3 Common Plumbing Issues

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

A blocked sewer can wreak havoc on any commercial establishment in Vermilion County. A plumbing system is a complex network of pipelines. When it malfunctions, it can cause problems ranging from water leaks to sewage overflows. Whether you own a restaurant, an apartment complex, or anything in between, there are a few common issues to look out for.

1. The Overflowing Toilet

It's stinky, messy, and can happen when you least expect it. Yes, it's the dreaded overflowing toilet. In fact, it's the leading cause of water damage in commercial properties. Overflows occur when there's a blockage in the pipeline. Common causes for these blockages include:

• Tree roots
• Toilet paper buildup
• A shift in the building's foundation
• Poorly installed plumbing drains

If it's a minor mishap, your maintenance crew can handle it. Otherwise, if there's extensive water-related damage, a professional cleaning service has the expertise to come in and straighten things out.

2. The Blocked Pipes

A blocked sewer system doesn't pop up overnight. This plumbing problem develops over time. The main causes of blockages come from debris buildup and tree root infiltration. As a preventive measure, consider having a commercial plumbing company inspect your pipeline system on a routine basis.

3. The Busted Pipe

Can your building's pipes handle freezing temperatures? If not, you may be in for a rude awakening when winter hits. Frigid weather conditions often result in pipe breaks, especially in areas of your property where there's missing insulation, outside walls, and drafty areas. Fortunately, many insurance providers cover water damage related to busted pipes.

Sewage problems come with the territory when you own commercial property. To prepare, it's best to know the common issues buildings encounter, such as such as a toilet overflow, a blocked sewer, and busted pipes. While your maintenance staff can address minor issues, it's better to hire a commercial cleaning company.

Develop an Emergency Readiness Plan

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Have you ever had an emergency fire damage or water damage happen in your home? Were you prepared for the situation or did you feel helpless? Lucky for you SERVPRO of Vermilion County has a successful emergency plan made up for you! Use the tips below to help you develop an emergency readiness plan.

• Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
• Identify and label utility shut-off locations.

• Identify local utility contact information.
  
• Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.

Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Vermilion County have highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

SERVPRO, WE DO SO MUCH MORE THAN CLEANING UP A MESS!

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Total Reconstruction on a house

At SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we do so much more than just emergency cleanup. We are you Full Service restoration/reconstruction contractor. One call to SERVPRO does it all, from initial building stabilization, mitigation to complete reconstruction services. 

Our Construction Division can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage, mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas including a total construction project. Having one qualified company for the entire process from emergency services, to mitigation and reconstruction, SERVPRO can save time, keep costs low and relieve you and your family of the stress from juggling all that goes into restoring your home or business. We can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration and construction services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

Here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we employ all of the trades necessary to complete your project, from lead management, project managers, IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) Certified restoration technicians and carefully selected Trade Partners that work seamlessly within our SERVPRO approved processes. All of our employees and trade partners are skilled and trained to take care of your belongings and restore your property back to its pre loss condition "Like it never even happened."

The Water Restoration Process

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Restoration companies are some of the first responders when a home has been damaged by fire or floods, excessive water damage, or other major catastrophes. The ultimate job of a restoration company is to clean up the damage, remove it from the property and to preserve and protect the home so that it and the contents within it do not suffer from further damage.

Restoration companies are brought in to repair your home or business back to its original condition. When hiring a water damage restoration company, you'll want to ensure you have a clear understanding of the process as they restore your property.

Your Insurance & the Restoration Company

After your property has suffered a major event and subsequent damage, you will want to contact your insurance agent. Be sure to review your responsibilities with your insurance agent and what is required by your insurance policy for cleaning up the home to prevent any additional damage. You will want to discuss any questions you may have at this time.

Your agent may provide referrals within the area, but you are allowed to contact a water restoration company on your own. 

When choosing a water damage restoration company, be sure they have proper certifications, fully licensed and have at least a few years of experience in the water damage restoration industry. Make sure you are working with a company you can trust; your property is in their hands after all. One of the benefits of working with SERVPRO of Vermilion County is the national reputation of SERVPRO. SERVPRO franchises and employees are held to a high standard of training and experience before they move forward with any restoration job. Our strict training guidelines and experience rebuilding homes over the years continues to reflect our dedication to all our customers.

The Process Once the Water Damage Restoration Company Arrives

Here's how you should proceed once the water damage restoration company arrives. 

Once we arrive, we will walk the property with you as we discuss the affected areas. There may be some issues that were initially overlooked, so as we examine the area, we can identify all potential problems and solutions specific to your property.

Our team will be evaluating what will be needed in terms of time, work and equipment to clean and restore your home. We will provide you an estimate for those services once we review. 

Some Things to Look Out for When Choosing a Restoration Company

Reputable restoration companies will be IICRC certified. IICRC stands for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. It is a non-profit organization that offers certification programs and standards for the restoration industry.

In order to be IICRC certified, the restoration company must have proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with follow-up on complaints, and provide the technicians with education and training to become certified.

Companies may also be members of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA). The RIA is a trade association for cleaning and restoration professionals. In addition to education and training, the trade association offers technical support and several certifications for technicians.

Here's a quick review of how to proceed when water damage strikes your home or business:

1. Be sure to choose a restoration company with an excellent reputation that have been around for at least a few years.
2. Check that your restoration company is IICRC Certified
3. Read the contract carefully and be sure to keep your own copy
4. If a problem occurs, make sure you contact your restoration company right away
5. Check with your insurance company on what is expected of you following a major loss.
6. For any insurance coverage questions, be sure you get answers in writingfrom your insurance company claims adjuster.
7. Remember that it is important to act fast to prevent further damage from water or flooding. This is to prevent things like mold from growing. Delays can end up costing you much more in the end in terms of recovery, salvage, and reconstruction.
8. Make sure repairs to your home are done promptly after the cleanup service occurs.

We understand how devastating a damage event can be. Ensure your property is in good hands and call us at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, your SERVPRO team. We do not just clean up and remove the damage. We specialize in restoring your property to its original condition and making it "Like it never even happened."

Clinton Journal 'Kids Create Ads'

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Art students from Clinton Junior High designed ads to show what SERVPRO does through their eyes.

We had the honor of participating in 'Kids Create Ads' hosted by the Clinton Journal. We got to see SERVPRO through the eyes of Clinton Junior High School's art students. Their designs focused on mitigation and reconstruction. 

As a company, we each voted for our favorite design. It was a difficult decision. Ultimately, there could only be one winner and we decided on #10. 

Ready to Sell your Homes

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Selling your homes can be an overwhelming experience.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is happy to help clean your home/homes and get it/them ready for showings and its sale. With our highly trained crews, we are prepared to help with any cleaning task ranging from mold remediation to deodorization to general cleaning services.  We have helped many realtors/homeowners prepare and sell their home/homes in Vermilion County with a top to bottom cleaning. 

Our thorough cleaning services can include wiping ceilings and walls, trim, the exterior of baseboard registers. Window cleaning and floor cleaning are a great way to finish the project up and add the final sparkle to your fresh home.

We would be happy to set up a time for an estimator to come onsite to answer any questions you may have and to get you a good idea of what the project would entail. SERVPRO of Vermilion County is always here to help.

Sanitize, Disinfect, Clean

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Let us help your business!

Do you know the difference between Disinfect, Sanitize & Clean?

Clean: General surface cleaning, physically removes visible dirt, organic matter, viruses, fungi, and bacteria while using water, detergent, and physical scrubbing of the surface.

Sanitizing: Reduces but does not eliminate all the bacteria on a treated surface. To be a registered sanitizer, the test results for a product must show a reduction of at least a 99.9% in the number of each type of bacteria tested.

Disinfecting: Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill, destroy, or inactivate infectious or other microbes.

If you would like to have your commercial property or offices sanitized and/or disinfected, call the team at SERVPRO of Vermilion County. We are offering a proactive clean that is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means our professionally trained technicians 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.

For any further questions or concerns, contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County anytime by phone at 217-443-0077.

What to Do if You Smell Natural Gas in Your Home

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

If You Smell Natural Gas in Your House, What Should You Do?

If you have appliances in your Vermilion County home that are operated using gas, it is possible that a leak could occur. If you notice a gas smell in your house, you should take some precautions to prevent starting a gas fire.

1. Turn Off the Stove

A common source of gas in your home is the stove. If you have a gas stove, make sure that it is turned off. If the gas is coming from this location that might be all you need to do to fix the problem.

2. Turn Off the Gas Meter

If natural gas is leaking from somewhere else in your home, you should turn the gas off at the meter. This should keep the gas from continuing to fill your home.

3. Open Doors and Windows

To keep the gas from building up and creating the potential for a gas fire explosion, you should open all of the windows and doors. This allows the house to ventilate and will make it easier for the gas to leave your home.

4. Don’t Use the Electricity

If you have a gas leak in your home, the built-up gas is highly flammable. Don’t turn on any electrical objects, including the lights, and don’t handle any plugs or outlets. Even a small spark could turn into a big gas explosion.

5. Call a Professional

After leaving the house, you can contact emergency restoration services to take care of the natural gas leak in your home. It is important that you have a professional inspect the house to make sure the built-up gas has dissipated, and the source of the leak is repaired.

Because you cannot see if there is a gas leak, an unusual smell will likely be the first indication that there is a problem. A gas fire can start and spread easily, so make sure to follow these steps to keep you and your family safe.

Storm Damage in Vermilion County

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s crews mitigate and remediate water and wind destruction

Mixed precipitation extraction is tricky, but SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the skills and tools to manage the unique flooding risks posed when snow, ice, and rain combine to damage property. A winters-worth of snowpack on a Vermilion County roof is heavy, the weight increasing when rain falls. Damage to the roof and additional exterior destruction when fierce winds blow allow water to pour inside.

What Steps Do Professionals Take to Restore a Storm-Damaged Home?

SERVPRO responds by:

• Securing the exterior with boards and tarps
• Assessing the safety risks within 
• Limiting hazards with controls in the workspace:
• Turning off power temporarily
• Containing affected areas to preserve undamaged spaces
• Constructing supports and considering controlled demolition to reach trapped flood waters
• Using commercial grade equipment to remove flooding and dry out moisture:
• Pumps
• Truck-mounted and portable extractors
• Air movers
• Heaters
• Dehumidifiers

When storms strike during any season, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Water Mitigation Methods Can Reduce the Expense of a Claim in Vermilion County

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

All water supplies contain microbes. This fact includes wastewater supply pipes, clean water drinking taps, and appliance fittings in your home. A malfunction at any part of these supply networks can lead to water intruding into the home environment, where it begins to cause damage. Water can affect your home in many ways, including through vapor damage- which is a result of heightened humidity- or liquid water. As time passes, the naturally occurring microbes in water can begin to reproduce, causing deterioration of water quality and potentially complicating the cleanup procedure. Water cleanup can help to prevent:

• Microbial damage
• Stagnation of water
• Water damage to a home or structure

When we talk about water mitigation for Vermilion County residents, we primarily discuss reducing damages caused by water intrusion. An example of this mitigation could be as simple as stemming the water flow through the property using a physical barrier or removing belongings from the immediately affected area. Professional mitigation can also extend to more complex solutions like silica-based dehumidifiers to capture water vapor in the indoor environment or dry out structural cavities where water may have spread. 

• Our technicians have training in applied cavity drying techniques and assessment. 
• We can reduce damages to electronics and the building assembly by controlling atmospheric conditions such as the dew point. 
• Industrial drying equipment such as silica-based, desiccant dehumidifiers can be mobilized quickly to reduce losses in your home. 

It is vital to respond quickly to water intrusion in your home. Contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County for water mitigation technicians at 217-443-0077.

3 Ways Leaks Can Affect Your Home

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

The sound of water dripping in your Vermilion County home isn’t just annoying, but it’s also dangerous. It may be the first sign of a bad leak, which means you might be facing water damage. With the help of restoration professionals, you can fix these problems without concern or worry. However, it’s important to stay mindful of the possible challenges you may face such as water in light fixtures and damaged valuables. Here are three potential problems you should be aware of.

1. Structural Harm

Sometimes leaks aren’t noticeable until they affect the areas around them. Water can cause the drywall to swell and warp, which can lead to structural problems. Things such as support beam collapse and ceiling damage can occur.

Look around for any bulges or weird stains. This can help you find problems and stop them before they become more complicated.

2. Damaged Valuables

Leaks can affect places that should remain dry, including areas that hold your valuable objects and furniture. Bookshelves, memory boxes, and antiques can easily get ruined if a leak is not taken care of.

It doesn’t hurt to check your valuables often for any damage. If you find water damage, locate the source of it and get it fixed quickly to avoid future issues.

3. Dangerous Light Fixtures

Sometimes, a leak might happen near electrical fixtures. If you see any water in light fixtures, stay away. Water conducts electricity and can electrocute you when you come into contact.

If you see this problem, shut off the electricity immediately. Once you have successfully turned off the power and eliminated the possibility of getting electrocuted, you can contact professionals and address the problem.

Leaks can be troublesome and sometimes dangerous if you aren’t careful. It’s best to prevent them before they occur. If you are currently dealing with a problem such as water in light fixtures, seek professional help and get started on the restoration and repair process.

Should I Check a Mold Remediation Company's Certifications?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

When facing the prospect of hiring mold remediation specialists to mitigate mold damage to your Vermilion County home, you may see many companies advertising specialized mold certifications. But what makes a company certified for mold removal, and is there any value in hiring a company that has been certified for mold remediation?

So Who Certifies Mold Remediation Companies?

Mold remediation companies and certified mold specialists are accredited by IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Remediation Certification. This organization acts as the standards body that defines proper procedure and accountability for cleaning, remediation, and restoration for various services. For certified mold remediation specialists, this means:

• Attaining in-depth expertise on mold identification
• Certifying in safe methods for mold remediation and elimination
• Gaining insight into safe technician handling of microbial substances
• Understanding water damage restoration
• Qualifying in both technician and consumer safety management

Attaining these certifications requires a great deal of training and coursework for both companies and individual technicians, as well as assessment of cleaning, remediation, and restoration protocols.

Why Does Certification Matter?

Certification means accountability and protections for you as a consumer. Certified mold remediation companies and mold remediation technicians are held to a particular standard required to maintain their certification and remain in good standing with the IICRC. This means that you as a consumer are protected by an established standard for professional, ethical mold remediation and damage treatment.

Protect Yourself

While it’s possible to hire mold remediation specialists without certification, keep in mind that certification means protections you may not find with non-certified technicians and companies. Handling mold detection, remediation, and prevention is a highly complex endeavor requiring extensive knowledge of safety procedures and proper interactions with fungal agents and microbial spores. While certified mold remediation companies may charge more, often you are paying for the assurance of a job done right. Therefore it is always wise to check the status of a remediation company’s mold certification.

Storm Warnings 101

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Alerts can pop up anywhere: TV, mobile phone warnings, radio, etc., but do we understand what these warnings mean? Know these meanings so that you are prepared for any storm:

Different Storm Warnings

Tornado Watch

Conditions are ripe for tornadoes in the watch region. Tornadoes associated with hurricanes and tropical storms are usually a major cause of death and injury.

Tornado Warning

Visually or on the radar, a tornado was detected. Usually, it was given for a county. If a tornado WARNING is released where you live, GET IN THE MIDDLE OF THE LOWEST FLOOR OF THE STRONGEST AVAILABLE BUILDING IMMEDIATELY!

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Conditions are ripe for severe thunderstorms in the watch region.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

There is a severe thunderstorm in or on the way to the warned area. Treat this as a warning tornado!

Flash Flood Watch

Flash floods are likely to take place in the near future. Be alert to rising water and be prepared to evacuate to high ground.

Flash Flood Warning

Flash floods are occurring or expected to occur in the near future. If this happens, get to high ground immediately, and GET AWAY FROM VEHICLES... it only takes 18 inches of water to sweep a car or truck away!

High Wind Advisory

Windy conditions may be present in the advisory region. This usually results in unsafe driving conditions, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid sailing anywhere in the advisory area.

High Wind Warning

Windy conditions may be present in the advisory region. This usually results in unsafe driving conditions, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid sailing anywhere in the advisory area.

Emergency Storm Services Available

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

If your property has been damaged by severe weather such as a snowstorm, high winds or flooding, it can be devastating to your family or business. To get the complex storm damage repair completed quickly and safely, you need a restoration service company that specializes in bringing your home back to its preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County provides specialized emergency cleanup and restoration services to bring your property back to normal with minimal interruption. We can handle any damage due to severe weather, including:

• Thunderstorms
• Flooding
• Lightning strikes
• Tornadoes and high winds
• Hail and ice storms
• Freezing weather and ice dams

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is available 24/7 to restore your home or business.

Whatever wind or water damage you have experienced, we are fully equipped to help. Contact us for:

• Water, wind and storm damage repair
• Emergency tarping and board up
• Emergency heat and generators during restoration
• Reconstruction services
• Insurance claim assistance

If your property has experienced damage from a storm, call the professionals at 217-443-0077.

Protecting Your Garden During Rainstorms

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Although our gardens love a nice rain shower, too much rain can be harmful to all the plants. After all the hard work you have done to manage your garden, do not let heavy rainstorms ruin it! 

Follow these tips to protect your garden during heavy storms: 

Before: 

• Remove damaged limbs and shoots – Removing dead limbs and shoots from your plants will help make them more streamlined and will reduce snapping and tangling. 

• Add compost and mulch – Adding a couple of inches of compost to the top 8 to 12 inches of soil will help with drainage. 
• Support taller plants – Push a wooden or metal support into the ground and tie taller plants to it. This will help keep them stable against rain and strong winds. 
• Drainage – Make sure there is a proper runoff that tilts away from your garden and make sure it is not blocked. Water collecting in your garden can be damaging to your plants, possibly drowning them. 

During: 

• Cover you most delicate plants – Use a waterproof tarp to cover your most fragile plants during heavy rainstorms. Make sure that the covering is not blocking water from draining because it can cause other plants to drown. 

After: 

• Check your vegetable roots – Once the rainstorm has stopped, make sure there are no exposed roots following soil erosion. If there are exposed roots, covered them with soil or compost before they dry out. 
• Check your pots and planters – Pots and planters can easily become flooded if the drainage is blocked. Check them before, during and after rainstorms. You can always cover pots and planters if necessary. 
• Pull weeds up by hand – The moist soil after rain means you are much more likely to retrieve the whole root without it snapping or breaking. 

What is Soot and Why Does It Form?

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Clean-Up from Fire & Smoke Damage Calls for Professional Help

Dealing with soot is one of the most time-consuming parts of fire damage restoration. Residue quickly settles on surfaces after fire damage, and the cleanup is a genuine struggle for homeowners in Vermilion County who are dealing with the aftermath. However, what is soot, why does it form after the fire?

Soot Damage

Soot is the fine brown or black powder that clings to and discolors surfaces in the home after fire damage in Vermilion County. Soot is what gives items that charred and blackened look. Smoke is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of materials; as wood, paper, plastic, and other materials burn during a house fire, they produce residues and release particles into the atmosphere.

The composition of soot makes it slightly sticky, which means it clings to surfaces and is difficult to remove. As well as looking unsightly, this residue reduces air quality, and a smoke-damaged house does not feel like a home. SERVPRO is on hand to help with fire damage cleanup and restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

Whether or not an item is salvageable after smoke damage depends on how porous the material is. It is far harder to clean residue from a weathered and aged wooden table than to clean it from a smooth glass or polished metal surface.

Trained Fire Damage Restoration Technicians

Our IICRC-certified technicians arrive ready to thoroughly assess your property and devise the best cleaning plan for you. We advise you on which items are salvageable from soot damage and which are not. SERVPRO trains our technicians in a range of cleaning techniques and equips them with everything they need to scrub, scrape, and wipe soot from the surfaces in your home.

After cleaning, we set to work deodorizing your home as well. We understand that it is hard to settle back into your house when it smells of smoke. We have thermal foggers, ozone generators, and air scrubbers on hand to rid your home of smoky smells and leave it fresh once more.

For help with soot and smells in Vermilion County, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077

Why SERVPRO

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

When your home or business is damaged by fire or water and requires rebuilding services to complete the repair, it is important to choose a restoration company that can manage the entire project from start to finish. Having one person managing the job saves you time and the headaches that come with trying to hire, schedule, and supervise the restoration yourself.

As licensed general contractors, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is uniquely positioned to supervise a full range of restoration services when required to restore your property.

Building and Reconstruction Services 

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Services (HVAC)
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

Call Us Today!

When you require reconstruction services, SERVPRO of Vermilion County has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at (217)-355-0077.

Is Your Vermilion County Home Storm Ready?

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Summer storms can appear on the horizon quickly and can surprise you with their violence. Large amounts of rainfall can be devastating to a home or commercial building, causing storm damage and water damage that can take a significant amount of time and expense to repair.

There are several steps you can take to prepare your property for inclement weather events and possible flooding. Preventive measures will reduce the amount of flood and storm damage sustained.

MAINTAIN ROOFS AND GUTTERS:  Well maintained gutter systems are much better at diverting water to proper drainage areas, while a roof that is in good repair will prevent water in the interiors of your buildings. If your gutters are clogged with dead leaves and debris, rainwater can overflow and saturate the ground around the foundations causing damage there, while backed-up water can spill into wall structures. A regular cleaning schedule for your gutters is a good idea, and regular roof inspections will reveal problems quickly and allow you to repair problem areas before bad weather hits.

STORM DRAINS: Storm drains need to be maintained properly, as well. These are in place to move excess water away from buildings and driveways. Your local government is usually responsible for this, but keeping an eye on them around your property will allow you to be able to report a problem right away so that repairs can be made, leaving you ready for storm waters.

RESPONSE PLAN: Have a plan ready for work staff and loved ones. In the event of flooding, make sure you have a system in place to communicate to everyone so that they know whether to travel or not. No one should drive through flood waters. Listening to weather updates is a good idea, and you’ll want to make sure you keep an emergency preparedness kit on site.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is 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.

SERVPRO of Vermilion 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.

Buying A Smart Smoke Detector: How Smart Is It?

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re looking to modernize your Vermilion County home, you’ve probably heard of a smart smoke alarm. Compared to a traditional smoke detector, a connected one offers benefits allowed by modern technology. Understanding what makes them “smart” will allow you to make an informed decision if it’s worth buying one yourself.

Features of a Smart Alarm

There is no single model of smart smoke detector. It is worth shopping around to find a model that has all you want. They offer an assortment of convenience and advanced monitoring depending on the year and model:

• Pinging connected devices if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected
• Advanced technologies for faster smoke detection and self-testing
• No alarm beeping when the battery is low in favor of an app notification
• Voice-activated personal assistant integration around your home with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit for convenience and functionality when there is no danger

Stop a Fire Yourself Even When Not Home

The top benefit of a smart smoke alarm is the ability to act yourself even while away from home. A neighbor may call emergency services for you, but the problem has already flared out of control when it becomes noticeable to other households.

With the modern sensors and an immediate application alert, you will know exactly where the fire is so you can make the call to deploy fire services if the fire is major. You can also deploy nearby neighbors or relatives to extinguish minor fires before they become unmanageable no matter how far away you are.

Fight Fire Using Your Fingertips

By connecting a smart alarm, your phone can become a command center for your entire home. Unfortunately, a fire still damages your home even if caught earlier. Using its most basic feature, your phone can call SERVPRO of Vermilion County to clean up and repair any damage.

Digitally monitoring your home is a benefit of the digital age. Fire safety is greatly improved with the smart smoke alarm technology offered nowadays.

Does Carpet Need Replacing After a Flood?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Experiencing flooding in your home in Vermilion County, such as from a pipe break or severe weather, can be devastating and exhausting when having to clean up the mess and deal with damages to your belongings and the structure of the house itself. Especially if the flooding happened over a large area of your home, the longer it takes for the area to dry out, the more time mold can set in, which can cause further damage. It’s important to act quickly in these cases (mold can begin growing within 48 hours) while ensuring the damage is thoroughly taken care of.

Clean or Dirty Flood

If you’re trying to determine whether you can save your carpeting, it’s important to know where the water came from and how dirty it was. If the water was from a pipe break or rain, and you can dry out the material within 24-48 hours, it is likely that you can go without replacing it. A flood restoration company has the equipment to ensure carpeting is fully dried out in a timely manner. Carpet pads usually do need to be replaced, however, as they are like a sponge and may be too difficult to dry.
If the flood was caused by a backed-up sewage drain or contaminated river water, you may want to think about replacing the carpet. If there is sentimental value or it’s an expensive rug, a restoration company can take the extra steps to safely decontaminate it, but it’s not recommended that you do this yourself. An improper cleaning job can easily result in mold, disease, and further structural damage if left long enough.

Protect Your Home

Replacing carpeting can be a pain, especially if it’s not necessary, such as in the case of a pipe break. Working with a restoration company can ensure your home is fully dried out before mold has a chance to set in or more damage is done.

3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points.

Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.

Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County today at 217-355-0077 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

How does a puff back occur?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

A puff back can spread soot throughout your home.

A puff back happens when an oil burner doesn't immediately ignite and oil fumes are allowed to build up before ignition. This results in an explosion similar to what happens when a car backfires.  It may also occur from a buildup of debris, causing an explosion when the furnace turns on.  In either case, the explosion forces soot and debris through the furnace or the boiler's exhaust system and into your home or business.  The problem is worse with forced hot air systems as the heating ducts spread black soot into every corner of your home, with the same efficiency that they spread heat throughout your property.

Fact #1: Most puff back cleanups are covered by insurance.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County can walk you through the claim process step by step and make it "Like it never even happened.” In fact, our customers often tell us that their properties look and smell cleaner than it ever did before!

During a puff back event, oil based soot typically covers all areas of the property including drapes, bedding, furniture, clothing, cabinetry, ceilings, walls and floors, all of which is extremely difficult to remove. In most instances, you will know that you’ve had a puff back! But there may be times when it is harder to detect because the soot coverage can range from a light dusting to a concentrated dark appearance especially on flat surfaces like counter tops. While you may be tempted to clean the affected area yourself, we don’t recommend you do that as the "dust" will likely re-appear hours afterwards. There may be a strong odor in the affected rooms.  Don’t be fooled that the dust is only where you see it. It travels everywhere that the air does—into every nook and cranny. Sometimes you will find what you think are black “spider webs” in the corners of a room. These marks are actually a collection of the sticky soot. At SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we have the appropriate equipment, knowledge, experience and training to properly get the job done.

Fact # 2: The cost to repair a furnace will NOT likely be covered by insurance. 

Puff backs create an unhealthy environment for everyone and you should not touch or breathe the soot or particles that are floating through the air and landing on the surfaces of your property. 

Fact #3: Most oil companies can inspect and service the boiler at your property, which greatly reduces the chances of a puff back. However, there is no guarantee against such an occurrence.

Tips for Keeping Your Home Dry During Heavy Rain

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can cause issues in your home

Water damage can happen to your home in a variety of ways. Many homeowners (including some here in Vermilion County) think that only severe storms and floods or a major appliance malfunction involving your washing machine or dishwasher cause water damage.

But heavy rains are a significant water damage threat, too. These drenching storms frequently happen in our area during the spring and summer months. If your home is not prepared, these storms can cause costly damage.

Water Damage Is Common

Millions of Americans file claims to repair home water damage every year. Insurance industry experts estimate that as many as one out of every 50 homeowners will file a water damage claim this year.

Depending on how many people live in your neighborhood, that can mean someone you know will have to deal with water damage this year.

Homeowners can’t always avoid water damage. For example, severe storms and tornadoes can cause significant damage to many homes in the community. And homeowners can’t avoid these natural disasters.

But sometimes more common problems, namely heavy rains, can cause water damage to your home. Homeowners can avoid this type of damage if they ensure your home is well-maintained.

Getting Ready for Wet Weather

Our teams are prepared to help homeowners repair water damage. We’re experts, and that means we see many of the issues that cause the damage in the first place.

Because we know how the damage happens, we’ve put together some ideas to help you avoid it:

Check your yard. Knowing how your yard drains is vital to protecting your home. If you notice that your yard is draining toward your home, then you might want to connect with a landscaping expert to look for ways to protect your yard.

Choose the right type of landscaping. Many people choose plants and flowers for aesthetic effect. But choosing landscaping items carefully can ensure your home is prepared for heavy rains. Native plants, trees and bushes can be vital in protecting your home from water damage. Talk with landscaping experts in the area or visit a native plant sale for tips and ideas.

Look into sealing your roof. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles, which can be prevented with this step. It’s definitely worth considering.

Can Odors After Flooding Be Removed?

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

The Path To An Odor-Free Building

Have you noticed a strong odor coming from your commercial building in Vermilion County after it was affected by flooding caused by a storm? Bad smells can be associated with sewage backup and mold growth. Thankfully, a commercial odor removal team can help you get your property back to its former glory. The path to an odor-free building may be different depending on the cause of the smell.

Sewer Smells

Sewage loss can cause your entire building to smell like the sewer. This strong smell can drive away customers and make it hard for your employees to go to work. Removing this type of strong odor may require a vigorous cleaning process that includes the following steps:

1. Removing standing water.
2. Throwing away items touched by the sewage.
3. Ripping out flooring, fixtures and walls.
4. Cleaning remaining surfaces.
5. Replacing any items that had to be discarded.
   

Your cleanup crew may also use a deodorizing agent to get rid of the unappetizing smell. However, this deodorizer is only helpful after the source of the smell has been cleaned.

Musty Aromas

Flood water can also cause mold to start to grow in your commercial space. This is especially true for floods caused by rain water and sewage backup. The smell of mold growth can only be removed by getting to the source of the problem. You can try to cover up the aroma, but it will likely keep coming back unless you completely remove the growth. A mold remediation crew can find the fungus colony, remove it and fix the moisture problems that allow it to thrive. Once these steps are completed, your commercial space may start to smell normal again.

No one wants to walk into a commercial building to smell the unmistakable odor of mold growth or sewage backup. Removing these smells from your space requires serious cleaning, disinfecting and restoring of the property. If you skip any of the necessary steps, the odor may resurface when the problem returns.

How to Properly Clean Your Belongings After a Fire

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, your belongings will need to be properly cleaned in order to salvage them

If you’ve had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a fire in your Vermilion County home, you may now be focused on the aftermath of it all, which involves salvaging your belongings. Some people assume they must throw out their clothes, books, and other items simply because they smell like smoke, but that isn’t always the case. Although the smell is bothersome, dry cleaning is one of several ways to remove the odor and restore items.

Have Your Clothes Professionally Washed

If you’ve tried washing clothes in laundry detergent and the scent still lingers, you may want to consider enlisting help from professionals. Rather than attempting to remove the odor and any stains from your shirts, pants, and other accessories, bring the items to the dry cleaning company where experts can use various products that are meant to clean and deodorize clothes.

Use a Scrub Brush

When you’re trying to complete a thorough content cleaning of some of your other belongings, consider using a scrub brush to scrub away at any of the soot that may be left behind on items. It’s possible to use a scrub brush on many products, such as:

• Tables
• Chairs
• Bureaus
• Nightstands
• Hardback books
  

Before you start scrubbing, it’s wise to put a mask on that will cover both your mouth and your nose so that you’re not breathing in the heavy scent of smoke while focusing on the cleaning process.

If there are a lot of items that must be cleaned but you don’t have time to take care of it all in one day, you could consider checking out content storage options in Richland, WA. Storage facilities may allow you to put those items away until you’re ready to give them the thorough cleaning they need.

After experiencing a fire in the home, you may now be focused on salvaging items and restoring the home back to its original condition. If you’re worried you’ll have to throw away some of your clothes and other valuable, important items, consider other cleaning alternatives, such as dry cleaning for clothes that currently smell like smoke.

How Challenging Can Basement Flood Damage at My Vermilion County Home Turn Out To Be?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Counters Challenges by Using Unique Resources during Basement Flooding Cleanup

Addressing flooding problems in any section of the house is rarely easy. However, basements tend to present additional restoration challenges. For instance, water removal is rarely straightforward because of the need to elevate the water during the extraction. Basements might also have lots of junk impeding the removal. 

Fortunately, professional assistance helps overcome most of the challenges posed by basement flood damage in Vermilion County properties. For instance, SERVPRO teams are equipped with a variety of tools to tackle each task exhaustively. We have high-pressure pumps with a high lift capacity which makes them perfect for removing water trapped in the basement. If the water contains solid residues, mud, or silt, we have self-priming trash pumps that handle solids as big as 3 inches.

Our other services that help during basement flooding cleanup include:

• Sewage cleanup
• Hoarder cleaners
• Rodent clean up services

In most basements, surfaces are unfinished, which can be an advantage or disadvantage based on the restoration resources available. The advantage is that there is no need to tear down floor coverings such as carpets or floorboards. However, the unfinished surfaces tend to hold on to soils and contaminants. Our SERVPRO technicians use power washers or rotating brushes to agitate soiled areas, thus guaranteeing your basement is cleaned to sanitary levels.  

Various other equipment help ease flood restoration in basements

• LGR and desiccant dehumidifiers
• Centrifugal air movers
• Safety gear such as hard hats and rubber boots

SERVPRO of Vermilion County handles all cases of flood damage conveniently. Call us at 217-443-0077.

Water Can't Hide from SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana

8/7/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana, we know that the weather in Central Illinois can be unpredictable. Rainstorms, melting snow, and frozen pipes from sudden temperature changes--- are all issues that lead to water damage claims. Our team has helped our residents and businesses with their water damaged properties in cases like these and many more.

Our technicians are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your property. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our local technicians will closely monitor and document the drying process to help get your property back to normal. 

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. Check out our unique process below:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using several techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

If you are in need of water damage restoration----call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana today at 217-355-0077.

Fire Safety Tips For Your Vermilion County Business

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing where your fire extinguisher is and how to use it, could save your business in a fire emergency

Remove Clutter That Could Potentially Fuel a Fire

Keep your working areas clear of paper, trash and anything else that could act as kindling for a potential fire. You should make your garbage cans easily accessible, and be sure to empty them regularly. Similarly, you should make a conscious effort to ensure that there are no obstacles blocking access to emergency exits. Overall, you should perform a close inspection of your work spaces with an eye toward removing anything that could create sparks or fuel a fire.

Pay Special Attention to Extension Cords and Frayed Wiring

Extension cords are a common fire hazard because they're not intended for permanent use. The extension must be properly rated for the intended use, or it can cause frayed and exposed wires, thereby creating a fire hazard. Many local fire codes require extension cords to have surge protectors in case electrical circuits get overloaded. These surge protectors will automatically shut the power off if the electricity shorts out. To be on the safe side, you should always try to plug items directly into wall outlets, rather than relying on extension cords. And if you do have to use extension cords, you should inspect your wiring at least once a month to identify and fix any frayed wiring.

Escape Routes and Meeting Places:

Determine and mark the fastest and safest paths to safety. Post maps (with “you are here” marks) in break rooms and near exits — which should be clearly indicated with signs. Put up reminders that elevators cannot be used during most emergencies. Check emergency lighting in stairwells and make sure they aren’t used as storage areas. Create a procedure for evacuating employees and patrons with special needs, especially if the escape route includes stairs. Select a meeting place far enough away from the building to allow full access to the property by firefighters and other emergency personnel.

 Emergency Procedures: 

Make sure employees know that the safety officer is in charge during emergencies. Identify by name and title (whenever possible) the people responsible for contacting the fire department, accounting for employees at the meeting place and assisting emergency personnel with information on equipment or chemicals housed in the building. Keep an up-to-date list of emergency contact information. Outline who notifies the next of kin of injured parties, and designate one person to notify emergency responder of people still in the office or unaccounted for.

Most “business and mercantile” fires occurred when the premises were less populated. One-third of the fires (31 percent) occurred between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am, but created two-thirds (67 percent) of the direct property damage. Nineteen percent occurred on weekends and created 31 percent of the damage. A lot of fires also broke out between noon and 2:00 pm.

Twenty-nine percent of commercial blazes were caused by cooking equipment and resulted in 6 percent of the direct property damage; 22 percent began in the kitchen or cooking area, causing just one percent of direct damage.

If you do experience a fire call SERVPRO of Vermilion County @ 217-443-0077 so we can help get you back up and running!

What to Look for When Choosing a Storm Restoration Provider

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Storms are never an enjoyable event to endure, and if they cause damage to your home or business, they are a source of even more added stress. Storms have grown more severe with time, which is why we always recommend knowing exactly how you will handle damage in advance in case it ever comes your way.

When it comes to handling damage to your home or commercial property, the right restoration company will make all the difference in the way the process goes. The company you choose will be in charge of handling every aspect of your damages, so working with one that has your best interests in mind is so important.

Picking Your Storm Restoration Company

Consider what their reputation is. Just like with any other service you would get for your home, doing your research on a restoration provider is so important. There are many scams that are common in areas that have recently been hit by storms, so finding a restoration company like us that is both well-respected in the area and as a restoration provider is so important.

Be sure they can handle any spikes in demand. When a storm or other weather event impacts an entire neighborhood, there will be a spike in demand for restoration—and finding a company that can handle that is vital to getting the best service possible. When we need backup or more resources, we can get in touch with SERVPRO® partners throughout the country to get the workforce we need to match the demand.

Take note of what their hours are. There is no schedule that severe weather follows, and in our experience, it often strikes at the most inconvenient time. No matter what hour you sustain damage to your home, you can be certain that we will be here to help you. You can get in touch with us any time of the day or night, and we will gather all your information and begin formulating a response so your damage can be handled as soon as possible.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us (217-443-0077) at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Behavior of Smoke

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke can leave odors and cause additional damages

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. 

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana is thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items. 

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana knows smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• 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.

Types of Smoke:

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.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)
While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue)
Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana is trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your commercial property suffers fire or smoke damage, trust us to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Incidents in your Vermilion County Business

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes can lead to water damage at your Vermilion County business

A water incident can strike at your Vermilion County commercial property without notice at any time. The impact of such water damage can be devastating for any business owner, but our trained technicians at SERVPRO® of Vermilion County can be there fast to get to work as soon as possible. We handle each step of the water removal process through to drying and then disinfecting all affected areas. With one call, we can be there to start, so that your commercial space is “Like it never even happened.”

What Do I Need to Do?

Once you call us at SERVPRO® of Vermilion County, we send out a team quickly to begin the assessment. If you or your maintenance team can shut off the area to a burst pipe or put towels or blankets down with a flooding incident to keep water from migrating, do so. You can then contact your insurance agent to inform them of the event. We take care of detailing every step of the project to turn everything in for your insurance claim.

Water damage may occur at your Vermilion County place of business at any time. Some of the leading causes include:

• Frozen or broken pipes
• Storm floods
• Natural disasters
• Leaking roofs
• Sewage backups, and more

Do you need help with water damage to your commercial property? SERVPRO® of Vermilion County is available 24/7 with crews on standby. Call 217-443-0077

Restore your Damaged Floors in Vermilion County

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

We want every part of the community to do well, which is why businesses count on us to be faster to any size disaster and to get the business back to normal operation after any kind of damage.

We might not notice the floors until something happens to damage them. Water from storms or floods or broken pipes can damage even concrete if left on its own. Fire can leave soot and smoke damage even on surfaces such as marble. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Vermilion County is here to help regardless of the type of damage.  We take care of damaged floors from initial assessment through all of the repairs.

If the damage has exposed the floors to the outside, SERVPRO® of Vermilion County provides tarps and board-ups to protect the building(s) and contents. We also provide roof repair, making restoration easier and more cost effective because there is only one vendor.

Trained technicians clean and disinfect the floors, removing even hidden moisture, and mitigating any microbial damage. Count on SERVPRO® of Vermilion County to clean, disinfect, and repair carpet, linoleum, marble, tile, and hardwood floors.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Behavior of Smoke

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke can leave odors and cause additional damages

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. 

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana is thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items. 

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana knows smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• 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.

Types of Smoke:

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.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)
While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue)
Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana is trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your commercial property suffers fire or smoke damage, trust us to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Incidents in your Vermilion County Business

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes can lead to water damage at your Vermilion County business

A water incident can strike at your Vermilion County commercial property without notice at any time. The impact of such water damage can be devastating for any business owner, but our trained technicians at SERVPRO® of Vermilion County can be there fast to get to work as soon as possible. We handle each step of the water removal process through to drying and then disinfecting all affected areas. With one call, we can be there to start, so that your commercial space is “Like it never even happened.”

What Do I Need to Do?

Once you call us at SERVPRO® of Vermilion County, we send out a team quickly to begin the assessment. If you or your maintenance team can shut off the area to a burst pipe or put towels or blankets down with a flooding incident to keep water from migrating, do so. You can then contact your insurance agent to inform them of the event. We take care of detailing every step of the project to turn everything in for your insurance claim.

Water damage may occur at your Vermilion County place of business at any time. Some of the leading causes include:

• Frozen or broken pipes
• Storm floods
• Natural disasters
• Leaking roofs
• Sewage backups, and more

Do you need help with water damage to your commercial property? SERVPRO® of Vermilion County is available 24/7 with crews on standby. Call 217-443-0077

Make a Plan and Stick to It

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

House fires can be devastating, make a plan and be prepared

Fire experts agree that people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning building before it is too late to exit safely. When it comes to a fire escape plan, every second counts. In a matter of seconds, even the smallest flame can become a massive blaze. The American Cross conducted a survey that found only 26% of families have made and practiced their fire escape plans. If you don't have a plan in place for your home or business, use these tips to develop one!

Draw a map of each level of your home indicating exits (windows and doors)

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on higher floors. Store them near the window. If you buy these ladders, make sure they are tested by a reliable testing laboratory

Pick a meeting place outside that keeps a safe distance from your home. Mark it well so everyone remembers where it is

Teach the youngest members of your family how to escape on their own if no one is able to help them. Make accommodations for the elderly, disabled, and your pets

Practice your plan at least twice a year (once during the day and once at nighttime)

Fires can be unpredictable, so your escape plan shouldn't be! Restoring your property after a fire shouldn't be difficult either. That's why SERVPRO of Vermilion County works so efficiently to cleanup your property ASAP after damage or a loss.

Vermilion County Commercial Cleaning Tips

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your Commercial Offices clean with these tips

Spring & Summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deeper cleaning projects. Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well. The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria & messes start to grow. A good cleaning helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment; additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning:

OUTSIDE

• Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet crucial areas to keep clean. Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals. Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term. 

• Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business. Now the grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape. Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes. Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business. 

• AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system. Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing. Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside. Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts. It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period.

• Pest Maintenance

Along with the re-birthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests. Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem. It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems each year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in. 

INSIDE

• Dusting

Even if you already dust on a regular basis now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas.

• Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up. Don’t let this grime buildup in your building; buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean. 

• Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts. The first is the organizing of all the previous year’s files into a consolidated area for ease of access. Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed. The second is the reorganization of the office itself. Ideally, this is a continuing process year round. If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up and breathe some fresh air into the workplace. Depending on your type of business will help determine what type of cleaning takes priority. If you need extra help or an even deeper clean call SERVPRO of Vermilion County to help!

Mold in your Vermilion County Workplace

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Mold infestation in the workplace is not uncommon. There is always mold present in buildings. Certain levels of mold are considered acceptable. But when there are massive quantities of mold or certain species, it should be addressed in order to keep employees and customers safe. 

If a pipe leak or break is not repaired, the water can sometimes cause mold growth within your building.  Sometimes the presence of mold is unknown, possibly within a wall or in duct work. A professional company will be able to properly remediate and clean your building. If the mold is not remediated properly, the mold can return causing a larger problem which highlights the importance of using a certified and experienced company. SERVPRO of Vermilion County will assess the situation, remediate, and repair the affected areas so the occupants can return to work safely.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today – 217-443-0077

Water Damage VS Flood Damage Coverage: Knowing the Difference

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flood waters can quickly overwhelm your home.

When it comes to getting insurance for your home or business, researching and knowing everything about a policy is key. One common mistake many homeowners tend to make is assuming flood damage is covered under their homeowners insurance. Your definition of a flood may be different from the definition your insurance company uses when considering a flood. The important thing to remember is that flood damage is NOT the same as water damage, and this especially applies when it comes to insurance purposes.

The Differences

Flooding by the National Flood Insurance Program is defined as: "A temporary rising of water on land that is normally dry, causing damage to two or more properties." 

-Overflowing of a body of water

-A mudslide caused by heavy rains

-Heavy rains that soil cannot absorb quickly enough causing water to seep into the home

Those are all examples of how flooding can occur. Now let’s talk about water damage. Typically water damage is covered under Homeowner’s Insurance (you should read and know your policy to determine what kind of water damage). Water damage to insurance companies means water damage that happened before the water came in contact with the ground. Such as:

-Heavy rains soak into your roof damaging ceilings, walls, and floors.

-A pipe bursts causing water to saturate the ceiling below

-An overflowing toilet soaking the bathroom and seeping into floorboards

-Hail causes a window to break, allowing water to get inside the home or window seal

Coverage

Water damage is covered by insurance companies when the home or business owner could not prevent the hazard. Flooding is a hazard we cannot control. However the main difference is, flooding is a hazard that comes from a natural source. Also keep in mind two or more properties need to be involved for insurance companies to cover a flood claim. Always thoroughly review your insurance policies to know exactly what is and is not covered before any flood or water damage occurs. Keep in mind, if you do need to purchase flood insurance most insurance policies require 30 days before it is active. If you know you are in a flood zone, educate yourself on your coverage options. A flood could happen any day and it is best to be prepared. When water does cause damage, call the team at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, to make it "Like it never even happened."

What’s the Difference Between Grey Water and Black Water?

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Have you had a water loss? Do you know what category it’s classified as? At SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we have three different categories that we put water losses under. These range from a category one to a category three.

What’s a category one water loss? Category one is classified as clean water, or water that doesn’t pose a health threat to humans. Water losses of this nature are typically described as sinks and bathtubs overflowing or broken appliances. This is the most harmless category of water that we can take care of at SERVPRO of Vermilion County.

Category two is classified as grey water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause illness if ingested. This kind of water contains microorganisms and poses a moderate health threat to humans. This kind of water is typically from broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage from outside sources, such as after storm damage. This category needs a little extra precaution when being dealt with to keep from exposure to the microorganisms and illness.

Category three is the dreaded black water. Black water is unsanitary and contains bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms that cause sickness. This is the category that sewage is classified as, and is mostly caused by sewer problems, sewer backups, or contamination of standing water. This category requires special restoration techniques that we at SERVPRO of Vermilion County are trained to perform.

Let SERVPRO of Vermilion County take care of your water loss today, regardless of the category! We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why choose SERVPRO of Vermilion County?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fast Response

 We take pride in our fast response time. When our customers need us the most we respond quickly in order to mitigate further damages on their property. Our team is trusted by insurance carriers, property owners, and property management companies as we have a proven track record working with them bringing covered residential and/or commercial properties back to preloss conditions after experiencing a property disaster. 

Trained Technicians

The insurance process can get a bit confusing for those who have not experienced a property loss. During this process, proper documentation is vital to the overall outcome of your claim. Working with an IICRC certified technician will ultimately provide the best claims experience. We understand the standard when it comes to restoring your property. We stand by our customers to ensure they get access to all of the services their policy covers. With proper documentation and standard compliance, we can bring your property back to preloss condition without issue.

National Resources

What makes SERVPRO of Vermilion County so great? Well, that's an easy answer. Our access to resources. Did you know SERVPRO has more drying equipment in its network than any other restoration company on the planet? With almost 2000 franchises across the nation, we have access to more tools and equipment for any size project. Imagine someone calling our office to perform a one million square feet water extraction.

4 Facts about Water Damage

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

1. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24 hours!

Potentially dangerous mold needs three things to start growing: oxygen, moisture and organic material. In an untreated area with these factors, mold can visibly form very quickly. While not all mold strains are toxic, there are several types that can cause health effects; you definitely don’t want Aspergillus or Stachybotrys (Black Mold) growing in your home!

2. Even the smallest crack in a pipe can spill 250 gallons of water a day!

An eighth of an inch may not sound massive, but a crack that size in a water supply pipe can rack up massive repair bills in a hurry. As much as 250 gallons can leak out in a day’s time! Not fun to deal with!

3. Floodwater can be electrically charged – and deadly!

Even a few inches of water can reach outlets, baseboard heaters, power cords and other devices connected to your electrical system. As soon as you see unwanted water, try to turn off the electricity to the affected area. If you are unable to do so safely, or the fuse box is located in the affected area, contact your electric utility and have them disconnect the power to your home from their end.

4. Even fresh water can turn into a biohazard over time!

Water damage comes in three categories – clean, gray and black:

• Clean water has no contamination. It can come from clean water sources, such as water supply lines, tub overflows or fresh rainwater.
• Grey water has contaminants that are not considered pathogenic. These contaminants still have a chance to cause illness or discomfort. Washing machine overflows, aquarium water and washing machine leaks are all examples of grey water flooding.
• Black water has pathogenic contamination and is unsanitary. Sewage, chemical waste, and any water sitting for more than 72 hours are all considered black water situations. If left alone, clean water will turn into a pathogenic biohazard in only a few days.

You can rest assured that your home can be cleaned and restored to home again by our SERVPRO of Vermillion County when you reach out to us at (217) 443-0077. We’re available 24/7 to help you through. "Like it never even happened."

Ambucs Friday Nights Concert Series

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Vermillion County is proud to be one of the supporting sponsors of the Ambucs Friday Nights Concert Series. Every Friday night this summer, Ambucs hosts a free concert series at the Turtle Run Golf Club in Danville. The events always feature great live music and a great time! Each weekend there is a different band, so there is something for everyone. Food and drinks are available for sale at the event. Check out the full schedule, pick a show and grab a friend for a fun Friday night! Sponsoring local events that support a good cause is what the team at SERVPRO of Vermillion County looks forward to.

SERVPRO of Vermillion County thanks Ambucs and all the volunteers involved for allowing us to be part of this awesome event.

Cleaning Up Is Hard To Do

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Property owners have to choose between decontaminating or demolishing the property.  Both steps are a must since leaving the site as is can pose a health hazard to the next tenant of the space. Unfortunately, the owners have to shoulder all the costs for decontamination or demolition, though some insurance carriers do shoulder some of the expenses.

Should property owners decide to have the place decontaminated, hiring SERVPRO of Vermilion County is a great way to go.  With 30 years in the restoration business we have highly trained personnel with the proper equipment to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.  Here are some of the recommended steps on decontaminating the site:

1. Air out the entire place for several days. This can help remove the contaminants that may have remained in the air. Ensure good ventilation all throughout the cleanup.
2. Make residual chemicals evaporate. To do this, close everything and crank up the heat on the furnace to about 90 degrees, then leave the property. (This step is not necessary during summertime.) After several days, start cleaning with all windows and doors open, with the heat turned off.
3. Remove visibly contaminated items from the property and dispose of them in a landfill. Don’t leave the items out on the curb and susceptible to dumpster divers trying to retrieve them.
4. Wear personal protective equipment and clothing during the cleanup. These include the following:
   • Gloves
   • Respirators
   • Eye protection, such as goggles
   • Long sleeves and pants
   • Shoe covers
   • Be careful in using bleach during the cleanup, as it may react with the acid remnants in the area.
   • Replace the furnace filters, especially if there was a need to evaporate the chemicals in the property via heating.
   • Dispose of everything—rags, clothing, carpeting, drapes, etc.—that has come into contact with contaminated materials. This includes clothing (hence the need for shoe covers).

As one can see, the entire cleanup process can be long and tedious as well as dangerous.  If you are not properly suited up there is a real possibility of the drug residue entering your body.  We here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County are ready to help!  Call one of our friendly staff today at (217) 443-0077! MM

What You Can Expect SERVPRO

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

When your home is on fire or starts filling with floodwater, you don't want to wait long for trained technicians to arrive.  As you know, a quick response is the best way to prevent further damages.  The first 24 hour period after experiencing damages is critical to the well-being of your home. Take a look at what you can expect:

• Within one hour
• Within four hours
• Within eight hours

• The First Hour

A team member from SERVPRO of Vermilion County will call you within an hour after your first request for emergency help.  During that phone call, you'll cover a lot of vital information that helps our team determine which equipment and supplies to have available.  You may discuss safety concerns or how to maintain communication with each other.  If the situation requires, technicians will arrive to cover holes with tarps or board up broken windows and doors.  This emergency response team focuses on preventing further damages with temporary solutions.  Even if repairs don't require a lot of work within the first 24 hour period, technicians will be on-site to verify whether an immediate response is necessary.

• On-Site in Four Hours

Depending on the type of damage and safety concerns, SERVPRO of Vermilion County will arrive at your home ready to thoroughly inspect the damage. During these assessments, technicians can provide estimates regarding the type of repairs necessary and how long the job will take.  They may talk to you about your insurance coverage and direct you to the next steps you should take.  They will take any necessary stabilizing measures needed to prevent further damage.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County is always open and committed to arriving Faster to Any Size Disaster; they'll load up the appropriate equipment and search out the best route to your home.

• Eight Hours After Damages

Within those first hours, after gathering information and making assessments, a restoration representative will communicate with you, to share the information they've gathered, and to go over the plan for getting your home back in shape.  Within the first 24 hour period, you and a team member from SERVPRO of Vermilion County will share a lot of information, go through an onsite home inspection, and put together a plan for restoring your home so that it looks "Like it never even happened."  

Hopefully, your home will never have a fire of water loss.  Should this happen though,  SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here to help!  Call one of our friendly staff today at 217-443-0077 today!  MM

Who do you turn to for help?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

What if you had fire damage and need repair and restoration to a Commercial or Residential building? You may possibly need a board up, contents cleaned and stored.  If it is not a total loss, you would need to remove soot, clean, and deodorize.  

Storm came through with lots of rain and high winds and left water in your finished basement.  Your contents are floating and your small shop vacuum cannot keep up.  The water is wicking up the painted drywall and may have gotten into the insulation.

All the above has happened while you were out of town for 2 weeks and the moisture in the walls and flooring has caused mold.  

There is only one phone call that can make this all go away, (217)-443-0077.   Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County and our highly trained and caring Specialist will take care of you.  SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many national and local insurance companies.  So when there is disaster call the grandmaster- SERVPRO  of Vermilion County !

Let's Talk Smoke Alarms

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

The fire detection and prevention tools that work best are the ones that save the most lives.  This is why smoke detectors are so important.  However, even if you have multiple detectors installed throughout your property, they are useless unless they are working properly.  Even if you believe your detectors are on and working, never take it for granted, you don’t want to wait until an actual fire starts to find out for sure.  Several times a year you should test your alarms to ensure they are working as intended . Review the following steps to learn how to correctly test your alarm and fix it if it isn’t working.

TEST ALARMS REGULARLY

The first thing you should do is let everyone else in your home know that you are testing an alarm.  You don’t want a member of your family to call the local fire department when there is no fire to put out.  Next, you should have someone go to the opposite end of the property to see if they can hear the alarm from the furthest point away from its location.  Once they are in position, push and hold the test button for a few seconds until the alarm starts going off.

TEST AND REPLACE BATTERIES

If the alarm doesn’t go off, the first thing you should do is replace the batteries and check to see if the device is on.  After doing so, test the alarm again.  If it still isn’t working, you may have a faulty device that needs to be replaced.  Repeat this process with all the alarms in your home.  You should also get a smoke detector aerosol spray can and spray near each detector.  This will let you know if your device is working correctly.  Unfortunately, fires can still happen.  In the event you should suffer a fire call one of our friendly staff at SERVPRO of Vermilion County today at 217-443-0077.  We are here to help!

What to do during a power outage

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

When unexpected weather strikes and causes it is important for everyone to be prepared for a power outage that may last for several hours or days after a heavy storm.

Before a Power Outage:

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, casa, and first aid supplies.
• Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power.
• Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door is located and know how to operate it.
• Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your community.

During a Power Outage:

• Avoid using candles which can cause fires. Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Put on layers of warm clothing if it is cold outside. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors.
• Only use generators away from your home, and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home’s electrical system. Consult an electrician or engineer before purchasing and installing a generator.

After a Power Outage:

• Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40*F (4*C) for two hours or more. When in doubt, throw it away.
• If food in the freezer is colder than 40*F and has ice crystals on it, you can refreeze it.
• Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about medication having spoiled.
• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. 
• Choose foods your family will eat.
• Remember any special dietary needs.
• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

Water Extraction Equipment

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to strike at any time, whether in residential and commercial properties. When flooding occurs brought by a natural calamity, both homeowners and property managers should act quickly to deal with the situation.  The ultimate goal is to resolve the water damage emergency and get your daily operations up and running quickly.  When water damage isn’t resolved quickly, remember that irreversible, costly damages can occur in your home or business establishment.   Experts typically use various pieces of equipment and techniques in battling water problems.  We will share four common types of equipment commonly used to restore your property:

Frequently Used Equipment 

1. Truck-mounted vacuum

 A truck-mounted vacuum is an industrial vacuum cleaner that is mounted on the back of a truck or trailer and is used in outdoor and hard-to-reach places.  It may look like a vacuum cleaner; yet, it works very efficiently in cleaning up water.  Powered by electricity, it is able to suck up water at high speeds.  However, it should not be submerged or it can  break down.

2. Dehumidifier

 A dehumidifier is a vital piece of equipment that is usually utilized after a water loss, as it keeps the humidity levels in check that prevents mold and mildew from growing and impacting your property.  High humidity increases moisture problems and leads to greater property damages.  A water loss in a large area, it’s best to utilize a high-capacity dehumidifier to address the water problem.  A low-temperature dehumidifier keeps the humidity level under 40% percent, helping restore your damaged property.

3. Air mover 

An air mover is also called an air blower which does exactly what its name indicates.  It is an extremely high-powered fan driving air into the affected zone to keep the area dry as quickly as possible.  The air is then circulated to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and helps the dehumidifier pull moisture from the air.  This piece of equipment works well on carpeting and carpet pads due to its high-powered capacity.

4. Negative air machine 

A negative air machine consists of ducts used to get rid of tainted air from a closed controlled area.  The filtered air is then exhausted outside of the area while creating negative air pressure as a vacuum effect inside the controlled area. It’s best used for properties with sewage water where microorganisms need to be removed from the air.  That way, it makes the impacted area or space in your property clean, hygienic, and dry.

At this point, you now realize that using the right tools and equipment to clean up after water damage is critical in protecting your property. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County today at 217-443-0077.

One Small Leak

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

One Small Leak May Cause Large Damages

The ice maker in your refrigerator is a wonderful invention. It is great to have crushed or cubed

ice at the push of a button. No more ice trays to fill up or empty again. But, just like everything

these days, things can break down. Ice makers can clog, stop producing ice and perhaps the

worst, start leaking all over the freezer and floor. The leak could cause damage to flooring, floor

joist, drywall, and even insulation.

Here is a check list to determine why your ice maker might be leaking:

Check the water lines & tighten connections

Break up ice jams

Clear out the condensation drains

Level the refrigerator and ice maker

Check your water filer & Dispenser

If you do find damage call the experts at SERVPRO of Vermilion County (217)-443-0077. We are

here for you 24/7.

Why SERVPRO of Vermilion County to cleanup?

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Biohazard cleanup can become a necessity at any time.  Though incidences of drug manufacturing certainly require professional biohazard cleanup, that isn’t the only time. Though there is a significant amount of overlap between biohazard cleanup and trauma cleanup in Seattle as they are often one and the same, there are many non-physical tragedy related instances in which biohazard cleanup is required. In these instances, it can really make a difference acquiring the services of professional biohazard cleanup professionals. This is most noticeable in instances involving burst pipelines and fecal contamination. 

• Training – In order to get the proper certifications to perform professional biohazard cleanup, technicians must pass a number of classes and undergo rigorous training.  They know the proper methods for handling contaminants and can do so without the risk of illness a non-trained individual would encounter.  They also have the training required to clean your property thoroughly and ensure that it remains legally and safely habitable.
• Experience – Along with this training comes 30 years of experience in the restoration business. We know what different situations require and are prepared for each and every one.
• Equipment – Not only does a non-trained individual not have the experience and training of a technician, but they also don’t possess the proper equipment either.  Depending on the contaminant, different protective measures may be required.  Cleaning up a powdered contaminant requires different equipment and products than an airborne one and the radically different properties of contaminants mean that using the wrong cleaning agents can fail to properly clean an area and harm future inhabitants.
• Removal – There are specific places that biohazards need to be taken to. Not just anyone can bring it in, and quite often specialized receptacles are required just in order to transport it. Specialized licenses are also required to transport items like medical waste, and a non-trained individual could face steep fines or even jail time for illegally transporting, dumping, or attempting to remove hazardous materials.
• Legality – In addition to the transportation of bio-hazardous materials, it is often illegal to open an area to the public if it hasn’t been professionally cleaned by professionals. This is especially true when it comes to habitable places like hotels and houses. Depending on the instance, failing to have this done can result in fines and jail time.

Now that you know why calling SERVPRO of Vermilion County is so important. Don’t hesitate to call 217-443-0077 and speak with one of our friendly staff today!   We are here to help!

Prepare for Spring Weather

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur even within the same day. 

Thunderstorms cause most of the severe spring weather. They can bring lightning, tornadoes, and flooding. Whenever warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can occur. For much of the world, this happens in spring and summer.

Keep an emergency kit on hand. Prepare your family members for the possibility of severe weather. Tell them where to seek appropriate shelter as soon as they are aware of an approaching storm. Practice your emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Show family members where the emergency supplies are stored, and make sure they know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.

Often by the time we are aware of an approaching storm, we have little if any time to prepare for it. But we do know that when spring arrives, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are real possibilities. So why not take the surprise factor out of severe weather and prepare yourself, your family, and your home? If thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods do occur, you’ll be ready for them. Should you need help after a severe storm, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is a phone call away at (217) 443-0077.  

Winter Storm Prep before it’s too late

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

It's that time of the year again, time to prepare ourselves and homes for the brutal cold of winter storms. It is not something anyone looks forward to but it is best to be prepared.  

Before Snowstorms and Extreme Cold

• Make a family communication plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
• Make an emergency kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
• Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.

Prepare You Home

• Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and window sills to keep the warm air inside.
• Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• If you have a wood burning fireplace, consider storing wood to keep you warm if winter weather knocks out your heat. Also, make sure you have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.
• Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
• Extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats
• Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace
• Make sure you have a cell phone with an emergency charging option (car, solar, hand crank, etc.) in case of a power failure.
• Plan to bring pets inside.
• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it in case you lose power.

SERVPRO is here for what to do if you suspect your home has sustained damage from a recent storm, get in touch with SERVPRO of Vermillian County today. 

Space Heating Hazards

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

As colder weather starts to set in, SERVPRO of Vermilion County would like to encourage you to practice space heater safety and know the potential risks associated with home heating equipment. Home fires occur more in the winter months than any other time of year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths and space heaters account for 4 out of 5 home heating fire deaths.

Follow these tips to stay safe while heating your home:

• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 ft. away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.
• Portable space heaters should be turned OFF every time you leave the room and before going to bed.
• Never plug a space heater in a power strip.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Never use an oven to heat your home.

For portable electric heaters:

• Place them on a solid, flat surface, away from high traffic areas and doorways.
• Use and purchase heaters with an automatic shut off so if they are tipped over they will shut off.
• Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections; replace before using.

Heating Fire Facts:

• Most home heating fire deaths (86%) involved stationary or portable space heaters.
• The leading factor contributing to home heating fires (27%) was failure to clean, principally from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.
• The leading factor contributing to ignition for home heating fire deaths (54%) was heating equipment too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattress, or bedding.
• Nearly half (48%) of all home heating fires occurred in December, January and February.

In the case of fire and water damage, SERVPRO of Vermilion County our team of experts have the equipment, tools, training and expertise to take control of the situation and begin the water and fire damage restoration process before advanced secondary damage begins to take place.  

SERVPRO Locally Owned and Supporting Our Neighbors

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Sevpro of Vermilion County is a proud member of the Vermilion Advantage.  This group of professionals and business owners meet once a month.  This group provides a set time to network with other businesses and or business contacts.  Sharing their information with other Vermilion County businesses helps strengthen the economy and area businesses.  This is a time to share what services our business provides and any upcoming events.  We also find out what new businesses are coming to our area and when the ribbon cutting ceremonies are scheduled.

Our SERVPRO is locally owned and has been in business for almost 30 years.  SERVPRO believes it is very important to be a part of the community and help promote local businesses.  So, if you have a fire, water or mold issue please contact the professionals ate SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)-443-0077

Are you ready for a storm

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Storm

In the Midwest we all know at some points a storm is going to happen, whether it be snow, rain, wind, etc. So being prepared is a must. The following list is what is recommended at a minimum to be ready in the event of a storm.

• Flash Light
• Extra Batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Cellphone
• Canned Food
• Manual Can Opener
• Bottled Water
• Blanket
• Fire Extinguisher
• Battery Powered Weather Radio

Store your items together in a protective container, easily accessible in the event if a storm happens and can be transported if you go in the basement or possibly a bathroom closet. Pick food items and bottled water that have long shelf lives. Make sure to test your batteries every month or so in your devices. Remember by being prepared it will help keep panic to a minimum and know SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here for you and faster to any disaster and we will make it "Like it never even happened."   

Candle with Care

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Candle Safety

Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires — and home fire deaths. Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn.

Candle FACTS:

• December is the peak month for home candle fires.
• More than 1/3 of home candle fires started in the bedroom
• Three of every five candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle

If you do burn candles, make sure that you...

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won’t tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down, discard before it gets too close to the holder  
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage.

Should disaster strike and you become a victim of a home fire, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 we are Here To Help and Faster To Any Disaster.

Repair or Replace Your Hardwood Floors?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Hardwood Flooring

It is a beautiful sight when you walk into a home with dark mahogany hardwood floors running throughout the home.  The shine brings about a clean sparkle that gives a sense of freshness.  It stirs up a feeling deep inside to take off your shoes and blast some upbeat music and run through the house sliding across rooms to see how far you can go.  Hardwood flooring has many great benefits, but when water gets into it that picture changes.   An acceptable or normal moisture content in hardwood flooring usually ranges between 6% to 12%, but flooded wood flooring can often have up to a 40 percent moisture content.   This indicates there is severe damage.  Hardwood flooring retains water and if it is left to dry on its own then the moisture retained has more time to sit causing greater damage.

Quick Drying

Water is a hardwood floor’s worst enemy, which means it’s very important to get water up quickly whether it is a small spill from a cup to a large amount of water due to a leak or flooding.  Water and moisture can cause the flooring to become warped and permanently damaged.  No need to panic, but it is very important for you to be diligent in wiping up excess water or liquid that hit your wood flooring.  When you wipe up smaller amounts of liquid, it will help eliminate excess water from being absorbed into the hardwood and will be able to dry fully quicker.  A small amount of water can be easily cleaned and can dry by itself and will gradually get back to looking normal again.  It's when excessive amounts of water have been retained, needing more than just a wipe to help it fully dry that danger may be among your wood flooring.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County may need to be called in to bring in industrialized high-powered fans and hardwood floor mats that could help dry the space quicker before determining the kind of damage and repair/replacement that may need to take place.

Signs

Hardwood floors may make it easier to clean up spills, but it can only resist water and its effects for only a short period of time.  It is when the water sits and remains on the hardwood floors that the real damage can occur.  The length of time determines how much damage can and will be done.

Some signs that your wood flooring is water damaged include:

• Staining and discoloration
• Cupping and moisture causing it to buckle
• Lifting floorboards
• Mold Growth

What to notice

The effects of water damage happen over time, once you notice something different about your wood floors, water damage has already set in.  Often the first sign there is a problem is when individual planks are cupping or several begin to crown causing a hump in the floor.  Water absorption in the wood of your floor causes expansion, which is most noticeable in the edges of the board that are turning upward or when planks begin to buckle.  Another warning sign that water damage has occurred is when a black or dark stain runs along the edge of a plank.  When this type of stain is visible it is often due to mold growth.  These water damaged signs come from a consistent water source that may have come from a leak of some kind within your home.

Repair and replace

There are some determining factors that show if the hardwood flooring needs to be repaired or replaced.

These determining factors include:

• How much time the floor has been exposed to water
• The type of flooring you have, whether solid or engineered hardwood
• How much damage there is and if the water has seeped into the subflooring
• The floors finish, and whether or not its stain can be matched if an isolated floorboard was to be replaced

Depending on the type of damage the hardwood floor may be repaired rather than being fully replaced.  Minor damage is when the majority of the floor can be saved and an isolated floorboard may need fixing.  However, if the damage is major then the whole floor may need replacing and sometimes even the subfloor as well.  The kind of wood flooring you may have determines and limits the type of repairs that need to take place.  Solid hardwood flooring allows for a wider range of options to fix the problem. With solid hardwood floors, you can sand and scrape away up to a quarter of an inch off the wood to remove water damage on the surface. This type of flooring can also have replacements for individual planks. The best way to take care of a water damaged area on your wood floor is to replace the affected boards and then refinish the entire floor to bring it back to a unifying look.

Hardwood flooring can truly be a grand spectacle in your home, but it is important to be sure standing water is quickly taken care of in a speedy fashion.  Running across hardwood floors with socks on doesn’t work as well when there are floorboards lifting, causing your once smooth sailing across a room to be slowed down by water damage.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County can help!  Give our friendly staff a call today at 217-443-0077!

We Are Coronavirus Cleaning Services and Biohazard Experts

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help® and Ready to Respond

What Is Coronavirus?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to respond to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus that was first detected in China and has now spread internationally. While the virus is termed coronavirus, the sickness that results after infection has been termed COVID-19. COVID-19 has now been declared a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease.  Symptoms can range from very mild to severe, contact your doctor for direction.

For specialized cleaning services, including the new Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned defensive pathogen cleaning program, call us today at 217-443-0077.

Expert Level Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC.  We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants and our staff has gone through extensive training in order to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection.  Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.  The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, handrails, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables.  After cleaning, it is safe to return to the cleaned area 15 minutes after the cleaning ends

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. We also use proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as proper face protection, biohazard suites, gloves, facemasks/face shields and even respirators.  We also use the latest equipment such as Foggers and Electro-Static Sprayers to quickly and effectively clean your business, school, church or factory.

Best Practices to Minimize Your Risk

Cities and states are taking increasingly drastic measures to curb the severity of the pandemic, including the closing of bars, restaurants, and public venues.  In some areas, officials have issued “shelter in place” orders in order to compel residents to stay in their homes and limit movement.  To further protect yourself, minimize your exposure with the following tips:

Practice Good Hygiene

• Clean hands with sanitizer and wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your face and cover coughs and sneezes
• Disinfect “high touch” surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, tables, doorknobs, and handrails regularly
• Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning

At The Office

• Stop shaking hands – use other non contact methods of greeting
• Use videoconferencing for meetings when possible
• When not possible, hold meetings in open, well-ventilated spaces
• Disinfect “high touch” surfaces like desks, keyboards, light switches, doorknobs, and telephones
• Consider adjusting or postponing large meetings or gatherings
• practice social distancing

Stay Home if...

• You are feeling sick
• You have a sick family member in their home

Choosing the right type of fire extinguisher

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Getting the right type of fire extinguisher is very important for your home or business.  What is the right type?  The most common fire extinguisher is a stored pressure fire extinguisher.  However, there’s another type of fire extinguisher, cartridge-operated, that we will discuss in this blog.  A cartridge-operated extinguisher looks and functions differently than a stored pressure extinguisher.  It’s important you understand the differences in these extinguishers so that you can safely and accurately use the fire extinguisher in the event of an emergency.

Operating a Fire Extinguisher

A stored pressure extinguisher has the agent and pressure mixed in the same container inside of the extinguisher.  A cartridge-operated extinguisher has just powder/agent inside and there is a separate pressure cartridge that has to be activated to pressurize the extinguisher.  The way these extinguishers are manufactured affects the way they are operated.  A stored pressure extinguisher can be operated by using the PASS method.  The cartridge-operated extinguisher has an added step.  Since there is a pressure cartridge, you’ll need to activate the cartridge first, which immediately adds pressure to the inside of the extinguisher.  Once the cartridge has been activated, you can then aim, squeeze, and sweep to extinguish the flames.

Inspection & Maintenance

The inspection and maintenance are different for both extinguishers.  A stored pressure fire extinguisher has a quicker inspection process, only taking about ten steps. They need an internal examination every six years and a hydrostatic test every twelve years.  A cartridge-operated fire extinguisher has a longer inspection process, with about 43 total steps. There is a hydrostatic test needed every 12 years, but a 6-year internal examination is not required.

Both types of extinguishers should be inspected every month by an appointed individual at your facility. The monthly inspection is done to ensure the extinguishers:

• Are in their designated locations
• Are accessible
• Instruction labels are legible
• All seals and tamper indicators are sound
• There are no signs of corrosion, damage, leakage, or clogging

You will need to keep a written record of each manual inspection.

Why Choose a Cartridge-Operated Extinguisher?

This is a common question asked because cartridge-operated extinguishers are extremely unfamiliar to the public.  However, cartridge-operated extinguishers do well in facilities with low temperatures or places exposed to adverse conditions.  While cartridge-operated extinguishers are more durable, they are also heavier.  They have fewer accidental discharges, but tampering with the agent is possible since the pressure is not stored inside of the extinguisher.  Newer cartridge-operated extinguishers include an indicator, so you’re aware when pressure has been activated; however, it is not required.  The pressure gauge on a stored-pressure extinguisher is still considered an advantage.

Should you have the unfortunate chance of having a fire at your home or business give SERVPRO of Vermilion County a call today at 217-443-0077.  Our friendly staff is here to help with 30 years of experience in the restoration business!

RESOURCES TO HANDLE STORMS AND DISASTERS

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

When a major storm hits, it may overwhelm local restoration companies. SERVPRO of Vermilion County can scale our resources by accessing the equipment and personnel of 1,700 Franchises. We can also access Disaster Recovery Teams that specialize in major storms and catastrophic events.   We are proud to serve our local communities: locally owned and operated, we are part of this community too.  When you have a flooding or storm emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help.  We take pride in being a part of the Central Illinois community and want to do our part in making it the best it can be. Should you be hit with an emergency DO NOT Wait ! Call one of our friendly staff today at 217-443-0077.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here to help!

Soot Happens

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

The damage caused by soot can result in smoke marks, streaks and discolorations of walls and ceilings as well as health issues. Soot travels quickly and penetrates deep into surfaces.  Bedding, personal belongings, clothing, furniture, walls, ceilings, floor coverings, heat ducts, window blinds and all other surfaces that come in contact with soot can also be affected.  Unless proper cleaning takes place, soot can often bleed back through cleaned surfaces, causing further damage and at the least, requiring the surface or item to be re-cleaned.

How do I clean it up?

• Never assume that simply painting over the soot will solve the problem.  If not cleaned properly, painted soot will bleed through within 6 months or less.  Attempting to remove soot from painted surfaces could actually smear and grind the particles further into the surface.  Proper equipment, like a dry chemical sponge, is often used to remove soot.
• The home or office HVAC cold air return duct can actually distribute soot particles, causing damages throughout.  Special air duct cleaning is often required. HEPA air scrubbing equipment is often needed as soot floats and contaminates rooms that have been previously cleaned.  This re-contamination is referred to as “Fall Out”.
• Clothing, curtains, bedding, carpets, upholstery often need extensive cleaning using Infused Ozone Gas and other products that break down soot.  Pressurized Ozone and Hydroxyl chambers are typically needed after the cleaning process to remove the strong odors caused by smoke and soot.
• Wallpaper can streak unless a dry chemical sponge is used first.   Even then, due to the paper based materials, wallpapers are often damaged beyond repair.  We will give you a quick assessment of the damaged items and area and secure the areas that are not affected to prevent contamination.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County will secure and move contaminated items to a separate location for proper cleaning and deodorization.  We can even clean damage to the structure or even repair/replace as needed!  

Our Biggest Tip.

The biggest mistake many home and business owners make is attempting to clean up the damage themselves or ignoring it completely. Contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County who has 30 years of restoration experience and has a highly trained staff and are properly equipped in removing soot damage.  Talk to one of our friendly staff today by calling 217-443-0077, we are here to help!

5 Unexpected Causes of House Fires

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County we have restored many homes and commercial businesses from fires that started from different  sources. House fires are a serious danger and homeowners are wise to protect themselves from the most common causes. To avoid some of the usual fire starters, make sure to maintain heating equipment, electrical wires and appliances, be careful with candles and decorations, and it's best to avoid smoking indoors.

1. Jars and other glass objects
   Sunlight through glass has been found to be the cause of fires. House fires have been started by glass wind chimes, translucent door handles and a crystal ball to name a few. Glass is still an unlikely source of house fires as the shape of the glass and the angle at which the sun hits has to be very precise to get hot enough to start a blaze. If a person is choosing crystal ornaments for their home decor it might be a good idea to place them somewhere in the shade.
2. Pyrolysis
   Pyrolysis is a chemical reaction brought on by heat over a period of time. It causes objects to break down and become combustible. A common piece of wood, for example, might have a very high combustion temperature but given enough time pressed against a heating source and the combustion temperature could lower to the point where the lumber would be able to self-ignite.

This is not as uncommon a cause of fire as others on the list; the problem is that it is often overlooked. As stated, pyrolysis can take time, and people will often ignore the danger because they believe their heating equipment has always worked fine in the past and they don't see any present danger. In order to avoid pyrolysis, homeowners should make sure their heating equipment is properly installed and is kept a safe distance away from furniture, unprotected walls and any other surrounding materials.

3. Dishwashers
   One of the most common causes of house fires are appliances. Homeowners are likely familiar with the possible dangers of ovens and dryers, but are they aware of the risk posed by their dishwasher? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there about 500 fires each year caused by faulty dishwashers.

A dishwasher doesn't seem like a fire hazard but it does generate heat, and it is a mixture of electrical engineering and fluid dynamics. Most dishwasher fires are caused by liquid dripping out of its proper compartment and coating the machine's wires. Just like any appliance, a homeowner should make sure it is operating correctly. Check consumer reports and do not leave the machine running when leaving the house or when sleeping at night.

4. Batteries
   While there have been cases where improperly storing or disposing of 9-volt batteries have started fires, they are few and far between. For a 9-volt to start a flame it has to be stored (or thrown out) next to a piece of metal that can connect the positive and negative posts and induce a small spark. If the batteries and metal are next to tissue, steel wool or some other easily flammable material, they could start a fire. All of these necessary factors are what make this cause so rare. A homeowner just needs to take simple, basic steps when storing or disposing of these batteries. Keeping 9-volts in packaging, storing them away from metals and placing a piece of tape across the top are all smart practices.
5. Animals
   To avoid creature-caused fires, a homeowner needs to take the usual preventive measures against home pests. Put out traps so rats and mice don't chew through electrical wires, cover trash cans so as not to attract larger, more destructive animals and keep an eye on pets who can cause trouble in the kitchen. The best advice when it comes to home fires is to be vigilant and prepared in case the worst happens.

We are here to help!  Should you have any questions please call one of our friendly staff here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 today! 

Storm Damage Restoration

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Today, numerous households and businesses benefit from SERVPRO of Vermilion County's excellent storm damage restoration services. Family owned and operated, we take great pride in furnishing outstanding customer service. Our work frequently offers health and safety benefits by preventing mold growth after storms saturate a home or business with water. We supply dedicated, timely assistance!

SERVPRO of Vermilion County benefits from the skills of experienced storm damage restoration technicians. We ensure these individuals obtain thorough training in the recommended ways to restore and revitalize property. Let our dedicated team of professionals help you recover more quickly from the havoc created by harmful weather systems.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County relies upon superior, safe equipment. We've invested in the specialized tools required to help clean Vermilion County homes and businesses effectively after storms.

Rely on SERVPRO of Vermilion County to help you recover more quickly from damaging winds and rains. We are here to help 217-443-0077.

What To Look for to Spot Water Damage in Commercial Properties

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Left unattended, water damage in your business can grow from a small inconvenience to a large headache very quickly.  Problems with mold, structural integrity of the building itself and health issues can arise. To prevent this, you must become vigilant in spotting the early warning signs of water damage.  Developing this skill may not only help you avoid unnecessary damage to your business building, but it will also help you save money in the future by not having to pay for expensive repairs.  From our friendly staff at SERVPRO of Vermilion County here are five early signs of water damage for you to look out for. 

Musty Odor

People sometimes only associate a musty odor with an old commercial building.   The truth is that the musty smell is an indication of mold or stagnant water.  Should you detect a musty odor, don’t dismiss it.  You should take this seriously as a sign that there could quite possibly be a water issue somewhere in the building.  The sooner you detect it can make a significant difference in the extent of the damage. 

Discolored Walls or Ceilings

Discoloration is another sign of water damage.  In particular, look for streaks of water that are running down the walls and ceilings of your building. This can sometimes be a sign of an overflowing gutter or even a leaking or broken pipe, which will result in watermarks that are quite distinctive and show where the water has traveled down the wall.

Coolness

If your business building is very difficult to heat, then this might be a sign that you have dampness affecting your walls.  Water and moisture will often draw heat out of walls when it evaporates and leaves those walls and the property overall much colder. Trust your instincts. If it feels cold all the time in your commercial building, you may have a problem. 

Mold Growth

Mold growth does not occur without a degree of excess moisture.  If you detect mold anywhere in the building, you should know that it is probably not an isolated problem.  There is a moisture coming from somewhere that is allowing the mold to grow and spread.  Your first step after removing the mold should be tracing it back to the source. This can have the possibility of causing health issues and greatly increasing the costs of the cleanup as many insurance policies do not cover mold.  

Pooling Water Or Puddles

One probable sign of a leak is perpetual moisture or puddles that have no explicable source.  If you see this occurring, don’t overlook it.  There is a reason that the water is pooling and unless you find it the damage will continue to grow and spread.  Doing this will also likely prevent further mold growth from occurring as well. 

Here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we hope you find these warnings helpful for catching water damage in your commercial building.  If there is ever a problem, we are here to help!  We have 30 years of restoration experience and solid relationships in our community.  Don’t hesitate to give us a call today and speak to one of our friendly staff at 217-443-0077. 

STORM DAMAGE RESTORATION IN THE MIDWEST

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Living in Illinois, you know this summer we've experienced severe storms, seemingly one right after another.  Severe storms may become dangerous and it is crucial to know the different types of storm damage and how they can impact your home. Leaving your home left untreated, damage from pounding rain, hail, lightning, tornado, high winds, or heavy snow can lead to water damage, mold, and structural damage.  A rapid response by SERVPRO of Vermilion County is critical to reducing the safety risk and secondary damage from weather.

There are three ways storms can damage your home.  Lightning storms can occur at any time. These storms bring the threat of fire and structural damage.  During a lightning storm, even if your home is properly equipped to handle lightning, it is still possible to have damage to electrical wiring, appliances, antennas, satellite dishes, cable or telephone lines, and steel framework and more.  Always stay indoors during the storm unless there are signs of a fire.  Flooding presents a serious risk to your home and to your safety.  When it comes to structures, flooding can lead to dangerous contamination and water damage to drywall, support beams, and foundations. There is a risk for mold within the first 24 hours of a flood so it is vital to extract water and have a professional begin mitigating immediately.  Finally, high winds can occur virtually anywhere. Thousands of storms and hurricanes hit the U.S. every year.  Severe winds are defined as exceeding 50-60 mph and include downdrafts, down-bursts, tornadoes.  Damage from the wind can be widespread and affect not only your structure, but surrounding landscaping and asphalt. Be aware of the potential for falling trees, poles and damaged power lines.  A storm may damage your home including windows, siding, and roofs.  In the most extreme scenarios, roofs can be blown completely off.  In the case of a tornado, a warning should be given on TV or radio. The safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement.  If there is no basement available, seek shelter in an interior room without windows since windows may shatter and spray glass.  Remain under shelter with a radio until you receive notice that the tornado has left the area.  With floods, there is usually some indication if one is imminent, especially if you live in an area susceptible to flooding.  Make sure to have copies of important documents that could be destroyed in a flood, such as birth certificates, social security cards, and deeds.  Finally, thunderstorms generally don't cause much damage except for being loud, but when they do they can be hazardous.  To avoid potential damage, make sure to trim any large limbs near your house.  Secure any outdoor objects to keep them from blowing away.  Unplug electronic devices prior to a storm to prevent a surge from destroying them.  Should a storm damage your home, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here to help!  Call one of our friendly staff today at 217-443-0077.   

What If Life Washed Away?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

What if your whole life washed away in a single day? It may sound like a horrific nightmare, but this is a grim reality for many homeowners whose house has flooded. Fortunately, there are some easy tips to help prevent your home from flooding, and can save you thousands of dollars and countless hours of stress. Wondering how to prevent flood damage? Keep reading to learn the answer! 

Crack Down on Cracks

Location

Landscaping

Seal

Raise Your Home

Drain Plugs

Lawn

Professional Maintenance

Prepare for the Worst

The Bottom Line

Board ups, we got you covered!

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Should ever your building has been damaged by fire, you need to secure it quickly and safely to avoid any further damage.  With 30 years of experience in providing top notch restoration services, you can count on SERVPRO of Vermilion County to respond quickly with emergency tarping and board-up services to keep out the elements and unwanted guests.  We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.   We are here to help guide you through this difficult time and get your business back to operational.

We will board up any damaged windows, walls or doors to prevent further disruption and ensure the security of your property.  We also provide tarping for damaged roofs.  When shielding the compromised areas, we help prevent further damage to your building.  With SERVPRO of Vermilion County, you can feel confident knowing that we bring 30 years of experience to your property restoration, with a solid commitment to guiding you through the process from start to finish.  We have the expertise, equipment and dedication to handle the entire project, from initial damage assessment through site cleanup and preparation and rebuilding to preloss condition.  Through it all, we’ll strive to minimize disruptions, answer all your questions and guide you through the process.  Questions about our services?  Call one of our friendly staff here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County today at 217-443-0077.  We are here to help!

Fire Damage Repair

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you have ever experienced a fire firsthand or know someone who has, you know that experiencing a fire can be incredibly difficult, taking a toll both physically and emotionally. Your property has sustained damage and may not be inhabitable, your personal belongings have been damaged or destroyed, and you may not know what to do next.

Emergency Board Up

Quite often, fires leave your home exposed, whether the fire burned through the roof or firefighters had to break down a door or through a window to battle the flames. The first priority after the fire has been put out is to secure the property, no matter how bad the damage is. This protects your home from additional damage from exposure to weather and prevents potential vandals from entering your home.

At SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we provide emergency board up services to protect your property after a fire and during restoration. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to your emergency, and will quickly secure your property until repairs can be made.

Saving You Time and Money

Our fire damage professionals will determine how your property needs to be restored depending on the type of fire and type and extent of damage that has occurred. We will secure the area to prevent further damage until plans for repair can be made. We will work to eliminate any smoke odor, and dry out any part of the structure if needed and rebuild as well addressing any other structural issues.

We strive to return your home to its preloss condition as quickly and proficiently as possible, reducing your stress and burden. Let our professionals take care of you fire damage needs. Our warmhearted staff will be there through everything to help and get the job done. Contact us today at SERVPRO of Vemilion County 217-433-0077

Cleaning Schools

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

A commitment to clean is a commitment to confidence

From elementary schools to college campuses, clean and secure facilities are essential to education.   While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of learning, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties is here to help get students, staff and faculty back to their desks with confidence.  With 30 years of experience in emergency and proactive cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties is in your community to help schools thrive in times of challenge.  Now, with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, we’re bringing proactive viral pathogen cleaning in a program customized to the needs of your facility.  Going beyond standard janitorial practices, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned follows CDC and local guidelines, including the use of EPA-approved hospital-grade disinfectants to help prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria in your school.

Types of facilities

• Preschools and Nursery Schools
• Elementary and Middle Schools
• High school and Academies
• Colleges and Universities
• Gymnasium, Sports Complex and Stadiums

5 Tips for Getting Rid of Smoke Smell in a Home

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

When you’ve had a fire in your home, there are usually lasting impacts.  You are concerned about the health of everyone in your home, the damage to your property and what to do in the aftermath. One of the more unfortunate lasting impacts of a fire in your home is the lingering smell of smoke. Not only does it end up being a constant reminder of the tragedy that you’ve experienced, but it’s tough to ignore and it can actually have a toxic effect on those around it.

Getting rid of the smoke smell in the aftermath of a fire can be difficult. The reason it still smells is that the smoke is ingrained in your walls and in the fabric of your furniture. It’s not impossible, though. In this post, we’re going to share 5 tips for getting rid of the smoke smell in your home. You’ve got enough to deal with after a fire, don’t let the smoke smell bother you too.

It Is Very Important To Get Rid Of Smoke Smell ASAP

A serious fire will leave soot and a strong smell on your home’s surfaces.  With time, the smell will leave hard surfaces, but the softer ones like carpet, drapes and furniture cushions will soak that smell in.  You’ve got to take special measures to get that smell out.  Here are 5 tips that’ll make the process easier.

1. Let It Air Out

The first logical thing that you’ll want to do is air out your entire house.  Open all the doors and windows in the house for a full day to let it completely ventilate and let in much needed fresh air.  If you have any fans in the house, ceiling or otherwise, set them up on full-blast facing out the doors.  Get as much of the smell out this way, before you get started with the real cleaning, will help you get a good start tackling the problem.

2. Positive Pressure

The act of airing out your property is necessary, but it’s not going to do all that much in the grand scheme of things.  Air the house out as much as possible. Then, you’re going to use a positive pressure method. Positive pressure is when the air pressure outside the home is greater than the air pressure inside the home, resulting in the air inside leaving for outside.  Theoretically, this will do an even better job of getting the smell out than just opening the windows and letting it go.  Here’s how you do it:

• Leave your front door open and stick a fan outside facing in.
• Shut every other window and door in the house, save for one that will act as a ventilator.
• Turn the fan on full-blast for 15 minutes and then close the open door and window.
• Then, go through every room of the house and follow this method. Open the door and one window, using the fan to blow air in the room for 15 minutes.

3. Baking Soda

One popular method for getting smoke out of carpets, drapes and furniture is by using baking soda.  Start with the carpets.  Sprinkle baking soda onto all of your dry carpets and work it in deep with a broom.  Then, leave it overnight to settle in and vacuum the carpet the next day.  The baking soda should neutralize some of the smell. You can repeat this process as many times as necessary.  Take any fabric-covered furniture outside and give it the same baking soda treatment, sprinkling it thoroughly over every bit of the fabric.  Leave it all outside overnight and then vacuum it up the next day.

4. Other Cleaning Methods

Toss everything else in the laundry machine.  This includes drapes, sheets, blankets and clothing.  Use your normal detergent, but before the rinse cycle starts, add a cup of vinegar to the load.  Vinegar works well as a heavy-duty cleaner, so it should remove some of the smell that’s worked itself into the fabrics.  The hard surfaces will be less affected by the smoke, but they’ll still need to be thoroughly cleaned as well.  To give them the same heavy-duty treatment, you’ll have to create a solution that contains a gallon of water, a quarter-cup of white vinegar, and a teaspoon of dish soap.  Use in a spray bottle spray and spray every solid surface in the house with it.  Cabinets, countertops, hardwood floors, etc.  Give the solution some time to sit, then wipe the surfaces with a clean cloth.  Anything that can be removed like light fixtures and window screens, take and put in a bathtub with some dish soap to soak for as long as you can manage.

5. Call the Pros

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to completely eradicate the smoke smell from your home, even after a thorough cleaning with the previous methods.  The best thing to do is call the professionals.  They’ll have access to industrial cleaning equipment designed to give surfaces a deep and thorough cleaning.  Here at SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County we’re well-equipped to deal with the smoke smell in your home.  We’ve been helping residential and commercial customers restore their disaster-affected property for thirty years. 

Don’t Leave Your House Smelling Like Smoke

It’s common to be a little flustered after you’ve experienced a disaster like a fire in the home.  Once the emergency services are gone, you’re left to make do with what you’ve got and you can only get so much of the smoke smell out yourself before you start to feel helpless.  Give SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt County a call at 217-935-2992 and talk to one of our friendly staff today!  We are here to help!

Who to Call to Get Rid Of Mold in Your Home

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus that can be found in many colors such as black, white, orange, green and even purple.  Mold can be found inside or outside and thrives on moisture.  It reproduces through spores that travel through the air.  

First you must find what has caused the mold such as:

Persistent humidity

Leaking pipes

A leaking roof

A build-up of condensation

Poor Ventilation

Home flooding

A damp basement

Foundation dampness

A leaking air-conditioning system

After you have found and fixed the cause, it is time to clean the mold. Removing mold may be as easy as using a hepavac, cleaning and sanitizing a small area to removing carpet, pad, subflooring, drywall and even insulation.  Mold is something that should be taken care of by professionals.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County and their professional crews are ready to clean any type of mold.  Please call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)-443-0077

Puddles in Your Crawl Space Are Not Normal

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

water in the crawl space

Puddles in a crawl space, are not normal?

I always thought since the crawl space is under the home that it was normal to have puddles. After all, the ground gets wet and dry with different types of weather. It just seemed then, that the crawl space would have to have water in it.

Having puddles of water in the crawl space of a home is not good. However, what ruins your home is the moisture. Moisture can cause mold, rot, energy loss, and attracts pests into the crawl space. Did you realize up to 50% of the air in a home comes from below?

You must find out how or why the water is getting into the crawl space. Has there been a plumbing leak? How about seepage from the surrounding soil from a heavy rain? It could be condensation, for an example: Humidity condenses on cold surfaces, like ducts, and may cause dripping onto the crawl space floor.

SERVPRO can extract, pull up old vapor barriers, clean, sanitize, and replace with lime and put down new vapor barriers. SERVPRO has submersible sump pumps, dehumidifiers and air movers to help with drying out the crawl space.

Don’t wait; call SERVPRO of Vermilion County to help dry out your crawl space today. We are just a phone call away, 217-443-0077.

What Not To Overlook When Dealing With Mold

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Any home or business can quickly become infested with mold with the introduction of a water source, like a roof or plumbing leak.  Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48 hours and can produce spores acting as allergens and irritants.

Mold is an insidious and often hidden problem for your home and business.  Just spreading quickly can be unsightly, but mold does much more than that.  In fact, mold spores can cause health effects.

Cleaning up water damage in homes or businesses should happen as quickly as possible after the event.  Don't overlook these key elements during the mold remediation process:

1. Prompt mold infiltration assessment from trained professionals.
2. Use of industrial-grade water extractors, dehumidifiers, air movers and other equipment used to efficiently remove excess water.
3. Application of disinfectants and antimicrobials used to help prevent future mold growth
4. Sanitation, deodorization and air purification.
5. Efficient containment of affected area and removal of contaminated materials.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can help with this!  Give one of our friendly staff a call today at 217-443-0077.  We are here to help!

The Science of Drying

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Drying System set up in a bank after a water loss

Did you know that there is an actual science behind the process of drying your property?  This is called Psychrometrics and is a science vital to restoring a water damaged structure.  Therefore SERVPRO of Vermilion County puts a tremendous focus on making sure our technicians are Certified through IICRC standards in the Water Restoration Technician (WRT) program.

When a water damage occurs on your property SERVPRO of Vermilion County will

• Inspect the building to detect every area that is wet in an effort to reduce secondary damage.
• Measure the amount of moisture in an area and monitor the proper drying is taking place.
• We will speed up the drying process by using professional drying equipment to regulate the temperature and humidity in affected areas.

Here at SERVPRO we use state of the art drying equipment and technology to ensure that your property is dried appropriately and in a timely manner.  Reducing secondary damage is a main priority for us and we live by the restore vs replace method.

If you have experienced a water damage in your home please call one of our friendly team members at 217-443-0077 today!  We are here to help!.

What Is Needed in An Emergency Evacuation Kit?

6/6/2020 (Permalink)

An emergency evacuation kit should contain the documents and personal items needed to maintain yourself and your family for up to a week in the event of an emergency evacuation.  Your kit may look very different from your neighbor’s kit, depending on the number of children, pets, and advance preparation for such events. The following are suggestions of what you may need in your emergency evacuation kit.

Emergency Evacuation Kit Basics

The American Red Cross, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and FEMA all recommend that water, food, a flashlight, appropriate batteries for your accessories, a first-aid kit, and a battery or hand-operated radio be included in your evacuation kit.  Regardless of the size or needs of your family, here is a list of additional items that should be included in every evacuation kit.

Along with bottled water, pack a small filtration system for an unlimited water supply

Pack solar device chargers and solar lights (similar to those used in landscaping)

Flashlights are good but LED headlamps free up your hands

Emergency whistles (one for each family member)

7 days of nonperishable food (don’t forget the can opener)

7 days or more worth of under garments and socks

Multiple days worth of prescription medication

Surgical or dust masks

Maps of your area and of your destination

Cash or traveler’s checks (without power, ATM machines are rendered useless)

A tool kit that includes a sharp knife, pliers, tweezers, electrical, and duct tape

An extra set of house, car, and safe keys

Charged two-way radios (walkie-talkies)

Add extra bandages, gauze, sanitizing washes and burn cream to your first-aid kit

Note: For items like clothing, food, cash, batteries, etc., use watertight resealable bags to keep them dry until needed.  Part of your evacuation plan should include how you intend to reach out-of-town family members and/or friends.

Evacuation Kit Items for Infants and Children

During an evacuation, special attention should be given to the needs of your children. Older children in their teens may want to prepare an evacuation kit of their own. Consider the following:

Infant formula, diapers, wipes, pacifier, extra bottles

Water (1gallon per day, per child)

Nonperishable food and snacks like energy bars, jerky, and trail mixes

Multiple changes of clothing

Mylar blankets (regular blankets and sleeping bags can get bulky and overwhelming)

Extra glasses, medication, inhalers, and other medical or individual necessities

Evacuations can be extremely stressful for children. Take the time to practice or run an evacuation drill. The more your children are familiar with what they need to do, the less difficulty you will have getting them to do it.

Evacuation Kit Important Documents

The following list of documents will help you to prove your identity, as well as give you access to insurance benefits, medication, finances, and much more:

Notarized copies of everyone’s birth certificates

Copies of passports, identification cards and driver’s licenses

Copies of health insurance cards, current prescriptions, and medical needs

Copies of credit cards and your ATM card

A hard copy of your online usernames and passwords

Copies of your auto and homeowners insurance cards and or policies**

Copies of recent utility bills (to turn service on or off)

Copies of the deed or lease to your home

Notarized copies of wills

Family and emergency contact information (telephone numbers and addresses)

Copies of pet identification and proof of vaccination

Current pictures of your self, your spouse, children and pets in case of separation

The importance of the above-listed documents cannot be overstated. During major evacuation events, you may be away from your home for several days or weeks. The ability to use and manage your resources will help you get back to your home and back to normal quickly.Keep all of your documents, cards, and copies protected in airtight and watertight envelopes, bags, and/or containers.  Upload your copies to a cloud service or save them on a memory stick along with safeguarding hard copies in your evacuation kit. Keep in mind that the cloud or a memory stick will do little good during wide-spread power outages.

Evacuation Kit Items for Pets

Your pets are essential to the well-being and happiness of your family. The following items should be included in your (or their very own) evacuation kit:

Enough food for 7 days (don’t forget the bowl)

1/2 to 1 gallon of water per day

Collar, leash or carrier

ID tags

Proof of vaccinations and any medical needs

Grooming accessories

Blanket or bed

Note: Pets can feel stress and inherently catch on to your change in mood and/or way of being. When running an evacuation drill, make sure your pets and their evacuation kits are a part of it.

Evacuation Kit Items for The Elderly

In the case of the elderly, the following items should be a part of your evacuation kit or ready to take at a moment’s notice:

Water (1gallon per day) for drinking and hygiene

Special hygiene necessities (adult diapers, denture containers, etc)

Food for a minimum of 7 days (attend to special requirements or needed supplements)

Medications and copies of prescriptions (especially life-preserving ones)

Canes, walkers, wheelchair, and other devices for support and mobility

Books, cards, or activities to occupy time

Identification or medical bracelets or necklaces

Everyone has a different take on what they prioritize when making disaster plans or assembling evacuation kits. Except for newborns and infants, everyone should be allowed to express what they feel is necessary for their comfort during an emergency evacuation.

Emergency Evacuation Kit Maintenance

It is crucial to periodically check prescription medication expiration dates, use by dates on canned goods, battery charge, and the proper functioning of all electronic items.  This is the time to update your action plan and remove or add items your family has either outgrown or has come to require.  This maintenance should be done bi-annually and can accompany your family’s evacuation drill. If your region is prone to flooding, there are steps you can add to your action plan in the event your home is flooded.

By preparing and keeping up with your emergency evacuation kit, you are positioning yourself to successfully navigate the disruptions of a natural disaster or mandatory evacuation.  Without an evacuation kit, you could be left scrambling to assemble vital information, documents, and necessities when you should be moving yourself and your loved ones away from danger.

Proactive Cleaning

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Keep Your Clients and Employees Safe

Threats scare us far more than familiar and routine risks. This has certainly been the case with the global COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. We’re unsure exactly how to protect ourselves against this new threat. Many of us wonder how we will safely return to shuttered locations like stores, restaurants, businesses, schools, churches and other public gathering places. 

Throughout the crisis, SERVPRO of Vermilion County has provided sanitizing for commercial customers such as medical facilities and grocery stores that are still operating as essential businesses. As Central Illinois takes steps towards resuming public life, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is encouraging closed locations such as churches, schools, offices, public buildings and retail stores to schedule cleaning now in anticipation of reopening.

To get ahead of the anticipated surge in businesses requesting pre-emptive sanitizing to prepare for reopening scheduling an appointment now would be very beneficial.  Calling SERVPRO of Vermilion County and speaking to one of our friendly team members at 217-935-2992 today will enable us to help quickly! This will also give you, your customers and your staff the reassurance that they are in a safe environment. Our team can deliver this essential peace of mind.

To make sure that our sanitizing procedures meet all necessary guidelines for safety and efficacy, SERVPRO of Vermilion County diligently monitors updates from the Centers for Disease Control. Additionally, the company monitors and implements guidance from local, state and national health agencies, and only uses qualified and government-approved chemicals.

Our highly trained staff use a variety of high-tech cleaning procedures, such as ultra-low volume foggers that apply disinfectants widely, electro static sprayers and manual sanitizing of high-traffic surfaces such as equipment, doorknobs, elevator and door access panels, handrails and horizontal surfaces. 

If your business is temporarily closed or you have been operating under state guidelines, don’t wait! Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County today at 217-443-0077 today.  We are here to help!

Ice Makers Can Cause Serious Damage In Your Home

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

refrigerator supply line

To replace a cracked supply hose for your ice maker may only cost as little as $5.00 for the part. However, the damage to your home could be in the thousands!

By the time a homeowner finds the water damage 2 rooms away from the kitchen, it is too late. A small leak over time can cause a lot of damage before you know it. The water slowly leaks down through many layers of flooring and then can travel in many directions. The wet carpet 2 rooms away, now have damaged carpet and pad. It may have gotten into the sub floor and even wicked up into the drywall. The closer you get to the kitchen, the heavier the damage.

After you have had to call the Refrigerator Repairman and the leak has stopped, your next call should be SERVPRO of Vermilion County, 217-443-0077.

SERVPRO can extract water, tear out carpet, pad, subfloor and drywall. They have dehumidifiers and air movers to help with the drying process. They have their own construction crews that lay carpet, hang drywall, trim and paint. SERVPRO of Vermilion County can do it all. Just call, we are 24/7 and 265 days a year.

What Do I Do When I Have A Pipe Break?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water Pipe Break

It’s the middle of the night. You’re sound asleep and then BOOM a water pipe bursts. There is never a convenient time for this situation, and the middle of the night is definitely not convenient.  This may cause many people who have never dealt with it to panic. After all, what do you do when a water pipe suddenly bursts in your home?  Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 and speak with a friendly team member!  We can help walk you through the steps to take if this should happen to you.

Shut Off the Water

Go to your main valve and turn the water off. They usually have a stop tap on them. It’s good to know where your water main is in case of emergencies, so if you don’t already know now is a great time to find out. Commonly this is found in the basement or garage, but may be found in other places as well.  Shutting it off will stop the water flow. If you find that the pipe that burst is a hot water pipe then close the valve that’s on top of the water heater as well.

Remove Any Nearby Electronics

If there’s anything electric plugged in near the burst pipe that is not in or requires you to be in standing water go ahead and unplug it from the socket and move it away. This will prevent risk of a fire.  DO NOT touch any electronics that are in standing water, do not walk through standing water as there is a real risk of electrocution.  Shut off the electricity from the breaker if possible, if not then call an electrician for assistance. 

 Call A Professional Immediately

Finding a 24-hour service to handle an emergency can be tough, but emergency water damage companies do exist, like SERVPRO of Vermilion County. We are fully licensed, highly trained and qualified.

Have Someone Check Everything Out

If there’s significant water damage, it’s extremely important to the health of your home that you have it examined by a water damage professional. It’s also a good idea to have an electrician check to make sure that no electrical aspects of your home were damaged. The owners, Dave and Suzi McGuire, have been building trust for 30 years.  They have accomplished this with hard work, having a highly trained staff, meeting commitments and going the extra mile for their customers. 

File An Insurance Claim

You’ll need to contact your insurance company immediately to begin an insurance claim for the damage.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County can help walk you through this process.  We strive to make the entire process from start to finish both painless and seamless for you.  Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 and speak with a friendly team member today!  We are here to help!

Hero Firefighters

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Dog

Since 1678 firefighters have been saving the lives of Americans.  Although their techniques have changed since then, firefighters are still saving thousands of lives nationwide each year.  This is very heroic, no dispute here, but is this the only thing that makes a firefighter a hero?  Not by a longshot and here is why.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Run Towards the Danger

Fires and explosions make most people flee and run away or stand by and watch.  Not true for a firefighter, they run towards the fire. When disaster strikes, firefighters are one of the first officials to reach the scene.  Even in medical emergencies, firefighters are responding to the call.  It takes raw courage to be a firefighter.  They know that there’s a chance that things might not go their way. They have family and friends they hold dear just like all of us, but they push through anyway.  General Norman Schwarzkopf once said, “True courage is being afraid, and going ahead and doing your job anyhow, that’s what courage is.”

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Never Give Up

On average, firefighters will work 10, 24-hour shifts per month.  Firefighters don’t get holidays or their birthdays off.  When you’re with your family around the Christmas tree waiting for Santa, firefighters are out there keeping you safe.  While your family is enjoying the fireworks on the Fourth of July, firefighters are standing guard to keep you safe.  The threat of coming into contact with Covid-19 does not deter them, they still work tirelessly to keep you safe. 

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They’re Also Scientists

Not every fire starts with a match.  In some cases, fires start when certain chemicals collide or when an electrical wire gets too hot.  There a six known classes of fires. Some include gases, liquids, metals, and oils . Each one requires a different approach and it’s up to the firefighters to decipher which type of fire they’re dealing with.

After subduing the flames, firefighters are tasked with finding the cause.  They discover the starting point of a fire by using their knowledge of fire and deductive skills.  They use their scientific knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering to deduct where and when a fire started.  Besides pinpointing the origin, firefighters can also determine if a fire was accident or arson.  Honing these skills can help prevent future fires.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Inspire Others

Think about all the little boys and girls on Halloween strutting around town in plastic red firefighter hats.  Even when you were young, there was always one classmate or friend who wanted to be a firefighter when they grew up.  Firefighters are inspirational.  Every day they face new dangers and every day they find ways to fix them.

It takes a special kind of person to become a firefighter.  They throw themselves out of windows, run through burning buildings and cut people out of cars.  Firefighters see and experience things that affect them both mentally and physically.  Despite this, they continue to do what they do.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Do More than Fight Fires

Being a firefighter means more than just battling blazes.  Firefighters save people. Whether you’re hurt, stuck in a car, or stuck in a building, firefighters are there to help.  They answer the call in every catastrophe. They even act as emergency medical technicians in some situations.  Firefighters care for the sick and injured.  They rescue pets, pull animals out of trees, and are very active in their communities.  You could make a case that they are the glue of the community.   

Firefighters also work to prevent future fires from happening.  They install fire alarms, create fire regulations, and teach children fire safety.  Firefighters work tirelessly to ensure that their community is taken care of.  Because being a firefighter isn’t about the glory or the money, it’s about how many lives you can change.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Run Towards the Danger

Fires and explosions make most people flee and run away or stand by and watch.  Not true for a firefighter, they run towards the fire. When disaster strikes, firefighters are one of the first officials to reach the scene.  Even in medical emergencies, firefighters are responding to the call.  It takes raw courage to be a firefighter.  They know that there’s a chance that things might not go their way. They have family and friends they hold dear just like all of us, but they push through anyway.  General Norman Schwarzkopf once said, “True courage is being afraid, and going ahead and doing your job anyhow, that’s what courage is.”

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Never Give Up

On average, firefighters will work 10, 24-hour shifts per month.  Firefighters don’t get holidays or their birthdays off.  When you’re with your family around the Christmas tree waiting for Santa, firefighters are out there keeping you safe.  While your family is enjoying the fireworks on the Fourth of July, firefighters are standing guard to keep you safe.  The threat of coming into contact with Covid-19 does not deter them, they still work tirelessly to keep you safe. 

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Inspire Others

Think about all the little boys and girls on Halloween strutting around town in plastic red firefighter hats.  Even when you were young, there was always one classmate or friend who wanted to be a firefighter when they grew up.  Firefighters are inspirational.  Every day they face new dangers and every day they find ways to fix them.

It takes a special kind of person to become a firefighter.  They throw themselves out of windows, run through burning buildings and cut people out of cars.  Firefighters see and experience things that affect them both mentally and physically.  Despite this, they continue to do what they do.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Do More than Fight Fires

Being a firefighter means more than just battling blazes.  Firefighters save people. Whether you’re hurt, stuck in a car, or stuck in a building, firefighters are there to help.  They answer the call in every catastrophe. They even act as emergency medical technicians in some situations.  Firefighters care for the sick and injured.  They rescue pets, pull animals out of trees, and are very active in their communities.  You could make a case that they are the glue of the community.   

Firefighters also work to prevent future fires from happening.  They install fire alarms, create fire regulations, and teach children fire safety.  Firefighters work tirelessly to ensure that their community is taken care of.  Because being a firefighter isn’t about the glory or the money, it’s about how many lives you can change.  We here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County are so grateful for our firefighters who work tirelessly to make a difference in our communities.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is so grateful for our firefighters who work tirelessly to make a difference in our communities.

After The Firetrucks Leave.....Then What?

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Truck at Fire Station

The fire has been put out by the firemen and they were able to save your family and your home. After they leave you walk back into your home onto saturated carpet, tile floors with puddles, charred walls and baseboards, soot, smoke odor and a huge hole in the wall where the fireman entered your home.  This is a very devastating time in anyone’s life.  This is when you call the Professionals for help. This is when you would call SERVPRO of Vermilion County (217)-443-0077.  The SERVPRO Professionals have specialized in fire and water damage restoration and move quickly to clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition

SERVPRO can do any size board up to secure your home.  The board up is important in keeping your home safe and secure until work can be scheduled.  The Company also extracts water and has dehumidifiers.  

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can also take care of not only cleaning your sentimental items but are also equipped with the environmentally friendly cleaning products to clean your walls, carpet, and upholstery.  SERVPRO also offers soda blasting.  Soda blasting is also environmentally friendly and removes soot, badly charred and other types of residue caused by fire.  The procedure may be used on brick, ceramic, glass, mortar, concrete and wood without damage.  Along with cleaning it also helps to absorb the smoke odor.  

SERVPRO provides equipment for helping with the odor.  Air scrubbers, ozones and hydroxyls are 3 pieces of equipment that can be set up for odor.   Once the structure has been cleaned and odor free, the Sevpro of Vermilion County also has a Construction Department for the put back.  

We are here for you in your most difficult time.  All you have to do is call 217-443-0077.

Raccoons are so cute, BUT not in your business!

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Raccoon invasion

Raccoons are cute and fun to watch.  However, they are very destructive when they are living in your attic.  Here are list of problems that can be caused by wild animals in an attic:

Nesting materials and food debris throughout the attic

Odor problems inside the home

Parasites, roundworm, and other pathogens

Pheromone scent that can attract new wildlife

Lots of feces and urine in the insulation

Growth of mold on contaminated attic areas

It is important to act as soon as possible when you have confirmed that you have guests in your business.  You would need to call someone to clean, decontaminate, and restore the attic to its original state. This is just another job for SERVPRO of Vermilion County.  These Professionals will do the following in complete Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

1.  Vacuumed animal droppings throughout the attic and or insulation.
2. If the insulation has high concentration of droppings /remove the insulation and replace with new after cleaning and sterilizing.  
3. Larger debris must be picked up by hand.  
4. Nesting material such as sticks, leaves, and etc. used for nesting.  Keep in mind that often the nesting materials are often full of parasites. 
5. Clean with an antimicrobial  

When unexpected guests come your way, remember to call SERVPRO of Vermilion County (217)-443-0077. 

How To Clean A Sewage Back-Up

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom Sewage Backup

You come home to a broken pipe in your newly finished basement. The cream colored plush carpet has sewage covering every inch. There is also up to 3 inches of sewage over the baseboards and going up the white walls. 

Here is what you will need to do immediately: 

*To begin with you will need rubber boots, rubber gloves, protective eyewear, and a facemask 

*Do not let your skin come into contact with the sewage or any item that may have been contaminated. 

*Close doors between the contaminated room and other rooms 

*Use a sump pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove any water 

*Use a shovel and a very strong bag to remove the heavier debris 

*Move all contents to a separated area so it will be easier to clean and sanitize the floor 

*Remove any saturated carpet and pad, flooring, insulation, paneling, drywall, and baseboard 

*Wash down all floors, walls and affected area with hot water and appropriate bactericidal disinfectants/ followed by a deep cleaning with a brush 

*After cleaning make sure all areas are dry by using fans and dehumidifiers 

*After area is dry, check for any secondary growth or mold 

*Discard any food or porous material items that may have been contaminated 

* Any electrical, and plumbing systems checked along with any appliances that may have been contaminated 

All of the above steps should be completed to make sure your home is sanitized and safe for you and your family. 

OR 

You can make one phone call to SERVPRO of Vermilion County (217)-443-0077 and watch them do all of the work! 

Spring Duct Cleaning

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Before and After Duct Cleaning

Spring is finally here.  The grass is growing, trees and flowers are blooming all around us. It is a beautiful time of year.  However along with all of this beauty unfolding, we also have itchy noses, watery eyes, nose bleeds, sore throats and congestion.     

With all of this happening on the outside there are also things happening inside your home that may also cause these same symptoms.  Have you had construction work in your home lately? Have you had old carpet and pad removed and new carpet put down? Drywall dust, carpet dust and even pet dandruff and pet hair caught in your ducts may cause you the same symptoms.  

Now is a great time for spring cleaning, why not add duct cleaning to your spring cleaning list. Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County to schedule your duct cleaning today.   We are a Professional cleaning company and while you’re at it why not ask them for a carpet estimate to make your spring cleaning complete.

Call (217)-443-0077 today and breathe easier!

Why is SERVPRO Number 1?

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a one stop shop for you and your community. We are a company of Professionals continuing our education and strengthening our skills in the world of cleaning and restoration. This is a group of people who enjoy helping others in their time of need. 

SERVPRO is a company that is there for you during a fire. We clean structure and contents and have storage available for storing your contents until you are ready to move back to your home or business. 

We also have equipment to extract water and or sewage from homes and business. Drying equipment, fans and dehumidifiers are also available when needed. 

SERVPRO can also professionally clean mold and air ducts and HVAC cleaning to help protect you and your family's health. 

Don't forget we can still clean carpet, upholstery, and have equipment that helps neutralize and eliminate odor. 

There is also a special group of employees at SERVPRO that do the Biohazard and vandalism cleanup. They effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. This group has also used our special cleaning products that have been successful in killing viruses similar to Novel COVID-19. Our SERVPRO team has recently cleaned several public buildings including schools, and apartment complexes. 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County offers many services. We are a caring company that wants to help you, your family and your community when it's needed. All you have to do is call (217)-443-0077 and we will be there. 

Different Classes of Fires

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Difference In Fire Classes

The fire classification system is designed to categorize fires into groups based on the type of fuel involved. Each fire class is represented by a letter of the alphabet (with the electrical which are simply referred to as “electrical fires”) and an icon. This helps users to select an appropriate fire extinguisher in the event of a fire.

Class A Fires

• Solid Combustibles
• Fire involving solid combustible materials such as wood, textiles, straw, paper, coal etc.

Class B Fires

• Flammable Liquids
• Fire caused by combustion of liquids or materials that liquefy such as petrol, oils, fats, paints, tar, ether, alcohol, stearin, and paraffin.

Class C Fires

• Flammable Gases
• Fires caused by combustion of gases such as methane, propane, hydrogen, acetylene, natural gas and city gas.

Class D Fires

• Flammable Fires
• Fires involving combustibles metals such as magnesium, aluminum, lithium, sodium, potassium and their alloys. Combustible metal fires are unique industrial hazards which require special fire extinguishers.  

Class F Fires

• Combustible Cooking Media
• Fires involving particularly hot or deep oil and grease fires, such as deep fat fryers in commercial kitchens or overheated oil pan fires in homes. Normal water-based extinguishers with large droplets would cause an ‘explosion’ of stream and carry burning oils and fats from the container. Equally, a CO2 extinguishers jet would carry burning oil out of the container and also would have in-sufficient cooling effect to stop reigniting. Wet chemical extinguishers, on the other hand, lay a cooling foam layer on top of the burning fat/oil and react with the liquid, stopping air supply to the fire.

Electrical Fires

• Electrical Appliances
• Fires involving electrical appliances such as computers, electrical heaters, stereos, fuse boxes etc.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 443-0077.

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

SERVPRO 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 at SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077.

Sump Pump Failure in Your Vermilion County Home

3/15/2020 (Permalink)

Working Sump Pump System

Vermilion County has a rich history, but with this age comes the understanding that many homes have gotten constructed well before modern implements to divert water. While there is certain equipment that can get installed into your home to help contend with water that works its way in (sump pumps being a good example), these are not cure-alls to the problem that exists by any stretch of the imagination.  

Many people who have equipment like sump pumps installed in their homes understand that if this equipment were to fail one day, the result could be a significant water emergency. Without other means of water diversion like functioning French drains or adequately applied waterproofing to the exterior of your foundation, you can be dealing with flood damage to your Vermilion County home if equipment like your sump pump fails and severe weather strikes.  

The unfortunate truth about machinery and equipment like this is that it is not designed to work forever. In fact, even the best pumps are only rated to get used for a specific number of years before they require replacement. When they officially malfunction or quit altogether, the resulting water damage to your lower levels can become catastrophic. Our SERVPRO team can respond quickly in an emergency situation like this and work to keep the damage from getting worse.  

With any flooding event to your home, regardless of the cause, our restoration process remains the same. We begin with extracting the present water from the affected area. With substantial volumes, a truck-mounted pump from our fleet often gets dispatched to the site. Once the standing water gets removed, drying efforts with air movers and dehumidification equipment can begin. Other crew members may simultaneously be relocating personal belongings and furnishings to dry regions of the home if there are any.

An overall assessment can be done by our SERVPRO of Vermilion County restoration specialists to determine the cause of the flooding and offer solutions to prevent it from recurring. While the construction of your home decades ago might have left you without modern water diversion devices, there are still ways to seal up weakened areas to prevent unabated water penetration.  

When you encounter flood damage to your home, it is often something best left to professional restoration specialists like ours. We can ensure that all of the water gets successfully extracted so that there are no lingering effects for you or your family. You can reach our SERVPRO of Vermilion County emergency response team anytime at (217)443-0077.

Be Prepared for the Snow Storm Aftermath

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Snow piled around house

Did you realize that 1 inch of snow can produce almost 3,000 gallons of water per acre?  A fast melting snow could be devastating to your basement. There is also a good chance that your homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover this type of loss.  It is a good idea to be prepared for such an event.  

Instead of storing basement contents in bags or boxes you may consider using plastic totes. Plastic totes would not only keep the water out but are stackable for storing convenience.   If you have sentimental or valuable items bring them upstairs for safe keeping. In the event of fast melting snow, we are prepared to help you with extracting water from your basement.  A wet/dry vac can be used for quick extraction and prevent the water from rising out of control. Also check your sump pump, make sure it is in good working condition.

There are also things you can do to help outside of your home.  You should check your gutters and downspouts for any debris. Gutters should be cleaned of any falling leaves and debris before winter arrives.  Eliminate snow around your foundation by clearing a 5’ path around your foundation. 

Waterproofing your basement comes with a cost but insures that your basement will stay dry.  There are special waterproof paint / KILZ for smaller water leaks and of course many waterproofing companies.  The water proofing companies of course can get into thousands to fix a leaking basement.  

Remember the lightest, fluffiest snow can cause severe damage to your basement so be prepared.

Are you prepared for the storm?

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Storm moving in on the farm

Are you prepared for when a storm hits near you? Use this checklist to build your emergency kit for your necessities during a storm.  

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandannas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

SERVPRO of Vermilion County counties is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217) 443-0077 for all your Storm damage needs 24/7.

IICRC Certified

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

IICRC

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Vermilion County

SERVPRO of Vermilion 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Drip, Drip, Drip

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Assisted Living Water Loss

Not a good sound to hear anytime of the year. The day after Christmas is even worse.  A local senior housing facility had a sprinkler head malfunction in the early hours of December 26. First call was to SERVPRO to attack the issue. Several rooms and a long hallway were saturated with water. 

These water losses are tough for any business. A water loss in a senior center presents special problems.  This water issue disrupts their lives, from being displaced from their rooms to a dining hall in some instances being flooded. 

This is also very disruptive to the staff since the residence daily routine has been interrupted. They want things back to normal as quickly as possible. The staff also has to deal with the additional hazards equipment being placed to dry carpet out presents. 

Our goal at SERVPRO is to not only make it “Like it never even happened,” but to do it quickly as we can. 

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 for all your water loss needs!

3 Differences between Flood Damage and Storm Damage

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Damage from Storm

If your Vermilion County building is damaged during a storm, you might think that all of the water damage falls into one category, but this is not necessarily the case. Flood damage is actually a bit different from other types of damage caused by water. The following are a few distinctions.

1. Where the Water Comes From

Perhaps the easiest way to determine whether you are dealing with flood damage or other water damage is to figure out where the water is coming from. Generally, if the water comes from above, then it is regular water damage. This can include leaks and broken pipes. If the water is rising up from the ground, then this is always considered flood water.

2. The Level of Water Contamination

A lot of the water involved in storm damage is considered to be category 1 or clean water. Water from damaged pipes or supply lines also belongs to this category. Flood water, on the other hand, is category 3 or black water. This means that it is highly contaminated and should be avoided. This is because water from a flood mixes with sewage and other contaminants on the ground. Anything that it touches, including home contents, will need to be thrown away or thoroughly sanitized.

3. Whether It is Included in Your Insurance Policy

Another important difference between damage from a flood and damage from other water sources is that flooding is usually not included in your basic insurance policy. If you want coverage for this type of damage, then you will need to purchase a separate flood policy.
Whether you are dealing with clean water or flood damage, you will need to have it taken care for quickly to avoid further damage to your building. Moisture of any type can contribute to weakened materials or mold growth. SERVPRO of Vermilion County can remove the water and perform any necessary repairs.

Call us at 217-443-0077 at any time.

5 Common Causes to Commercial Fires

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Vet Clinic Fire

There are five common causes of fires in Commercial Buildings:

• Cooking Equipment
• Heating equipment
• Electrical & lighting equipment 
• Smoking materials
• Intentional fire setting

SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the equipment, expertise, and experience for fire cleaning and smoke damage.  A power surge affected a local business on Wednesday.  The SERVPRO of Vermilion County crews had the business up running on Thursday.  That was a 24-hour turnaround.  The crews used the hepa-vac and cleaned the first floor, basement and boarded up windows.  Crews also packed up all contents in the office where the fire began and deliver to the warehouse for storage.  The remainder of the contents on both levels were cleaned on-site.  The owner of the business was shocked but pleased that they were closed for only 1 day. You can count on SERVPRO of Vermilion County and their hard-working crew to be there for you and your business. Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 for all your fire and smoke restoration needs. We will leave it "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Cleaning & Restoration Services in Vermilion County

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning

When it comes to your business, you need a cleaning and restoration company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your employees and clients. SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the expertise and training to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We are here to help your business, no matter the size.

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

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. Most importantly, we are available 24 hours a day to restore your property and get you back to business. Our commercial restoration services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

Whether your need is removing an odor problem or deep-cleaning flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done right the first time. We’ll respond promptly and make your work space look its very best.

How to Care for gym floors

How To Care for Gym Floors in Piatt and Dewitt Counties

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 Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 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!

Why Insurance Agents Choose SERVPRO

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Stephen with State Farm Agent John Davis at the Tuscola Christmas Parade

Why Many Insurance Agents and Adjusters Use SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Vermilion County has worked with many insurance agents and claim adjusters. We understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster you have a responsibility to keep claim costs down while providing the best services possible for your clients. Here are a few reasons why so many insurance agents and adjusters trust us:

Fast Emergency Response Restoring commercial or residential property is the first priority at SERVPRO of Vermilion County. Your insurance client will appreciate our immediate response and you will know we’re doing everything we can to limit the damage and the costs.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense Like most property veterans, we know restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Our goal is always to restore whenever possible and replace only when necessary. That’s why SERVPRO of Vermilion County performs pretesting on every loss so we can determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service SERVPRO of Vermilion County can provide insurance agents and claim adjusters with an itemized loss inventory. We supply a report and pictures of important items to expedite and simplify work  for the carrier.

Serving Adjusters and Your Clients The SERVPRO professional undertakes to reassure your client, perform quality service, and report to you promptly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim. SERVPRO strives to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while maintaining control of assigned losses. We offer 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file within hours. SERVPRO of Vermilion County's documented, measured performance increases value for you, your agency, your managers, and your clients.

Here To Help  SERVPRO of Vermilion County seeks to reassure the customer, provide excellent service, and communicate with the insurance professionals quickly. We work together to provide quick and effective property restoration and make it “Like it never even happened.” We are a one-stop shop for all of your needs!

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County, 217-443-0077, 24 hours a day

Ice Damming From Winter Storms

12/11/2019 (Permalink)

Ice Damming During Winter Storms

Ice Damming Can Allow Water Damage to Vermilion County Homes

The winter is upon the area, and Vermilion County homeowners prepare for another season with significant snowfall. While many properties are virtually unaffected by the predicted snow to come, other homes are less fortunate regarding the damage that heavy snow staying on the roof of their house can do. Ice damming is among the most significant of the potential hazards that threaten the structural integrity of your roof, and this phenomenon is more common than you might think. 

While the smaller side of the concerns for ice damming on your roof is the weakening of the structure, water damage restoration in Vermilion County and maybe required when runoff and melting snow cannot find a means to leave the roof area. Ice damming occurs when melting snow beneath a fresh snowpack reaches the eaves of the roof and freezes at this point. To make matters worse, the condition continues to worsen without physically breaking them loose or having several warmer days to melt the ice. 

Our SERVPRO professionals have helped many of our customers that have dealt with ice damming and the water damages that can result from the incident. As melting snow and runoff have no means of escape from the area, and the weight of the snowpack providing immense pressure on the roof itself, liabilities become exposed and exploited by the present water. 

With efficient equipment designed to reduce overall humidity fast like our industrial-strength dehumidification machines, we can effectively bring moisture levels down to acceptable parameters in the attic space to prevent the growth of mold and fungus. With a licensed contracting division, our SERVPRO of Vermilion County franchise can assist immediately with emergency board up services and include our professional reconstruction services as part of our comprehensive restoration package that saves our customers time and money.  

Ice damming can happen to any home, even on some that have preventative measures in place to avoid it. If your home suffers water damage, let our experts help you to restore the damaged areas fast. You can reach our SERVPRO of Vermilion County emergency response team 24/7 by calling (217)443-0077

5 Common Causes to Commercial Fires

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

Vet Clinic Fire

There are five common causes of fires in Commercial Buildings:

• Cooking
• Equipment Heating
• equipment Electrical
• lighting equipment
• Smoking materials
• Intentional fire setting

SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the equipment, expertise, and experience for fire cleaning and smoke damage.  A power surge affected a local business on Wednesday.  The SERVPRO of Vermilion County crews had the business up running on Thursday.  That was a 24-hour turnaround.  The crews used the hepa-vac and cleaned the first floor, basement and boarded up windows.  Crews also packed up all contents in the office where the fire began and deliver to the warehouse for storage.  The remainder of the contents on both levels were cleaned on-site.  The owner of the business was shocked but pleased that they were closed for only 1 day. You can count on SERVPRO of Vermilion County and their hard-working crew to be there for you and your business. Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 for all your fire and smoke damage needs. We will leave it like it never even happened.

Unseen water

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know it only takes 1 to 2 inches of water to begin damaging your property?  Any type of water leak no matter the size can turn into much larger damage if not treated when discovered.  Unseen water can soak through carpets, walls, and pool on sub-floors causing big problems over time. The faster water is removed the less chance of possible serious damage.  That's why SERVPRO of Vermilion County is ready to spring into action anytime day or night to prevent these damages.  With the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, the affected area is quickly and thoroughly dried.  This is important to prevent secondary water damage from occurring. Water that is hidden can also contain bacteria and causes mold growth. This can cause rotting along with a big health hazard.  A mop and common box fan will not fully take care of water damage issues. That's why it is very important to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion  at (217)443-0077 for any water damage recovery.

Table Can Be Cleaned After Fire

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire table can be cleaned up instead of disposed of.

Some people may look at this table covered with soot from a house fire and believe that it is a total loss.  However, these items are not a challenge for the crew at SERVPRO of Vermilion County!  The crews are trained and have the proper products for this kind of fire clean up. It took one employee and about forty-five minutes to bring this table back to life. When the customer came to view his items, he could not believe his eyes. SERVPRO was not only able to clean and restore his table but also remove all of the smoke odor. He did not know the powers of SERVPRO of Vermilion County. Call us at 217-443-0077 for all your fire clean up and restoration needs.

3 Tips for Conducting Workplace Emergency Drills

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

The International Fire Code recommends having a fire drill every 90 days

3 Tips for Conducting Workplace Emergency Drills

You probably participated in a fire drill when you were in school. Well, disaster drills are just as important for businesses in Vermilion County. An unexpected event, such as a fire, severe storm or flood can stir up a lot of fear, panic, and chaos. Conducting drills conditions your workers to react properly under these stressful conditions. Below are a few tips to keep your plan running smoothly.

1. Implement a Schedule

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends regular drill sessions because it's the best way to prepare employees for an unexpected event. The number of drills your company needs to conduct can vary based on the following factors:

• Employee turnover rates
• Employee schedules
• Workplace risk factors
• State laws
• Local municipality laws or codes
• Industry-specific guidelines
  

For example, there are recommendations for fire drills. The International Fire Code recommends having a fire drill every 90 days. 

2. Keep the Drill Unpredictable

There are two types of crisis drills: planned and unplanned. The former is less disruptive to employee workflow and productivity. While it's more convenient, it's not the most effective approach. Often employees don't take planned drills seriously. On the other hand, an unannounced drill keeps staff on its toes. With this approach, employees are more likely to find the best and safest building exits during a real-life catastrophe.

3. Evaluate Each Drill

You can learn a lot from conducting post-drill evaluations. You can see what worked. You can identify problem areas. From there, you can devise an effective solution. Ongoing testing provides valuable feedback that helps employees remain safe during and after a crisis. 

Stay Prepared

A workplace fire drill (or another disaster drill) enhances employee safety. Practicing evacuations on a regular basis helps them remain calm when seeking safety in the midst of an unexpected disaster. Whether it’s a crisis ranging from a fire to a flood, you want to restore daily business operations as quickly as possible. You can do that with emergency restoration services in Vermilion County.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County - (217)443-0077

Don't Delay Get OUT of Fire's Way!

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial buildings mistakes are never an option. Commercial building owners should go the extra mile to protect their properties from any sort of damage that could occur. Here are a few tips to protect your building and the people in them.

Alarms

Fire and smoke alarms are the first defense for commercial buildings when a fire occurs.

Dos include:

• Ensuring the alarm system is regularly inspected in line with regulation
• Maintaining documentation surrounding alarm activity and maintenance
• Testing your alarm system regularly to ensure proper function
• Creating an action plan for building residents for when the alarm is set off

Don’ts:

• Downplaying or brushing off the need to have regular maintenance and testing for your fire alarm system

Extinguishers and Suppression Systems

Extinguishers can be used by individuals to manage small fires while suppression systems can help prevent serious damage on a larger scale.

Dos:

• Conducting regular tests to ensure proper function and pressure
• Scheduling routine maintenance through contractors
• Storing extinguishers in a clear and open space that makes them easily accessible
• Providing proper training for occupants

Don’ts:

• Putting off regularly scheduled inspections and tests to ensure function
• Neglecting to train occupants on proper extinguisher use and handling
• Keeping extinguishers in an area that is cluttered, difficult to get to, or where heat is constantly present

 Lighting

In the case of emergencies like a fire, emergency lighting sources should be available in order to provide occupants with a safe pathway from the building.

Dos:

• Installing lighting throughout the building to provide effective light in all occupied areas
• Scheduling regular maintenance and inspection

Don’ts :

• Failing to install proper lighting
• Neglecting to have regular maintenance and inspection

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is always here to help you in your time of need. Reach out to us 24/7 at (217)443-0077, we can make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

Ceiling Tile Discoloration: Culprits and Causes

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage on ceiling tile can indicate a bigger problem.

Imagine it, you’ve found the perfect home for your business, with just one or two pesky discolored ceiling tiles. It’s not a big deal, right? Not quite. Beyond being unsightly, ceiling tile discoloration can have serious causes, from water damage to tile mold. Before you overlook a stain or two, learn some of their top causes in Minot ND.

About Ceiling Tiles

Dropped tile ceilings are a common go-to for many commercial buildings across the country. Reasons include:

• Affordability
• Easy removal for access to HVAC and electrical system
• Clean, simple appearance

Drop tiles can create a pleasant, conservative look but can quickly take on a downright ugly appearance when they become stained. Here are some of the reasons that happen.

Age
Dropped tile ceilings have been popular for decades and in some buildings, have been in place for that long. The older the tiles the more likely they’ve been exposed to cigarette smoke and other pollutants. The result can be a darker color that may be impossible to get rid of.

Water Damage
Brown spots are often the biggest giveaway to a leak somewhere above the tile. They often start small and radiate outward over time. Beyond being an eyesore, these spots often signal bigger problems like tile mold, and should never be ignored.

Lighting
The ultraviolet light so common in offices is not great for ceiling tiles. Over time, tiles exposed to UV rays can take on a sickly hue that isn’t very attractive. 

From water leaks and tile mold to harsh light, there are lots of things that can trigger tile discoloration. When you see tile discoloration, it’s worth the time and money to replace the tile. Because tile mold can spread, if you suspect water damage is the culprit, make sure you consult a mold remediation company like SERVPRO. It could save you expense and headaches in the long run. 

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for all your emergency service needs 24/7 at (217)443-0077. We are always here to help make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

What Does a Commercial Property Insurance Policy Cover?

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in Vermilion County

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

Whether your business is big or small, new or old, property insurance is something you need. Despite how far reaching these policies are, there are important things that they don’t cover. Do you know the difference? Learn more about what commercial insurance can cover and how it benefits your Vermilion County, business.

Commercial policies are known for covering your building and all its contents, as well as things immediately outside of it. That list is long and can include:

• Computers
• Inventory
• Furniture
• Signs
  

But for all the things they do cover, these policies have many things they don’t cover. Knowing what those are can be important to avoiding complications following a disaster.

Weather Damage

Some commercial insurance policies limit coverage of damage caused by things like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. Policies that do provide such coverage may have limitations, such as not covering outdoor property such as company vehicles or fences. It’s generally worthwhile to check your policy if you’re in a weather disaster-prone area.

Disaster Cleanup

Commercial property insurance typically is meant to float a company through a great loss, natural or manmade. But that doesn’t always mean it will cover the costs of cleaning, rebuilding, repairing, and such following the loss. Discuss what is covered and isn’t with regards to mitigation and remediation well in advance of a disaster so you don’t get a rude awakening. 

Outdoor Property

Most policies limit their coverage to items inside the building, but some will cover property up to a certain distance away. This can be critical when it comes to damage to satellite dishes, fences, signs and other outdoor property.

Bills from fire damage or another business catastrophe can be enough to send a commercial property under. But the story doesn’t have to end that way. Learn the ins and outs of commercial insurance policies, and you’ll know what to look for to protect your business. 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County - (217)443-0077

The Stress-Free Guide to Flushing a Water Heater

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Flushing a water heater in Vermilion County

When is the last time you flushed your water heater? It’s nice to think of it minding its own business and working perfectly with no assistance. However, as the unit operates, it will likely become clogged with debris and minerals that can shorten its lifespan. The best maintenance practice for this household staple is to perform a water heater flush every few years, especially if you have hard water in Vermilion County.

No Rush, Just Flush

Here is a cheat sheet to keep handy as you flush your water heater.

1) Establish whether you have a gas or electric unit. If it’s gas, turn off the thermostat, then the gas valve. If it’s electric, switch off the heater’s power breaker. 
2) Find the cold water supply valve; switch it off. 
3) Run a hot water tap in a sink to keep water flowing through the pipes.
4) Find the pressure relief valve. Place a basin underneath and carefully open the valve, avoiding the hot water discharge. 
5) While the water in the tank cools, set up a garden hose with one end in a large bucket.
6) Once the water is cool, connect the hose to the tank’s drainage spigot. Turn on the spigot and watch the water that emerges in the bucket until it is sediment-free and clean. 
7) Flush! Turn on the cold water supply valve into the tank. Let the water run until the hose water runs clean again. 
8) When you are satisfied with the water quality, start reassembling everything. Turn off the drainage, remove the hose, and close the pressure relief valve again. Wait until the tank is full again from the cold water supply; once it is, open the pressure relief valve. Check another sink in the house to let out any air. Either turn the gas back on and light the pilot light or flip the breaker switch back on. In half an hour, check your sinks for hot water. 

Congratulations! You have successfully flushed your water heater. Clean up, cross the task off your to-do list and relax this weekend. Don't feel like taking these steps yourself? You can always enlist the help of professional water restoration services.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County - (217)443-0077

Fire Damage Specialists

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

No one ever expects horrible things to happen inside their beautiful home.  House fires are something that most people think will never happen to them.  However, mishaps do take place, and one day it is possible that you have a fire inside your home.

Accidents happen, and many people find themselves in a situation where a minor fire starts in their home. If this ever happens to you, it's a good idea to call SERVPRO of Vermilion County's fire damage experts.  Some people have small fires start inside their home, and they can quickly put it out. 

However, even though you may not see an excessive amount of burn damage where the fire started it is still wise to call in SERVPRO of Vermilion County to inspect the damage.  Many times a fire causes damage that is not in the exact area of the source of the blaze.  When a fire burns, it creates an excessive amount of smoke that spreads to all areas of your home.

The smoke a fire produces can cause a surprising amount of damage.  It can cause soot residue to build up on surfaces not close to where the fire started.  A fire started in one room could possibly create odors that are present in other areas of your home.  A fire sometimes embeds an unpleasant burn smell into contents inside your home.

Any of these issues, if not treated correctly, might result in permanent damage to your home.  When you call in the professionals, it is now up to them to figure out every area of fire or smoke damage may have affected.  Our staff is highly skilled at diagnosing in every unique situation.  Our experienced team knows how to find things that get ruined in the most unexpected places.  Our team also knows the best procedures and practices we can use to mitigate the problem.

We are IICRC certified and skilled in all areas of fire damage restoration.  Our team uses the best equipment available in the industry to remove damage caused by the fire. 

3 Items To Toss Away After a House Fire

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Items inside your Vermilion County, home can be affected by fire in different ways.

When a fire affects your Vermilion County, home, you may be left wondering how to restore your valued belongings and what to throw away. While circumstances vary, there are a few possessions that may need to be tossed to ensure the safety of your family. As you work to return your home to normal, there are several common household items you should consider replacing once they have endured a fire. 

1. Medicine

The effectiveness of some medicines may be impacted once they have been exposed to high heat. When you can re-enter your home safely, check your medicine cabinet or other areas where you store prescription medications. If the plastic bottles appear warped or have been exposed to fire extinguisher dust, they should be thrown away. Ask your pharmacy about replacement options and whether you can be compensated for lost meds. 

2. Cosmetics

When some cosmetics suffer fire damage, they may no longer be safe to apply to your skin. Any cosmetics left out on vanities or dressers in rooms affected by the fire should be disposed of, as they might be coated with soot or ash that is difficult to see. It’s better to err on the side of caution, even if you take a loss on what you spent for your makeup. 

3. Canned Foods 

While you may be able to sanitize canned foods after a flood, fire and extreme temperatures can change the contents in ways that water cannot. Inspect your pantry’s contents carefully and throw away cans, dried goods and packages that have been visibly burned, appear warped or are coated with dried extinguisher foam. 

Items inside your Vermilion County, home can be affected by fire in different ways. Knowing what to throw away after a blaze can protect your family from the possible contaminants that may be lurking in everyday items. For more information, visit https://www.SERVPROvermilioncounty.com/

Do You Have a Water Loss Emergency Plan For Your Vermilion County Retail Store?

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to develop a comprehensive Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP) for a water disaster.

Ensure a Fast Professional Response to Commercial Water Damage in Vermilion County with a SERVPRO Emergency Response Plan

Risk anticipation and a plan to minimize harm are smart moves for retail shop owners in Manhattan. Businesses work hard to attract and retain loyal customers. Disastrous circumstances such as flooding or other water loss can drive loyal clients of your goods and services to another source if you are unprepared. The results our trained and well-equipped work crews achieve when we are familiar with your business layout and operations can have you back on track quickly. 

Water damage in your Vermilion County shop can trace to many different causes. Plumbing lines can break, appliance hoses or connections can crack or dislodge, and neighboring business or residential tenants in the same or adjoining building can create water emergencies that affect your space. Your sales floor, storerooms, offices, and other areas all can suffer damage. Inventory, equipment, and documents risk ruin. 

You have backup strategies for other aspects of your business. SERVPRO can help you develop a comprehensive Emergency Ready Plan and Profile (ERP) for a water disaster. The more we know about the physical layout of your store, the location of utility lines, and how you conduct your operations, the better we can serve your needs if a water crisis exposes you to loss. 

An experienced SERVPRO Marketer assesses your space. We create a digital “footprint” of all the space you occupy, evaluate the water loss vulnerabilities of equipment and goods in all areas, and discuss your operations to gain a firm grasp of how your business works. We make suggestions to limit the impact of an unexpected water event, including effective ways to shield inventory, documents, and the tools of your trade before water intrudes. 

You personalize the ERP by using our mobile app to add essential details to the overall plan. Identify and provide contact information for vendors and contractors who sold or leased equipment or developing systems for your shop. Designate trusted employees to act in your stead if water damage occurs when you are unavailable. Make it clear you choose SERVPRO to provide emergency water damage mitigation so we can respond immediately. 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County protects your business best if we arrive at your water loss scenario with an easily accessible digital plan. Call us at (217) 443-0077 to prepare jointly to be Faster to any size disaster.   

How To Handle Water Dripping From Your Light Fixture

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water in light fixtures can be a scary sight

How To Handle Water Dripping From Your Light Fixture

If you’ve ever seen water in light fixtures on your ceiling, you know it can set off a panic. Everyone knows electricity and water do not mix, so it requires immediate action. The following steps can guide you through the process and keep everyone safe in your Vermilion County, home.

1. Turn Off the Electricity and Water

Do not touch the light fixture; instead, the first step is to turn off your electricity. Water conducts electricity, and there is a real risk of shock or even a fire when water surrounds electric wiring. Assuming water is coming from an unknown or external source (such as rain from a leaky roof), turn off your home’s water supply. This will help you contain the leak and prevent further ceiling damage.

2. Call the Professionals

It can be tempting to try a do-it-yourself approach when you notice water in light fixtures, but it’s really a job for professional water and restoration specialists. You, of course, will need someone to address the plumbing issue or leaking roof; however, you also must make sure to fully dry the area to prevent mold damage. A ceiling is a difficult place to dry out yourself, and it can appear dry while still hiding moisture.

3. Prevent Future Problems

If you’ve had ceiling damage from a burst pipe, your focus after cleanup should be on how to prevent it from happening in the future. If the leak was caused by pipes freezing and bursting, you can avoid this by keeping one or two faucets slowly dripping in extremely cold temperatures. Try to keep the home the same temperature at night as it is during the day, and open kitchen or bathroom cabinets to allow warm air in. Professionals can also help reduce water pressure and soften water, which both help relieve stress on pipes.

Water in light fixtures can be a scary sight. Make sure to shut off electricity and water and call professionals to help clean it up. You also can take several steps to prevent future problems to help make the situation more manageable.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for all your emergency service needs. Reach out to us 24/7 at 443-0077. We are always here to help you in your time of need to make your disaster "Like it never even happened."

How Professionals Clean Fire Extinguisher Residue From Your Manhattan Apartment

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire suppression systems requires special cleanup.

Restoring Fire Suppression Damages in Your Vermilion County Apartment

Over range, fire suppression systems are becoming more and more common throughout Vermilion County homes and properties to reduce the fast spreading nature of kitchen flare-ups. While these might quickly put out a potential fire, it does not happen without damages and a mess of its own to face. Powder suppression can spread the extinguishing material throughout the affected area, and when coupled with smoke and soot damage from the small fire, can become problematic to overcome without the right training and equipment.

After a small kitchen flare-up that engaged the suppression system, you get your first look at the fire damage in your Vermilion County property. Residues from powder, smoke, and soot affect many of the surfaces in the immediate area and cleaning these as promptly as possible can reduce the possibility of staining. If the damage stays primarily contained within the kitchen, our SERVPRO team can isolate this area with the use of thick plastic sheeting and other containment strategies.

The wipe down process can reduce and eliminate a large portion of this residue from surfaces within the affected areas. Quickly cleaning these damaged surfaces can help to reduce the possibility of requiring replacement of certain materials by protecting and preserving cabinets, appliances, flooring, ceilings, and even the HVAC system if soot, smoke, and residual powder get pulled into the ductwork.

Lingering odors are another problem that property owners face after a kitchen fire. Our SERVPRO professionals have advanced equipment like our hydroxyl generators that can help to significantly reduce or permanently eliminate noxious odors throughout this kitchen area. The containment that isolated this affected region of your home can help to ensure the effectiveness of the deodorizing equipment.

Powder suppression systems can sometimes cause more of a mess than smaller fires that they work to prevent. Whether you need cleanup or a full restoration to your fire-damaged structure, our SERVPRO of Vermilion County restoration technicians can help.

Our rapid response team is available 24/7 by calling (217) 443-0077. We always help you in your time of need, "Like it never even happened."

Before, During, & After a Storm

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Keep these things in mind when prepping for, going through, or after a storm.

As your local restoration company, SERVPRO of Pflugerville is here to help you make storm damage "Like it never even happened."

Here are some tips for before, during, and after a storm:

BEFORE THE STORM

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.
• Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home or hard top vehicle (not a convertible).
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

DURING THE STORM

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Avoid contact with a plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

AFTER THE STORM 

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Follow this advice, and heed the warnings from your local news and weather channels to keep your property and loved ones safe through to the other side of the storms. 

Should you need restoration services, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County any time of day or night, and we will see to it that your property is restored properly and quickly.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County - (217)433-0077

Cleaning the Air after a Flood

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a flood is no picnic.  Even after all damaged materials have been removed and the ground floor has been thoroughly dried and cleaned, the smell of mold and sewage can linger for weeks or even months. If your home was recently in a flood, and you’re tired of your home reeking like mold growth and black water, your Vermilion County SERVPRO flood restoration team offers these few odor removal tips that may be of use to you. 

Steps for Cleaning the Air 

Cleaning the air is fairly simple and involves a few common household items.

• Cat Litter: Cat litter is designed to soak up odors, so place a little bit in each room. Change it out periodically to make sure that it absorbs as much of the residual odor as possible. 
• Vinegar: Place bowls of vinegar throughout your home, and in just a few days, your home will be smelling as fresh as it was pre-flood. 
• Baking Soda: In addition to using baking soda on your carpets, you can also use it to zap odors from the air. 

Mold growth can really stink up your home. To get rid of that bad smell, try utilizing the tips above from your SERVPRO of Vermilion County water damage team. 

Reach us at (217)443-0077!

How to Clean A Crawlspace

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

In order to keep your crawlspace dry, you must dry it under negative pressure. This means drying through suction, pulling air out, rather than blowing air in. The suction drying technique is achieved by a dehumidifier drying the air in the room at the same time as a turbine creates high negative pressure in the structure. In other words, in order for negative pressure to be present, more air must be removed from the crawlspace that is added to space. If positive pressure is used to dry a crawlspace, exfiltration will occur, pushing particulate and odors into the living space of the structure.

Even the cleanest crawlspace is filled with dust, mold spores, dead insects, or worse. Our SERVPRO of Vermilion County professionals uses a manometer to verify the negative pressure.

Why should you call a professional to clean out your crawlspace? For one, crawlspaces are dangerous places that must be entered with the right safety gear. If there is mold or other contaminants present, you must use the correct equipment and chemicals to clean and dry the area. If you need to inspect and clean your crawlspace, your SERVPRO team of Vermilion County is available 24/7, (217)443-0077.  [JB]

Blood Cleanup Done Right

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Cleanup of Blood Stains Done with Empathy and Care

A blood spill of any type is considered a biohazard. The personal nature of such a spill makes it more difficult for the homeowner or renter as well as the restoration company called in to remediate it. It is not enough to just spray down the contaminated area and then wipe it up.

Blood clean-up in Vermilion County needs a full-service agency. The company you choose must be trained in not just EPA and state cleaning procedures, but one that recognizes the personal component as well. SERVPRO technicians understand that there was most likely a sensitive situation which led to this and they must respect not only the residents but the person or persons who are no longer present. 

Removing blood stains and congealed, pooled blood require special cleaning agents designed to neutralize pathogens. Trauma examples include HIV, Hepatitis A, B, and C along with other infectious diseases not found in other biohazards. To accomplish this, we use one or more of the anti-bacterial agents in our chemical inventory. 

In addition to the pathogen threat, conventional cleaning agents do not always react well with blood or other bodily fluids. Even if they do successfully clean the surface of floors or walls, there is usually a stain or ring left to indicate where the spill occurred. Such a remainder does not meet our standard of cleaning, and if there is a stain after we finish cleaning, we often recommend repainting or removing and replacing the affected section of drywall, floor or ceiling. 

No matter the cause of the spill, we understand that it is a personal matter. None of our technicians will ask for details beyond what we need to clean and restore your home to its original state. We want to make certain that no one on our team inadvertently says something to the press or your neighbors. 

Clean up after any biohazard is not easy. When it involves a personal issue, the requirement for discretion is almost as important as cleaning up the affected area itself.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County wants to help in any way we can as we return your home to its normal condition. If you need us, call today at (217)443-0077.  [JB]

4 Ways To Prevent Mold in Your Vacant Rental Property

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

During summer months, mold prevention becomes more difficult because hot, humid weather creates the perfect conditions for mold.

In an ideal world, your rental property always has tenants. Sometimes a property will remain vacant for weeks or even months, and an empty property is at risk for developing mold growth. In general, this fungus is relatively harmless unless it grows indoors where it creates an unpleasant environment. Follow these mold prevention tips now so that you don’t end up paying more for a mitigation specialist in Vermilion County to perform a cleanup later.

1. Turn off the water and drain the lines.

If you expect a property to be vacant for any length of time, turn off your water using the main shut-off valve and open all the taps to allow water to drain out of the plumbing lines. Especially in the winter months when pipes can freeze and burst, turning off the water eliminates the possibility of plumbing leaks that can cause water damage. Preventing moisture from collecting anywhere is the number one key to mold prevention. 

2. Do repairs first.

Before you close the property, have your contractor check for roof and outer wall leaks, clean the gutters and make sure your sump pump is in good condition. Minor repairs can turn into expensive problems later if rainwater is leaking into your building and creating the moist conditions that mold loves. 

3. Leave the heat on low...

You may want to save money by shutting off utilities while the building is vacant. However, the money you may save pales in comparison to the cost of paying a mold mitigation specialist in Champaign-Urbana, to restore your property. During cool weather, keeping the heat on low keeps the house from becoming too damp and encouraging mold spores to settle and grow. 

4. ... or leave the A/C running.

During summer months, mold prevention becomes more difficult because hot, humid weather creates the perfect conditions for mold. However, keeping the air conditioner running pulls moisture from the air, keeping your property’s environment cool and dry. When new tenants arrive, there won’t be any musty odors or mold problems to contend with. For more information, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County, (217)355-0077.  [JB]

Every Second Counts

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.

This reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here are some key messages to employ:

• Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

via http://www.nfpa.org/

Have you contacted your local fire department? See how you can get involved with them and your community to prevent house fires. Sometimes they will have events or give out smoke detectors for your home. Don't think this could never happen to you because it easily could. We don't have control over everything in our homes! Be safe and have a plan!  [JB]

Reach SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)443-0077.

Levels of Commercial Damage in Vermilion County

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Vermilion County handles not only residential damage and restoration but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)443-0077.

Residential Lightning Damage Happens More than You Think

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Strikes happen an average of twice a year!

Here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we can help you with fire damages caused by lightning strikes. When the lightning hits a residence, it travels through the electrical lines to one of the home’s electrical boxes, which can catch fire. These fires can leave severe damage, including smoke damage to your home. SERVPRO of Vermilion County mitigation team has the ability to do a chem-sponge technique that is used to clean soot off of the walls. In doing this, SERVPRO of Vermilion County can ensure that no fire damage or smoke damage goes untreated. If needed, affected walls in all damaged rooms can be painted after the cleanup is completed and drywall replaced where necessary. Our professional in-house crew use a white-glove treatment on your residence and can complete the entire project quickly; from the first contact to completion. Here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, we are proud to serve the residents of Danville, Illinois, especially when the worst happens. Why chose SERVPRO? Because in the event of fire or water damage, large or small, we’re here to help. Call us in Vermilion County at (217)443-0077.  [JB]

How clean is the air in your office?

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

Indoor air quality is a major concern for businesses, building managers, tenants, and employees. Clean air impacts the health, comfort, well being, and productivity of building occupants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says most Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors and many spend most of their working hours in an office environment.

More Pollution Inside Than Outside
Studies conducted by the EPA and others show that indoor environments sometimes can have levels of pollutants that are higher than levels found outside. Pollutants in commercial buildings and other indoor environments can increase the risk of illness. The EPA and independent scientific panels have consistently ranked indoor air pollution as an important environmental health problem. While most buildings do not have severe indoor air quality problems, even well-run buildings can sometimes experience episodes of poor indoor air quality.

How To Improve The Air Inside Your Commercial Building
Some simple steps can have a big impact on the quality of the air inside your commercial building:

• Don’t block air vents or grills.
  • Comply with the office and building smoking policy.
  • Water and maintain office plants properly.
  • Dispose of garbage promptly and properly.
  • Store food properly.
  • Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants.
  • Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem.

Interested in discussing cleaning needs for your property? Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077.

Leave the Board-up Services to the Professionals

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

Our teams are ready to Help!

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disasters, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through—especially if it is your property that has been damaged. Our teams specialize in keeping your property safe from any further damages that might come arise.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself. We are also concerned about keeping your belongings safe and not exposed to multiple elements or theft. Your SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of Vermilion County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Danville area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions?

Call Us 24/7 – (217) 443-0077

Using Your Portable Generator Safely

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let your generator cause damages to your home

GENERATOR SAFETY

 We all have been there when the power in your home or business decides to shut off caused by bad weather or a community outage. The first thing you think about is how to take action to find a power source to get you back up and running. Many businesses and residential properties have the convenience of a backup generator located nearby. With the operation of a generator do you know the first things to keep in mind to stay safe while using one?

If you have a generator on hand for power outages during severe weather, follow the safety tips below from the American Red Cross:

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or any partially enclosed area.
• To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
• Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the home. Although CO can’t be seen or smelled, it can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home or property and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

If you have an emergency and need our help fast call us immediately!

SERVPRO of Vermilion County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Danville area we can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (217) 443-0077

Surgical Water Restoration

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Imagine you come home for lunch on a Wednesday afternoon and you walk into your living room covered with 8 inches of water.

What do you do?

Who do you call?

Do you call your family, friend, a local contractor, or Water Restoration Company?

What is the difference?

There are many differences between contractors and Water Restoration Companies. Here are a few:

• A contractor’s job is to replace everything that is affected. This will include all flooring, walls, cabinets and even furniture. SERVPRO is certified in drying water damage to industry standards. We will not remove materials unless it is necessary. This prevents further interruption to your daily life.
• A contractor will have to replace all of the materials they took out of your home. This can take weeks waiting for material decisions, insurance approval, shipping, and installation time. SERVPRO’s average drying time is only 3 days. We have crews available 24/7/356 and someone to monitor your job daily.
• Replacing flooring, drywall, and all of your furniture is expensive. Restoring your home is a lot less expensive than replacing everything in your home.

When you call SERVPRO of Vermilion County you can expect a First Responder on site within an hour and your home to be restored quickly by certified, professional technicians. Reach us at (217)443-0077.

[JB}

Science of Drying

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

The knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. Your first reaction will be to grab towels and a mop to clean up the water, maybe even a fan or two. Our professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. SERVPRO of Vermilion County will inspect to detect everything that is wet, measure how much moisture is in the wet materials, monitor whether the materials are drying properly, and also speed up the process by using professional drying equipment. 

We use the latest technology and tools; The SERVPRO DryBook allows us to capture and track the steps of a restoration project according to industry best practices and standards. This will ensure that your restoration is done properly and efficiently as well as improving results and restoring your property faster! 

Contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)443-0077.

[JB]

Water Damage Timeline

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

 48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

 More Than 1 Week:

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

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County 24/7 at (217)443-0077!

[JB]

Maintaining your HVAC and Avoiding Poor Indoor Air

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure the HVAC in your home or office is checked regularly to avoid poor indoor air quality.

As the winter chill melts away with the warmth of the sun, that can only mean one thing – the scorching hot days are around the corner. The new season is not just for spring cleaning, it is also a great time to check the HVAC system in your home and office. Checking it twice a year (the fall and the spring are the best times) will extend the life of your unit and will let you breathe better air. If the ductwork of your home or business has not been checked in a while, the air quality can be poor and lead to:

• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Pollen
• Dust
• Other contaminants

Our professionals routinely clean and inspect heating, ventilation and air conditioner unit (or the HVAC). Give us at SERVPRO of Vermilion County, 217-443-0077 to have one of our experts go out and inspect it before those heat waves come.  [JB]

Cleaning Your Air Ducts, Is it Really That Important?

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Ever think about what inside your air vents could look like?

Did you know that, in certain circumstances, Duct Cleaning can increase your efficiency by up to 40%? That's a lot of money back into your pocket every month. Duct Cleaning is a process that can differ depending on each air system we come across, but the end result is the same... clean-air, and more healthy home and atmosphere. We use special equipment to ensure the safety of the air quality in your home. This includes special filters, ventilation equipment, containment barriers, and more. (For safety reasons, professional duct cleaning is often performed when your home is unoccupied, such as nights and weekends)

Here are some preventative actions you can take to reduce your need for Duct Cleaning.

1. You should be changing your air filter on a regular basis.
2. Try to always maintain good housekeeping practices, including regular cleaning/dusting to reduce the likelihood of contaminants.
3. Have your duct-work routinely inspected, and regularly schedule professional maintenance.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County

(217)443-0077

24-Hour Emergency Service

Independently Owned and Operated

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

When Vandalism Strikes, Here's What To Do

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Unwanted graffiti can be a hassle to clean without the professionals on your side.

The sad fact is that graffiti happens all the time. It can be a senior prank in high school or out of sheer intentional mischief. Whatever the reason was, it decreases the overall beauty of the school or office building. SERVPRO of Vermilion County has a few suggestions when you first discover the graffiti.

DO:

• Vacuum any glass particles that may have ended up in carpets and upholstery
• Hose down or wash any egg damage from the building exterior as soon as possible
• Save any containers with the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics, and paints
• Make sure to keep a record of all damage when possible. Pictures work best to document everything.

If you are in need of commercial cleaning services, give us a ring at 217-443-0077.  [JB]

Competitive Restoration Prices

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to pricing for the restoration work we provide, you will never find hidden costs or misleading fees.

You will always get the great quality work SERVPRO Vermilion County is known for at a reasonable price. When we create estimates for our customers, we use the exact same program that insurance companies use. This program shows us the different services we offer and provides us a dollar amount.   

With 29 years of experience under our belts, it is safe to say we are seasoned. We have the knowledge to know where the loss of your disaster came from and what we need to do to fix it. As a nationally (and internationally) known and respected brand, you can trust that you are in the best hands to handle the emergency.

Don’t be tricked with other companies claiming cheaper prices. Oftentimes, we receive “fix-it” jobs left from the other guys. We understand how frustrating it can be to have a company work on your home, just to have to call us to finish what they started.

There are many businesses out there claiming they have the greatest quality work at the cheapest prices. With SERVPRO of Vermilion County on your side, you will receive honest quality estimates and honest, quality work ALWAYS. Give us a call at 217-443-0077 and we will work with you every step of the way.   [JB]

Soda Blasting – Everything you need to know

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Soda Blasting involves one of the softer abrasive blasting materials, rating an average 2.4 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (1-10). Most abrasive blasting cabinets aim to maximize abrasive recycles and minimizing dust collector service, and for this reason, most sandblasting uses harder abrasives like plastic and glass beads. Soda blasting is the exception, a one-time-use abrasive, used for special applications when recycling abrasive is not important.

Soda Blasting: The Good

The main advantage of soda blasting is it’s a cost-efficient, single-use abrasive. Although recycling abrasive is the name of the game for most abrasive blasting applications, there are a few special applications not needing to recycle abrasive. Onetime use abrasives are used for applications like ship cleaning that require huge amounts of abrasive – it typically takes one million pounds of abrasive for an average ship – or maybe a smaller amount for the back bed of an old truck. Additionally, soda is the primary abrasive to clean oily parts because once it removes the oil; the abrasive doesn’t cycle back through to hit the part again. Soda is also water soluble making sure no abrasive remains in critical bearing areas!

Six Rules for Soda Blasting Success

1. Always use a direct pressure abrasive delivery system that uses lower blasting pressure to maximize abrasive velocity without reaching maximum soda impact velocity
2. Never blast using more than 30 to 35 psi pressure when using direct pressure delivery
3. Always use a ghost flow out the nozzle to prevent Soda flooding and or slower cleaning
4. Use equipment designs that understand the proper use of soda and collection of spent soda
5. Know that soda used at higher pressure will surface etch and change part metallurgy.
6. Exceeding maximum impact velocity will simply create a failed soda blasting cabinet with a failed dust collector.

Soda Blasting: The Bad

Because soda is now so popular, manufacturers and retailers are offering sub par quality soda blast cabinet to make a quick buck. They do not know the nuances of soda as an abrasive nor do they understand its limitations.

Yes, soda has important characteristics, but it’s not a magic bullet. Soda cannot be recycled the way other abrasives like steel shot, steel grit, silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, garnet, and ceramic, glass or plastic beads. Being that soda is so soft; it explodes into tiny fragments upon impact with the object being blasted. Additionally, soda abrasive doesn’t work harden the part being cleaned because it’s meant to be used a low abrasive velocity.

Soda Blasting: The Ugly

Today, because of the need for a soluble abrasive like soda, you see everyone selling soda blasting cabinets. Unless you have very few parts to blast or blast only a few times a month for minutes all these blasting cabinets that are supposed to contain the soda will soon be the biggest mess you could possibly imagine all with failed dust collectors.

The problem is that some retailers sell cheap slag and soda to blast cabinet operators. Often, the operator thinks the soda can be recycled and runs the machine in excess of 60 psi in a siphon delivery system or 30-35 psi in a direct pressure delivery system. This causes the abrasive to explode on impact, severely reducing visibility and simultaneously creating tiny particles that are sucked into the dust collector – leaving the cabinet kaput.

Pro Tip: If the dust collector gets packed with soda abrasive, the blasting cabinet fails, it’s that simple. 

Media Blast offers three duty cycle soda cabinet models: the Blizzard Soda Blast Cabinet, the N-200 Soda and the Pro Soda. Each is matched to a specific usage – recreational to industrial. Each model provides users an environmentally friendly clean part with its original finish intact, free from trace oil residue. If you think soda blasting is right for your application, Media Blast can supply you with a soda blast cabinet with superior visibility that keeps soda out of the dust collector to ensure your needs are met with minimal machine maintenance.

Learn more about SERVPRO and Soda Blasting by contacting our Vermilion County office at (217)443-0077! Any time day or night, someone is ready to take your call. 

Have you Considered upgrading your commercial HVAC system?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner you know how important it is to have a fully functioning HVAC system.  If you don’t your employees and customers will let you know.  It will be hot or cold and you really are trying to keep it going and keep people comfortable.  Maybe your HVAC system is older and not functioning properly?  You may be thinking to yourself that is too expensive… but in the long run, it may be worth it.  

Here are five reasons to consider upgrading your HVAC System from

Increase Energy Efficiency

Lower operating costs should be one of your biggest goals. Even if it isn’t as much of a priority now, there’s still time to resolve to change now that the New Year has begun. One fantastic way to increase energy efficiency is to upgrade your current commercial HVAC system. Did you know that a newer system can allow for smaller energy consumption – by about 30%, in fact.

Maintain Your Good Reputation

Many businesses depend on a stellar reputation to ensure that they thrive. Reputation is important for your public image, especially in the customer service sector. Aside from downtime that could rob you of future profits, an uncomfortable building environment due to an aging HVAC system can also harm customer and client perception of how you run your organization. 

Make and Keep Employees Comfortable

When the interior of your building is kept at reasonable temperatures, your employees will be comfortable. When employees are comfortable, they will be happier and more motivated. When they aren’t distracted by the office being too hot or too cold, they can focus on getting more work done, improving their overall productivity. Don’t overlook the importance of indoor air quality, either. How often are your employees missing time from work due to being sick? A little-known condition called sick building syndrome exists, and if this syndrome goes unaddressed, it could affect how your business is perceived throughout your industry and cause highly-qualified candidates to find employment elsewhere when you are actively recruiting.

Reduce Repair Costs

Newer commercial HVAC systems will have better warranties attached to them. Whether you choose to overhaul your existing system with brand new components or only add the latest technological advancements to the framework that is already in place, these warranties can help you avoid paying significant repair costs when such repairs are needed.

Begin Switching Refrigerant Now

The refrigerant that is most commonly used in many older models of commercial HVAC systems is being eliminated. R-22 refrigerant will be fully prohibited in January of 2020, and if you think that’s still plenty of time to have your current supplies replaced, remember it’s just two years away.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County

(217)443-0077

24-Hour Emergency Service

Independently Owned and Operated

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Why SERVPRO? Because We Do It All!

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

We worry about your restoration emergency so you don't have to.

From start to finish, you will see that SERVPRO of Vermilion County will take care of your restoration emergency from start to finish. A fire, for example, can wreak havoc not only on your home or office but your precious time and checkbook too. There is no need to worry. Not only do we possess the experience, but the equipment and talent on our team to make sure the disaster looks like it never took place. After removing any drywall that is burned and unsalvageable, we will make sure your home down to the studs is clean and smelling great. Besides any demolition that needs to be done, we will begin reconstructing your home back to the way it was. This includes painting your walls as well. It will be like an entirely new room in your home.   

If you have recently experienced a restoration emergency, let our team here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County take care of everything so you don’t have to. We will always work with you each step of the way and make sure you are satisfied. Give us a call at 217-443-0077 for more information.  [JB]

3 Fire Hazards to Avoid This Spring

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Springtime is such a fun, beautiful time of year. Stay safe out there!

The weather is warmer, the trees are blooming, and my allergies are killing me. Spring has officially sprung! That being said, there are still a wide variety of fire hazards that you should watch out for, even during the warm months.

1.Grills: Whether you’re cooking burgers for the family event or grilling up kabobs for dinner, you will inherently deal with a fire. Most are gas grills, which presents an even greater risk. In fact, the NFPA (https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Home-Grill-Fires) reports that an average of 9,600 home fires is caused by grilling each year. Here are some fire safety tips for the grill:

• Always check for any potential fire hazards before firing up the grill.

• If the grill does not light the first time, let the gas dissipate for at least 5 minutes before attempting to light the grill again.
• Be sure the grill is clean before using to get rid of oil and gas residue.
• Make sure the grill is set up in an open, outdoor area and keep it a good distance from the house and railings.

2. Dryers: This is a fire hazard year round. In fact, the leading cause of clothes-dryer related fires is a failure to keep the lint baskets clean. Lint is combustible. Lint causes fires. It takes seconds to clean out the lint basket, so just make a habit of it when you get your clothes out of the dryer. If you have space for a clothesline in the spring and summer months - use it! There’s nothing better than fresh, air dried clothes. The NFPA also recommends cleaning out the vent pipe at least once a year so lint or other flammable particles do not get stuck in the vent pipe. 
3. Outdoor Fire Pits and Bonfires: The necessary safety precautions for an outdoor fire pit are pretty obvious, but keep these in mind when you’re having a party on a cool spring night.

• Always have an adult present around a fire. Never leave children unattended! 
• Always have a bucket of water or a water hose available nearby if things get out of hand. 
• Build the fire away from homes, porches, low-hanging trees, or any other fire hazards. 
• Monitor the number of leaves, pine needles, paper, and other contents are fed into the fire since these items catch fire quickly and result in high flames and floating embers. 
• Always put the fire out completely before leaving the fire unattended. Don't expect it to die down on its own!

We are always Here to Help when you need us. Call us at SERVPRO of Vermilion County any time at (217)443-0077.  Happy Spring!

Tips to Preserving Personal Items After a Flood

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

Time is of the essence when it comes to safeguarding valuables submerged in flood waters. Mold formation can begin within 48 hours of immersion, and contaminated "black water" can carry dangerous chemicals and pathogens. It's a good idea for homeowners in Vermilion County to learn about content cleaning before disaster strikes. Here are a few tips on what can and can't be salvaged, and how to minimize damage to precious belongings. 

Unsalvageable Items 

Unfortunately, most porous materials that have come into contact with black water cannot be saved during the content cleaning process. This includes:

• Furniture items
• Carpeting and padding
• Particle board cabinets
• Portions of drywall or insulation that have been immersed. 

Microscopic toxic chemical compounds and fungal spores can pose a serious risk to a home’s inhabitants. Non-porous items, on the other hand, may be able to be sanitized and kept.

Immediate Steps To Take After Storm Damage

Legal papers, photo albums, artwork and other precious items that cannot be replaced might be saved, especially if you act quickly to minimize further damage. 

Papers, artwork and photographs should be separated and removed from albums and frames and placed on plastic screens or hung using plastic clothespins (contact with metal or other types of materials could cause irreparable damage). Photos can also be gently rinsed in clean water before drying. To salvage important books, insert a paper towel every few pages to soak up harmful moisture. 

It is recommended that you air dry items indoors. Open windows, air conditioners, fans and dehumidifiers can all help to increase airflow and reduce drying times. Avoid using heat during this process, such as irons or hair dryers, as they can cause further damage. 

If the black water contamination is especially severe, or if mold is already present, you may want to leave the bulk of your content cleaning to a professional flood restoration team in Piatt and Dewitt counties. 

Give SERVPRO of Vermilion County a call at (217) 443 0077. We are available 24/7 to service any of your damaged needs. (LB)

Diagnosing a Shower Leak

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a shower head leaking in your Vermilion county bathroom it is time to replace it

Admist the many aspects of maintaining your home in Vermilion county, attending to a bathtub leak can be frustrating without an idea of what to look for. It is important to remember that some signs of damage are easier to distinguish that others; however, confirming the occurrence of a leak is possible with a keen eye and a thorough bathroom inspection.

Check for Telltale Signs

Identifying any immediate indicators of a leak can help determine how best to handle the situation. Giveaway signs may include the following:

• Pooling water near the shower pan. This is often the result of a shower door with a poor – quality seal and is one of the simplest leaks to repair.
• Wet spots and dampness on any walls near the shower. If the leak is occurring within the plumbing system, the pipes behind the wall may expel water, thus leaving visible wetness.
• Water leaking from the spray holes, water may leak from other parts of the fixture. Cleaning the shower head and replacing the O-ring may solve the issue.

Scratch Beyond the Surface

Unfortunately a bathtub leak may cause damage that is not as apparent and may require a more in depth analysis. One critical factor to be aware of is the presence of mold or mildew anywhere in the bathroom; this includes any odors that occur. The flooding underneath the bathroom should be investigated for moisture, dripping, or mineral buildup. Typically, these signs  indicate a leak that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Determine the Best course of Action

Generally a shower pan leak with telltale indicators can be repaired without the need for professional intervention. For more internalized leaks, it is wise to consider contacting a water damage repair specialist for further analysis.

While diagnosing a shower or bathtub leak can be challenging, and informed approach can simplify the process. Understanding what to look for and when to contact a professional can make a difference in preserving your home. 

If you have a leak in the bathroom, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217) 443-0077, for all your emergency service needs. (LB)

The Most Common Causes of Commercial Fires

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience commercial fire, SERVPRO of Vermilion County has the training and expertise to make disasters “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial fire can be devastating, harming both human and property.  Every year, there are as many as 75,000 commercial building fires in the United States.  U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year.  These fires caused an annual average of 85 civilian deaths, 1,325 civilian fire injuries and $3.2 billion in direct property damage, according to the (NFPA) National Fire Prevention Association.  Though some are small and cause relatively little harm, many others pose a great risk to life and property.   Fortunately, many fires can be prevented if you’re aware of the potential hazards. Here are several of the most common causes of commercial building fires.

Human Error 

Many commercial fires can be attributed to human error and are not meant to be malicious. For example, spilling liquids on electrical equipment, leaving a coffee pot on, or burning food in the kitchen can easily cause a fire to break out. To decrease the chances of this happening in your commercial building, perform risk assessments to determine if any changes need to be implemented, provide proper staff training, and ensure fire extinguishers are easily accessible throughout the building. 
 
Negligence 

Negligence fires are the result of someone not following proper procedures and can usually be easily avoided by proper staff training. For example, storing or handling flammable items improperly or covering electrical equipment that must have air can result in a fire that causes significant commercial fire damage. 
  
Arson 

Unfortunately, arson is a frequent cause of commercial fires, particularly in industrial buildings and factories. This may be an act of vandalism, an attempt to collect insurance money or even the work of an unhappy employee. To minimize the damage associated with arson, you may want to consider installing an automatic sprinkler system. 
 
Faulty Wiring/ Electrics 

Electrical issues are another frequent cause of commercial fires. For example, outdated equipment, loose or frayed wires, and overloaded plugins can spark a fire with little to no advance warning. This is why it is so important to make certain your electrical equipment, including boilers, hot water heaters, and furnaces are in good working order and able to handle their workload. To ensure your equipment/ appliances are functioning properly; you may want to invest in a portable appliance tester (PAT). 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can respond immediately to your commercial fire damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – (217) 443-0077

Why hiring a professional restoration company to clean up after your home experiences a fire is the best choice

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Vermilion County does not have to be a headache

The principle of cleaning after fire damage in Vermilion County

Surviving the aftermath of the fire damage can be quite a relief. However, the replacement and repairs can be very detrimental. Luckily, there are some insurance companies out there who would help with the costs. However, dealing with the aftermath does require some skills and expertise. The cleaning process isn’t an easy task. Keep in mind that it requires extensive inspection, identifying types of residues and services, removing the residues and disposal. All this should be taken care of by a fire restoration specialist. After all, doing this on your own can be very dangerous, exhausting, time-consuming, and expensive.

Fire damage in Vermilion County does not have to be a headache. The situation is mainly because the SERVPRO tech can take care of everything. They can start by inspecting that areas near the source of the fire and see how far the damage has moved through various structures. There are different types of smoke residues, and the SERVPRO specialist can select a cleaning method that can effectively remove these residues. Another thing to note is that the type of surface that has undergone the fire damage may require specialized cleaning method and products that are sale to use on the surface. The fire restoration experts may have to be cautious to preserve the materials or surface during the cleaning process.

Since smoke residues can bind to the surface that they come in contact with, the fire experts can use a dry and wet screening process to release the particles away from the affected surface. The restorer can adequately get rid of the debris and cleaning waste. Once everything is completed, the technicians can walk you through your how to make sure that you are satisfied with the results.

If you are interested in getting a specialist to clean and restore you home after fire damage, then give SERVPRO of Vermilion County a call at (217)443-0077 and we can promptly send our experts to your home. (LB)

How to Repair a Leaking Toilet Tank

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

8 Steps to Fix a Leaking Toilet

When you find water pooling near your home’s toilet in Vermilion County don’t panic. Check to see if the leak is coming from the tank or the base. If the leaking toilet is at the tank, you can easily fix it with the following eight steps.

1. Shut off the supply water.

The tube below the tank is connected to a valve. Simply turn the valve until the water is off.

2. Remove the tank’s water.

Use a small container to bail the water out of the tank. Once most of the water is gone, use a sponge to absorb the last of it.

3. Loosen the tank’s bolts.

Using an adjustable wrench and screwdriver, loosen and remove both of the tank’s bolts. This will ensure easy removal of the tank.

4. Lift the tank from the base.

Very gently move the tank from side to side until you feel it lift. With the help of a friend, lift the leaking toilet tank and lay it on its side so you can access the bottom.

5. Eliminate the leaking retaining washer.

Remove the washer by turning it until it comes loose. If it is tight, use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the rubber piece. 

6. Clean the remaining rubber.

Use something hard to scrape the remains of the gasket from the hole and surrounding area. Make sure the area is clean.

6. Install the tank’s new gasket.

Insert the new gasket into the hole and turn until it is tight. Make sure it turns easily because there is a danger of cross threading.

7. Replace the tank’s bolts and nuts.

Reinstall the nuts on the bolts by hand, making sure they are snug, but not overly tight.

8. Reattach the tank to the base.

Move the tank into position on the toilet base. Gently tighten the nuts and bolts until the gasket looks snug in the base. This will prevent a future bathroom leak.

You have just repaired your leaking toilet. However, if you don’t want to do the job yourself, consider calling a water specialist team to do the job quickly and efficiently. SERVPRO of Vermilion County is ready to help 24/7, Call us at (217) 443-0077. (LB)

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Water

• Fire Extinguishers have a Class A rating and are suitable for fighting fires involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. 
• Electrical equipment should be avoided when using a water extinguishers (unless water with additive are used), as water is a conductor.

AFF Foam

• AFFF Foam fire extinguishers are highly effective on Class A and Class B fires (the foam agent helps to prevent re-ignition).
• Some foam extinguishers have been diametrically tested to 35,000 volt (35kv) and can be used on or near electrical appliances. 

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

• CO2 fire extinguishers were originally designed for use on flammable liquid fires, and therefore have a Class B fire rating. 
• They are ideal for electrical fires, CO2 is not a conductor and they do not leave behind any harmful residue. 

ABC POWDER

• ABC Powder fire extinguishers are extremely versatile and can be used on Class A, Class B, Class C, and electrical fires. 
• They are available in a range of sizes from 1-9 kg and ideal for application in environments containing mixed fire risks. However, there is a risk of inhalation when using powder extinguishers and therefore not recommended for use within small rooms, homes, ad offices. 

Water Mist

• Water mist fire extinguishers are highly effective on Class A, B, C, F, and electrical fires.
• The unique design of the water mist extinguishers' supersonic nozzle creates a microscope mist curtain, reducing the oxygen content. Water mist extinguishers are also safe on fires caused by electricity, as the water mist does not conduct electricity and the water mist does not form puddles which could lead to electrocution.

Wet Chemical

• Wet chemical fire extinguishers are designed specifically for use on fires involving combustible cooking media such as burning oil and fat. 
• They have a Class F rating and a special lance applicator nozzle. They usually have an additional Class A rating and are normally not designed for use on Class B fires (petrol, diesel, paint, paraffin etc.), although the 31tr Gloria wet chemical firs extinguisher is an exception.  

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 443-0077. (LB)

Protecting Your Undamaged Property

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Cardboard and shoes covers used to protect flooring.

SERVPRO® does everything possible to prevent the homeowner's property and contents from becoming dirty, dusty or damaged during the demolition/ mitigation process. Covering furniture and contents completely with plastic, and isolating the area with a containment barrier before the demolition begins, helps to prevent dust and debris from getting into the cracks and the crevices. Our technicians wear foot protection to prevent them from tracking dirt into the home.  To protect flooring a path of cardboard, plastic or cloth is placed over the unaffected areas that lead from the work area to the exit door. This keeps other areas of your home cleaner and prevents the tracking of dust and debris throughout the home. When carpets are cleaned, corner guards are used to protect the walls and block/ pads are placed under the furniture to ensure there is no damage to the furniture from the moisture of the freshly cleaned carpet.

Fire Extinguisher Classes

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

The fire classification system is designed to categorize fires into groups based on the type of fuel involved. Each fire class is represented by a letter of the alphabet (with the electrical which are simply referred to as “electrical fires”) and an icon. This helps users to select an appropriate fire extinguisher in the event of a fire.

Class A Fires

• Solid Combustibles
  • Fire involving solid combustible materials such as wood, textiles, straw, paper, coal etc.

Class B Fires

• Flammable Liquids
  • Fire caused by combustion of liquids or materials that liquefy such as petrol, oils, fats, paints, tar, ether, alcohol, stearin, and paraffin.

Class C Fires

• Flammable Gases
  • Fires caused by combustion of gases such as methane, propane, hydrogen, acetylene, natural gas and city gas.

Class D Fires

• Flammable Fires
  • Fires involving combustibles metals such as magnesium, aluminum, lithium, sodium, potassium and their alloys. Combustible metal fires are unique industrial hazards which require special fire extinguishers.  

Class F Fires

• Combustible Cooking Media
  • Fires involving particularly hot or deep oil and grease fires, such as deep fat fryers in commercial kitchens or overheated oil pan fires in homes. Normal water-based extinguishers with large droplets would cause an ‘explosion’ of stream and carry burning oils and fats from the container. Equally, a CO2 extinguishers jet would carry burning oil out of the container and also would have in-sufficient cooling effect to stop reigniting. Wet chemical extinguishers, on the other hand, lay a cooling foam layer on top of the burning fat/oil and react with the liquid, stopping air supply to the fire.

Electrical Fires

• Electrical Appliances
  • Fires involving electrical appliances such as computers, electrical heaters, stereos, fuse boxes etc.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 443-0077. (LB)

How to Remove Mold from Basement Walls

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to removing mold from a basement wall, there is no one answer. There are a lot of factors that go into determining if you can remove the mold and how to do it. But before we dive into determining if mold can be removed from a wall, we first must understand what mold is and how it grows.

What is Mold?

Mold is a living organism, or more precisely, it is a fungus. It tends to grow in dark and damp environments and it feeds on cellulose. Cellulose is an organic material that can be found abundantly in drywall, cardboard boxes, carpets, wood, clothes, and curtains. You won’t usually find mold on metals and plastics since they don’t contain cellulose. A quick look around your basement and you can see that there are many places where mold can grow if the conditions are right.

Can Mold Be Removed from Walls?

Now that we know what mold is and how it grows, can it be easily removed from your basement walls? Well, it depends on what your walls are made of and whether they are painted. If the mold is growing on painted drywall or painted concrete, then you may be able to wipe the mold off. You can use a household cleaner that is made to remove mold and spray it down, scrub it off, and wipe it clean.

If the mold is found growing on unfinished drywall, then you might have a problem. Due to the porous nature of the drywall, the mold may be embedded into the drywall and won’t be able to be wiped clean. It is usually best to remove the drywall with the mold and replace it with new drywall.

With unfinished concrete walls, you obviously can’t easily remove and replace the concrete walls like you can with drywall. With concrete walls, you will want to scrub off any mold you can see and then soak the area with a mold cleaner. The cleaner should soak into the concrete and kill off any mold or mold spores that are hiding out underneath the surface.

Household Cleaners May Not Be Good Enough

If you walk down the household cleaners aisle at the grocery store or look up DIY mold cleaning solutions on the web, you’ll notice there are a lot of solutions and recipes to clean/kill/remove mold. While these may seem to do the job at first, most do not re-mediate the mold problem. Weeks later, the mold can return. Even the mold that has been killed can be harmful to one’s health if not removed. A quick search on the Internet shows some recommend a bleach solution while others say that it isn’t effective or healthy. So what is one to do?

Other Problems That You Need to Be Aware before Cleaning Mold

If you do try to clean or remove mold from your walls, be sure to wear ventilation to protect yourself. Inhaling mold can possibly be dangerous to your health especially when you do not know what type of mold you are dealing with.

Another problem with trying to clean mold on your own is that by scrubbing and cleaning and removing it, you may be unknowingly spreading the mold spores elsewhere. If you are scrubbing mold off a wall, the mold spores can quickly and easily become airborne and travel to other parts of your basement and home. Think of mold like a cup of fine flour. If you throw that cup of flour in the air, the tiny bits of flour can travel easily through the air and spread everywhere. Mold spores are even tinier (can’t be seen by the human eye) and can spread even easier and farther.

What’s the Best Way to Remove Mold from Basement Walls?

If you discover mold growing on a wall or walls in your basement, the best thing might be to call a professional mold remediation team like the team at SERVPRO of Vermilion County. The mold remediation team at SERVPRO take to contain the mold, remove the mold, clean the contents, and restore your basement. They will also identify the cause of the water or moisture and either stop it or provide a solution to stopping it so that it doesn’t cause mold growth in the future.  

One last piece of advice if you discover mold in your basement, is to leave it alone. If you disturb the area, the mold spores can become airborne and spread elsewhere. Give SERVPRO of Vermilion County a call at (217) 443-0077 anytime if you find mold in your basement.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Vermilion County 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 – (217) -935-2992 

Frozen Pipes

2/7/2019 (Permalink)

Learn How to prevent water pipes from freezing and How to thaw them if they do freeze

Why pipes freezing are a problem

Water has a unique property in it that it expands as it freezes. The expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are:

• Pipes that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines.
• Water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basement and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.
• Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

How to protect pipes from freezing

Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations:

• Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturers or installers directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
• Remove, drain, and store used hoses outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
• Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
• Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a “pipe sleeve” or installing UL-listed “heat tape”, “heat cable”, or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspapers can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.

How to prevent frozen pipes

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to make any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nightline temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit

How to thaw frozen pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a froze pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begin to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipes will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electrical hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze too.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for any of your fire needs, 24/7 at (217) 443-0077. (LB)

Emergency Water Removal for Vermilion County Residents

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water Removal in an Emergency

Water pipes are often not insulated in the home, particularly when traveling into cellar spaces or through garages. Plumbing systems are suitably robust. However, as they age, they become more susceptible to temperature changes or pressure. These elements cause the materials to expand and retract which, over time can loosen connections or split the pipes. When that happens, water can leak rapidly and require extraction. 

It is rare that homeowners own the type of equipment needed to perform extraction themselves. Water removal in Vermilion county requires industrial scale equipment to get the job down fast and reduce the likelihood of permanent damage. SERVPRO of Vermilion County has an emergency call line that operates 24 hours a day and can send a trained technician to your property within four hours of notification of loss. 

Generally, when standing water is over two inches high, it needs to be pumped. We use gas-powered fully submersible pumps to help remove excess water before moving in with extraction wands to treat saturated carpets or floorboards. When water levels are below two inches, we may not need to use pumps and move straight onto extraction equipment. 

The primary technique for removing excess water is to extract. Extractors come in various sizes and can be scaled to depending on the extent of the spill. If the water is below five gallons, we can use portable extractors which are nimble and precise. Where there is extensive spillage, truck-mounted extractors can be brought in with storage tanks of more than one hundred gallons. A SERVPRO technician can access either type after inspecting the affected area. 

Extraction equipment uses a vacuum component to help lift water from saturated carpets or fabrics. These need to be managed carefully as aggressive usage can damage carpets which are up to 50% weaker when drenched in water. SERVPRO technicians are trained to perform light, repeated pass overs that reduce the pressure put on wet materials and mitigates against further damages. 

If you need rapid water extraction, contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217) 443-0077.

Not all moisture levels are safe

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most common questions people have about moisture measurement is “What are safe moisture levels in walls, floors, etc.?’

The answer is: “It depends.”

Types of Wall Materials and Moisture.

What constitutes a “safe” level of moisture in a wall will change depending on what the wall is made of. In most modern construction, interior walls tend to use a surface layer of gypsum (a.k.a. drywall) because it’s a relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and long-lasting material that’s easy to work with. However, old buildings may use other interior wall surfaces, such as wooden paneling or plaster.

Generally speaking, for drywall, safe moisture content (%MC) would be less than 1%MC. Anything above 1%MC in drywall would indicate a level of moisture that could compromise the integrity of the gypsum board.

Exterior walls may use a variety of materials, from wooden siding, in vinyl, aluminum, brick, and stone of these exterior wall materials, wood is generally the most susceptible to moisture – which is why wood siding is usually treated to resist rain. However, water repellent finishes can only prevent moisture from getting past the surfaces where the wood has been treated. If water reaches an untreated surface, such as the backside of the wood, then it can still be absorbed and can cause problems.

With wood, it can be harder to generalize what a safe amount of moisture is. This is because the humidity conditions can have an effect on what the ideal moisture content of wood can be – not to mention that “safe” moisture levels can vary from one species of wood to the next.

How humidity impacts “safe” moisture levels

The ambient humidity and temperature conditions where your walls are located can have an effect on what could constitute a “safe” amount of moisture in the wall when dealing with hygroscopic materials like wood. If wood wall materials aren’t in equilibrium with their surrounding environment, then they will absorb or let out moisture until they are – which can cause swelling or shrinkage that impacts the look and integrity of the wood.

So, knowing the relative humidity (RH) conditions is a must when trying to determine what  “safe” moisture content for wood wall is. For example, if the temperature in the room is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the RH is 50%, then a “safe” level of moisture in the wall would be about 9.1%MC.

Measure moisture in walls

So, how can you be sure if the walls in a structure have a safe level of moisture? One way to check is to use a moisture meter that is optimized for building inspection world like the BD-2100.

This particular moisture meter is ideal for checking the moisture content of walls because it has reading scales for both drywall and wood that allow for precise quantitative moisture measurements in these materials. A spate reference scale setting can be used for getting qualitative readings of moisture in other wall materials (like plaster).

The BD-2100’s drywall moisture meter readings are accurate in gypsum to moisture content percentages as low as 0.2% and as high as 50%. In the wood scale, the meter can detect moisture accurately over a range of 6%MC to 40%MC. The ability to detect moisture accurately in both wood and drywall makes this device particularly suited for building inspection work.

If you are worried about the moisture levels in your home, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County anytime at (217) 443-0077. (LB

Be Storm Smart. Be Storm Ready.

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen any time, and anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe
• thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 land falling, deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home or business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for your Storm damage needs at (217)443-0077.

Dehu! What is it?

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217)443-0077, for all your Dehu needs.

As water damage restoration professionals, we need professional-grade equipment that helps us tackle the toughest of jobs and deliver outstanding results for our clients. A powerful dehumidifier is a key component in our suite of tools. But what does a dehumidifier do? 

Conventional dehumidifiers are designed for most water-damage remediation projects, and they can easily be transported from job to job and loaded and unloaded from a vehicle. They condense water vapor by passing air over refrigerated coils, and a heat pipe prevents frost from forming. This type of Dehu can also be used in your home for moisture management. It helps to keep moisture levels more comfortable in humid environments, and helps ward off musty odors. 

We use machines called LGR Dehumidifiers. LGR stands for low-grain refrigerant, which is a fancy way of saying these dehumidifiers provide maximum power in removing moisture from the air. How do they work? LGR dehumidifiers feature a double cooling system that lowers the temperature of moisture-filled air once inside the machine. This leads to more condensation that forms on the coils inside the machine, which in turn leads to more moisture pumped out and less moisture in the air that is returned to the room.  

Now for my favorite Dehu! 

The Phoenix Dry Max! What is special about the Dry Max? It's tiny compared to its brothers and sisters, but it still packs the same punch! It has an integrated handle and wheels as well as on board storage for the power cord and condensate hose! 

What to Expect with a Commercial Fire Damage

1/24/2019 (Permalink)

When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need.

Fire damage can be very overwhelming for a business or commercial property. At SERVPRO® we understand the importance of getting you back to your pre-fire condition quickly. Not only may you experience fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur, also.

Tasks to expect from the professionals:

• Detailed Cleaning – to remove excess soot or other contaminants from impacted areas through HEPA vacuuming and dry sponging.
• Selective Demolition – to remove unsalvageable materials or property.
• Pack Outs – to remove salvageable personal property from the affected area for off-site cleaning and storage.
• Air Flow Management – to remove airborne contaminants and soot and to reduce offensive odors
• Deodorization – to remove or mask offensive odors and return the affected area to a usable space

SERVPRO® of Vermilion County will respond quickly and manage the fire restoration project through to its completion. We have the training, experience, and equipment to manage your commercial fire damage and get your property business-ready.

We are here for you 24/7. Give us call at (217)443-0077 for all your commercial fire damage needs.

Commercial cleaning and restoration services in Vermilion county

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at (217)443-0077 for any of your commercial needs in the Vermilion county area.

When it comes to your business, you need a cleaning and restoration company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your employees and clients. SERVPRO of Vermilion county has the expertise and training to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We are here to help to your business, no matter the size.

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

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Vermilion county has the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. Most importantly, we are available 24 hours a day to restore your property and get you back to business. Our commercial restoration services include:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

Whether your need is removing an odor problem or deep-cleaning flooring or carpets, you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done right the first time. We’ll respond promptly and make your work space look its very best.

6 Tips to Prevent Pipes from Freezing While Tenants are Away.

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze. Learn these 6 tips to keep pipes on your property from freezing.

Tip #1: Keep the Heat on

When tenants leave for a period of time, make sure to keep the heat on on your property. Convincing Tenants to leave their heat on while they are away may be difficult, especially if they are responsible to pay for their own utilities. However you should inform them that in order to prevent pipes from freezing the heat should stay on. If pipes freeze and burst it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. Keeping the heat as high as you normally would if someone was on the property is not necessary, 50 degrees Fahrenheit is a desired minimum temperature to set your thermostat to.  

Tip #2: Allow Faucet to drip

If you are fearful of a frozen pipe, allow the faucet to drip slightly. Pressure is left in the system when allowing the faucet to be open. Pipe bursts are typically a result in the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet. Following this simple step prevents build up, keeping you pipe from bursting.

Tip #3: Keep Interior doors open

Pipes can often be located in cabinets. Any time the temperature drops, it is a great idea to keep those cabinet doors open so the heat in in the rest of the house/apartment can keep the pipes warm as well.  You should also keep all the interior doors open so that the heat can flow throughout the entire living space.

Tip #4: Seal up cracks and holes

Tenants should consider to caulk any holes or cracks that exist near pipes. Calking both the interior and exterior walls is a must. Doing so can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in.

Tip #5: Apply Heating Tape

Electrical heating tape may be an option to keep from freezing, for pipes that are easily accessible. Heating tape can be applied directly to the pipe. There are two different types of heating tape. One type reacts based on when it senses heat, turning the tape on or off. The other type of heating tape has to be plugged in and unplugged when heat is needed or not needed. These products can be dangerous, similar to a space heater, so be sure to follow each products directions and safety procedures exactly before using.

Tip #6: Add extra insulation

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper insulation, such as basements and attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. Basements and attics are not the only places that may not have the pipes properly insulated from the cold. If you have had a problem with pipes freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be the cure.  You can have pipes fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chance of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

Should you have a water emergency, no matter how big or how small, we here at SERVPRO of Vermilion County are ready to help 24 hours a day! Call us today at (217) 443-0077.

Commercial Cleaning Services

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO handle all your commercial needs.

Commercial Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can help clean and protect your investment.

Spending extra time and resources to clean and disinfect your office or warehouse space is something you don't always have time to do. Turn to the professionals, to let us handle the everyday wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When dirt, odor, and moisture problems go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need to call SERVPRO of Vermilion County for prompt service.

We specialize in all commercial cleaning services, from removing an odor problem to deep cleaning flooring and carpets; you can rely on us to make your work space look its very best. SERVPRO of Vermilion County can work around your regular business hours so there will be no disruption or downtime for your office. From general cleaning of work spaces to heavy cleaning of warehouse walls and ceilings, we have specialized training, products, and equipment to get your commercial property clean and safe. A clean office promotes employee health and safety, production and overall happiness. A clean business keeps customers coming back.  

SERVPRO of Vermilion County wants to help keep your facility clean and a place where people want to work and shop. We have service agreements that range from weekly cleaning services, quarterly, or by the call. We'll work with you and around your schedule and cater our services around your needs. 

Our commercial cleaning services include:

Biohazard and Sewage

SERVPRO employees are trained to safely remove bio hazards and dispose of them properly following OSHA and health regulations. Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous and is best left to the professionals. Our employees are equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean and safe work spaces.

Let SERVPRO Help Keep You Warm at the Bus Stop This Winter

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Stay warm this winter with the help of your local SERVPRO

Staying warm while waiting on the bus is essential. Follow these three steps to avoid being miserably cold when the bus has not yet arrived at your stop.

 1. Plan Ahead

Decide what the shortest possible time is that is necessary to spend waiting outside for the bus. Arrive five minutes early, buses can arrive early and may not wait if you are not in sight. 

2. Dress To Keep Warm

Dressing appropriately for the winter cold means that you are wearing a hat, mittens, a scarf, warm boots, and a warm jacket. Thick clothing and lots of layers are ideal. 

3. Move Around

Doing cardio such as moving your body and jumping up and down helps generate some heat. A yoga chair pose can also generate heat. When standing, waiting for the bus, get in chair pose, bend your knees with your thighs as parallel to the ground as you can get. If you do this with your legs together you will stay warmer, then press your thighs into each other as hard as you can to generate lots of heat. 

Are you having a Bad Day?

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

When life throws you a curveball, let SERVPRO of Vermilion County help you hit that ball out of the park!  SERVPRO of Vermilion County is open 24/7 for your emergencies and just a phone call (217-443-0077) away.  If you are dealing with a fire, water, mold or a bio hazard clean, it can become overwhelming. Our crews understand that you may feel stressed, saddened, confused and even vulnerable at these times.  Our crews are trained to help you through these difficult times.

We deal with both commercial and residential losses.  We also work with all insurance companies nationwide.  Our crews are trained and continue taking classes to provide you with the best service.

So, give the Professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County a call for an estimate today. 

Is Your Business Prepared for an Emergency?

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared for a flood or fire damage in Vermilion County with an Emergency Ready Profile.

Be prepared for a flood or fire damage in Vermilion county with an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here to help you get a plan in place for free!

Advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• 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.

Schedule and ERP

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can put together an Emergency Ready Profile for your business for free. There are no contracts or obligations, we just want to help your business. Preparation is key for making it through any size disaster. Schedule an appointment today with SERVPRO of Vermilion County by calling (217) 443-0077.

Build an Emergency Checklist

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for when a storm hits near you? Use this checklist to build your emergency kit for your necessities during a storm.  

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
•       Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks or bandannas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container

SERVPRO of Vermilion County counties is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at (217) 443-0077 for all your Storm damage needs 24/7.

Emergency Tips: Fire/Smoke Damage Do's and Don'ts

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Do

1. Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet. 
2. Keep hands clean; Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
3. Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
4. If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help.
5. Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, and then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant. 
6. If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
7. Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
8. Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.

Don't

1. Attempt to wash any walls to painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
2. Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
3. Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios,etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service. 
4. Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (may be contaminated)
5. Turn on ceiling fixtures of ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage. 
6. Send garments to dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County today with any of your Fire and Water damage needs at (217) 443-0077.

How To Care for Gym Floors

1/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion county for your gym floor inspection and cleaning today.

How To Care for Gym Floors in Vermilion 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 Vermilion county at 217-443-0077 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!

Returning Home After the Holidays

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes can break at any time

The Holidays are a very busy time of year.   You may spend several hours away from your home at this time of year.   You might make a check list for Christmas gifts and list of different dishes for family gatherings.  You may even have a list of neighbors to check on your home while you are gone. But if you leave and have no one check on your home while you’re gone in the winter, you may find yourself a float when you return.  A pipe could break at any time and after 48 to 72 hours mold begins to grow.

If you ever find yourself or someone you know in this situation and not sure where to start, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077.

Water damage? We got you covered!

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

Cracked foundation allowing water into crawlspace.

Imagine discovering that your home has cracks in the foundation and water from a recent rainfall has saturated your crawlspace. Not only is this a soggy situation that needs cleaned up, but also there is a high probability that mold could form on the affected structure. You need a team to service that can do it all. 

SERVPRO of Vermilion County is who you want to contact. We will first remove the insulation and any debris. Drying equipment can be set if drying is needed. Next, the structure will need to be cleaned and treated to prevent mold. Finally, new insulation will be installed along with laying down a vapor barrier. 

Call SERVPRO of Vermilion County at 217-443-0077 to schedule an estimate today.

Hurricane Florence

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Down to the bare bones

When hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in late September, SERVPRO of Vermilion County was there to help put lives back together. The crews worked around the clock for three weeks. Our SERVPRO team came into homes locating the source of the water damage. Crews would then check walls and floors for moisture. After accessing each situation, they would decide what structure can or cannot be saved. An essential part of the job is determining where the water entered the home. For example, did the water come from the roof and work down through the walls or from lower levels and wick upward. If needed, they would tear out drywall, wet insulation, carpet, pad and sub floors.  The crews worked tirelessly to remove all wet debris down to the studs. The drying equipment was strategically placed in homes for proper drying.  This is a rewarding experience for our SERVPRO of Vermilion County team.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

Residential fires during the holiday season are more frequent, more costly, and more deadly than at any other time of the year. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports more than double the number of open-flame fires on Christmas Day than on an average day, and about twice as many on New Year’s Day. And when those fires occur, they do more damage: Property loss during a holiday fire is 34% greater than in an average fire, and the number of fatalities per thousand fires is nearly 70% higher. When the source of the fire is a highly flammable Christmas tree, the toll in property and lives is even greater.

To keep your household from becoming a holiday fire statistic, here are some safety tips to follow.

Cooking

Cooking is the top cause of holiday fires, according to the USFA. The most common culprit is food that’s left unattended. It’s easy to get distracted; take a pot holder with you when you leave the kitchen as a reminder that you have something on the stove. Make sure to keep a kitchen fire extinguisher that’s rated for all types of fires, and check that smoke detectors are working.

If you’re planning to deep-fry your holiday turkey, do it outside, on a flat, level surface at least 10 feet from the house.

Candles

The incidence of candle fires is four times higher during December than during other months. According to the National Fire Protection Association, four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas/Christmas Eve and New Year’s/New Year’s Eve. (The fifth is Halloween.)

To reduce the danger, maintain about a foot of space between the candle and anything that can burn. Set candles on sturdy bases or cover with hurricane globes. Never leave flames unattended. Before bed, walk through each room to make sure candles are blown out. For atmosphere without worry, consider flameless LED candles.

Christmas Trees

It takes less than 30 seconds for a dry tree to engulf a room in flames, according to the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Standards and Technology. “They make turpentine out of pine trees,” notes Tom Olshanski, spokesman for the USFA. “A Christmas tree is almost explosive when it goes.”

To minimize risk, buy a fresh tree with intact needles, get a fresh cut on the trunk, and water it every day. A well-watered tree is almost impossible to ignite. Keep the tree away from heat sources, such as a fireplace or radiator, and out of traffic patterns. If you’re using live garlands and other greenery, keep them at least three feet away from heating sources.

No matter how well the tree is watered, it will start to dry out after about four weeks, Olshanski says, so take it down after the holidays. Artificial trees don’t pose much of a fire hazard; just make sure yours is flame-retardant.

Decorative Lights

Inspect light strings, and throw out any with frayed or cracked wires or broken sockets. When decorating, don’t run more than three strings of lights end to end. “Stacking the plugs is much safer when you’re using a large quantity of lights,” explains Brian L. Vogt, director of education for holiday lighting firm Christmas Décor. Extension cords should be in good condition and UL-rated for indoor or outdoor use. Check outdoor receptacles to make sure the ground fault interrupters don’t trip. If they trip repeatedly, Vogt says, that’s a sign that they need to be replaced.

When hanging lights outside, avoid using nails or staples, which can damage the wiring and increase the risk of a fire. Instead, use UL-rated clips or hangers. And take lights down within 90 days, says John Drengenberg, director of consumer safety for Underwriters Laboratories.  “If you leave them up all year round, squirrels chew on them and they get damaged by weather.”

Fireplaces

Soot can harden on chimney walls as flammable creosote, so before the fireplace season begins, have your chimney inspected to see if it needs cleaning. Screen the fireplace to prevent embers from popping out onto the floor or carpet, and never use flammable liquids to start a fire in the fireplace. Only burn seasoned wood — no wrapping paper.

When cleaning out the fireplace, put embers in a metal container and set them outside to cool for 24 hours before disposal. 

Should you have a fire emergency, no matter how big or how small, we here at SERVPRO are ready to help 24 hours a day! Call us today at  (217)935-2992.

Cleaning an Artificial Christmas Tree

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Make a fake tree look fabulous

As the holiday season rolls around, it's likely that you'll be pulling your artificial Christmas tree out of storage. About 70 percent of Americans will celebrate Christmas this year, and of those who celebrate the holiday, only about 20 percent of trees are real! Many people recognize the benefits that come with artificial Christmas trees; reliability, easiness, and attractive looks.

After eleven months in storage, however, many artificial Christmas trees both look and smell a little dusty. No matter how well you try to keep the dust out, it always finds a way in. Here are some tips for cleaning an artificial tree to keep it looking as good as the day you bought it.

Dust

One of the foremost necessities in cleaning an artificial Christmas tree is to remove any dust clinging to its branches and needles. Using a static cling cloth, gently wipe it along the branches. The static will pick up loose dust and stop your tree looking drab.

Shake with Salt

If your tree needs something a bit more intensive, salt can actually help! This is a method that is effective for small trees or larger trees that come apart into smaller pieces. Add small trees or tree pieces to a large bag with a handful or two of Kosher salt, then vigorously shake. The salt will act as an abrasive cleaner, scrubbing away any grime that's clinging on tightly.

A Seasonal Sponge Bath

For heavy cleaning, a light dusting won't be enough. At the start of every season, carefully wipe each branch down with a gentle, wet sponge. This will pick up the dust and dirt that settled between the needles while the tree was in storage. Sponging a tree, especially a larger one, can be time-consuming, so plan to tackle this at short intervals or enlist the help of others.

Deodorization

After your tree is clean, you'll still need to deodorize it periodically. You can hide a scented air freshener intended for a car in the branches of your tree to give it a seasonal scent, or periodically spritz the branches with an air freshener to keep them smelling fresh.

Professional Services

Sometimes, home cleaning just doesn't cut it. For more extensive cleaning services around your home, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is locally owned and operated, and has expert solutions to keep every part of your house clean. Call us today for a free estimate (217) 443-0077

SERVPRO of Vermilion County knows what to do if mold grows in your home

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold forming on drywall in a home

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. 

Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Vermilion County to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

Storm Damage Board-up

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Board-up of window after a storm

Board-ups are not just for Hurricanes! There are many reasons that you may need a board up or to use tarp to protect your home.  SERVPRO of Vermilion County can board-up your home due to fire, wind, vandalism, animal infestation or even when a car runs into your house! Board-ups can secure the property from looting or more vandalism.

Board-ups also can protect your property from more weather-related damage until you can get it fixed.  

Most insurance policies require that the Homeowner/Renter protect their property against secondary damage.  This is damage that occurs because a person doesn't take the appropriate actions after the first damage occurs to secure the property.  If they are found to be negligent, the secondary damage might not be covered by insurance.

Board-ups are just one service along with our fire, water clean-up and rebuild department that can make it "Like it never even happened."

Winter is Coming

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

You read that right. Fall has tip toed it's way in as Summer has found it's way out. The crisp scent of burning leaves can be found in the air. What better time to prep your home for the upcoming bitter cold that will make her arrival in the not so distant future? Listed below are extremely helpful tools and practices to keep the warm in and the cold out. They may just help you save some valuable loot in your pocket as well.

• Simmer Down: Lower the temperature in your water heater. This one simple adjustment can save you upwards of 10% off of your water heating costs. Typically water heaters are set at a scalding 140 degrees, bringing it down to 120 degrees will save you bookoo $$$.

• Backdraft: Drafty windows and doors have the potential of wasting up to 30% of your energy use. They also can trick your thermostat into false readings. Fortunately, a simple solution such as a rolled towel at the base of the door (or create a draft snake, if you’re feeling crafty) will lock out that unwanted cold.

• Be Kind, Rewind: Turning the direction of your fan blades from counterclockwise to clockwise will actually create a warmer room. Hot air rises, the fan blades help force the warmth back into the lower part of your room.

• Out With The Old: Change your furnace filter! A commonly overlooked step in energy savings. Not only does a dirty filter restrict air flow, it also has the potential of harboring dangerous materials, such as mold, bacteria and pollen. It is best to change monthly during the winter months.

• Leaving The Abode: Lower the thermostat every time you leave your home. Each degree you lower your homes temperature can save you between 1% and 3% on your heating bill. Programmable thermostats are available that will keep on top of lowering and raising the temperature in sync with your schedule.

Being able to stay ahead of the impending cold will save you money and stress. Follow these simple steps and stay warm! As always, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is here to help in any way we can!

70,000 fire disasters per year

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

In just 2 minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In 5 minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Have a plan:

• Find 2 ways to get out of each room.
• Make sure windows are not stuck and can be used as an exit if needed.
• Practice feeling your way around the house with your eyes closed or in the dark.
• Teach children not to be afraid of firefighters.

During a fire:

• Crawl low under the smoke to closest exit.
• Check doorknobs and door for heat. If it is hot, find alternate exit.
• If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop, & roll.

After a fire:

• Contact insurance company if insured.
• Check with fire department before entering the residence again.
• Do not reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct inventory of damaged items.
• Try to locate valuable documents and records.

Keep Calm and Call SERVPRO

of Vermilion County

(217) 443-0077

Understanding secondary growth

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Remediation of mold is one of our specialties

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold remediation needed after major water damage in home.

Country living sure definitely has it's share of pros and cons. In this particular case, a wipe coming from the well burst casing quite a mess. Flooded rooms, damaged contents, and rusty sediment were just the beginning. Mold can quickly take hold in a dwelling that has a high moisture content and if the issue is not addressed in a timely manner. 

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

Storms are no stranger to Central Illinois

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Tree fell on a roof causing structural damage.

Strong winds, tornadoes, and torrential rains are never pleasant to go through. As a central Illinois resident or business holder, the aftermath of these storms can be even more unpleasant. Whether its a fallen tree on your roof causing a leak, or backed up storm drains causing a flooded basement, SERVPRO of Vermilion County is ready to respond. 

After protecting and securing the structure, professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County can begin the restoration process. Your home or business may need reconstruction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

Smoke Detectors

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

You really can never be too prepared. Fires can happen anywhere, at any time...under the right conditions. The preventative measures you take prior to a potential fire loss could save your home, or more importantly your life! Replacing the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year is a must. A good rule of thumb is when you change the clocks change the batteries in the smoke alarms, this will provide consistent battery life in your detectors.  This gives you a chance to check your smoke detectors to make sure they working properly. Put an evacuation plan together. Make sure your loved ones and those living with you know what to do in the event of a fire. Having a central location to meet once everyone is outside is a great plan. After you and your loved ones are safe, call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Lightning Causes Power Surge, Leads to Fire

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

This picture shows the view of a basement stairwell. The fire impacted three levels of the home. A lighting strike to a tree in their backyard created a surge to the direct power line going into the home. With three floors affected by fire there was significant amount of water in the basement. The water that the fight fighters use to save your home and most of the belongings ends up  saturating most of your home, especially the impacted area. This leads to other problems that can arise like mold, structural damage, and other foundation problems. When the drywall in your house becomes saturated and no drying process is started, and this goes for everything in the house, you can compound your problem to find secondary grown beginning to grow. This can take days, to weeks, to months depending on the conditions. SERVPRO's number one goal is to put the victims of such a tragedy back into their homes as quickly as possible, and this homeowner called the right people to get the job done. From our fully staffed construction team, to our staple in water mitigation, SERVPRO is capable of handling ANY size loss

Making it Right

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

"All the guys and young ladies were very nice. They explained everything well and were very caring. These are the kind of people I like to deal with. I would recommend SERVPRO to others, as I know things are going to be taken care of."

We strive for these kind of comments on every Completion Of Satisfaction form we send out. We are dealing with people that are having a bad day and they are looking for an "it's going to be ok". Most people will only go through an event like this once in their life. 

The challenges each team deals with on a daily basis can be trying. This particular customer's basement had close to foot of water in it. The family had been gone for a weekend and came back to this mess. Not a great way to end a getaway weekend. The team assessed the damage and made it "Like it never even happened." 

Professionalism on Display

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

"Your staff's professionalism in determining what needed to be done and her explanation to me is why I chose SERVPRO to do the work in my house. She and her team were fantastic throughout the entire job".

Comments you never get tired of hearing. From beginning to end the customer is dealing with an issue they may have never had to deal with in their life. They are stressed, confused and just want it to go away. 

This is where a well trained professional staff make everyone's life better. Reassurance to the customer is a key factor in making the situation better. 

Water in a basement is never good unless they have a swimming pool. This particular family was dealing with sump pump failure while everyone was at work and school. They ended their day by coming home to a mess. They had been told by friends call SERVPRO and they are glad they did. 

Another "Like it never even happened." success story. 

Did April Showers Bring You May Mold?

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Mold forming on ceiling from roof leak

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Vermilion County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Have a Mold Problem? 
Call Us Today – (217) 443-0077

Around Crawfordsville In 6 Hours

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

The cleaning professionals at SERVPRO of Vermilion County will meet all of your carpet cleaning needs.

This week, SERVPRO of Vermilion County wanted to show appreciation to a few insurance agents in Crawfordsville, IN. by cleaning the carpets in their offices. Not only does this give us a chance to demonstrate the skills of our highly trained crew to the agents, but also to the agencies clients who are able to walk in to a clean and great smelling office. 

Misconceptions on carpet cleaning:

Untrained persons and DIYers can likely cause additional damage by using too much water which will extend drying times and provide the perfect environment for potential secondary growth or pests. Using too little water or detergent leads to an overall inadequate job, while using too much detergent can cause the opposite effect leaving behind residue and leading to soiling.

We offer a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.

Preventive Maintenance:

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

IICRC states that 79% of soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet. 

For all carpet/rug cleaning questions or to schedule an appointment- Call (217) 443-0077 today!

Money Smart Week Gives Kid's Scholarship

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Anyia holding up her scholarship from Money Smart Week.

In coordination with Danville Public Schools, a long standing customer of ours, SERVPRO was honored to be a part of congratulating Brittney Chavira's daughter on her Scholarship-Winning Essay hosted by Money Smart Week. Long hours of research and hard work went into this amazing effort by Anyia as she put together a plan for being prepared financially in the event of an unexpected emergency. This included the potential devastating effects of a fire, or other natural disaster, on your financial stability. Whilst including tips and resources to prepare for an unexpected crisis. To qualify for the scholarship, students must be nominated by a parent or guardian and be able to demonstrate how they practice good money management. With our franchise owners in attendance, Dave and Suzie (pictured left), there was a sense of pride in the air as Anyia received her Scholarship for $750. A big SERVPRO Congratulations to Anyia and the Chavira family.

Danville Business Gets a Start on Spring Cleaning

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Chad at SERVPRO of Vermilion County finishes extraction on area business carpet cleaning.

Restaurant floors have some of the highest traffic of any business. Plus when you factor in food that may fall on the floor and the occasional drink spills, the results on a carpeted floor can be quite unsightly. The highly trained staff on our production crew at SERVPRO of Vermilion County were ready to tackle this job. They arrived early in the morning to get started so that when the doors opened to customers that day, the carpet would be clean and dry. During the process, the restaurant manager was able to see the difference between the shampooed and soiled carpet. He was very happy with the results and in his words "It looks great!" We aim to achieve greatness at SERVPRO of Vermilion County and this job was another success.

SERVPRO On Ice

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Franchise owner Suzie McGuire and the SERVPRO Storm Trooper had a blast at the hockey game.

SERVPRO of Vermilion County had the pleasure of participating in corporate night at the Danville Dashers hockey game held at the David S. Palmer Arena in Danville. Our SERVPRO Storm Trooper made his appearance and had a great time dancing and taking pictures with kids and adults alike. Definitely a crowd favorite!

Our table was set up with goodies for the crowd and numerous information pamphlets describing on our services. The highlight of the night was when we were able to take our SERVPRO car out on the ice during the second intermission and throw out SERVPRO t-shirts into the crowd.

It was a wonderful time for the SERVPRO staff and their families that were able to attend. All of us at SERVPRO loved being a part of this and look forward to the next event we are able to take part in.

SERVPRO Enjoyed Annual Peer Court Auction

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

2/9/2018

SERVPRO had a great time at the Peer Court Auction held on Friday, February 9th.  The evening was held at Turtle Run, serving hors d'oeuvres for all who came.   The rooms were filled with baskets and items to be auctioned off as a fund raiser for the Vermilion County Peer Court.

The Vermilion County Peer Court began in 2007.  This is a unique program that includes bailiffs, jury members and attorneys who are same age as the defendants.  This is an entirely volunteer program that even includes local attorneys. The young Peer Court volunteers must be between the ages of 10 and 17.   The young volunteers begin as jurors and progress to attorneys.  

The auction is one of the main fund raisers, for this program.   It was great seeing how much our community pulls together for a wonderful cause.  

SERVPRO of Vermilion County 24 Hour Water Damage Service

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Minimally invasive water extraction

SERVPRO of Vermilion 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 - (217) 443-0077

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 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 Vermilion County

SERVPRO 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.

Do You Have Mold?

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Smoke & Soot Cleanup

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Vermilion County 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 – (217) 443-0077

Keeping Your Home Safe During the Winter Months

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

Whether you’re a recent homebuyer, new to the Mid-Western winter months, or just want to cover your bases heading into the holiday season: It’s important that you make sure your property is well taken care of. Putting together a thorough checklist ensures your home will be well-prepared for the inevitable sub-zero temperatures. This short read will put your mind at ease, protect your home, and hopefully keep your money where it needs to be…in your wallet!

• Making sure your doors, windows, and any other outside passage for air are correctly sealed ensures your furnace doesn’t work overtime heating the air coming from outside. When it comes to your electricity bill, sharing is NOT caring!
• Add extensions to all of your downspouts. This will prevent water pooling around your foundation. Water will expand when frozen, and this will lead to damaging your foundation and further expense.
• Drain water out of sprinklers, hoses, faucets, and any exterior water source. Like we already mentioned, frozen water will expand and will cause major damage.
• If you will be using your fireplace, make sure you have a chimney sweep inspect your chimney. Also make sure to dispose of any fire hazards that could turn your small fireplace into a big bonfire! Make sure your fire extinguishers are up to date, and inspect them to make sure they are functioning properly.
• Make sure your insulation is well maintained and any possible leaking of air is plugged and dealt with. Keep your warm air in and the cold air out!
• Because heat rises, reverse your ceiling fans. This will push the warm air in your house down instead of pulling it up.

Following these tips to ensure a safe home during the upcoming winter months will have you enjoying your holiday season like you should be. Give your home the best present it could ever ask for, protection. Happy Holidays from your friends at SERVPRO.

Danville Night of Lights

11/15/2017 (Permalink)

Saturday, November 11^th was surely a night to remember for those of us involved in the “Night of Lights” in Danville. This event is part of the Festival of Trees sponsored by the Provena United Samaritans Medical Center Foundation, an event they put on every year. Weeks and weeks of planning, preparation, and late nights went into these floats displayed. With the entry also being free for those who bring a charitable donation of non-perishable food items, this was a very heartwarming way to bring Vermilion County and other surrounding counties into the holiday season.

There was a sense of pride we had the pleasure of sharing when we saw the finished product rolling down the parade route. Our float featured a cityscape of historical downtown Danville sporting staple businesses like Fischer’s Theatre, Kresqe’s, Alexander’s Sporting Goods, and Woodbury’s Drug Store. Keeping the history of Danville alive through our float was a huge to us. Our goal was to expose the roots of Danville, and bring a sense of nostalgia to those among the crowd. Bringing fond memories of Danville back to those who were lucky enough to experience them. With a huge turnout this year and great spirits in the crowd, there was a lasting smile on everyone’s face here at SERVPRO.

IICRC Certified Firm

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Vermilion County

SERVPRO of Vermilion 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Take me out to the ballpark

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Let's Play Ball

Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the crowd, buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks, I don't care if I come back. You have the idea. Rock the Park was one of the last home events for the Dans this year. With the Blackhawks band on hand the park was "rocking". There's nothing better than minor league baseball in my opinion. What better place to observe a game than the stadium in Danville, Il where the last version of the Babe Ruth story was filmed. 

The SERVPRO crew invaded the stadium July 30, 2017. The season was wrapping up and the Danville Dans were trying to improve on a slow start. Terra Haute was the team that the Dans hoped to improve their home record against. This game would go extra innings before the bottom of the eleventh. The Dand won in walk off fashion with a home run that sent the visitors to the bus with a big"L". 

Back to school

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Bring on the new school year

As the new school year approached, our partnership with the Danville Schools continued. We spent the early part of August getting carpets cleaned and more importantly an ERP for each building in the district. The ERP's (Emergency Ready Programs) enable the schools to have vital information in the event they need to shut down power, water, gas or servers. Nicole and Marilyn spent countless hours going from building to building gathering data and visual aides (photos) along with information on the locations of the shutoffs for the above listed services.  

This information is vital as staff change buildings from year to year, along with retirements and with the creation of a 5th and 6th grade building and a 7th and 8th grade building, these documents prove ERP's are very valuable.