO for its continued support of the Ready Rating program to support resilient communities.

What to Do Until Help Arrives

9/29/2014 (Permalink)

After learning more about the hazards of flooding, you may be curious about what to do in the event of an actual flood in your home or business. These emergency tips will help you take the proper action until we arrive on the scene. These tips can help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration.

Water Damage from Clean Water:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical hazards.
• Don't use a household vacuum to remove water. This could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum.

Water Damage from Contaminated Water (i.e. Sewage, Outside Water, ect.)

• Avoid all contact with sewage and any items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through damaged or wet areas. This could increase the possibility of spreading contamination.
• Do not use the HVAC system or fans to dry the structure, as this could spread contaminated air.
• Do not use any products for personal hygiene or cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

National Preparedness Month: Disaster Preparedness Checklist

9/29/2014 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month

Would you be prepared if a disaster strikes?

Below is our Disaster Preparedness Checkist. Make sure to have these items ready, so that you are prepared in the event of a disaster. 

• A gallon of water per person per day.
• Supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a manual can opener.
• Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• Blanket or sleeping bags.
• First aid kit and prescription medications.
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
• Credit cards, cash and an extra set of car keys.
• List of family physicians.
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.

Please visit the American Red Cross for more information