What's that Smell

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Middletown DE

Fire can leave behind soot and smoke damage that you can't see. Ceilings, walls, carpets, flooring and woodwork retain the smells that fire leaves behind.  Professional cleaning is usually a necessity after a fire to destroy lingering smells. Even a small fire can cause odors long after if not properly cleaned and deodorized.  Fire leaves odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard to reach places. These residues and deposits can cause permanent damage as well as residual odors.

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown will seek out and remove the source of the odor. SERVPRO uses it's own proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. SERVPRO  offers a variety of deodorization methods to fit all your needs.

Improving Air Quality

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

HVAC vent

What is in the air your employees and customers are breathing each day? In the age of COVID-19, air qualify is more important than ever.  So what's actually going on in your business' HVAC system?  

Overtime, different contaminants collect and build up in your air ducts. Contaminants, such as dust, dirt, pollen, bacteria, insects and even rodents. These contaminants diminish your indoor air quality and may cause damage to the HVAC system. Inspecting your HVAC system should be high priority. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help your business.  SERVPRO will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations on how to best address any concerns about indoor air quality. Keeping your HVAC system and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life of the system. The SERVPRO duct-cleaning system is proven and cost-efficient. 

Types of Smoke

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

House fire in Felton

Fire brings devastation to homes and businesses.  Smoke damage tends to exacerbate the devastation. Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of the structure. Smoke flows around plumbing systems and seeps through holes uses by pipes to go from floor to floor.  

What's important to know is that there are two different types of smoke: wet and dry.

• Wet Smoke - created from burning plastic and rubber: low heat, smoldering, sticky, smearing and pungent odor, causes smoke webs.
• Dry Smoke - created from burning paper and wood: fast-burning, high temperatures.

The type of smoke created will directly impact the restoration process.

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is trained in fire cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO knows the difference in the types of smoke and how the smoke tends to behave. Prior to the restoration process beginning, soot will be tested to determine the proper cleaning method and deodorization process. 

The Right Company with the Right Equipment

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

detection meter

When damage occurs to your home or business, it is imperative to act quickly and choose a company that has knowledgeable trained employees and the right equipment.   

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown has both.  The proper equipment saves time and money when it matters the most.  From our Detection Equipment to Deodorization Equipment we have the right equipment for every situation. 

THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

• MOISTURE SENSORS- detect moisture in carpets and padding
• MOISTURE METERS -  determine the actual moisture content of various materials
• THERMO-HYGROMETERS - measures both temperature and relative humidity.
• INFRARED CAMERAS - identifies the location and extent of moisture in walls.
• EXTRACTORS - used for removing water from floors and cleaning carpets and upholstery.
• AIR MOVERS - enhance evaporation at the surface level.
• DESICCANT DEHUMIDIFIERS - uses chemicals to readily absorb moisture from the air.
• THERMAL FOGGERS - solvent-based dense fog suitable for confined areas.

Don't Drink the Water

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

basement water damage

Water Damage can happen any day of the week, anytime of day. Knowing what type of water has invaded your home or business is essential to a safe and speedy clean-up and restoration process. 

There are three types of water: Clean water, Grey water, and Black water. Clean water comes from a water pipe or even rain water. Grey water is slightly contaminated. It happens when clean water is left untreated allowing bacteria to grow. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria and chemicals and is often sewage water. It is extremely important to avoid all contact with Black water. Do not walk through contaminated areas. Do not turn on HVAC system or fans when Black water is present, to avoid spreading contaminants through the air. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown has the knowledge and experience to deal with any type of water damage. SERVPRO will determine what type of water damage has taken place and safely extract excess water before beginning the drying process. 

Safeguarding your Business

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Plan

Disaster may strike any time. The sustainability of a business can be jeopardized by fires, floods and even a National Pandemics. Most businesses are not adequately prepared in case of an emergency or disaster. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to ensure your business is ready for anything. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) is a quick convenient emergency disaster plan. The ERP contains critical property information such as shut offs, facility and utility contact information as wells other key contact information.  In addition to the free ERP, SERVPRO offers proactive ways for your business to prevent potential loss of business. The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a cleaning and disinfecting program. A proactive cleaning gives employees and customers the peace of mind that the structure has been protected by SERVPRO. 

Prepare Your Property for a Storm

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Believe it or not, it is still hurricane season. We continue to encourage residents and business owners to prepare and protect their properties from potential store damage. 

Below is a list of recommended actions provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)  for homeowners as how to safe guard their properties. 

FEMA Tips for your Home prior to the Storm

• Cover all windows in the home with plywood or hurricane shutters to protect against high winds
• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and any other items that are not tied down
• Trim all trees and shrubs so they are more wind resistant.
• Turn off utilities as instructed.  Turn off propane tanks.
• Fill large containers with water to ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes.

When disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Leaky Leaks

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

water damage in basement

Leaks from piping, roofs and appliances can cause water damage that can go unnoticed for weeks, even months. Undiscovered leaks and moisture build-up can cause damage to floors, walls and ceilings of your home. Leaks and moisture can lead to soft dry wall, warped floors and ceilings as well as potential growth. When the damaged goes undetected for an extended period of time, it is imperative that proper cleanup and restoration is performed.  

Homeowners should inspect water lines and water supply connectors for dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators for potential kinks, bends or leaks. Completing these inspections annually can reduce potential water and moisture damage. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown uses Thermal Imaging equipment to detect even the smallest amount of moisture in a home. When water damage is located, we provide water extraction and drying services to return the property to it's preloss condition.

NO Job too small, NO Job too big

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help residential and commercial customers 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.  No job is too big, No job is too small.  SERVPRO has the ability to assist with a variety of needs for your home or your business.

• FIRE RESTORATION - SERVPRO determines what type of fire has occurred and properly cleans up and restores fire, smoke and soot damage in your property
• WATER REMOVAL - SERVPRO identifies the source and type of water. We extract the water and use our drying equipment to properly control temperature and humidity in order to minimize secondary damage. 
• CRIME SCENE/BIOHAZARD CLEANUP - SERVPRO safely and effectively cleans biohazardous substances and properly disposes of the substances and waste according to OSHA, EPA and state regulations.
• AIR DUCT/HVAC CLEANING - SERVPRO inspects and cleans your HVAC system and ductwork and help restore the system to peak energy efficiency and improve indoor air quality. 
• CARPET/HARD FLOOR CLEANING - SERVPRO uses state of the art equipment to remove entrapped soils from deep within the carpet's pile and backings. 

Water and the Damage it Leaves Behind

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Utility Closet

Water Damage can be the result of a leaky pipe, a broken washing machine or a rain storm. Most people's first reaction is to just grab some towels or a mop to attack the water. However, water loss and damage happen quickly. Water gets into places that you can't always see or reach to clean it up. It is important to react fast and choose a professional that has the knowledge and equipment to provide a quick resolution.

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown has the resources and equipment to properly identify potential loss and damage as well as dry the effected area. Our team will inspect the extent of the water damage. We will extract the water and remove any damaged walls, ceilings or flooring. We will utilize professional drying equipment to properly dry the effected area.  Our team will repair effected walls, ceilings and flooring and restore the area to how it was before the water.

Weathering the Storm

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Damage to School Gym in Dover after a Storm ripped off the roof

Hurricane Season along the Atlantic Coast begins June 1st and runs through the end of November. This season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an increase in storms that will develop into hurricanes. The NOAA is forecasting at least 10 hurricanes this season versus 7 in previous years. Of the 10 potential hurricanes, 5 are projected to evolve into major hurricanes, with winds up to 111 mph. 

Now is the time to prepare and plan for these potentially destructive storms. A good start is to understand the terminology beginning with the difference between a storm watch vs. a warning. 

• WATCH describes conditions that are favorable for severe weather. You should remain alert for further warnings. 
• WARNING indicates severe weather has been spotted or indicated by radar and that you should take immediate shelter. 

Since these storms can develop into hurricanes quickly within hours it is imperative to stay alert and informed. It is recommended that you regularly check the weather forecast as well as utilize mobile weather apps and emergency alerts. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help in the event of a disaster. We have an expert team trained in water remediation and reconstruction. 

Time is of the Essence

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fire in the Basement of Home in Dover

Did you know that you have as less than two minutes to a escape a burning home before it may be too late to get out? It only takes a few minutes for a small flame to become a major fire. Time is of the essence in these situations, so you need to be prepared. According to the American Red Cross only 26% of families and businesses have created and practiced a fire escape plan. In addition to creating and practicing the escape plan, fire detectors are key to survival. 

Below are some suggestions when creating your emergency escape plan:

• Draw a Map - included all levels of the building. Label all windows and doors. Plan at least 2 ways out of each room.
• Consider escape ladders - purchase collapsible ladders to store by windows in bedrooms on the second and thirds floors
• Teach your Children - teach your children how to escape on their own.
• Practice, Practice, Practice - practice the plan during different times, day and night.

When every second counts, its important to plan ahead. 

Here to Help

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown delivers water to the East Dover Elementary Summer Program

Here at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown, we appreciate being part of this community. We welcome the opportunity to give back. This summer we had the opportunity to help a local elementary school summer program and a fire company. 

When we heard the local summer program did not have water to give to their students, we wanted to help. Back in July we donated 125 cases of water to the East Dover Elementary Summer Program. We wanted the kids and the staff to have an ample amount of water for the length of the program, especially with these extremely hot days of summer. 

We are thankful to all our First Responders for their selflessness and dedication. On Monday, the SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown team went to the Camden Wyoming Fire Company to precautionary Covid clean the facility and response vehicles. While on site, the team was able to clean 4 fire trucks, 2 ambulances, the bunk room, the kitchen and the gathering room. 

We are grateful to all Teachers, Nurses and First Responders.

Water Quick Tips

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage in a basement Dover

Water can be damaging to your home or your business. It is extremely important to act quickly when water disrupts your daily life. 

Here are some emergency quick tips related to coping with water and the damage it can create:

• Locate the source of the water and shut-off the water source.
• Turn-off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when the access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock
• Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. 
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or if the ceiling is sagging from retained water. 
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. 
• Do not use your household vacuum to remove water since this could cause electrical shock. 

The 3 Cs of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects the unique experiences and capabilities of America's #1 clean-up and restoration brand. The program is grounded with our unique 3 Cs: Consult, Clean and Certify.  So what are the 3 Cs?

CONSULT - A tailored cleaning program to meet your needs.  Each business/industry is unique, with its own needs, wants and requirements. For this reason we will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Consultant. Your consultant will work with you and your business to create a custom cleaning program to fit your needs. 

CLEAN - Proactive and COVID-19 Emergency response cleaning program. Based on your custom cleaning program, your business will undergo a thorough, expert deep clean rooted in the pillars of People, Process and Product.  Our People are prepared, trained and experienced in the cleanup Process with access to more that 100 exclusive cleaning Products.

CERTIFY - A commitment to clean for your employees and customers. Once your business has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will have access to propriety signage and other collateral that displays you have selected a higher standard of clean to protect your employees and customers.

Hoarding

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

Before and After picture of house in Dover

Most people have a closet full of clothes, shoes they never wear, a basement filled with old toys, books, keepsakes or holiday decorations, but does that make you a hoarder? 

The Mayo Clinic defines hoarding disorder as the persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter, making living conditions unsanitary. Bugs, fleas, rats and other vermin may be present. Each hoarding case is very different and is a delicate, sensitive situations.  

At SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown we treat each customer with dignity, respect and empathy. We work together to make their home safe and sanitary. We formulate a plan to sort and clean while ensuring all involved are comfortable with the process. We continue the relationship our customer by offering monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual cleaning options.

Will your Employees know what to do in an Emergency

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

No matter if your business has 2 employees or 200 employees does everyone know what to do in an emergency? Most times the answer is NO. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure that your business is equipped to handle whatever happens.

So what is an ERP? 

An ERP is:

• A no cost assessment of your facility 
• A concise profile that contains critical information needed in an emergency that can be accessed digitally from your phone or tablet
• Provides facility details such as: shut off values locations and important contact information 
• Acts as a guide to getting you back into your facility quickly and safely after an emergency

Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key! Let SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown be your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

Did You Know?

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

What is the first thought that comes to mind when you hear the name SERVPRO? Most people automatically think fire, water and mold.

However, that's not all we do here at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown.  

Did you know that in addition to fire, smoke, water, mold cleanup and restoration, we provide a variety of other services including:

• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Stain Removal and Resistance Applications
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Crime Scene , Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help you protect and maintain your home as well as your business with our vast service offerings. No matter if its a carpet cleaning or a rebuild of your home after a fire, We are hear to help 24/7. 

Severe Weather Safety

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Are you Ready?

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere.  Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

-10,000 sever thunderstorms

-5,000 floods or flash floods

-1,300 tornadoes

-2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 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 can impact you, your business, and your family.  Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts in your area.  Severe weather comes in many forms, and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazard scenarios.

Take action.  Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for the home and 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 family members, co-workers, and friends on social media.  Your preparedness efforts may inspire others to do the same.

Please contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP).

Are you winter weather ready?

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Ice damming is preventable!

Are you prepared for the upcoming cold weather?  Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home if you are not ready for it.  From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow.  To help prevent costly water damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before the cold weather hits.

* Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order.  Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your home.  Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall.  Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.

*Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing.  If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet door open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes.  If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting the water off at the main valve in the basement or crawlspace.  Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.

*If you will be traveling this holiday season, leave the heat on in the home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees.

If you end up with a broken frozen pipe this winter call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown to help you make it "Like it never even happened."

Stay safe from storms!

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Dover Tornado

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

During the storm

*Avoid contact with corded phones and electrical cords.

*Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

*Avoid contact with plumbing.  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.

Basic Emergency Supply Kit

-Water (1 gallon per person)

-Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

-Manual can opener

-Battery operated radio

-Flashlight

-First aid kit

-Whistle to signal help

-Clothing

-Dust mask or bandana

-Plastic sheeting, trash bags, duct tape

-Wrench or plier to turn off utilities

-Hygiene items

-Important documents

-Cash

-Fire Extinguisher

-Matches in a waterproof container

If one day you find that your home has suffered storm damage please reach out to SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown to help you rebuild!

Defense Against Mold Growth

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Surface Growth from High Humidity

Did you know high humidity in your commercial building can cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time?  The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to keep the humidity between 30-45 percent.  If humidity is high for a long period of time, surface growth can become an issue.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown professionals have the equipment, training, and experience to remediate any growth issues.  When air quality in your building matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform.  Here are a few of the tools used by our franchise.

Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity.  SERVPRO professionals can calculate and create an environment most conductive to drying.  

Ultra Love-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid antimicrobial agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where growth may accumulate.  This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach area.

HEPA Vacuum differ from conventional vacuums in that they contain filters that are capable of trapping extremely small, micron-sized particles. A true HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns.

The bottom line?  We at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown have the training and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."

Keep Fall Fire Free

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Hope you have a safe and happy fall!

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities.  Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

* Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable.  Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.

* Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.

* Teach children to stay away from open flames.  Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.

* Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or roiling food.

* Hire a chimney sweep to clean out your chimney every fall.

* Time changes mean battery changes.

* Establish and practice a fire escape plan with your family that includes a designated meeting area outside the home.

There is nothing more important than the safety of your family so at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown wish you a safe and happy fall season!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned sticker

Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward.  Employees may be hesitant to return to work and customers may wonder whether the business they patronize are safe.  The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean.  

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic.  This is a level of clean that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning.  This is a proactive viral pathogen cleaning.  SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in bio hazard decontamination always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC and local authorities.  We take the utmost care while disinfecting, we will will help ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy begins to reopen.

Kitchen Fire Cautions

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent kitchen fires

Each year, around the holidays, families gather together to celebrate by preparing a delicious feast.  However, not everyone practices safe cooking habits.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries.  The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.  It's important to be alert to prevent holiday cooking fires.

* Be on alert!  If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, do not use the stove top or oven.

*Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking food.

If you have a cooking fire, consider the following safety protocols to help keep you and your family safe.

* Just get out!  When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the flames.

* Call 9-1-1

* For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed.

* If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path out.

* Keep a lid nearby when you're cooking to smother small grease fires.  Smother the fire by sliding the kid over the pan and turn off the stove top.  Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

Storm and Flood Damage Can Be Devestating!

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage can be devastating! 

Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. The professionals at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. 

Residential and Commercial Storm Restoration Services:

With more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry, and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.

Residential Services

Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals to make your house feel like home again. They have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. 

Commercial Services

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Bedroom Damaged by Fire

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency? Call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776

What you can do until help arrives:

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency?

What To Do After A Fire:

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

What NOT To Do After A Fire:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

What is a Sump Pump and What Happens When it Doesn't Work?

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Illustration

What is a Sump Pump and What Happens When it Doesn't Work?

At SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown we have seen a lot of basement flooding that could have been avoided if our clients had maintained their sump pumps.

A sump pump is a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basements of homes. The water may enter via the perimeter drains of a basement waterproofing system, funneling into the basin or because of rain or natural ground water, if the basement is below the water table level.

The Most Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure:

Stuck Switch:

The most common problem that can cause a sump pump to fail is when a switch gets “stuck”. If the float switch becomes stuck it is ineffective. This can happen very easily if the sump pit becomes dirty. Keeping it clean and regularly running fresh water through the pit can decrease the likelihood of a switch getting stuck.

Power Failure:

Big storms often cause power outages. A power outage in your neighborhood combined with a storm that causes flooding can be a not-so-fun combination for homeowners. Installing a battery powered backup pump can help to mitigate the risk of a sump pump failure due to lack of power.

Frozen or Clogged Discharge Lines:

When the sump pumps discharge line is frozen or clogged with debris, any water in the discharge line will flow back down the pipe and can flood your basement. Although you can’t completely prevent pipes from freezing, testing your pump on a weekly basis will alert you to a problem more quickly and allow you to find a solution prior to a flooding incident. 

Old Age

Wear and tear after a period of years can decrease the effectiveness of a sump pump. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your sump pump every 7-10 years in order to ensure it is properly working.  

Improper Installation

This does not happen often, but another reason why sump pumps can fail is an improper installation. If you have checked for the above reasons and are still perplexed, you may want to have your sump pump installation looked over to make sure it was installed correctly in the first place.

If Your Sump Pump Has Failed Call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776

Winter Storm Cleanup and Restoration

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the Name You Can Trust for Winter Storm Cleanup

It Never Snows in Delaware, or does it?  One thing for certain that we have all learned in 2020 is that life and circumstances are very unpredictable.  

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776  has the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Frozen Pipes:

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Regardless of the Winter Storm, They Can Help

Cold weather and winter storms can cause significant damage with little warning. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 can handle any size disaster. 

SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team Assisting SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown at a Middle School in Dover, DE.

No Job Is Too Large

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

At SERVPRO, the difference is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor. Get the professionals, call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• Large Commercial Spaces

Should a storm or major event strike, call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776!

Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 is prepared for the unpredictable.

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recently the Catastrophic Storm Response Team assisted SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 when disaster hit a local school.

Hurricane Season

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Local School lost roof due to a Tornado that manifested from Hurricane Isaias winds.

Hurricane season has already begun and several named storms have developed in the Atlantic, Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property damage.

The National Weather Service lists the following as potential “hurricane hazards.” 

*Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds. This hazard is historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the United States. Storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers and estuaries.

*Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from landfalling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated. 

*Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes. 

*Tornadoes can accompany landfalling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm. 

*Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone’s strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than a 1,000 miles offshore.

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business. For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters, contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown.

Water Damage Restoration Steps

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Extracting water is the most important step in the restoration process.

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of receiving a loss notification, a SERVPRO professional will be on-site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

INSPECTION SERVPRO® professionals will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning the work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES SERVPRO® professionals will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

MONITORING to help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO® professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated with you.

RESTORATION SERVICES SERVPRO® professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and contents. A final walkthrough of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its pre loss condition.

For more information on recovering from a water damage please call our office.  At SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown we are here to help.

Safe Cooking Tips

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Damage from a grease fire.

The #1 cause of fire/smoke damages that our franchise is called out on are kitchen fires.  Accidents happen, but here are a few tips to keep you from calling SERVPRO.

*Never leave cooking food unattended—stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If someone must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, they should turn off the stove.

*Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.

*Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a “kid-free zone” and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.

*Keep anything flammable like pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.

*Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. n Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease build-up.

*Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.

*Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.

*Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working properly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

Safe cooking everyone!

COVID-19

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

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 – (SERVPRO of Dover-Middletown 302-922-0845)

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is consistently one of the leading types of insurance claims for homeowners, and can also be one of the most costly. Standing water in your home can come from the effects of a bad storm, a burst pipe, or a broken sump pump. At SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown, we want you to be mindful of what to do and what not to do if you encounter stagnant water. Take a look at some of these tips to stay safe if you experience standing water.

DO: Turn off electricity! Water and electricity are a dangerous combination for you and your family. If you can, shut off all electrical sources to prevent electrifying the water. If possible, stop the water at the source. This can be difficult during a bad storm where your house is taking on water, but in situations like a burst pipe or a broken pump, turning off the water altogether can stop it from accumulating and causing further water damage to your home. If your home is taking on water damage from an outside source and you can locate the entry point, do what you can to safely stop or slow the amount of water coming into your home.

Don't: Wait to address standing water. Standing water can also pose substantial health risks to you and your family. It can be a breeding ground for thousands of types of bacteria that can cause pneumonia or other infections. In addition, leaving standing water in your home will ultimately result in the growth of mold, which can begin to form in as little as 48 hours.

Do: Consult a Professional
Removing stagnant water home and water damage restoration can be a complex process that requires the consultation and assistance of professionals. You need to ensure that the problem is being fully addressed to remove the potential of long-term damage such as mold or mildew. SERVPRO understands the gravity of your situation, and the urgency to address the water damage in your home. Should you need our water damage restoration services, you can reach out to our team of experts to learn exactly how we can help you and your home.

HVAC Duct Cleaning

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Think about this- Your heating and cooling system are the lungs of your home. The system takes air in and breathes air out. Just like us, the system needs to have a clear path to breathe.

When we spend a lot of time in our homes, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work.

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, they may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies. Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly, tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Energy Savings

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

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 touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a 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 today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of [Franchise Name] today at  [302-735-9940] for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

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

COVID-19, The New Way of Life

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Although the major threat of COVID-19 will pass, our way of life will be changed for a long time. 

The virus has forced a great majority of people to stay home and has limited our simple essential trips such as grocery shopping and getting gas in our vehicles.  Businesses were closed for so long, that a percentage of them will not be able to reopen. 

Our new ways of interacting with each other have even changed. Salutes instead of handshakes, video chats instead of in person meetings. These are also likely to stick to some degree. When you’re having meetings for work, people are going to start asking, "Do we have to meet in person?" which is not something we would say before. Sanitation and disinfecting is at an utmost level of importance in all aspects of our lives. Our homes and businesses have been wiped, sprayed and then done again to prevent the spread.  

Regardless, this will be one for the history books. 

Commercial Water Damage

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

A small water pipe can cause a lot of water damage.

No one wants to discover water damage from a storm on a Monday morning. Unfortunately, a commercial facility is more likely to have a larger, more significant damage than a residential home. This is not only because of the facility's size, but it is also because commercial facilities generally have longer periods without anyone there (i.e. overnight, weekends, holidays). Because of this, it is important to have a plan in place in case a disaster does happen. 

Did you know that SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown does commercial damage restoration? We know the stress and anxiety that water or fire damage can bring to your business. We are dedicated to limiting your business interruption by being faster to any size disaster. We can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce future damage water can cause. We have the right equipment, procedures and training to help ensure the structure is clean & dry the first time, saving you time and money. 

Is Your Dryer Vent Safe?

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 17,000 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year.  Unsurprisingly, the leading cause of these fires, at 34%, is the failure to clean dryer vents. Who would of thought that something that is used on a near daily basis in some households could be so dangerous. 

Look out for the following signs of a dirty dryer vent:

• A musty odor is discovered in the clothing following the drying cycle
• Clothes seem unusually hot to the touch
• Excessive heat is noticed in the room in which the washer and dryer are operated
• The dryer vent hood flap does not open properly when you use the dryer (this is the vent opening to the exterior of your home)
• Debris is noticed within the outside dryer vent opening
• Large amounts of lint build-up in the lint trap during each cycle
• Odor noticed from dryer sheets used during the drying cycle

At SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown, we have the proper tools to clean out your dryer vents to make them more safe. Having them cleaned out by our team of professionals will not only make your dryer more safe to use, it will also increase the efficiency because the air can flow through the vent properly after it is cleaned. 

Keeping Your Business Air Quality Safe

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

Sick Building Syndrome: In the 1970’s sick building syndrome became apparent as groups of people displayed similar symptoms after having spent extended periods of time in buildings with poor air quality. Good judgment and immediate attention can correct the situation and save you money in the event of litigation. People most at risk include, but are not limited to Infants & Children, Pregnant women, Elderly, People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma / allergies, and those with weakened immune system.

Control Moisture and Reduce Mold - Act within the first 24 to 48 hours *

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.

Proper Maintenance Saves Money

Estimated made by the World Health Organization say that poor indoor air quality costs $60 billion in employee sick leave and lost production.

Part of your responsibility to the tenants, workers and students who work and play in your buildings includes proper maintenance and prompt response to any situation that can cause illness or health concerns. SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown is available when it matters!

Is Storm Water Clean Water?

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

As a kid, I can personally remember playing in the water that would collect on my street after a major rain storm.  But little did I know that not all storm water is clean. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), who sets the standards for the cleaning industry and water damage restoration training, says that there are three levels or types of water damages. 

Category 1: Clean water

This water damage is from sanitary sources, such as an overflowing sink or tub, burst water pipes, failed supply lines to appliances, drinking fountains, or vertical falling rainwater.

Category 2: Grey water

This water is from sources that could make you uncomfortable or ill if ingested. Washing machine, dishwasher, or urine-tainted toilet overflows belong in this category.

Category 3: Black water

This is the worst classification of water and could cause severe illness if ingested. Sewer backups, flooded rivers, feces-tainted toilet overflows, or stagnant liquid that has bacterial growth are all

Once SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown technicians arrive on the scene at a home or business, they quickly assess the situation using special water and moisture detection equipment and start the restoration process. 

After your home floods, you may think your home and its contents are a lost cause, but many of your furnishings and belongings can be restored. With professional restoration help, your flooded home can be cleaned up, dried out, rebuilt, and reoccupied sooner than you think!

Wall Ghosting

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

This home had a fire damage in an adjacent room. But the heat built up to a point where you can see ghosting.

One thing we here at SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown know is that fire causes different types of damages to a home or business. I can say that I understand this from being a volunteer firefighter in the past, to now working for a company that comes in after the damage has been done.  There is one thing that I was always curious about after a fire had occurred. "Why are there a bunch of black dots all over the wall where the drywall screws are?"  

Those black dots are actually called ghosting. No they aren't actually ghosts so don't be afraid! The dark spots are the result of convection. The surface of the drywall cools faster than the nail heads because they are driven into the stud and continue to wick out that heat still within the studs for hours and even days. Therefore they are leaving a small heat signature behind the wall since they are still warm and are slowly smoldering away.  

Sometimes if candles are often burned inside of a home with a lot of moisture, the same effect can happen and people will start to notice that they can see lines where the studs in the wall are. That is also called ghosting.

We offer a fast response time!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know one of the reasons we are so unique is our 1-4-8 Service Response Guideline?  This helps us ensure timely communication and response to the situation.  Quick and accurate response time minimizes your loss expenses.  

1 - Within one hour from the notice of the loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional contacts the insured to arrange for services to be done.

4 - Within four hours from the notice of the loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional is on-site ready to start mitigation services when mitigation is necessary

8 - Within eight hours from the notice of the loss, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional contacts the insurance adjuster to give a verbal briefing of what the job entails and what their plans are moving forward.  

Give us a call if you need fast service

302-697-9776

Never Leave Water Damage for Later

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

"I'll get to it later." It's easy to just notice water spots in your home and say that you'll take care of the issue later. We at SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown know that life happens, schedules changes and then we forget. However, with water damage, this can be an issue in a home and it's effects will eventually surface in various forms.  

1. Floors and walls are weakened by water damage. Although wood is a leading material in home production, it doesn’t respond well to water damage. Over time, water can seep into floorboards and baseboards, causing them to crumble and weaken. Damp wood becomes vulnerable to mold. Not only does mold pose a risk to people living in the home, but it weakens the wood further, causing a safety risk. 
2. Water damage threatens electrical systems. Any electrical wiring, outlets, or fuse boxes exposed to wet or damp conditions pose a major risk to homeowners. 
3. Water damage weakens drywall. Since homes are framed by drywall, water damage weakens the entire home. Drywall exposed to water will become discolored, brittle, and fragile. Even under generous paint layers, it will warp and bubble. The best solution for this is to replace the drywall completely, which can be both expensive and exhausting. 

If you’ve discovered water damage in your home, give SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown a call at 302-697-9776.

How a $0.13 Part Became a $3,100 Problem

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

The rubber washer in the house outlet for the washing machine caused a great deal of damage.

We recently had a home owner call us because he noticed a small water spot on his ceiling in his living room. He did state that he noticed it start about two months ago but didn't think much of it because of how small it was. When one of our employees went out to check it out- there was more damage than the home owner noticed.

What caused the water damage was a simple rubber washer in his hose outlet for his washing machine. Because the owner let the problem go on for so long, he never noticed the amount of water than had seeped through the walls and in to other areas of the home (four other rooms). The total damages turned out to be over $3,100.  All from a $0.13 part.

We Go Through Extensive Training

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

We even have a house INSIDE of a building used for training!

When damages occur in your home or business, it can be disruptive in many ways. Sure there are many companies that claim that they are specialist in cleaning and restoration, but are they certified in it? SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown has technicians that go through extensive training through guidelines set forth by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC. We even have our own nation training facility in which we teach many different things. SERVPRO is an approved IICRC Training School that offers year-around classes in the following categories:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Applied Structural Drying
  (in our purpose-built ASD facility)

So when a damage occurs in your home or facility and someone approaches you claiming to be specialist- ask them if they are certified.

Commercial Property Damage? We Do That To!

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Minimizing your company’s loss in inventory, property damage, customer base, competitive position and even reputation is critical after a disaster occurs. By giving SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown a call, you can be confident that your operational and cost concerns are top of mind with our team of commercial restoration services specialists. 

Our goal is getting your business back to normal as soon as possible. We will respond quickly to contain the damage so that we can begin the restoration process. Even if only a small portion of the building is affected, we can set up a containment area so that business may be conducted as usual (scenario based). We know that one day without business can lead to other struggles. That is why you can count on us to help!

We care about you, your family and your pets!

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown, our number one priority is to make our customers happy. It may sound like the impossible task; after all, we are arriving on the scene when circumstances for our customers are devastating. A fire in their home, a broken water pipe which has caused water damage in their home, mold in their office building. These are difficult situations and can cause emotion strain which is all the more reason for our employees to be sensitive to what our customers are dealing with. Many times, depending upon the damage we are mitigating, we could spend days, weeks, or even months in customer’s home or office. We get to know our clients one on one. We get to meet their children. We get to hear about their families. We know their pets’ names. We know where they leave the key in case they are not there. We get to know them by carefully handling all of their cherished possessions, sometimes cleaning them and packing them away until their homes are restored. At the end of the day, we are just people helping people.  That’s what it’s all about. 

One of our marketing employees, Lee Ireland, loves to take pictures of pets he meets at estimates. Besides the fact that he loves meeting them, it helps show that we care about them as much as we care about you!

We offer more than people know about.

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

A building just a few doors down had a water pipe break when they were moving some items out. We were there within an hour to start mitigation.

Did you know that according to the Insurance Information Institute, catastrophe losses along the coast are likely to double every ten years or so due to development? Damage to your commercial property or business can occur at any time. Storms and fires and even faulty appliances, broken pipes, equipment failure can cause damage. It is important to take care of these emergencies quickly as the longer your business in closed, the lower your profits will be. SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown wants commercial property owners to know that we can respond quickly to any damage, large or small. Here are some of the services we provide:

• Water damage cleanup and restoration
• Mold remediation and mitigation services
• Sewage cleanup
• Storm damage
• Building services
• Commercial water damage cleanup and restoration
• Fire damage cleanup and restoration
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Odor removal
• Biohazard removal
• Disaster Recovery Team

If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of commercial damage, SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown wants to help. We are available 24 hours a day and our highly trained technicians have the specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore water damage for Island Walk business owners. Call us today at 302-697-9776 to find out about our cleanup and restoration services. We’ll take care of your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

COVID-19 Sanitation Services

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

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 – SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown, 302-735-9940

Why SERVPRO?

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

When looking at companies who can provide you with water mitigation, mold remediation and fire restoration services you might ask yourself, why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO has been around since 1967 when Ted and Doris Isaacson founded the company which started as a painting business. Today, more than 1,700 SERVPRO franchises exist nationwide. Therefore, SERVPRO has proved to be an outstanding company. SERVPRO is actually one of the top 10 franchises today.

Our SERVPRO started over 25 years ago. Our owner started a SERVPRO franchise, with no other employees, one vehicle and just a couple pieces of equipment. Since then, we now operate with about 20 employees, multiple types of vehicles, a wide range of equipment for all types of work in our field. We have been successful, which has allowed us to grow.

All of our technicians are trained and specialists in the work that they do. 

We work with your insurance company to make sure you are covered for the work that we complete. If your insurance company does not cover a service we recommend, we will let you know the price before the work is done.

We work quickly to ensure that your home is back to normal ASAP.We appreciate your feedback! We would like to know if your happy with our services. We also are interested in knowing if your unhappy with our services. We want to make it right, and fix anything that may have gone wrong.

Does your company have a plan in place for emergencies?

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire, or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today.  While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place and practice for all kinds of emergencies.  The following are basic measures business owners and managers can take to begin preparing. 

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Review Insurance Coverage

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Practice the Emergency Plan

Secure Your Facility and Equipment

Improve Cyber Security

We can help you in the venture by completing an Emergency Readiness Plan for your business.  We are now linking all of our commercial clients with the 911 dispatch center so that the Emergency Responders know everything they need to know about your building.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is always here to help!

Disaster Readiness!

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

In the last ten years the U.S. has officially declared 1,000 disasters.

in 2017 we had 3 major natural disasters alone; Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

The goal is to plan now, because the odds are that you will be affected one day.

Here are 6 things to know before one of these disasters strikes!

1. Know where your gas shut off valve is located. Shutting off the gas before an emergency can help avoid gas leaks and potential explosions.
2. Know where your electrical shut off is. Electrical problems cause an estimated 25,900 house fires each year and this number grows during a disaster.
3. Make an emergency communication program. Family members will know where to go, what to do, and how to reconnect.
4. Make sure you have insurance, and make sure you know what it covers- flooding? Earthquakes? Etc. Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster. A few inches of water can cause thousands in damage.
5. Plan for your pets, most shelters will not accept pets due to public health reasons unless it is a service animal. So search ahead to find a shelter who allows pets.
6. Know your evacuation routes. Many communities have them, make sure you know these routes as in a disaster every second counts.

Always remember you can visit www.FEMA.org for more information on disasters and how to plan! 

Puffbacks and the Damage they create.

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

A puffback is caused most of the time in homes that use oil for heat. If a heating system isn’t regularly maintained at least once a year, when the heating unit turns on it can create a explosion inside of the unit and send soot, and smoke all throughout your home or business. This “Puffback” will have all the walls and belongings in your home covered in a dense soot that would have to be removed by hand scrubbing using specialty equipment. These puffbacks can be avoided by having a HVAC technician come out once a year and make adjustments to your system. There are a lot of reasons that puffbacks can occur and only a HVAC tech can help with your home before a puffback occurs. We are here to help after a puffback takes place, with making your home, or business beautiful again; and "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown today! 

Water and the damage that it can create.

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

If the water is dealt with during the first 24-48 hours, the harmful effects can be drastically reduced.  Even though the damage may look severe, cleanup and restoration can produce amazing results. 

Some of the places that water damage can occur are:

• Partition walls
• Flooring
• Internal walls
• Masonry
• Balcony
• Suspended ceiling
• Foundation/ground slab
• Foundation walls

Most of the time its the water that you cannot see that causes the biggest amount of damage to a structure. 

As leaders in the water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-water-damage condition. Our process includes documentation of the drying process to validate your property is dry..

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is locally owned and operated—so we are part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 SERVPRO Franchises and special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to large scale disasters.

We are proud to serve our local communities, so give us a call and let us prove our worth to you.

Apartment Management??? Quick tips to keep you and your residents dry!

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Don’t let water ruin your day! Call SERVPRO of Dover Middletown for all your needs!

With so many shared walls and spaces, water damage in an apartment community can get messy pretty quickly. Of course you can never know when an emergency situation will occur, but it’s in your best interest as a property manager, as well as in the best interest of your residents, to always be ahead of the game. Take these measures today to prevent water damage tomorrow.

1. Check On Aging Appliances Regularly – If the property you manage includes a fridge, dishwasher, and/or washer/dryer in unit, you should closely monitor the age of the appliances as well as routinely checking them for cracked or damaged hoses or connections. Washer hoses should be replaced about every five years. It’s a good idea to replace washers and dryers before there’s a problem. It may cost more money now, but it could save you a lot of money and a headache or two in the future.
2. Repair Old or Damaged Roofs When It’s Dry – Don’t wait for a big rain storm to find out that the roofing at your unit(s) needs replacing. Make routine checkups to monitor the condition of the roof(s) at your property. Make time and room in the budget to make any replacements or upgrades necessary during the dry season so that you can avoid water damage in the wet season.
3. Stay in Touch with Your Residents and Know When they’re Traveling – Many people go on vacations during the summer. Talk to your residents about having their water shut off while they’re gone or, alternatively, having someone check on their apartment from time to time while they’re gone. If a water leak occurs while they’re away and no one is checking in, a small problem could potentially turn into something much worse.
4. Clear Downspouts Consistently – This is especially important if there are a lot of large trees throughout your apartment community. When leaves, branches, and other debris clog the gutters, the risk of flooding is increased. Clear all debris from the gutters frequently. If you know a storm is about to hit, make sure everything is clear and that water is being effectively carried away from the building.
5. Apply Dry-Proofing Methods – One cost effective way to prevent large scale water damage in low-lying areas is to apply waterproofing coatings and sealings. You can also elevate electrical equipment at least three feet off of the floor and install waterproof structures around circuits and electrical breakers.
6. Check For HVAC System Blockages – If the line that moves condensation from the HVAC system is backed up, it can create serious water damage. Backed up water can seep through ceilings and through light fixtures or in between walls. When water leaks between walls, it can go undetected and result in mold damage in addition to water damage.

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Prepare now for a future flood!

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

How You Can Prepare for a Flood?

Build an emergency kit

This type of kit may come in handy in a variety of emergency situations, including a flood. Store the contents of your emergency kit together, somewhere you can easily grab it in a hurry if you must evacuate on short notice. A basic kit includes the following:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. Try to have at least three days’ worth in your emergency kit.
• Food: Shoot for at least a three-day supply of non-perishable items.
• Manual can opener: You must be able to open canned non-perishable food without electricity.
• Radios: A hand-crank or battery-powered radio and a NOAA Weather Radio.
• Flashlight: Don’t forget the extra batteries.
• First aid kit: Complete with bandages, cloth tape, antibiotic ointment, medicine, cold compresses, gauze pads, scissors, and tweezers.
• Whistle: Signaling for help is easier when you can make noise.
• Emergency shelter kit: A tarp or plastic sheeting and duct tape are perfect for a makeshift shelter if you need one.
• Personal sanitation items: Pack moist towelettes, garbage bags, and twist ties in your emergency kit.
• Local map: GPS is all the rage, but don’t underestimate a trusty paper map.
• Extra cell phone charger: You might not have time to grab the one you normally use, so keep a spare in your emergency kit.

Make a family communications plan

Discuss certain points with your family so everyone can think with a level head if a flood occurs:

• Create a meeting spot if the flood strikes while the adults are at work and/or the children are at school.
• Parents, talk with your children’s schools to learn their flood evacuation policies.
• Talk about what to do with your pet in case of an evacuation. You may decide to leave your furry companion with a family member or friend outside the immediate danger area. Whatever you do, don’t leave your pet behind.

Take precautionary measures at home

• Don’t build or buy a home in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce it.
• Lift the furnace off the ground by setting it on bricks to protect it if the basement floods.
• Install check valves to ensure flood water doesn’t back up the drains.
• Seal the basement walls with waterproofing compounds.
• Construct barriers around your home to stop flood waters from getting in.

Once the flood passes and the danger subsides, your home might not be the same as it was. That’s where storm damage cleanup and restoration services come in. The goal of recovering from any disaster is to restore your home to its original condition. Contact SERVPRO of Dover Middletown today to learn more.

Storm Warning Vs. Storm Watch : What to know!

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

With spring bringing strong storms into our area it is best to be prepared.  Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning?  A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail or damaging winds.  A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center).  A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spooter report.  A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office. You can always tune into your local news channel or always tune to 162.550 on your radio for the weather band here in Delaware. They will issue all Storm warning and watches for your area. 

Smoke, Fire, and the type of Damage they produce.

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Anytime a fire starts indoors; the aftermath is devastating. If your home is ever the victim of a severe blaze, many different types of damage possibly occur. A fire's flames, heat, and smoke all cause different kinds of damage to the contents and building materials inside your home.

Sometimes fires behave strangely and all of the damage caused is not obvious. It is smart to call in SERVPRO's fire damage specialists of Dover Middletown to make sure every area damaged gets the necessary attention. Smoke often travels to areas of the building away from the source that causes soot residues and unpleasant odors.

Whenever dealing with a fire situation, our SERVPRO technicians study how flames and smoke behave. The damage created during the burn is different in every situation. There are many factors affecting how severe a home gets damaged in a blaze.

After a burn, the amount of damage created depends on things likes what materials got burned and the amount of heat, oxygen, and moisture present. Airflow inside the building and the types of smoke residues present also play a role in determining how severe a structure gets damaged. Another factor that affects the cleanability of the damage present is the type of surfaces smoke and heat effect.

The type of surface smoke comes in contact with changes how the surface gets damaged. Porous surfaces allow soot residues and odors to penetrate deeply into the material and are harder to clean than non-porous surfaces. Synthetic fibers tend to collect more soot but are easier to clean than natural fibers.

Another factor that changes how easily an object is to clean is the age of the surface. As a general rule the older the surface is, the harder it is to clean. This rule holds true whether the surface is paint, carpet, or fabric.

To make sure all smoke and soot get adequately cleaned after a fire, it is wise to seek professional help. Remember, you can call SERVPRO of Dover Middletown for assistance.

Prevent Water Damages

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Properly maintaining a home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage.  

Prevent basement water seepage

*Reseal your basement.  Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in floor slabs and foundations.

*Make sure water drains away from the building.

*Make sure French Drain and Sump Pump hole are free of debris.

Check and understand your plumbing

*When away on vacation, shut off the water

*Know the location of the main water shut-off valve.

*Inspect hoses to appliances 

*Check faucets for leaking in kitchen and bathrooms.

Repair and protect the exterior of your house

*Caulk and seal windows

*Check your downspouts

*Install gutter guards

Protect your contents

*Store belongings in waterproof bins

*Keep belongings on a shelf instead of on the floor in basements

*Keep an up-to-date home inventory

Disaster Recovery Team

8/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has answered your call for help in storm situations.  We have developed a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources you need - management, crews and equipment to get service to your property when other's cant.  As the storms roll out, SERVPRO rolls in to help!  When localized storms overwhelm local restoration companies, SERVPRO's storm response helps to manage the volume you need served.  We are #1 in storm response because of early warning systems, pre-emptive action plans, rapid mobilization, local management and pricing, and dedicated resources available at client's request.  While our competitors finish their work and leave the storm area, SERVPRO has Franchise Professionals that live in the area and are locally available long after other companies have moved on. Customer Service Matters!

Emergency Ready Program

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that 40% of businesses never reopen after suffering a disaster? Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.  The ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) is a no cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future.  We will put together a concise Profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.  It establishes SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.  The Profile provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.  Be disaster aware, take action to prepare!

Storm Preparedness For Pets

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

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

After Hurricane Katrina, "It's estimated that over 15,500 animals were ultimately rescued.  Of the 15,500 animals rescued, only 15%-20% were ever reunited with their owners."

Pet Emergency Kit

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

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

Medicine and medical records.

Important documents.  Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents.

Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and leash

Crate or pet carrier

A picture of you and your pet together

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

Evacuations

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

Identification

Microchipping pets is a great way to locate them.  Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanners that will read the microchip information to help find a pet's owner.

Staying Safe From Summer Storms

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

The potential for severe weather increases in our area during the summer months.  Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and runs through November 30th.  While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes.

BEFORE THE STORM

*Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.

*Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.

*If you are outdoors, get inside a building.

*Shutter windows and severe 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.

*Avoid contact with electrical equipment and cords.

*Avoid contact with 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.

What To Do Until Help Arrives

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a kitchen fire in a residence

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If you home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of a successful restoration. 

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic area.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer/refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome kitchen/bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light costing of lubricant. 
•  If heat id off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs top avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Change HVAC filters; leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON'T:

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpets or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't 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. 
• Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water, as they may be contaminated.
• If ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceilings fans. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

The Science of Drying

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Hard Wood Flooring

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychometric is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may to be grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
•  Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature"? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional also use state-of-the-art monitoring process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

Its not only the equipment but the technology too! SERVPRO has developed DryBook, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Knowledge is power!  There are different types of fire extinguishers for handling different types of fires.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown wants you to be prepared for all situations if you have a fire in your home.

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

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

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

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

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

Document Restoration

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO has its own Document Restoration Team?  SERVPRO's technicians are trained to use the most advanced technology available for document recovery and drying.  Why choose SERVPRO?

Vacuum Freeze Drying

Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water damaged documents.  We use sublimation-turning a solid directly into a vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents.  This process can recover even the most delicate items-from documents to photographs and x-rays, to entire business archives.

Digitizing

With the new age of technology, digitizing records and documents has become a standard practice in most industries.  This eliminates the need to have massive file storage rooms and allows us to access records at the click of a button.  If your file room was damaged by water or smoke and needs to be cleaned, dried or decontaminated, digitizing might be a good choice to eliminate the need to have hundreds or even thousands of documents and records in storage.

Gamma Irradiation

Gamma Irradiation is a process used for clean/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods.

Certified Destruction

Unfortunately, many businesses and government agencies have to dispose of counterfeit, faulty, expired or contaminated materials.  All entities need to be certified that their products and materials are destroyed.  The guarantee of certified destruction is to protect one;s liabilities, brand image or proprietary information.  We guarantee certified destruction to give you peace of mind that your documents are disposed of properly.

A team that works for you!

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO Of Dover/Middletown we have an amazing staff who work hard for you everyday. From our owners who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, and We strive to have the best customer service you could ever ask for from our local franchise all the way to our national business. If you are looking for a local company to get the work done, SERVPRO Of Dover/Middletown is the place, and wont let you done. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs that may have arose.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

As a restoration company that's been in business since 1967, we know first hand what other business are out there, in our local market that claim they also specialize in mitigation and restoration. We also know first hand what you can expect from some of these fly by night companies. SERVPRO on the other hand is a Licensed, Insured, and Bonded company, specializing in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. This does sound limiting, but we also do much, much more! If it needs a cleaning the odds are we have the expertise and equipment to get the job done, and have more than likely done it before. From Dog Urine to Biohazards.  Give us a call today (302-735-9940) and let our industry proven professionals get the job done right the first time around!

Commercial Cleaning.

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

When you think of commercial cleaning, you may not think of SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown, but that should change. SERVPRO has been in the business of commercial cleaning since 1968. Whether you need odor removal for your business or a deep carpet cleaning, SERVPRO of Dover Middletown should be your go to choice for high quality service, that will be done the right way the first time around. If your cleaning services require more than what your standard cleaning staff can handle that's where we can step in with over 40 years of experience, and a highly trained staff, let us help you get your business back to its original state, "Like it never even happened." That way you can get back to doing what matters the most, and that is working with and helping your customers!

Specialty Cleaning Services

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Unfortunately accidents do happen in this life, and sometimes when these issues arise in a business or workplace, business owners, managers, or staff may not be sure where to turn for help. Here at SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown we offer Bio hazard cleanup, trauma and crime scene cleanup, as well as cleaning of Methamphetamine Labs. If your business is in need of specialty cleaning services for any sort of these issues, SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is the best choice that you could make for the safety of your business as well as customers, for us to come and make sure that any and all contaminants are dealt with and removed safely and effectively. SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is the industry leader with over 40 years of experience and a highly trained staff who are ready to complete the job to the best of their ability at all times. Give us a call today at 302-735-9940.

Where to turn after a fire

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

A house or commercial fire can be one of the most devastating times in home owner or small business owners life, from the loss of priceless family photos and heirlooms, to the loss of a hard earned small business that timeless hours have been put into getting off the ground. When these abosolutelty unfortunate events happen, most people are unsure of where to even turn after the fire has subsided and the firetrucks and firemen/women have left the scene. This is where SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown can step in and help. We can work along side you and your insurance company in order to make sure that you are receiving the best services possible for your home or business. With over 40 years in the business and a highly trained staff, we are here to help you get back to your normal life, and have your home or business "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage and Restoration

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Families and Business' alike can both be negatively affected by a fire, after 911 has been called and the fire settles and the trucks leave, your property more than likely will now not only be affected by smoke, fire, and soot damage, but also flooding and water damage from the fire men and women who were making sure that the fire was completely put out at your home. SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown has a highly trained team who have received specialized fire and water damage restoration training and have the years of experience to quickly restore your home or business back to its previous state,and pre fire condition. We can also help with the smoke odor, the deep cleaning of soot and smoke from carpets and upholstery, as well as deep cleaning of your HVAC system which may have sucked up smoke and soot into the system. Give us a call at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown today, and we can have a team out to you in no time! 

What is Mold?

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold and Mildew are fungi. These microscopic organisms live anywhere there is a moist environment. Mildew which is Mold in its early stages tend to grow  on cardboard, wallpaper, carpets, drywall, fabric, plants, foods, insulation, decaying leaves and other organic materials. 24 to 48 hours is all it takes for mold to start its growth. For this growth or "Colonies" to happen, tiny spores are let into the air which lets them reproduce. Any organic material that these colonies take over, they will eventually destroy and move to the adjacent organic material and begin to destroy it. Growth that has not been treated and has the right environment to continue to grow will not stop, it will move from the area it is in to the surrounding areas. Such as starting in the basement and moving into the 1st or 2nd floor of a home. Mold and Mildew area also known to cause mild to severe health issues. If you believe you may have mold or mildew in your home give us a call at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown today to schedule a free estimate. 

Storm Damage and Cleanup

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Devastating storms are something that are inevitable, they will happen, the question is when and how severe they will be. SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is part of national initiative through SERVPRO corporate called STORM TEAM. Storm team allows SERVPRO'S from across the nation to gather on a affected area that has been hit with a devastating storm or nation tragedy (i.e. Hurricane Sandy, 9/11, hurricane Katrina, etc. ) Once a team of SERVPRO's have been dispatched to an affected area we are able to communicate with a local branch and come up with a game plan on how to handle the issues once the storm has subsided. We are able to provide mitigation services for families and business that have been affected from tear outs to water removal, and then we are able to communicate with the customers and the local branch in order to set up restorative plans for put back work. This is just one of the major tasks that most of our SERVPRO franchises offer.

Water Damage, Don't Wait.

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

When dealing with a water damage, time is the most important aspect. Immediate action is crucial in order to remove the water effectively, and in a timely manor in order to prevent further damage to your home or business. Water that is left to sit can cause a multitude of different issues in your home including mold growth, growth that is able to spread from area to area. Calling SERVPRO of Dover Middletown out to the affected area would be the best first step you could make upon finding and fixing the water damage itself, we can have our specialized highly trained team out on site in little to no time. We will be able to extract all water, take measurements of affected floors and walls, and remove all necessary affected areas, we will be able to dry the area completely and set up dehumidifiers if necessary, once this is completed we would be able to complete any and all necessary put back, and help with navigating all issues with your insurance company as well. Give us a call at SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown today!

Mold Removal, and Restoration.

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

All homes and business can be affected by mold, with the introduction of a small water source like a leak in your plumbing system, or a small leak in your roof. Mold and growth can spread through your home in as little as 48-72 hours, which can affect the integrity of your home, as well as you and your families potential health. If you have noticed any sort of growth in your home remember time is of the essence, as growth does not wait. The longer you wait the worse the outcome could potentially be for your property and families health. Call us today at SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown to schedule a free estimate and let us help you get your home or business back in its previous state and have it "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage Tips

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Here are some water damage tips that can help you and your family or business until the professionals arrive on scene.

First lets start with what you should NOT DO after a major water damage or flooding. 

1. Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
2. Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
3. Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
4. Don't use television or other household appliances.
5. Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Now some quick tips that you SHOULD do: 

1. Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
2. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
3. Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
4. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
5. Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
6. Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
7. Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
8. Gather loose items from floors.

From here you should contact SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown in order to schedule a team of industry leading professionals to come to your home or business to complete extraction, removal, and remediation services before the water damage can get worse, and cause more issues such as growth. 

Fire Cleanup and Professionals

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to fire cleanup and restoration, choosing a team that can do the job right the first time, is the best and should be your only choice. You could hop online and type in "Fire Cleanup" into your search engine of choice, and you will immediately see paid ads from companies located god knows where, who promise you the moon and back. These business' aren't local to your community, and haven't built a reputation as being the go to restoration company in the area. These teams come from across the country and sub contract your work out to the lowest possible bidder, where they sell the work. These companies only care about your money not about your home or business. We here at SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown have worked hard over the last 20 years in order to grow with our communities and provide the best possible service that we can. 

24/7 Service

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is a 24/7 business that is available for all your fire, water, mold needs. When your pipe bursts because of the cold weather at 2 am, you can count on SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown answering your call, and having a team of qualified technicians out to your home in no time flat. When you come home to a busted water heater after a date night with your significant other SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown will be there to help extract the water at midnight. When the toilet pipe bursts and creates a pool in your living room at 4 am you always will know that SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is able to be out to the scene as soon as possible, and were able to make the issue "Like it never even happened."

When you need a team to rely on.

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO Of Dover/Middletown we have an amazing staff who work hard for you everyday. From our owners who guide us all with years of experience, to our office staff who work diligently with your local and national insurance agents, to our production team, who are always on standby for you to get the job done ASAP, and We strive to have the best customer service you could ever ask for from our local franchise all the way to our national business. If you are looking for a local company to get the work done, SERVPRO Of Dover/Middletown is the place, and wont let you done. Give us a call today and schedule a free estimate, and our team will be out to assist you with any and all restoration or mitigation needs that may have arose.

Why you should chose SERVPRO for your next job

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

As a restoration company that's been in business since 1967, we know first hand what other business are out there, in our local market that claim they also specialize in mitigation and restoration. We also know first hand what you can expect from some of these fly by night companies. SERVPRO on the other hand is a Licensed, Insured, and Bonded company, specializing in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. This does sound limiting, but we also do much, much more! If it needs a cleaning the odds are we have the expertise and equipment to get the job done, and have more than likely done it before. From Dog Urine to Biohazards.  Give us a call today (302-735-9940) and let our industry proven professionals get the job done right the first time around!

A company you can trust!

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been In business since 1967, in that time we have learned quite a few things, and how to handle large fire, water, and mold jobs is one of them. We currently have over 1700 local franchises in the SERVPRO family, so we have a local SERVPRO always nearby, who knows the local are and community. We offer Restoration services, as well as Cleaning services. We offer free estimates on most jobs, and always have team members who are excited and hardworking ready to make it "Like it never even happened." Stick with a reputable company who knows what they are doing, who have years of experience in all aspects of mitigation, and remediation. Give us a call and let the professionals handle the job right the first time!

Preparing your business for a storm.

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather conditions seem to make the national news on a regular basis. With the possibility of additional weather events including higher than average flood water, commercial property owners who prepare in advance can better protect their business and their customers. Ensure your assets remain safe from water damage by taking steps before you are faced with a hazardous situation.

Consider Flood Insurance

Insurance companies typically view flooding as rainwater that hits the ground in quantities. Many types of standard insurance policies do not cover rain-related damage. Flooding can devastate a business, leaving substantial cleanup costs and destruction in its wake. For companies that are not in a flood plain, flood insurance may be a cost-effective option. 

Address Building Weaknesses

Flood waters move swiftly, and a flooded building can be dangerous. It may not be possible to take preventative action once the water begins entering the building. Consider what can be done in advance to protect items in key areas of the building:

Clear storm drains and gutters of debris. 
Remove valuable items from the basement and store them elsewhere.
If there are fuel tanks, make sure they are securely anchored and up to code specifications.
Purchase a sump pump.

Safeguard Business Critical Data

Keep backup copies of crucial documents such as insurance policies, vendor information and emergency contact numbers. If possible, store them off-site to avoid water damage. Otherwise, put them in an area that is least likely to be impacted by flood water, such as a second floor or in a waterproof safe. Keeping the data safe can help restore business quickly.

Create an Emergency Plan

Disaster recovery planning can protect employees and guests during an extreme weather event. Flood water rises quickly, so having a documented plan in place beforehand can ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a flooded building. Keep the contact information for water damage restoration technicians up-to-date. Address building and employee readiness and make sure there is a detailed evacuation route that can take people away from danger in flood conditions.

What to do after a Hurricane.

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricanes have devastated countless families and homes in Delaware in the past. Storm damage to a home from a hurricane is a stressful experience for a homeowner in many ways and can even be worse when they are not sure what steps to take afterward. In the event of your home becoming damaged by a storm, take the following steps:

1. Take Photos and Document the Damage 

It is important that all storm damage to your home is well documented to make your insurance claims process much easier. Take as many photos of all areas affected and make sure to compile a list of all damaged items as well.

2. Perform Emergency Repairs

After sustaining damage, prioritize the repairs that have to be made to the property. Your focus in doing so should be to ensure that additional damage does not occur. Some examples of these emergency repairs include covering broken windows with plastic or securing tarps to your roof to prevent rainwater from entering. Any permanent repairs should be placed on hold until your insurance claims adjuster is able to review the damage. Until your adjuster is aware of the full extent of the damage and has all materials accounted for, you should refrain from throwing out any damaged items.

3. File a Claim Quickly

It is important to know that insurance companies sometimes work on a first-come, first-serve basis, especially if overwhelmed by many claims during a hurricane season. Because of this, you should work to get the process started and file a claim as soon as you are aware of the damage. After contacting your insurance provider, provide your claims adjuster with photos, an inventory of affected items, and fill them in on the extent of the damage. Your adjuster will come to your property, further assess the damage, and work to determine the payout amount your insurance will cover.

4. Secure Safe Lodging

Safety should be the number one priority at all times for you and all inhabitants of the home. If the home is uninhabitable, or unsafe for any reason, we strongly recommend finding a safe place to stay while repairs are being made to the home. Keep in mind that if your damage is part of a covered claim, the loss of use coverage in a standard insurance policy will typically help pay for your family's lodging. Ask your claims adjuster if you are covered by your policy.

Further Information

SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is a professional storm damage company that specializes in water damage, fire damage, and mold damage. Our emergency services are available 24/7 to assist you at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. Contact us anytime for services.

When Disaster Strikes-Quick Response is needed

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes, it is imperative to respond quickly in order to prevent further damages and complications. Fires, mold infestations and floods from broken pipes, overflows or heavy storms – all such disasters must be dealt with in a timely manner. If not handled immediately you could experience on or more of these issues:

• If water-damaged structures and contents are not dried out quickly and correctly,  Growth can begin to grow within the first 24 to 48 hours after the disaster.
• Excessive water can cause: rusting in metals, corrosion in electronic components, cracking, splitting or warping of furniture items, color bleeding or transfer in fabrics, furniture stains and secondary damage to upholstery, drapery, clothing, wallpaper, photos and papers.
• Fire or smoke damaged properties can also experience irreversible damage, regardless of the size of the fire. Soot residue is highly acidic and can pit or corrode the metal in doorknobs, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, etc. It can also etch glass in windows, mirrors and cabinets, causing them to look soiled and cloudy. Moreover, plastics, appliances, fabrics and vinyl windows can become discolored.
• The safety and security of the home can be compromised. Windows and doors may become weak and function improperly, wet materials may collapse and electrical installations and components can be a  hazard when they come in contact with water. Slips and falls are also potential dangers.

If you’re not sure how to act after experiencing water, fire or growth problems in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. We have a team of restoration professionals ready 24/7/365 to help you.

Being Prepared for Storms

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Storms can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americas 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% of all presidentially declared disaster 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 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 and 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 other to do the same.

Share your experience with neighbors, friends, and family and help them build a plan as well!

Commercial Hard Floor Cleaning

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Although many people view hard flooring as an easier cleanup, it still takes the proper care and maintenance year round to keep it looking presentable and clean.  According to the Institute of Inspection of Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the first step to maintaining your hard surface flooring is identifying the type you have. The IICRC states that there are primarily six different categories of hard flooring such as, natural stone, concrete, ceramic, wood, resilient and specialty. Each category may take a different method of cleaning to ensure that it lasts a long lifetime.

      Using a walk off mat is critical to keeping dirt and extra contaminants from entering your building and sticking to your flooring. Just as dirt wears down carpet, it also can damage and cause erosion on hard surface flooring. According to the IICRC, five feet of walk off mat will reduce dirt from entering the building by 33% and 25 feet of walk off mat will reduce almost all dirt by time the person has entered your clean Nashville business.

      Make sure to clean up spills right upon discovering them. This is not only extremely important for your customers’ safety, but also will stop from causing a stain or water damage on your flooring. Find the proper cleaning product for the type of flooring you have, mark off the area, clean the spill up and dry the area fully before letting people walk back over the surface.

      We spoke previously about vacuuming carpet regularly to eliminate dirt build up and although there is isn’t much material for dirt to build up on with hard surface flooring, the dirt will cause erosion, breaking down the flooring and possibly causing visible damage. Make sure to provide daily maintenance to the surface by mopping, scrubbing and cleaning the area thoroughly after the commercial traffic is done for the day. This will lead to a longer lifespan and will help eliminate replacing the flooring early on.

      Last but not least, sometimes it’s nice to treat your flooring to some special treatment. If there are stains or tough to clean spots that have developed over time, this doesn’t always mean that the floor needs to be replaced. Contact your local restoration company to help clean the surface with their specialty equipment.

Are your business' ready?

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Your company is expanding, or perhaps you have already opened new locations. On any given day your sales team is firing on all cylinders, your office is bustling with activity and your operations team is running circles around itself trying to keep up.

Maybe your territory is limited to Delaware, perhaps regional, or even nationwide. You know one the biggest threat to your organization is operational downtime.

That's where we can help.

SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is a full service commercial restoration firm. We specialize in commercial drying, cleaning and decontamination needs. Our upfront approach uses a collaborative method to reduce operational risks, minimize downtime and save you money.

Consider this: 50% of businesses that suffer a major disaster will never reopen. And of those that reopened, most of them had a plan.

Do your employees know your chain-of-command?

Do your night teams know where your water shut-offs are?

Would your employees be able to direct first responders to your fire riser room?

Put simply: Is your team prepared to deal with situations like fire, water & mold damage? What about situations bigger than your Operations capacity?

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is your ace-in-the-hole with our robust Emergency Readiness Program and Service Level Agreements.

With the Emergency Readiness Program SERVPRO will help you create a functional cloud based data set that can be used for things like staff emergency manuals, emergency contact information and building emergency critical information. Because disasters often happen when you are away, your team will have all of this data at their fingertips, wherever you need it, with a push of a button.

To strategically align your building operations to make sure you have the help you need in an emergency, give us a call today. The consultation and Emergency Readiness Program is offered at no cost to your facility.

Bar/Resturant onwers need this info!

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

During 2006-2010, an estimated average of 7,640 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments were reported to U.S. fire departments per year, with associated annual losses of:

• Two civilian deaths
• 115 civilian injuries
• $246 million in property damage

In eating and drinking establishments, direct property damage per fire was 75% lower when a wet pipe sprinkler system was present, compared to fires with no automatic extinguishing equipment present.

Fires are less common during the overnight hours (from Midnight to 6 a.m.) but cause more property damage.

Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments by Major Cause (2006 - 2010)

Fires

1. Cooking equipment 57%
2. Heating equipment 10%
3. Electrical/Lighting equipment 7%
4. Smoking material 7%
5. Intentional 5%

Property Damage

1. Cooking equipment 40%
2. Electrical/Lighting equipment 13%
3. Intentional 10%
4. Heating equipment 7%
5. Smoking Material 5%

Total annual property damage for eating and drinking establishments = $246 million

If your commercial kitchen is affected by a fire or in need of a deep clean call SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. 

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

If you want a job done right the first time, give us the professionals a call first, we will leave it looking "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage Cleanup

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

What to do?

Whether you’ve had a minor leak from an overflowing hall toilet or you had a pipe burst in the basement, it’s important to know how to clean up water damage properly to reduce the long-term effects. Let the experts help you with your water damage clean-up by giving you a list of do’s and don’ts!

How to Clean Up Water Damage: Do’s & Don’ts

Do:

Call a professional – this is especially important for larger floods since they have the ability to cause serious damage to your home, including mold. At SERVPRO, we have helped your friends and neighbors with all their water damage restoration services since 1967, so you can trust us to get the job done right.

Dry standing water – whenever possible, dry as much standing water as you can by soaking it up with sponges and towels. It’s also smart to use a box fan on the affected area to speed up your drying time—but be sure not to plug in or set the fan on any of the wet areas.

Remove saturated items – you should remove any saturated rugs or carpets, especially on hardwood, to an area where they can dry out thoroughly.

Ventilate the area – if you have a flood during the summer, use your air conditioning to accelerate drying.

Remove sensitive materials – whenever you can, remove any sensitive materials from the area, including computers, artwork, rugs, books, and anything else that can be easily transported and dried in another area.

Call your insurance company – it’s incredibly important to check with your insurance company to see what is covered for your home as soon as possible.

Don’t:

DON’T operate electronics – do not operate TVs, vacuums, or any other electric appliances when standing on wet flooring, especially concrete—it could result in a serious injury.

DON’T use heat to dry – in a closed-off interior space, you shouldn’t use heat to dry any affected areas because it can increase the mildew growth.

DON’T leave wet fabric together – whenever possible, separate wet fabrics and give them space to dry apart as soon as you can.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been the name your friends and neighbors have trusted when it comes to their water damage cleanup, so you can rest assured that we know how to get your water damage cleaned up quickly and correctly. Call us today to schedule your service! 

Mold, What you should know.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Dont waste time, call and have the Professionals do the job right the first time.

What is Mold?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

Some common indoor molds are:

• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus

Testing for Mold:

Generally, it is not necessary to identify the species of mold growing in a residence, and CDC does not recommend routine sampling for molds. Current evidence indicates that allergies are the type of diseases most often associated with molds. Since the susceptibility of individuals can vary greatly either because of the amount or type of mold, sampling and culturing are not reliable in determining your health risk. If you are susceptible to mold and mold is seen or smelled, there is a potential health risk; therefore, no matter what type of mold is present, you should arrange for its removal. Furthermore, reliable sampling for mold can be expensive, and standards for judging what is and what is not an acceptable or tolerable quantity of mold have not been established.

Who to contact:

We here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown can help you with any and all clean up and remediation. Give us a call today, and we can send our team of experts out to your business or home, and get to the bottom of your issue immediately.

DIY and Mold, Not always the best idea.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

People spend about 90% of our time indoors. This makes mold and it’s destructive nature a major concern for many of us. Search DIY mold removal on the internet and you will find tons of articles suggesting different ways to rid your home of mold yourself. One of the most common suggestions is spraying the mold with bleach or some other concoction aimed and killing it. Mold cleanup is not that simple.

The EPA ( United States Environmental Protection Agency) has come up with a rigid set of guidelines for mold removal. The Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings document recommends that you should only attempt to remove mold yourself if the area impacted is less than roughly a 3ft. by 3 ft. patch. Even in this instance you should first wear protective gear and fix any leaky pipes or issues that caused the mold damage. IICRC ( Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) does not recommend spraying but promotes removal of mold and proper air filtration.Major steps in a proper mold remediation process includes  analysis of the impacted area, thorough drying, fixing any causes of water and wetness as well as wearing  proper protective gear during the process.

Before you take the health and monetary risk of improper mold remediation review the EPA guidelines and contact your local SERVPRO of Dover Middletown mold remediation and abatement professionals to have an analysis of the area. This will give you a better idea if your mold problem is a do it yourself project or not.

Mold and Remediation.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

The sight of mold strikes fear in homeowners and commercial managers. Mold is a type of fungi which has many varieties. Some are harmless, while others can cause possible illnesses and health effects and are destructive to our properties. Mold is both visible and hidden. It is insidious, growing behind walls, under floors, in ducts, behind ceiling tiles and on our furnishings. These fungi release spores so quickly, especially when disturbed that by the time we realize there may be a problem, there already is one.

If you are a homeowner or a business owner, and you see mold damage, there are products that you can purchase which are mold resistant. Research and technology have given us products to use in our homes and commercial use that will protect us against mold. Delaware is a great, beautiful state but its climate holds all the elements that mold requires to flourish.
 
Let's start with paint. There are mold resistant paint products that can be used “after” mold growth has been treated. This paint is available to cover walls and floors of affected areas. The chemicals in the paint help to completely destroy mold roots and seals off the treated area from any further mold growth. When you use this product, apply a couple of layers in the top and bottom corners of the wall because these areas seem to be hot spots for mold growth because of excessive buildup. Use your mold resistant paint, layering it on walls, ceiling, basement floors to prevent mold from returning. SERVPRO of Dover Middletown has expert technicians that can remediate your mold problem and offer future protection. Why not rely on us, the professionals.
 

House Fires, and Cleaning.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Just hearing the words ‘house fire’ causes Dover and Middletown owners and residents to fear the worst for their homes. Few homes are completely or even massively destroyed by heat and flames.

Most physical house fire damage is localized. If a fire starts in a kitchen, then scorching and melted metal or plastics is only in that room. Smoke, soot, and odor damage can spread to other rooms, with smoke usually finding its way throughout the home. SERVPRO Restoration uses five services to secure each home to prevent additional damage, clean structural and personal property, and then restore it to its pre-fire condition. 

Our personnel begins with Mitigation Services. The goal here is to prevent further deterioration and new damage from factors like vandalism and weather intrusion. They board up windows and doors and then seal off openings into the home caused by the fire using plywood panels and thick plastic sheeting. If there is standing water from firefighting efforts, our teams start removing it. As part of the team finishes mitigation, other members begin cleaning. 

Contents Cleaning involves personal property. Usually, this is appliances, furniture, and clothing. Our primary task for technicians is to remove smoke and soot residues. For larger items, they can clean most of them on site after moving them outside or to another location if needed. 

Structural Cleaning applies to walls, ceilings, and floors, to include carpets. Here, the technicians’ primary concerns are typically cleaning smoke residues off surfaces and eliminating odors. In both Structural and Contents Cleaning, SERVPRO team leaders work with the residents and insurance companies to make the best choices of cleaning versus replacement regarding cost and efficiency. 

Specialty Cleaning is for items that are fragile or need special care like artwork and electronics. If residues and odors affected the surface of a portrait or got inside an electronic device, team leaders recommend bringing in a specialist for those pieces. 

For minor repairs and replacement, our teams work to reconstruct damaged homes. Our personnel can provide any and all replacement, plumbing, contracting etc.

If you have any questions about this or other aspects of fire damage to your home, contact SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. We are here to help.

Smoke Alarms can save your life.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Here are a few tips you need to know!

• Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Smoke alarms should be installed 10 feet away from cooking appliance to prevent false alarms.
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once year

 (Daylight Savings Time works well for maintenance.)

• Test smoke alarms once a month
• Clean Dust from sensor openings.

Remember one simple smoke alarm could be the one and only saving grace that your family has in the time of an emergency, especially if you and your family are fast asleep when a fire breaks out. 

Kitchen Fires, What you should know.

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can cause damage that you do not see throughout the whole home.

• Wet Smoke
• Usually from plastic and rubber
• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, stocky, smeary
• Smoke webs are more difficult to clean
• Dry Smoke
• Usually seen with paper and wood
• Fast burning, high temperatures
• Protein Fire Residue
• Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
• From a furnace puff back
• While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly
• Other

Always have special cases that require special attention

When these types of damages affect your home, we are always here to help recover your home. We aim to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Make sure to give us a call here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown, in order to send our team of highly skilled and trained employees to your location.

Response Time with SERVPRO of Dover Middletown

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to local home

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the biggest difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings. Our rapid response and timely mitigation can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  SERVPRO of Dover Middletown Professionals understand returning your home our business to normal is your primary concern.  Our Response Teams are trained in caring for both you and your property.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Dover Middletown professionals can help you get your home or business back up and running quickly and help protect your property and belongings.  If your home or business suffers a fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Biohazard and Chemical Cleanup.

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguisher Chemical Cleanup.

Here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.  Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners.  A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.  We at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal.  We can help with:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you have any questions or concerns please make sure to give us a call here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown.

Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings. What to know.

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm producing Lightning.

With summer and soon fall bringing strong storms into our area it is best to be prepared for these situations. Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning?  A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail and/or damaging winds.  A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center).  A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spooter report.  A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office. Make sure that your family and yourself are prepared and have a plan in place for all watches and warnings! You never know when it may come in handy or save your lives!

Let us clean your ducts!

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Duct Cleaning

SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a rot-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% of particles in the airstream.  HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

We pride ourselves here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown with our ability to clean any and all size ducts, let us take care of your next job!

Getting back to business!

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire, or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today.  While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place and practice for all kinds of emergencies.  The following are basic measures business owners and managers can take to begin preparing. 

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Review Insurance Coverage

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Practice the Emergency Plan

Secure Your Facility and Equipment

Improve Cyber Security

We can help you in the venture by completing an Emergency Readiness Plan for your business.  We are now linking all of our commercial clients with the 911 dispatch center so that the Emergency Responders know everything they need to know about your building.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is always here to help!

Remember 50% of all small business never reopen their doors after severe event such as a fire.

Water and Mold Mitigation and Remediation.

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown handles water damages every day and know that prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

SERVPRO of Dover Middletown wants you to call us for any and all mitigation and remediation needs, we have knowledgeable staff on hand at all times in order to make your clean up a breeze. Give us a chance to make your situation look “Like it never even happened.”

Household Chemical Emergencies

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

Remember to always keep household chemicals out of the reach of children.

Chances are you use chemicals to clean, so making sure that you know how to safely handle household products containing hazardous materials, or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury.

           Hazardous materials include:

• Cleaning products
• Pesticides
• Automotive products (I.E. Antifreeze/Motor oil)
• Miscellaneous items such as batteries, mercury thermometers, and florescent bulbs
• Flammable products such as kerosene, propane tanks, and lighter fluid.
• Workshop or painting supplies such as paint thinner, and or Turpentine.
• Lawn and garden products like herbicides and pesticides.     

Always keep products in their original containers, never remove the labels.

Never store hazardous materials in food containers.

Never mix hazardous chemicals or waste with any other products.

Never use near open flame.

Clean up any and all spills immediately.         

Dispose of hazardous materials correctly.

Save the National Poison Control Center number in your cell phone, and post next to every landline in the house.

1-800-222-1222

 During an emergency:     

• Get out of the residence immediately if there is a chance of fire or explosion.
• Stay up wind, in order to not breathe in any hazardous fumes.
• Recognize and respond to signs of toxic poisoning.

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Irritation of eyes, throat, and/or skin
3. Changes in skin color
4. Headache or blurred vision
5. Dizziness or lack of coordination
6. Cramps, and or Diarrhea

If someone is experiencing toxic poisoning symptoms or has been exposed to a household chemical please call 1-800-222-1222 and find any containers of the substance readily available in order to provide requested information to Poison Control. 

Remember to follow the emergency operators or dispatchers instructions carefully, as not all warning labels are up to date.

Beat The Heat!

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown have some tips to help keep you and your family cool and safe this summer!

• DO NOT leave children or pets alone in a parked vehicle. Temperatures can reach between 130 and 172 Degrees within 1 hour when the outside temperature is between 80 and 100 degrees. If you see pets or children left in a vehicle please contact 911 immediately.
• Stay hydrated; avoid drinks with sugar alcohol, or caffeine, water is always the best option!
• Stay indoors on the lowest floor possible.
• Wear lightweight, light colored clothing.
• Make sure if you are outside that you use sunscreen with adequate SPF.
• Limit outdoor activities, especially mid day when the sun is the hottest.

Know the signs of heat stroke:

• Flushed, hot, and dry skin with no sweating.
• High body temperature above 103 degrees.
• Severe throbbing headaches, weakness, laziness, dizziness, or confusion.
• Sluggishness or fatigue, Decreased responsiveness, and loss of consciousness.

If heat stroke occurs take these steps and immediately call 911:

•  Get victim inside or in shade
•  Get person to cool shower or bath or wipe with cool washcloth while awaiting emergency responders.

Fireworks Season and Safety!

7/3/2018 (Permalink)

Fireworks over Legislative Hall, Dover Delaware.

The State Of Delaware recently passed legislation legalizing ground fireworks for two days out of the year. July 4th and New Years. With this recent passing of legislation we here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown want to remind you of some basic firework safety. . Never use fireworks while Impaired by drugs or alcohol. Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should use them only under close adult supervision. Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. Never light them indoors. Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material. Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting. Never ignite devices in a container . Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or In          case of fire Remember sparks or burning fireworks also pose not only a hazard to personal safety, but also a potential for fire as well. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) an average of 18,500 fires are started every year by fireworks. This includes 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside fires. These fires caused an average of 3 deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and $43 Million in property damage. Sparklers are often seen as a “safe” alternative when they actually account for one fourth of all emergency room visits due to fireworks. Play it safe this summer, remember all these tips if you plan on using fireworks safely, or better yet grab a lawn chair, a blanket, some friends and family and leave the fireworks to the professionals! Happy 4th from us here at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown!  

Faster to Any Size Disaster!

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

Residential House Fire

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings.  Rapid response and timely mitigation can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown Professionals understand returning to normal is your primary concern.  Our Response Teams are trained in caring for both you and your property.  By responding quickly with a full line of fire cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown Professionals can help you get your home or business back up and running quickly and help protect your property and belongings.  If your home or business suffers a fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Hurricane Preparedness Week 5/15-5/21

5/12/2016 (Permalink)

#itonlytakesone #hurricanestrong

It's that time of year again!  Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 15-21, 2016.  Here are some tips from FEMA to Prepare your home and/or your business.  At your home cover all of your home's windows with precut plywood to protect them from high winds.  Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.  Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.  Turn off propane tanks.  Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes.  In your business make sure you carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.  Identify operations critical to survival and recovery.  Plan what you will do if your building, is not accessible.  For more great tips please visit:  http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html

What can an HVAC cleanings do for your home?

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Cleaner air means a healthier home.  Dirty ducts can circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout the home.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown uses a proven Portable Ventilation and Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. 

• Lowers indoor air pollution
• Reduces pet dander
• Eliminates offensive odors
• Restores peak operating condition
• Prolongs the life of your system

Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher clean up in one of our local high schools.

We are recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.  Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners.  A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.  We at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal.  We can help with:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Take Precautions

2/18/2016 (Permalink)

Growth from a pipe break that was not properly remediated.

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown handles water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

2/12/2016 (Permalink)

Broken Pipe

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage.  A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not address quickly.  SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown professionals are faster to any size disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage "Like it never even happened."

Tips:

*Keep cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around pipes

*Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets

SERVPRO Proven Duct Cleaning System

2/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Duct Cleaning Process

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a rot-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97% of particles in the airstream.  HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather

1/26/2016 (Permalink)

• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells.  This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Kepp a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.  Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawlspace and turn it to "off."
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure.  Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
• Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.